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BOSTON
PUBLIC
LIBRARY
NAVAL DOCUMENTS
OF
The American Revolution
Continental Gunboat Philadelphia
NAVAL DOCUMENTS OF
The American Revolution
VOLUME 6
AMERICAN THEATRE: Aug. 1, 1776-Oct. 31, 1776
EUROPEAN THEATRE: May 26, 1776-Oct. 5, 1776
WILLIAM JAMES MORGAN, Editor
With a Foreword by
PRESIDENT RICHARD NIXON
And an Introduction by
VICE ADMIRAL EDWIN B. HOOPER, USN (Ret.)
Director of Naval History
NAVAL HISTORY DIVISION
DEPARTMENT OF THE NAVY
WASHINGTON: 1972
L.C. Card No. 64-60087
For sale by the Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office
Washington, D.C. 20402 - Price $18.40 domestic postpaid or $17.25 GPO Bookstore
Each volume of this series is a reminder of the key role played by the late
William Bell Clark , initial editor. Drawing upon his deep knowledge of the
Navy in the American Revolution , his initial selections and arrangements
of materials compiled over a devoted lifetime provided a framework on
which subsequent efforts have continued to build.
SECRETARY OF THE NAVY’S ADVISORY
COMMITTEE ON NAVAL HISTORY
James P. Baxter, III (Emeritus) Jim Dan Hill
Samuel Flagg Bemis (Emeritus) Elmer L. Kayser
Francis L. Berkeley, Jr. John Haskell Kemble
Julian P. Boyd Leonard W. Labaree
Marion V. Brewington Richard W. Leopold
Walter Muir Whitehill
SPECIAL CONSULTANTS FOR
NAVAL DOCUMENTS OF THE AMERICAN
REVOLUTION
L. H. Butterfield Oliver Wendell Holmes
Howard H. Peckham
Director of Naval History
Vice Admiral Edwin B. Hooper, USN (Ret.)
We are all embarked in a Cause that requires our
utmost united exertions to carry us through . . .
Robert Morris
October 1, 1776
And without a Respectable Navy— Alas America !
Captain John Paul Jones
October 17, 1776
THE WHITE HOUSE
WASHINGTON
April 25, 1972
FOREWORD
nMy future Success must be very uncertain. . . however I
will not yet give up the pursuit. " The writer was Captain
John Paul Jones, USN; the occasion, one of his reports to
the Marine Committee of the Continental Congress; the
bearer, another of his British prizes from the North Atlantic
shipping lanes: the brigantine F avourite, Liverpool-bound
with a cargo of West Indies sugar which Captain Jones di-
verted westward instead, the better to sweeten the prospects
of the rebellious American States.
Here in one laconic sentence is the essence of America’s
mood and outlook during the summer and autumn of 1776,
the period covered by Volume 6 of Naval Documents of the
American Revolution. Independence had been declared at
last, but the real winning of it was barely underway. Modest
successes on the high seas did not offset the stinging defeats
dealt Washington's army at New York City and Benedict
Arnold's little fleet on Lake Champlain during these months.
Both engagements bought time, but what would time bring?
As the fledgling Republic braced for its first winter, no one
could say. However an answer of sorts does run through all
the papers collected here --an iron determination, come
what might, to "not yet give up the pursuit" of liberty and
nationhood.
It is a pleasure to welcome a new book in this distinguished
historical series. In these pages, just as in those of Volume V
to which I contributed a foreword two years ago, there is much
to stir the heart and steel the purpose of Americans today --
seaman recruit or Commander in Chief, President or private
citizen.
The voices of patriots present at the creation convey our
heritage of heroism with a vividness no polished historian
writing for the ages can match. They remind us of how
narrow was the margin of survival, personal and national
alike on which these men and women worked to build a
nation. This is brought home to us, for example, in the
words of commanders concerned with the privations en-
dured by their men as in another report from Captain
Jones: ". . . the Men I have are scarce Able to Stand the
Deck for want of Cloathing, the weather here being Very
Cold." We also find reminders in the words of diplomats
and statesmen playing for the highest stakes against the
longest odds, men like Silas Deane, America's represen-
tative at the French court: "The fate of my country depends,
in a great measure, on the arrival of these supplies. . . . *f
Reading all this, we might marvel more than ever that in the
end, seven long years from the events of this book, the revo-
lutionaries did prevail. And why? Because weak as the
Americans of those days were in arms, poor as they were
in goods, they were rich and strong and steadfast in spirit.
There is the great message of this book and its companion
volumes issued or yet to come. Deeper than the resource
these documents represent for the scholar, beyond the fas-
cination they hold for the casual reader, lies the home truth
of all our history from that day to this: all that America has
been or is or hopes to be she owes to the Spirit of ’76. By
helping to rekindle this spirit for our Nation's Bicentennial
era, the present work honors the U. S. Navy's finest tradi-
tions of excellence and service to the national interest.
INTRODUCTION
Naval power at sea and on inland waters played key roles in the period of
the Revolutionary War covered by this volume of documents.
British transports and the convoying fleet, commanded by Admiral
Lord Howe, had sailed through the Narrows of New York in July. General
Clinton and Commodore Sir Peter Parker joined the forces of the Howe
brothers by sea after the failure to capture Charleston, South Carolina.
Then, the British launched their attack across the bay on 22 August 1776,
projecting troops ashore on Long Island and providing gunfire support
from ships of the fleet. Had the American army been trapped on Long
Island, as very nearly happened, the cause of independence would probably
have been lost then and there.
Supported and sustained by sea power, New York would thereafter
be the main base for British operations. This gave them an excellent harbor
and central location for naval operations along the Eastern seaboard, and
provided flexibility for deployments of army forces to any location that
could be reached by water— far more rapidly than Washington’s troops
could move by land.
Had the forces of Sir Guy Carleton, coming down the waterways
from Canada, been able to link up with the forces stationed at New York,
the result might have been eventually decisive in favor of the British. This
time it was the fresh water navy of Benedict Arnold that, despite the bad
beating on Lake Champlain, so delayed the advance south that the British
effort was given up for that year.
Thus it was that the use of British sea power was very nearly decisive
in the summer of 1776, and that naval operations on inland waters in the
fall frustrated actions that would have cut the states in two.
The Depository Location pages in this volume list some eighty ac-
tivities from Venice, Italy, to San Marino, California, from which manu-
scripts have been selected for inclusion herein. This list bears witness to a
fact which cannot be overly emphasized, namely that the success and con-
tinued progress of the Naval Documents of the American Revolution series
is dependent upon the resources, the knowledge and generous cooperation
of numerous individuals, libraries, historical societies, archives and museums
IX
in the United States and abroad. Unpublished Crown copyright material
in the Public Record Office, London, is reproduced by permission of Her
Majesty’s Stationery Office.
Dr. Maurice Bear Gordon, a physician with a keen feeling for history,
has taken time from a busy medical practice to prepare the fine pictorial
essay, “Naval and Maritime Medicine During the Revolution,” which
enriches this volume.
Within the Naval History Division, the editor, William James Morgan,
is strongly supported by dedicated and extremely competent associates in
the Historical Research Branch— Mr. Robert L. Scheina, Mr. and Mrs. Henry
J. Scheffenacker, Mr. Robert I. Campbell, Mr. E. Gordon Bowen-Hassell,
Lieutenant (junior grade) Kristin G. Tryon, relieved by Ensign Mary L.
Greeves, Chief Yeoman Lenzie D. Crosby, Mrs. Carolyn Ransdell, and on
summer Naval Reserve duty, Master Chief Petty Officer George K. Me-
Cuistion.
Mr. W. Bart Greenwood, Navy Department Librarian, assisted by Miss
Mary Pickens of the Library staff, has once again searched out and collected
appropriate maps and charts. Lieutenant Commander Richard M. Gannaway,
while on temporary Naval Reserve duty, joined with Mr. Charles R.
Haberlein, Jr. of the Naval History Division’s Curator Branch to collect,
select, and identify the many contemporary illustrations to be found in
the volume.
Commander W. E. May, RN (Ret.) , undertook indispensable research
in the Public Record Office and other United Kingdom depositories. Sound
and valuable translation services, from several languages, have been pro-
vided by Commander Canio Di Cairano, USNR (Ret.) , and personnel
of the Naval Reserve translator program in the Office of Naval Intelligence.
To all, named and unnamed, who have contributed to the work and
thus have made it possible, our debt is great, our gratitude boundless.
Edwin B. Hooper
PREFACE
Documents contained in this volume, as in previous volumes in the series,
are selections from the manuscripts brought together from domestic and
foreign sources by the Naval History Division and the late William Bell
Clark. The collection, mostly on microfilm, is vast and comes from as
widely scattered locations as San Marino, California, and Venice, Italy.
The Naval History Division continues to expand its document holdings.
During the period this volume was under preparation, for example, signifi-
cant additions for subsequent volumes were added from several southern
states and the Public Record Office, London. From the latter, an already
imposing collection of logs of Royal Navy ships operating in American
and West Indian waters was markedly expanded.
Original manuscripts are the object of the collection effort. While
some pertinent items from sound and modern editorial scholarship are used
in Naval Documents volumes, every effort is made to avoid transcripts, and
to replace with original manuscripts those older printed document com-
pilations which may be suspect. While this is not always possible, the results
achieved have been highly rewarding.
The term “naval document” is not subject to as precise a definition as
are the papers of an individual or a single organization. Documentation
bearing upon the regular naval forces on both sides, state navies, privateers,
merchant shipping, logistics of the conflict, and operations on sea, lake,
bay and river fall within the context of “naval document” as used in this
series.
For purposes of selecting what material to include in a particular
volume, the focus is on those documents which give the most comprehensive
coverage to naval aspects of major events during the volume s time span,
as well as those which present the user with a meaningful overview of the
entire sea effort.
The mass of documentary material is such that only a percentage of
that available can be placed in the Naval Documents volumes. Neverthe-
less, the Naval History Division’s entire collection supplements the printed
work, and forms an available ever-deepening reservoir for scholarly research
and writing.
xi
This drawing and others of similar nature throughout the Volume are from journals kept on
board ships Lloyd and Betsey, Nicholas Pocock, Master. (Courtesy of the Trustees of the National
Maritime Museum, London.)
DEPOSITORY LOCATION ABBREVIATIONS1
AAS
AGI
AHN
AMAE
AN
APL
APS
ASV
Bda, Arch.
BHS
BM
BPL
ChHs
CL
ConnHS
ConnSL
CUL
CW
CWM
DAC
DARL
DCL
DUL
El
FDRL
FTML
HCL
HH
HL
HSD
HSP
HU
HUL
JCBL
LC
American Antiquarian Society, Worcester, Massachusetts
Archivo General de Indias, Seville
Archivo Historico Nacional, Madrid
,/
Archives Du Ministere Des Affaires Etrangeres, Paris
Archives Nationales, Paris
Service historique de la Marine Archives du Port de
Lorient, Lorient, France
American Philosophical Society, Philadelphia
Archivio di Stato, Venice
Bermuda Archives, Hamilton, Bermuda
Beverly Historical Society, Beverly, Massachusetts
British Museum, London
Boston Public Library, Boston
Chicago Historical Society, Chicago
William L. Clements Library, University of Michigan,
Ann Arbor
Connecticut Historical Society, Hartford
Connecticut State Library, Hartford
Columbia University Library, New York
Colonial Williamsburg, Williamsburg, Virginia
College of William and Mary, Williamsburg, Virginia
Dominion (Public) Archives of Canada, Ottawa
Daughters of the American Revolution Library, Wash-
ington, D.C.
Dartmouth College Library, Hanover, New Hampshire
Duke University Library, Durham, North Carolina
Essex Institute, Salem, Massachusetts
Franklin D. Roosevelt Library, Hyde Park, New York
Fort Ticonderoga Museum Library, Ticonderoga, New
York
Haverford College Library, Haverford, Pennsylvania
Hempstead House, New London, Connecticut
Hayes Library, Edenton, North Carolina
Historical Society of Delaware, Wilmington
Historical Society of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia
Harvard University Library, Cambridge, Massachusetts
Henry E. Huntington Library, San Marino, California
John Carter Brown Library, Providence, Rhode Island
Library of Congress, Washington, D.C.
1 The list includes depositories from which manuscripts have been used in this and previous
volumes. The Descriptive List of Illustrations includes additional sources from which
graphic material has been used in Volume 6.
Xlll
MarbHS
Mass. Arch.
MassHS
MCL
Md. Arch.
MdHS
MeHS
MHA
MNHP
Mor. Arch.
NA
NCDAH
NHA
NHCHS
NHHS
NHS
NLCHS
NMM
N.S. Arch.
NYHS
NYPL
NYSL
Pa. Arch.
PM
PML
PRO
PS
PUL
R.I. Arch.
RIHS
SCDAH
SCHS
SI
UFL
IJNBL
UNCL
USNAM
UVL
Marblehead Historical Society, Marblehead, Massachu-
setts
Massachusetts Archives, Boston
Massachusetts Historical Society, Boston
Marietta College Library, Marietta, Ohio
Maryland Archives (Hall of Records) , Annapolis
Maryland Historical Society, Baltimore
Maine Historical Society, Portland
Marine Historical Association, Mystic, Connecticut
Morristown National Historical Park, Morristown, New
Jersey
Moravian Archives, Winston-Salem, North Carolina
National Archives, Washington, D.C.
North Carolina Department of Archives and History,
Raleigh
Nantucket Historical Association, Nantucket, Massachu-
setts
New Haven Colony Historical Society, New Haven, Con-
necticut
New Hampshire Historical Society, Concord
Newport Historical Society, Newport, Rhode Island
New London County Historical Society, New London,
Connecticut
National Maritime Museum, London
Nova Scotia Archives, Halifax
New-York Historical Society, New York
New York Public Library, New York
New York State Library, Albany
Pennsylvania Archives, Harrisburg
Peabody Museum, Salem, Massachusetts
Pierpont Morgan Library, New York
Public Record Office, London
Pilgrim Society, Plymouth, Massachusetts
Princeton University Library, Princeton, New Jersey
Rhode Island Archives, Providence
Rhode Island Historical Society, Providence
South Carolina Department of Archives and History,
Columbia
South Carolina Historical Society, Charleston
Smithsonian Institution, Washington, D.C.
P. K. Yonge Library, University of Florida, Gainesville
University of New Brunswick Library, Fredericton,
New Brunswick
University of North Carolina Library, Chapel Hill
US Naval Academy Museum, Annapolis, Maryland
University of Virginia Library, Charlottesville
xiv
VHS
VSL
WCLAR
WPL
WSL
YUL
Virginia Historical Society, Richmond
Virginia State Library, Richmond
Washington Crossing Library of the American Revolu-
tion, Washington Crossing, Pennsylvania
Public Library, Whitehaven, England
William Salt Library, Stafford, England
Yale University Library, New Haven, Connecticut
The following private collectors have kindly allowed use of their
manuscripts in this volume:
Mr. Harry Ackerman, Hollywood, California
Henry Frederick, 7th Baron Hotham, Beverley, England
Captain and Mrs. Noel Sever O’Reilly, Glenview, Illinois
Mr. Boies Penrose, Devon, Pennsylvania
Captain J. G. M. Stone, Annapolis, Maryland
xv
CONTENTS
Page
Foreword vii
Introduction ix
Preface xi
Depository Location Abbreviations xiii
Descriptive List of Illustrations xix
Maps and Charts xxv
American Theatre, Aug. 1, 1776- Aug. 31, 1776 1
European Theatre, May 26, 1776-Oct. 5, 1776 383
American Theatre, Sept. 1, 1776-Oct. 31, 1776 637
Appendices
A. “Naval and Maritime Medicine During the
Revolution” 1483
by Maurice Bear Gordon, M.D.
B. David Bushnell and the Submarine Turtle 1499
C. “The War in America 1776 Original Manuscript
Journal by Admiral Sir George Collier” 1513
Bibliography 1527
Index 1539
xvii
388-825 0-73-2
DESCRIPTIVE LIST OF ILLUSTRATIONS
Page
Continental Gunboat Philadelphia Frontispiece
(Courtesy of the Smithsonian Institution,
Washington.)
A ship, possibly HMS Inflexible , used on Lake Champlain in
1776 46
Sketch plan, from the notebook of Simon Metcalf, c. 1777.
(Courtesy of the Fort Ticonderoga Museum, Ticonderoga,
New York.)
John Hunter 87
Engraving, by William Ridley, published in the Naval
Chronicle , London, November, 1801. (The Navy Depart-
ment Library, Washington.)
Song for the Privateer Montgomery 119
(Courtesy of the Rhode Island Historical Society.)
John Schank 137
Engraving, published in The European Magazine , London,
February, 1806. (Courtesy of the Frederick S. Hicks Collec-
tion, Alexandria, Virginia.)
James Richard Dacres 137
Engraving, by Page after Robert Bowyer, published in the
Naval Chronicle , London, October, 1811. (The Navy De-
partment Library, Washington.)
Sheer and profile plan of HMS Chatham, 50 guns 168
(Courtesy of the National Maritime Museum, London.)
“The Phoenix and the Rose Engaged by the Enemy’s Fire Ships
and Galleys on the 16 Angst 1776.” 207
Engraving, after Dominique Serres and Sir James Wallace,
published by J. F. W. Des Barres, London, 1778. (Courtesy
of the Mariners Museum, Newport News, Virginia.
Broadside warning of expected British bombardment of New
York City, signed by General George Washington, August
17, 1776 218
(Courtesy of The New-York Historical Society, New York.)
George Washington 237
Portrait in oils, by Robert Edge Pine, 1785. (Courtesy of
Independence National Historical Park, Philadelphia,
Pennsylvania.)
xix
Page
“Disembarkation of the Troops at Gravesend Bay under the
Command of Sir George Collier, R. N.” 269
Engraving, by Baily, published in the Naval Chronicle , Lon-
don, November, 1814. (The Navy Department Library,
Washington.)
Landing of English troops on Long Island, August 22, 1776. . 285
Engraving, by B. Mourik, published in De Maandelykse
Nederlandsche Mercurius, Amsterdam, 1777. (Courtesy of
The New York Public Library, New York. Astor, Lenox and
Tilden Foundations.)
Richard Lord Howe 311
Portrait in oils, by John Singleton Copley, prior to 1794.
(Courtesy of the National Maritime Museum, London.)
“A Draught of a Batteaux ...” 319
(Courtesy of the National Maritime Museum, London.)
“An original sketch by an English Officer on board of one of
Adml Howe’s Fleet while at anchor in New York Harbor,
just after the Battle of Long Island.” 339
(Courtesy of the Emmet Collection, Manuscript Division,
The New York Public Library, New York. Astor, Lenox and
Tilden Foundations.)
John Sullivan 363
Engraving, published by Thomas Hart, London, 1776.
(Courtesy of The Henry Francis du Pont Museum, Winter-
thur, Delaware.)
William Alexander, “Lord Stirling” 363
Portrait in oils, by Bass Otis (1784-1861) , after Sir Joshua
Reynolds. (Courtesy of Independence National Historical
Park, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.)
Portsmouth Dockyard, England, in 1774 423
Model c. 1774. (Courtesy of the Science Museum, London.)
Brest, France 440
Engraving, by Yves Le Gouaz after Nicolas Ozanne, c. 1770.
(Courtesy of the Musee de la Marine, Paris.)
Portsmouth Dockyard, England 451
Plan drawn in 1774. (Courtesy of the Trustees of the British
Museum, London.)
Joseph I 466
Portrait in oils, by Francisco Aparicio (d. 1787). (Courtesy
of the Museu Nacional de Arte Antiga, Lisbon.)
xx
“View of Spithead.” 494
Engraving, by Francis Chesham after Nicholas Pocock, pub-
lished in the Naval Chronicle, London, April, 1804. (The
Navy Department Library, Washington.)
“St. John’s Harbour, Antigua.’’ 507
Engraving, by Thomas Medland after Nicholas Pocock, pub-
lished in the Naval Chronicle, London, June, 1804. (The
Navy Department Library, Washington,)
“View of the Port of Bordeaux.’’ 526
Engraving, by Wells after Samuel Owen, published in the
Naval Chronicle, London, March, 1802. (The Navy Depart-
ment Library, Washington.)
John Montagu, Fourth Earl of Sandwich 545
Engraving, by O’Neale, published in the London Magazine,
July, 1779. (Courtesy of the Emmet Collection [#2372],
Manuscript Division, The New York Public Library, New
York. Astor, Lenox and Tilden Foundations.)
Antoine Raimond Jean Gualbert Gabriel de Sartine 585
Engraving, by Pierre Adrien Le Beau, c. 1775. (Courtesy of
the Musee de la Marine, Paris.)
“The Parricide. A Sketch of Modern Patriotism.’’ 606
Cartoon, representing Britannia under attack by America
and the English opposition, published in the Westminster
Magazine , London, April, 1776. (Courtesy of The Lewis Wal-
pole Library, Farmington, Connecticut.)
Debarkation of English troops at New York City 631
Engraving, by Franz Xaver Habermann, published in Paris,
c. 1776. (Courtesy of the Eno Collection, Prints Division,
The New York Public Library, New York. Astor, Lenox and
Tilden Foundations.)
Charles Carroll, Barrister 657
Miniature on ivory, by Charles Willson Peale, c. 1770-1771.
(Courtesy of the Estate of Herman M. Ellis, Philadelphia,
Pennsylvania.)
“News from America, or the Patriots in the Dumps.” 713
Cartoon, published in the London Magazine, London, No-
vember, 1776, upon receipt of news of the British victories at
New York. (Courtesy of The Lewis Walpole Library, Farm-
ington, Connecticut.)
xxi
Page
“View of the Rebel Work round Walton s House, with Hell
Gate 8c the island, 1776.” 761
Wash drawing, by Captain Archibald Robertson, Royal En-
gineers, c. 1776. (Courtesy of the Spencer Collection. The
New York Public Library, New York. Astor, Lenox and Til-
den Foundations.)
“View of the opening of our Battery at Hell Gate upon— Wal-
ton’s house— 8c the Estuary 8th Sept. 1776” 764
Wash drawing, by Captain Archibald Robertson, Royal En-
gineers, c. 1776. (Courtesy of the Spencer Collection, The
New York Public Library, New York. Astor, Lenox and
Tilden Foundations.)
Robert Morris 795
Portrait in oils, by Charles Willson Peale, date unknown.
(Collections of the Library of Congress, Washington.)
“Repp’s Bay 17th Augt. 1778 where the Troops landed 15th
Septr. 1776.” 847
Sketch, by Captain Archibald Robertson, Royal Engineers,
1778. (Courtesy of the Spencer Collection of The New York
Public Library, New York. Astor, Lenox and Tilden Founda-
tions.)
Recruiting broadside for the privateer brigantine Washington ,
Beverly, Massachusetts, September 17, 1776 870
(Courtesy of the American Antiquarian Society, Worcester,
Massachusetts.)
Loyalty statement issued by citizens of Massachusetts Bay
Colony, 1776 889
(Courtesy of The New-York Historical Society, New York.)
Blank Congressional Marine Committee warrant, signed by
John Hancock, 1776 914
(Courtesy of the Emmet Collection, Manuscript Division,
The New York Public Library, New York. Astor, Lenox and
Tilden Foundations.)
The New York City Fire, September 19, 1776 929
Engraving, by Franz Xaver Habermann, published in Paris,
c. 1776. (Collections of the Library of Congress, Washington.)
“A View of Ticonderoga, from a Point on the North Shore of
Lake Champlain.” 960
Watercolor, by James Hunter, 1777. (Courtesy of the Public
Archives of Canada, Ottawa.)
XXII
Page
Artifacts of the Revolutionary Period 991
Bar Shot, Wrought-Iron Shot Gauge, and Swivel Gun.
(Courtesy of the Smithsonian Institution, Washington.)
Jonathan and Faith (Robinson) Trumbull 1022
Portrait in oils, by John Trumbull, 1778. (Courtesy of The
Connecticut Historical Society, Hartford.)
Continental Marine Corps Powder Horn 1054
The scrimshaw carving depicts the Ship A If red. Engraved on
the powder horn is: ‘‘Isaac Chalker; Ackley. His Horn Made
In Eas’haddam August the 20th AD 1776 . . . made by H
Mack.” (Courtesy of U.S. Marine Corps Museum, Quantico,
Virginia.)
Rudder of Continental Gunboat Philadelphia 1083
(Courtesy of the Smithsonian Institution, Washington.)
Benjamin Franklin 1104
Engraving, by Justus Chevillet after Joseph Sifrede Duplessis,
published in Paris, c. 1778. (Courtesy of the Emmet Collec-
tion [#2925], Manuscript Division, The New York Public
Library, New York. Astor, Lenox and Tilden Foundations.)
Extract from The Freeman's Journal or N ew -Hampshire
Gazette , October 5, 1776 1135
Looking aft from amidships, Continental Gunboat Phila-
delphia 1150
(Courtesy of the Smithsonian Institution, Washington.)
“The Forcing of the Hudson River Passage, October 9, 1776.” 1179
Oil, by Dominique Serres, 1779. (Courtesy of The Henry
Francis du Pont Museum, Winterthur, Delaware.)
Captain’s commission granted by Congress to John Paul Jones,
October 10, 1776 1204
(Courtesy of the United States Naval Academy Museum,
Annapolis, Maryland.)
“A View of the New England Arm’d Vessels in Valcure Bay on
Lake Champlain, 11 October 1776.” 1236
Watercolor, by C. Randle, 1776. (Courtesy of the Public
Archives of Canada, Ottawa.)
The Battle of Valcour Island, Lake Champlain, October 11,
1776 1256
Engraving, published by Robert Sayer, London, December
23, 1776. (Courtesy of the National Maritime Museum,
London.)
xxiii
Page
The Battle of Valcour Island, Lake Champlain, October 11,
1776 1273
Watercolor, by H. Gilder, 1776. (Painting from the Windsor
Castle Collection. Reproduction by gracious permission of
Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.)
Looking forward on gun deck of Continental Gunboat Phila-
delphia ' 1278
(Courtesy of the Smithsonian Institution, Washington.)
Twelve Pound Bow Gun of Continental Gunboat Philadelphia 1291
(Courtesy of the Smithsonian Institution, Washington.)
The Schooner Royal Savage 1342
Watercolor, by an unidentified artist, c. 1776 (Courtesy of
the Philip Schuyler Papers, Manuscript Division, The New
York Public Library, New York. Astor, Lenox and Tilden
Foundations.)
John Fisk 1359
Engraving, by an unknown artist. (Courtesy of the Peabody
Museum, Salem, Massachusetts.)
“A View of His Majesty’s Armed Vessels on Lake Champlain,
October 11, 1776.” 1379
Watercolor, by C. Randle, 1776. (Courtesy of the Public
Archives of Canada, Ottawa.)
Benedict Arnold 1390
Engraving, published in The Hibernian Magazine, Dublin,
July, 1776. (Courtesy of the Frederick S. Hicks Collection,
Alexandria, Virginia.)
Thomas Jefferson 1404
Portrait in oils, by Rembrandt Peale, 1800. (Courtesy of the
White House Collection, Washington.)
“A Draught of the Thunderer. Built at St. Johns on Lake
Champlain, 1776.” 1437
(Courtesy of the National Maritime Museum, London.)
“A Draught of the Lee, a Prize taken on Lake Champlain,
1776.” 1462
(Courtesy of the National Maritime Museum, London.)
“Naval and Maritime Medicine During the Revolution”. . . . 1482-97
(Illustrations for this essay are courtesy of the Friends of
Historical Pharmacy, Hugh Mercer Apothecary Shop, Fred-
ericksburg, Virginia, unless otherwise indicated in the cap-
tion.)
XXIV
MAPS AND CHARTS
Page
“A Map of the World, with the Latest Discoveries . . .
1781.” Endsheets
From Samuel Dunn, A New Atlas of the Mundane System;
or of . . . Geography and Cosmography . . . , R. Sayer and J.
Bennett, London, 1778-1783. (Collections of the Library of
Congress, Washington.)
“Chart and Plan of the Harbour of New York 8c the Coun’y
Adjacent, from Sandy Hook to Kingsbridge, Comprehend-
ing The Whole of New York and Staten Islands, and
Part of Long Island 8c the Jersey Shore: And Shewing the
Defences of New York Both by Land and Sea. London,
Published . . . Novr. 30th. 1781, by J. Bew . . . Jno. Lodge
sculp.” 21
From Political Magazine , Nov. 1781. (Collections of the
Library of Congress, Washington.)
Chesapeake Bay area, detail from “A General Map of the
Middle British Colonies in America . . . 1776.”
From The American Military Pocket Atlas , R. Sayer and
J. Bennett, London, 1778-1783. (Collections of the Library
of Congress, Washington.)
Lake Champlain, detail from “A Topographical Map of Hud-
son’s River ... by Claude Joseph Sauthier . . . 1776.”. . .
From The North American Atlas , Win. Faden, London, 1777.
(Collections of the Library of Congress, Washington.)
“A Plan of New York Island, with Part of Long Island, Staten
Island 8c East New Jersey, with a particular Description
of the Engagement on the Woody Heights of Long Island,
between Flatbush and Brooklyn, on the 27th of August
1776 . . . Showing also the Landing of the British Army
on New-York Island . . . Engraved 8c Publish’d . . . Octr.
19th. 1776, by Wm. Faden . . . London.”
(Courtesy of the Eno Collection, Prints Division, The New
York Public Library, New York. Astor, Lenox and Tilden
Foundations.)
Gulf of Mexico-Carribean region, detail from “Ocean Atlan-
tique . . . 1778.”
From Pilote Americain Septentrional, George Louis Le
Rouge, Paris, 1778. (Collections of the Library of Congress,
Washington.)
67
97
375
396
XXV
Page
“Brest. Departement de la Marine; Departement de la Guerre
. . . J. A. Chevalier fecit 1773.” 483
(Courtesy of the Bibliotheque Nationale, Paris.)
“Plan of the Harbour of Pensacola. By B. Romans, 1771. Lon-
don, Printed for Robert Sayer . . . 1778.” 688
From Thomas Jefferys, The West-India Atlas , R. Sayer, 1794.
(Collections of the Library of Congress, Washington.)
Lake Champlain, detail from “A Survey of Lake Champlain,
including Lake George, Crown Point and St. John ... By
William Brassier, Draughtsman, 1762 . . . London, Printed
for Robt. Sayer 8c Jno. Bennett . . . 1776.” 836
From Thomas Jefferys and others, The American Atlas , R.
Sayer 8c J. Bennett, London, 1776. (Collections of the Library
of Congress, Washington.)
“Valcour Island ... by Captain William Chambers in May
1779.” Manuscript map from Capt. William Chambers, “A
Book of Directions necessary for all Commanders of Vessels
employed on Lake Champlain . . . 1779 and 1780 .. .
Gustavus Augustus McGusty, Scripsit.” 1035
(Courtesy of the Vermont Historical Society, Montpelier.)
“The Attack, and Defeat of the American Fleet under Benedict
Arnold, by the King s Fleet Commanded by Captn. Thos.
Pringle, upon Lake Champlain, the 11th. of October, 1776
. . . London . . . 1776, by Wm. Faden ...” 1229
From The North American Atlas , Wm. Faden, London, 1777.
(Collections of the Library of Congress, Washington.)
Section of “A Plan of New York Island with part of Long Island,
Staten Island 8c East New Jersey, with a particular Descrip-
tion of the Engagement on the Woody Heights of Long
Island, between Flatbush and Brooklyn, on the 27th of
August, 1776, between His Majesty’s Forces Commanded
by General Howe and the Americans under Major General
Putnam, Showing also the Landing of the British Army
on New-York Island and the Taking of the City of New-
York 8cc on the 15th. of September following, with the
Subsequent Disposition of Both the Armies. Engraved 8c
Publish’d . . . Octr. 19th. 1776, by Wm. Faden . . . , Lon-
don.” 1247
From The North American Atlas, Wm. Faden, London, 1777.
(Collections of the Library of Congress, Washington.)
xxvi
AMERICAN THEATRE
From August 1, 1776 to August 31, 1776
AMERICAN THEATRE
From August 1, 1776, to August 31, 1776
SUMMARY
The Declaration of Independence bolstered the American spirit, and
changed the nature of the Revolution. No longer a struggle for rights by
British colonists, it now became a battle for the formation of a new nation.
However, Americans would have scant time to savor the heady spirit of the
Declaration, or to revel in mutual congratulations over the increased num-
ber of prizes taken on the high seas, or the thumping defeat of the enemy
before Charleston.
To the northward, both adversaries rushed completion of the small
fleets with which they would vie for control of that critical invasion route
from Canada — Lake Champlain. But events in August 1776 were domi-
nated by preparations for, and the final unleashing of, the huge British
amphibious assault on New York.
The Howe brothers, General and Admiral, enjoyed overwhelming
superiority on land and afloat at New York. Mastery of the harbor and
surrounding rivers belonged to the British. Their troops could be moved
and supplied by water without opposition.
Crossing in ships’ boats from the Staten Island staging area, waves of
British and Hessian soldiers landed on Long Island under the massed guns
of the Royal Navy. In the ensuing Battle, August 27, Washington’s forces
were soundly defeated with heavy losses. Only a well executed withdrawal
across the East River to Manhattan saved the American army from complete
annihilation which could well have brought the Revolution to a sudden end
at Brooklyn Heights.
New York, the important port which the enemy had desperately needed
since evacuating Boston and which he was to hold throughout the war, was
now his. Yet, Washington’s battered army remained intact and could fight
another day.
1
2 AMERICAN THEATRE
1 Aug. 1776
Journal of H. M. S. Liverpool, Captain Henry Bellew 1
Augt 1776 Cape Codd SW 5 Lgs
Thursday 1st 4 AM set Topgt sails and staysls - at 5 saw the Land, saw
two sail to the Soward Tkd and gave Chace -
First part fresh Gales, midi and latter mode still in Chace
of the 2 Sail, i/2 past 1 PM one of them, (a Brig) run
onshore Do wore ship, and chaced the other, (a Sloop)
at 2, fir’d two Guns at her, and brot her too, Do sent
the Boat onbd and took possession of her, gave chace
to the Brig, she having got off, and standing to the West-
ward, 1/2 past 6 came up with the Brig, sent the Boat,
and took possession of her, the people made their escape
from her. she was loaded with Molasses Cocoa &c and the
sloop with Bread Corn &c 2 V2 past 10 gave chace to a
sail, fired 2 guns and brought her too, found her to be a
ship from Navis, bound to London, in possession of the
Rebels, who had taken her, on her passage home, took out
the Rebels 8 in No sent an officer and 8 men onbd her.3
1. PRO, Admiralty 51/548.
2. The sloop was the Sivan from Philadelphia to some port in New England, Vice Admiralty
Register vol. 5, 1769-1777, N. S. Arch., and the Nezv-England Chronicle, September 5,
1776. The brig of 100 tons was not identified by the captors, no papers being found on
board, and “the Master and all the Hands Quitted the said Brig, after Cutting the Sails
and all the Rigging to pieces,” Vice Admiralty Register, vol. 5, N. S. Arch.
3. The Nevis # Captain Coffin, Public Advertiser, London, October 15, 1776.
Journal of the Rhode Island Sloop Independence ,
Captain Jabez Whipple 1
[1776] Thursday August 1 Daly Accounts
At 4 AM come to Sail from sandy point of Nantuckt At AM
took my Departur From sancutte heed In Lattd 41-10 Londgd
60:40 a 8 sancutte heed Bar WBS. Distence 5 Leagues
Latt in 41.10 Longd 68.48
9 14
Lattd In 41.19 Longd 68.48
At 10 AM saw severed sail of fishing Secuners a Fishing we hove
tew and Catch five Cood fish a Mr made Sail catch plenty of
Mackrell this End this 24 hours the hrst part of this 24 owers
Begins with plesant hasey weather a 2 PM: Spok with a Scuner
bound to plymoth From fishing - Mor sounded on Gorgs got
28 fatham
1. Independence Journal, RIHS.
AUGUST 1776
3
Nathaniel Shaw, Jr. to George Washington 1
Sir, New London Angst 1st 1776
The bearer Doctor [Simeon] Wolcott will deliver you a Turtle wich
was taken in a Ship bound from Jamaica to London by Capt Biddle in
the Brigg Andrew Doria, & was Sent into this Port but Unfortunately was
Lost on the Rocks of Fisher Island, being Chas’d by a Man of Warr, we
Sav’d About Ninety Puncheons of Rum, the Sugar 250 hhds all Lost & the
Ship 2 -and as the Turtle was Intended for the Support of our Enemys, 3
we thought best to Send him to head Quarters, to be Dealt with. I am
Sir [&c.]
Nath1 Shaw Junr
1. Washington Papers, LC.
2. The ship Nathaniel and Elizabeth.
3. On August 7, the General thanked Shaw for the “fine Turtle, which was very acceptable.”
NLCHS.
“Extract of a Letter from an Officer at Ticonderoga, to a
Gentleman in this Town [Baltimore], dated August 1, 1776.” 1
We are fitting out a naval force on the lakes. — We have three schoon-
ers, one sloop, and several gundalows, with about 300 men, including
seamen and marines. There are upwards of Fifty ship-carpenters from
Philadelphia, at Skeensborough, who are building Row Gallies, on the
construction of those in the river Delaware, so that in a month’s time our
strength on the Lakes will be very considerable: In that space of time, from
the best intelligence, General Burgoyne intends to visit us.
. . . We are informed that the English have one schooner launched,
and three more on the stocks at St. John’s, that they build batteaus fast,
and carry on their preparations for crossing the lakes, with the utmost
assiduity.
1. Maryland Journal , Baltimore, August 28, 1776.
Major General Philip Schuyler to John Hancock 1
[Extract] German Flatts august 1st 1776.
General Arnold in a Letter of the 24th Ult: from Tyonderoga advises
me, that only seventy Sailors could be drafted out of the Army and that
three hundred would be wanting and intreated that Measures should be
taken to procure them — I have accordingly written to Governor Trumbull
on the Subject, and as General Arnold suggested that they could not be
got for the Wages allowed Seamen by Congress (as these would have no
prospect of making prizes) — I have therefore ventured to intreat the Gov-
ernor to engage them on the best Terms he can, as Congress will perceive
by the following Extract of my Letter of Yesterday’s Date.
“I am this Moment informed that only seventy Sailors can be procured
out of our Northern Army, and that we shall want two or three hunderd
more and that they may possibly be procured in Connecticut, and it is
4
AMERICAN THEATRE
conjectured that Captains Samuel Chew and Francis Brown of New Haven,
Capt Amos Green of Stamford, Captain [Azariah] Whitlesey of Saybrook
and Capt Seth Warner of Haddam would if not employed, be willing to
engage as Captains to command Vessels on Lake Champlain - 1 am a
Stranger to all these Gentlemen - permit me to beg the Favor of you to
send to them or such others as you may think proper, to engage forty Men
a piece and to make the best Contract you can with them for their and their
Mens Monthly Wages and Allowance which will be strictly complyed with.”
- I hope this Measure will meet with the Approbation of Congress as the
Necessity of having Sailors is evident, and as there can be no Doubt but
that Governor Trumbull will make the most favorable Contract for the
public that he can.
1. Papers CC (Letters of Major General Philip Schuyler), 153, II, 248, 250-52, NA.
George Washington to Governor Jonathan Trumbull 1
[Extract] New York Augt 1st 1776
Since my last nothing of importance has occurred, or that is worthy
of notice except an augmentation of about twenty nine Ships and Brigs
with seven or eight smaller vessels to the Enemy’s Fleet -I have not yet
learned what they bring, certainly - However, some Troops were seen
landing from them yesterday, which the General who observed them took
to be Artillery Men. It is not improbable that they may be some of the
Guards whose dress is pretty much like that of the Artillery -
P. S. The three Galleys you were so kind as to order have safely arrived also
two from Rhode Island. With these and one that is finished here we are
preparing to attempt something against the Ships above -
1. Trumbull Papers, XXIX, Letter Book IV, 324, ConnSL.
Memoirs of Major General William Heath 1
[New York] August 1st. — About 30 sail of British ships arrived at the Hook.
Three or four more row-gallies went up the Hudson. In bringing the
hulks, chevaux-de-frise, &c. round from the East River, to the Hudson, a
sloop sunk, not far from the Grand Battery.
1. William Abbatt, ed., Memoirs of Major-General William Heath by Himself (New York,
1901), 43. Hereafter cited as Abbatt ed., Heath Memoirs.
Captain Benjamin Trumbull’s Journal of the
Campaign at New York 1
[New York] August 1st [1776] The Two Galleys from Providence got
round into the North River, and Sailed up the River. The New York and
2 of the Connecticut Gallies went up as far as Kings Bridge some Days
before.
1. Collections of the Connecticut Historical Society, VII, 180.
AUGUST 1776
5
New-York Journal , Thursday, August 1, 1776
New York, August 1.
On Monday last five of the men of war’s boats endeavouring to land
on Tappan meadows, where about 15 inhabitants of the neighbourhood
concealed themselves in a fishing hut, on the edge of the meadows, which
they had barricaded up, and lay there until three of the boats were within
shot of them, when they fired, loaded again, and fired eleven rounds,
without the loss of a man on our side. They killed several of the enemy,
as they heard a great shrieking and crying amongst them.
Journal of Ambrose Serle 1
[On board H. M. S. Eagle]
Thursday, Augst. 1st. [1776]
This Morning between 40 and 50 Sail appeared in Sight, which proved
to be Sir Peter Parker’s Fleet, with Generals Clinton 8c Lord Cornwallis, and
the Troops under their Command, on board. They have had an unsuc-
cessful Attack upon Charles Town, and lost near 200 Men, in Killed 8c
Wounded, belonging to the Ships. Three Frigates, who led the Charge,
run aground in going up, through Ignorance of the Pilots; and, very hap-
pily, the Experiment of 50 Guns, arriving the Day before, by interposing
between the Fort 8c them saved the whole Fleet from Destruction. The
Acteon , a new Frigate of 28 Guns, it being impossible to get off, was
scuttled 8c burnt. Under all these Disadvantages, the Reinforcement of
2900 Men is an agreeable Circumstance, and especially as they are in very
good Health. The Ships, in coming in, made a very fine Appearance.
1. Edward H. Tatum, Jr., ed., The American Journal of Ambrose Serle, 1776-1778 (San Marino,
Calif., 1940), 52. Hereafter cited as Tatum, ed., Serle’s Journal.
Diary of Dr. Thomas Moffat 1
[On board H. M. Sloop Swan]
Thursday Augst 1st [1776] Signal from the light House of a Fleet off.
Thermometer 75 — went ashore with Captn [James] Ayscough and descryd
from the Light House forty and more Sail standing in for the Hook,
bathd in the Sea. A M 40 Transport with the Army from South Carolina
the Sole bay Boreas and Armd vessells passed up to the Fleet. P M a Trans-
port Ship with 130 Soldiers of the 50 Regt from Jamaica passd up to the
Fleet.
1. Thomas Moffat’s Diary, July 30, 1775 to October 8, 1777, LC.
Diary of Christopher Marshall 1
[Philadelphia] August 1st
. . . gave pass to John Bayley to New York with Sundry goods, to
4 Sailors discharged from Sloop Sally Capt John Ball from St Croix to goe
to New York 8c to Wm Ogbourn going Express there, one pass to James
6
AMERICAN THEATRE
Montgomery Capt of one of our Gondolas . . . going to Camp in the
Jerseys 2 . . . News today of the Ship Sent out by Congress being
in the river from Marselleus in france with ten Tonns Gun powder, 1100
Stands of arms, Thirty Seven & half tonn of lead 1 tierce of flints.
1. Diary of Christopher Marshall, HSP.
2. Marshall was chairman of the Committee of Inspection and Observation and authorized to
issue passes to leave the city.
Captains John Hamilton and James Montgomery to the
Pennsylvania Council of Safety 1
[Gentle]men Philadelphia August 1st 1776-
We have had the Honour to bear [commis]sions in the Naval Service
of this Province from the First Establishement of it - But the Convuls’d
State it Has been in Since the Engagements with the Enemys Ship In the
River has, ever since that time determin’d us in Quitting that part of the
Service of Our Country; and of going Into another — Yet the same reason,
which Occassion’d this Determination, (together with the desire of many
Respecable Citizens) has been the cause of Our holding, untill a Convention
Shou’d put the direction of the Naval affairs of this Province In a [new]
Channel — This being now done, This Board Will Permit us, to make the
intended Resignation, and We do hereby Resign Our Commissions accord-
ingly
We wou’d not have it believ’d from this resignation that we mean to
abandon the cause of the Independant States of America no; it partly
proceeds from a desire of Serving in a larger Sphere of Action, whereby
we may Have an opportunity of rendering our Country some More es-
sential Service, than we have any prospect of doing here We are
Gentlemen [8cc.]
Jn° Hamilton
James Montgomery 2
1. FDRL.
2. Hamilton commanded the Pennsylvania galley Congress; Montgomery, the galley Chatham.
Their resignations were accepted. Pennsylvania Colonial Records (Philadelphia and
Harrisburg, 1851-1852), X, 664-65.
“Men In Actual Pay in the Service of Pennsylvania First of
August, 1776” 1
The Navy, vizt
Ship Montgomery,
Sami Davison, Esq.,
138
Floating Battery,
Lieut J. Hennesey,
82
Congress,
(no Hambleton,
41
Franklin,
Nathan Boyce,
46
Effingham,
H. Montgomery,
25
Dickenson,
John Rice,
33
Chatham,
Jams Montgomery,
34
Hancock,
Thos Moore,
47
AUGUST 1776
7
Warren,
Thos Houstin,
24
Burke,
James Blair,
20
Cambden,
Richd Ayres,
35
Bull Dog ,
Alexr Henderson,
41
Washington ,
H. Dougherty,
43
Experiment,
Lieut B. Thompson,
28
Ranger,
Lieut Rt Hinne [Hume]
Charles Lawrence,
30
Sallamander ,
15
Porcupine,
Rt Tatnell,
12
Brimstone,
W. Watkin,
11
T error,
Rt Hardie,
13
Vulture,
W. Greenway,
11
Eagle ,
Jacob Hance,
12
Fire Brig Vesuvius,
Edwd Bingley,
5
do. Sloop Etna,
W. Gamble,
4
Sloop Hetty,
H. Hoover,
3
do. Defyance,
A. Gardner,
3
Schoonr Lydia
J. Simpson,
5
Sloop Sally,
M. Wirt,
7
Directed.
Estimate to 1st August, 1776.
For The Council of Safety
741
9
18
768
1. Pennsylvania Archives , 1st series, V, 3, 4-5.
“Extract of a letter from Philadelphia, Aug. 1.” 1
Last night arrived an account of the capture of the brig Richmond , by
the Congress, fitted out of this place. She was bound from London and
Nevis for Halifax, and had on board the following articles, viz, 1078 joes,
672 guineas, 15 moidores, 41 hogsheads of rum, 6 hogsheads, 5 tierces, and
5 barrels of sugar, 1 hogshead of loaf sugar, 24 hogsheads of prize molasses,
3 cases of drugs, and a trunk of Irish linen. The brig was arrived at Egg
harbour; the gold they hid in the water cask. The cash, and several London
passengers, are on board the privateer, who was left in chase of a three-
decker. They took several London letters directed for people in New York,
also some newspapers, one of them of the 23d of April, which is the only
one we have not seen before. It contains very little, except advices from
Jamaica, by which they seem alarmed at the arrival of the French troops
at Hispaniola, and that some of the merchants had forbid their orders for
goods, expecting a visit from them. That seven ships, one of them the
Hancock and Adams, with wheat, had arrived at Lisbon from Philadelphia;
and that two with tobacco, and one wheat loaded ship, were arrived in
France.
8
AMERICAN THEATRE
Mr. Gibb’s ship, capt. Robinson, is below, from Marseilles, with 1100
arms, 37 tuns of lead, 15 tuns of powder, flints, &c. I have just seen the
supercargo, who tells me they are seven weeks out; that he could not
procure a newspaper, although he offered a guinea for one, but saw one as
late as the 25th of May.
1. Purdie’s Virginia Gazette, August 16, 1776.
Captain Charles Pope to Thomas Rodney 1
Dr Sir Wilmington August 1st 1776
Since I saw you in Newcastle, I have been treating with a Carpenter
of this place, who engages to build and have ready for launching a Vessel
by the Middle of October provided we procure three or four Workmen
for him — At present he has but two, and says it will take six hands to
build her in ten weeks: — The Dimensions agreed on are 54 feet Keel, 20
feet Beam and 8 feet Hold. The Dimensions of the Brig Lexin[g]ton Commd
by Capt. Barrey [John Barry] is 58 feet Keel— 21 feet Beam — and 9 feet
Hold — The Carpenters say her length will be a considerable advantage to
her sailing — Several Labourers have been employed two or three days in
cutting the Timber and Keel — the greatest part of the Plank is now
ready — and he fully expects indeed is determined to have her on the Stocks
in three or four Days.
I would recommend it particularly — nay request it as a Favor of
Mr. McGarmot to ride down to Lewis Town — Cedar and Broadkill Creeks
and employ all the Hands he can— the more hands the better for us —
she will be the sooner off the Stocks, and I am certain hands may be got
down there — I beg you may insist on Mr. McGarmots going down; as the
Time is drawing fast that requires our presence in the English Channel -
I shall endeavor to get off from this Service in a few Weeks, and think
there will be no great Difficulty in procuring a Discharge Was it not that
I prefer the Sea to the Land Service, should continue a Soldier as long as
there would be Occasion. - 2
Best regards to the Family and remain [Sec.]
Charles Pope
1. Delaware Archives (Dover, 1919), III, 1423.
2. Pope commanded the Fifth Company of the Delaware Regiment of the Continental line.
He did not resign from the land service. On the day after this letter to Rodney, his
regiment marched and arrived in Philadelphia, August 3. Christopher L. Ward,
The Delaware Continentals 1776-1783 (Wilmington, 1941), 10.
Samuel Purviance, JR- to Joseph Hewes 1
Dear Sir Baltimore August 1st 1776
The intention of this is to introduce to you my very worthy freind
Captn James Nicholson, who agreeable to what I lately wrote you goes up to
wait on your Board 2 Sc receive their Instructions &c about the Outfit of
the Frigate.3 Captn Nicholsons Merit both in private Life 8c as an Officer
is very great, Sc Justly deserving the Esteem of all who know him.- I hope
AUGUST 1776
9
a proper Regard will be paid to his Deserts by your Board in settling the
Rank of the Officers, that his Usefulness may be rendered the more exten-
sive. He possesses in my Opinion the best Talents for Command, of any
Man I know; And the good Order & Discipline of the Ships Company which
he now commands 4 is a striking Proof [of] it, It being difficult to deter-
mine whither he is most loved or feared by them. His Judgemt in Marine
Affairs will I am perswaded be of Service to your Board. His Prudence &
Discretion are deserving of the greatest Confidence. My Bro[the]r will either
accompany or go next day after Captn Nicholson, & will render every As-
sist[an]ce he can in collecting & forwarding such Stores 8cc as are wanted
from Philada I am Sir [&c.]
Sam1 Purviance Junr
1. Hayes Manuscripts, NCDAH.
2. Hewes was a member of the Continental Marine Committee.
3. The Continental frigate Virginia, built at Fell’s Point, Baltimore.
4. The Maryland ship Defence.
Maryland Council of Safety to George Woolsey 1
No 104.
Sir The Vessel you and Company have on the stocks the Council of
Safety are now desirous of purchasing, provided they can have her on
Reasonable Terms. -let us know therefore whether your Company will
sell, and what price they ask - we expect your answer as soon as possible,
when Mr [Stephen] Steward our agent will attend to compleat the con-
tract, and give directions. We are [&c.] 2
[Annapolis] 1 Aug 1776
1. Council of Safety Letter Book, No. 1, Md. Arch.
2. Woolsey & Salmon Letter Book, LC, contains August 7 notation: “Wrote the Councill of
Safety Letting them know they Could not have the Schooner that is building.”
Journal of the Virginia Navy Board 1
[Williamsburg] Thursday the first day of August 1776. -
Resolved that John Hutchings Esqr be first Commissioner of this Board
Protempore
Ordered that a Warrant Issue to John Hart for Nineteen pounds twelve
shillings and four pence for Necessaries furnished the Schooner Revenge
Capt [William] Deane —
Ordered that a Warrant Issue to William Cook for four pounds one shill-
ing and six pence for Nails Bolts and other Articles furnished Capt William
Deane for the use of the Schooner Revenge —
Ordered that a Warrant Issue to Capt Edward Travis for four hundred
and thirty one pounds for Disbursements and for the payment of his Men
from the time of their Enlistment to this day 2
Ordered that a Warrant Issue to Lieutenant James Quarles for One
hundred and twenty two pounds one shilling & three pence, it being the
Ballance of his Account for recruiting Service and for the Payment of his
Company of Marines from the seventeenth day of April One thousand
10
AMERICAN THEATRE
seven hundred and seventy six to the thirty first day of July following —
Ordered that a Warrant Issue to Capt Thomas Lilly for thirty pounds on
Account for necessaries furnished the Brig Liberty —
Ordered that the Gallies to be Built by Mr Caleb Herbert pursuant to an
Order of the Honourable the Congress 3 be of the following Dimensions,
to wit, Seventy one feet Keel Twenty feet Beam six feet Hole and six Inches
dead Rise —
Ordered that Mr William Frazer one of the Contractors for the district
of York River do Furnish Caleb Herbert with provisions necessary for
Victualling the Workmen now Building a Row Gallie under the direction
of the said Herbert pursuant to an Order of Congress — 4
1. Navy Board Journal, 27-28, VSL.
2. The galley Manley.
3. See Journal of the Continental Congress, May 18, 1776, authorizing Virginia to build six
galleys at continental expense, for the protection of troops crossing the many navigable
rivers in that colony. Volume 5, 142.
4. The Navy Board sent instructions to Frazer on August 4. Navy Board Letter Book, VSL.
Journal of the Virginia Council of Safety 1
[Williamsburg] Thursday August 1st 1776.
The Members present taking under their Consideration the proceed-
ings of the Committee of Safety with respect to their Directions for build-
ing six Row-Gallies for the purpose of Transporting Troops across the
Rivers pursuant to a Resolution of General Congress, find that the said
Committee had empowered Persons upon James, York and Rappahanock
Rivers to provide Materials for building the same; but as this Board do
not know what progress may have been made therein, and do not look
upon themselves as competent Judges of Naval affairs are of opinion that
the Commissioners of the Navy be requested to take this Business under
their Consideration, and carry the said Resolution of Congress respecting
the said Row-Gallies into Execution.
It appearing that the Public Treasury is at present in an exhausted
state, owing to the delay in getting ready the Dollar Bills lately ordered
by Convention to be struck, and that there is a considerable sum of Con-
tinental Money deposited with the Treasurer by the Congress for the pur-
pose of exchanging the same for Gold and silver which on Trial is found to
be impracticable, Ordered therefore that the Treasurer be requested to
pay any warrants which may be drawn by this Board, or the Navy Board
during the present situation of the Treasury out of the said Continental
money to be replaced hereafter; and that he be informed at the same
Time, that the Council will issue as few warrants as may be, until the
Treasury can be restored to a better Condition.
Thomas Everard, Joseph Prentis, and John Tyler Esquires having sent
their several Resignations in writing of their Offices as Judges of the Court
AUGUST 1776
11
of Admiralty; William Holt, George Seaton, and William Armistead
junior Esquires are appointed Judges of the said Court.
1. H. R. Mcllwaine, ed.. Journals of the Council of the State of Virginia (Richmond, 1932), I,
102, 103. Hereafter cited as Mcllwaine, ed., Journals of the Virginia Council.
Journal of the North Carolina Council of Safety 1
[Halifax] Thursday August 1st 1776.
Resolved That John Gale or William Calvert be appointed to the
Command of the Brigantine Betsey now lying in Edenton Bay and Laden
with a Cargo of Tobacco on the Continental Account and Bound on a
Voyage to Europe, and should they both refuse to take the Command
of the said Brigantine in that case the Committee of the Town of Edenton
be impowered to appoint some person well skilled in the Art of Navigation,
and who is a known Friend to the American Independency to the Com-
mand of the said Brigantine Betsey.
Resolved That Robert Smith Esquire of Edenton be permitted to
Export to any of the French or Neutral Islands in the Sloop Betsey, James
Ferguson Master the following Articles, to wit. twenty thousand Hogshead
Staves and heading, he having entered into Bond with Security in the Sum
of One thousand pounds to import into this province the Net proceeds
of the Staves above mentioned in Salt Arms Ammunition and other war-
like Stores.
1. Secretary of State Papers (Provincial Conventions and Congresses/Councils 1774-1776),
NCDAH.
Robert Cochran to John Langdon, Portsmouth 1
Sir, I Receiv’d Yours of 3th June ult. the day we were very Busy in
geting ready to Receive our Enemys which we did on the 28th 8c give
them a very Genteel draubing - Particulars you have before this reaches
you. - Some damage has been done to the Inhabitants of the back Settle-
ments of this province by the Indians, but there are large parties gone
against them, so hope there will be a Stop to these troubles.
Am very happy to find you are in so good Spirits, 8c great readiness
for the Enemy; wou’d be glad to hear how far advanc’d your Shiping are
in new-England. Mr. Pickran 2 that come from Piscatway had the Command
of a Row-Galley 8c has taken an English Brig in one of our Inletts. We
Seem to be pretty Safe from danger at present. — I am, sir [8cc.]
Charlestown 1st August 1776. Rob1 Cochran
1. John Langdon Papers, Captain J. G. M. Stone Private Collection, Annapolis.
2. Captain Thomas Pickering.
John Almon’s Remembrancer , 1776 1
St. Vincent’s, Aug 1.
The Shark man of war, Capt Bennett [sic John Chapman], on her
way from Antigua to this island, opposite the island of Martinico, fell in
with a North American privateer, mounting 18 ten pounders. The action
12
AMERICAN THEATRE
lasted near two hours, when the latter was obliged to sheer off; and the
former pursued till she received two twenty-four pound shot from the
fort at Martinico, which obliged her to desist; and the captain went on
shore to make his complaint to the French governor, who declared he
would not suffer any English man of war to come within reach of his
cannon after the Americans; that if they were pirates he would not counte-
nance them, but by no means looking on them in that light; they claimed
his protection while they remained at Martinico; when they put to sea it
was their own affair.
Captain Bennett [s/c] learned at Martinico, that this same American
vessel had taken two English ships homeward bound, and that they had
39 prisoners on board; but the captains nor names of the vessels he could
not hear; the colours which the American shewed were a field white and
yellow, with 13 stripes.2
1. John Almon, ed., The Remembrancer ; or Impartial Repository of Public Events. For the
Year 1776 (London, 1776), III, 277-78. Hereafter cited as Almon, ed., Remembrancer .
2. Captain Chapman described the Reprisal’s colors as red and white striped with the union
next the staff, and made no mention of any yellow. See Chapman to Vice Admiral
Young, July 29, 1776. Volume 5, 1278-79.
2 Aug.
Journal of the Massachusetts Council 1
[Watertown] Friday - August 2d 1776
Petition of Benjamin Goodhue of Salem, in behalf of Himself & others his
Partners -
Humbly Sheweth, That your Petitioner in Company with said Part-
ners is fitting out with all dispatch a Privateer Schooner of War call’d
the Sturdy Beggar Whereof Allan Hallet is intended to be Commander.
Your Petitioners Humble Prayer therefore is, that your Honors would
be pleased, to Order that the said Allen Hallet may be Comissionated as
Captain of the said Schooner, And your Petitioner as in duty bound shall
ever Pray-
Benjamin Goodhue
Read and Ordered that the Abovementioned Allen Hallet be Comission-
ated as Captain of said Schooner, On his giving Bonds with Sufficient Sure-
ties to Comply with the Order of the General Court in such cases made - 2
Petition of Archibald Duthie, Humbly Sheweth, I was taken About three
Weeks ago By the Sturdy Beggar Privateer comanded by Capt Peter Lander,
in my Passage from Jamaica to London Since that time the Ship is
retaken & I Apprehend carried to Halifax, it being near Night & the Sea
running high when I was taken on board the Privateer, I had but little
time to provide myself with Cloaths & other Necessarys, and not doubting
of her being brought into Port, was not very Anxious, as She is not come,
I am now without Cloaths Without Money, if your Honors thinks it right,
AUGUST 1776
13
I pray for leave to follow her to Halifax — and your Petitioner Shall ever
pray, I am May it please your Honors - Your Most Obdt Sc M. H. Servt-
Archibald Duthie -
Ordered that the Officers taken by John Fisk Commander of the
Tyrrannicide deliver their Swords into the Hands of Honble Richard
Derby Esqr Sc he to keep them till said Officers are Liberated -
Petition of John Winthrop Junr Sc others Humbly Sheweth, — That your
Petitioners Owners of the Schooner Warren, burthen about Seventy Tons,
Armed with Four four Pounders, Four three Pounders, twelve Swivels,
Sc four Cohorns, Navigated with Fifty Men William Coas Commandr, Coas
Gardner 1st Leut both of Gloucester, Moses Harris of Ipswich 2d Leut,
is designed to Cruize Against the Enemies of these United States. Your
Petitioners would therefore Humbly request your Honors to Commission
the said Vessel Sc Captain for the purpose beforement[ione]d and your
Petitioners as in duty bound shall ever Pray
John Winthrop Junr-
Read Sc Ordered that a Comission be Issued to the above Mention’d
William Coas, Commander of the Schooner Warren, on his giving Bond
Agreeable to the Resolves of Congress - 3
Ordered that the Commissary General be and he hereby is Directed to
deliver unto Capt Daniel Souther Comander of the Brigantine Massa-
chusetts or his Order the following Articles taking proper receipts for the
same Vizt-
14 four or Six Pounders -
14 Swivels
40 Muskets
20 pr. Pistols
20 Tomahawks
1 Ton double headed 8 round
Shott -
Petition of John Winthrop Junr of Boston humbly Sheweth, that your
Petitioner being part Owner of the Schooner Warren now fitting out
to Cruize Against the Enemies of these United States, Sc that the said
Schooner having every necessary Equipment but the Article but Lie of]
Gun Powder and for want of which she is Unable to proceed on her Cruize,
Your Petitioner would therefore request permission of yr Honors to Allow
him to purchase Seven Hundred pounds weight of the said Article of Gun
Powder out of the Public Stores, Sc for which he will Imediately pay the
Money or return the like weight of good Salt Petre, which he has now in
his Possession, and yr Petitioner as in Duty bound shall ever pray —
John Winthrop Junr -
Read Sc Ordered, that the Comissary be Sc he hereby is directed to
deliver Mr John Winthrop Jnr Seven Hundred pounds of Gun Powder
3 . . 0 . .0 Grape Shott
100 lb Muskett Ball
50 lb Match rope
14 Powder Hornes
30 Bushells Beans Sc Pease -
14
AMERICAN THEATRE
for the beforementiond Schooner, he paying the Money or returning the
Salt Petre as the Comissary & he can Agree -
Petition of Miles Greenwood of Salem, in behalf of himself, and Others
his Partners, Inhabitants of Salem & Beverly, Humbly Sheweth, That your
Petitioner in Company with his sd partners, is now fitting out with all Dis-
patch and allmost Compleated for the Sea a Private Schooner of War call’d
the True American, to be Commanded by Capt Danl Hathorne, to be
Mounted with twelve Carriage Guns, and Navigated with Seventy Men,
with design to disstres and Captivate, the Subjects Servants & Vessels of
the King of Great Britain, and all others, the declared Enemies of the
United States of America -That your Petitioner is Appreh[e]nsive, that
he shall not be able to procure powder for the said Schooners intended
Cruize, owing to its Scarsity in this Colony -Your Petitioners Humble
Prayer therefore is that the Honorable Board would be pleased to allow
him and Order him to be supplied out of this Colony Magazine, with Seven
Hundred pounds weight of Powder, he paying for the same at the price
which the Honorable Board, or any Person or persons, whom they shall
be pleased to appoint, shall set upon it and your Petitioner as in duty
bound shall ever pray- Miles Greenwood
Read & Ordered that the Commissary General be and he hereby is directed
to deliver to Miles Greenwood or Order Seven Hundred w[e]ight of
Powder out of the Powder Now at Salem he paying for the same at the rate
of Five shillings pr pound.
1. Mass. Arch., vol. 19, 143-45.
2. Ibid., vol. 7, 162. Bond for $5,000 was made this date.
3. Ibid., vol. 7, 323. Bond for $5,000 was made this date.
New-England Chronicle , Friday, August 2, 1776
[Boston, August 2]
Messieurs Printers, In your paper of the 25th instant you
mention, “last Sunday a ship of 200 tons burthen, commanded by
James Arnout, was sent into this harbour by Commodore Hop-
kins, &c.” In the same paper, we observe that a certain Caleb
Hopkins, who calls himself “Commander of the armed ship called
the George, &c.” has libelled the ship called the Queen of England.
We are greatly surprised at his assurance, in libelling said ship, as
she was not within one and half miles of the George when she
struck, and an island between them, and the Commodore (as he is
called) did not come on board the Queen of England, ’till an hour
after she struck, and then was employed only as a pilot.
Winthrop Gray
Zebedee Redding
Hull, July 29, 1776.
Friday last was taken to the Eastward of Mount Desart, by two
Whalemen, and last Wednesday sent in here, a large Schooner of 160
Captains.-
AUGUST 1776
15
Tons, from Jamaica bound to Halifax, laden with Rum, Sugar, Pimenta,
See. She, it is said, was formerly owned in Salem.
Last Lord’s Day was carried into Marblehead, the Ship Peggy, com-
manded by James Kennedy, mounts six 3 and two 2-pounders, bound for
New York, taken by the armed Vessels Hancock, Capt. [Samuel] Tucker,
and the Franklin, Captain [John] Skimmer. She is one of the Fleet of 24
Sail, who, it is said, by those that were taken in her, came out with trans-
ports, under convoy of two men of war, the Renown of 50 and the Flora
of 20 guns, having on board a number of troops. — The cargo consists of
75 doz. hose, 180 yards Irish sheeting, 2 boxes cord, 74 doz. porter, 83 doz.
strong beer, 311 tierces salted beef, 6 barrels herring, 24 camp kettles, 5
doz. canteens, 2 doz. kettles with covers, candlesticks and spoons, 2648
mutton hams, 50 doz. Rappee snuff, 100 gallons rum, 3884 yards oznabrigs,
12 and half doz. claret, 4 barrels flour, 2 kegs barley, 230 doz. red port
wine, 50 doz. Sherry, 53 doz. white port wine, 16 doz. strong beer, amounting
to <£.1509-1-9 sterling, and some cash. Also the following Tory gentlemen
and ladies, viz. Patrick Reed, Thomas Frazier, Robert Semple, and wife,
Elizabeth Burns, John Burns, Abigail Pecit, Thomas Semple, and the pious
Benjamin Davis and son, Thomas Pamp, and John Whitehead. The Pri-
vateer Warren, Capt. Burk, engaged with another of the fleet, and near
taking her, when by some accident she had three of her men blown up
and seven wounded, which obliged them to put into port.1 2
The above Tories were brought to Town in a Marblehead Schooner
on Monday morning, and escorted up to Gaol; - they inform that they left
Halifax the 4th July; that they sailed in Company with 3 Transports
with Hessian Troops bound to New-York; and that the Day they left Hali-
fax, they saw a fleet of 40 Sail, which they supposed to be Transports
with Hessian Troops.
1. Gray and Redding commanded two companies of the 14th Continental Infantry, stationed
at Hull and Point Alderton.
2. The Warren’s engagement was with the British transport Unity , whose captain made the
following report of the encounter:
Off the Isle of Sable, early in the Morning, we saw a Schooner, which seemed
inclined to speak with us; about Noon she was only a Half a mile from us, when
she fired a Shot to bring us too; she had hoisted no Colours notwithstanding she
fired a Shot; we were surprised at this, and could therefore hardly think she was
one of our armed Schooners, as the Officer would certainly know his Duty better:
we accordingly brought too, but took Care also to get all the Soldiers up, and in
Arms, and had them all ready under the Quarter-deck, and out of Sight; she ran
under our Stern, and bade us strike to the Congress; on which having four Guns
abaft, (all we had on board) we complimented her with a Couple; she then kept
on our bow, and seemed inclined to board us, our Soldiers immediately went for-
ward, and gave them such a Discharge of small Arms, that she found she had
caught a Tartar. I believe we killed them five Men at this Fire. She then shot
a-head of us, in order, I believe, to consider what to do; the Determination was
to leave us, which they did, by steering away South, whilst we kept on for Halifax
Harbour, not having suffered the least Hurt. The Schooner had ten Guns, and
I believe upwards of fifty Hands.
Public Advertiser, London, August 30, 1776.
16
AMERICAN THEATRE
Agreement of Officers and Crew of the Rhode Island
Privateer Sloop Diamond 1
Providence August the 2, 1776
Whear as thear is Sum uneasyness a Rose amoung the Sloop Dimounds
Crue a Bought Thomas Curtis having two And Half Sheares For acting as
Leftennant of mereanes wee hous Names are under Ritten do a Gree that
Said Curtis Receve two & Half Sheares out of ail prizes Taken by Sloop
Dimound the Cruse he was out Bound -
his
John X Briggs
mark
Benja Butts
Bethanath Hodgkinson
Robert Palmer
Georg Hoffman
Gilbert Bedell
Alex[a]nder Tindall
His
John X Morgain
mark
Thomas Stone
William Harrison
John Sober
John Williams
1. JCBL.
Isaa Code Cap Ms
William Hurbly
his
John X Adams
mark
John Sowdon
John Clarke
Isaac Mondon
Robert Bolton
Asa Briggs
P Desmazures
his
Christopher X Hargal
mark
Joseph Picher Jr
Will™ Chace Mastr
George W. Babcock
Journal of the Connecticut Council of Safety 1
[Lebanon] Friday, August 2d, 1776
Resolved and ordered , That Capt. John Deshon and Mr. Nathl Shaw
Junr be and they are Instructed to Purchase the New Providence Sloop
belonging to Mr. Charles Walker now Lying at New London 2 for the
use of this government to be fitted out as an armed Vessell, at the Easiest
and Cheapest Rate in their Power and to Execute Proper Contracts on the
Part of this Colony for that Purpose and Receive Suitable Writings of Con-
veyance to Pass the property of the Same to this State Accordingly
And that thereupon Capt Seth Harding Do Immediately Proceed to
alter and fit up said Sloop as an Armed Brigantine with the Greatest
Dispatch and that he make use of the Masts Sails rigging Guns and other
Implements & Furniture of the Brigantine Defence now under his Com-
mand for that Purpose and that he Employ the Officers Sailors and Marines
of said Brigantine Defence in fitting said Sloop as aforesd.3
AUGUST 1776
17
and said Mr Shaw is Directed to furnish Capt Harding with what shall be
Necessary for that Purpose
1. Charles J. Hoadly, ed., Public Records of the Colony of Connecticut . . . (Hartford, 1890),
XV, 495. Hereafter cited as Hoadly, ed., Connecticut Records. An attested copy is in
Nathaniel and Thomas Shaw Letters and Papers, NLCHS.
2. The sloop Endeavour, which Esek Hopkins had impressed into service to carry some of
the cannon from New Providence, promising Walker that he would be reimbursed.
This Congress did to the amount of two thousand dollars, restoring sloop and her
original cargo to the owner.
3. The sloop, converted to a brigantine, was also named Defence.
Connecticut Gazette , Friday, August 2, 1776
New- London, August 2.
Since our last arrived here Capt. Joseph Packwood in an armed sloop,
from the West-Indies, with ten Tons of Powder, 3 or 400 stand of Arms,
and a Quantity of European Goods. And,
Last Tuesday Capt. Bigelow arrived here from the West-Indies, with
five Tons of Powder, Sec. They were both chased by the Cerberus Frigate,
Capt. Simmons [John Symons], but had the good Fortune to get in safe.
List of Men from Connecticut Who Served On Board
the Continental Ship Alfred 1
List of Men Ship’d in Connecticut for 6 Months
Names
Amount
Slops
Reed
Time Entry
Time of Discharg
&c:8cc:
James Holt
£6. .4. .7
23d
Dec:
1775
Dischd 16th June
1776-
Peter Holt
2. .4. .9
23d
do
do
Left the Ship 17th
June 1776
Willm Fagan
5.17.11
14th
do
do
Dischd 14th Tune
1776-
Samuel Lollard
3.16. .1
30th
do
do
Run 21. April 1776
Samuel Procter
5. .5. .3
1
Jany
1776
Run 10. April 1776
Elias Robbins
4.10. .9
1
do
do
Run 17. July 1776-
John Cole
3 . . 3 . .3
3d
do
do
Left the Ship 3 Jul
1776
Robert Babcock
10. .6
2
do
do
Left the Ship 4th
1776
James Palmer
3. .9. .9
2
do
do
Left the Ship 4th
July 1776
Nathan Brand
1..1..4
2
do
do
Left the Ship 4
July 1776
Daniel Palmer
10. .6
2
do
do
Left the Ship 4
July 1776
Peter Peters
1. .1
3
do
do
Left the Ship 4
July 1776
18
AMERICAN THEATRE
Names
Amount
Slops
Reed
Time Entry
Time of Discharge
8cc:8cc:
Moses Palmer
1 . .3. .6
2
do
do
left Sick in Connect 8c
not Returned
Elihu Babcock
13. .5
3
do
do
Left the Ship 4
July 1776
Asa Lewis
3. .1.10
3
do
do
Left the Ship 4th
July 1776
John Chester
5. .7. .6
4
do
do
Dischd 2d Auarust
1776-
Peleg Toker
1.18. .7
4
do
do
Dischd 2. August
1776-
Edward Derrick
4.11. .2
8
do
do
Died 16. April 1776
Richard Salter
5. .8. .-
10
do
do
Run 13 March 1776 —
Labeus Gavitt
1. .2.11
6
do
do
left Sick in Connect 8c
not Returnd
Thomas Cook
1.14.10
20
Deer
1775
Dischd 20th June
1776-
Ward Bulkley
10. .6
20.
Dec:
1775
Dischfd] 20. Tune
1776-
Daniel Wheeler
1. .3. .8
20.
Dec:
1775
Dischd 20. June 1776 -
David McKensey
1.12.11
20.
Dec:
1775
Turnd over to A Doria
13 May 1776
Willm Bennett
5 9
19.
Dec:
1775
Died 21. March 1776
John Perry
2.18. .2
2
Jan
1776.
left Sick in Connect 8c
not Returnd
Bodwel Huse
19. .9
22.
Dec:
1775
left Sick in Connect 8c
not Returnd
Rob: P. Webber
3.18. .3
3
Jan
1776
Run 15th March 1776
Oliver Bradley
3 . . 2 . .3
18
Dec
1775
left Sick in Connect 8c
not Returnd
Titus Dutton
2. .6.10
28.
do
do
left Sick in Connect 8c
not Retd
George Leonard
3.13. .3
25
do
do
Run 13th March 1776
Will. Bidwell
6. .5. .1
11
Jan:
1776
Left the Ship 1 1th
July 1776-
Dixon Ewing
8. .2. .3
11th
Feb:
1776
Died 9th June 1776-
The above Sums are Exclusive of their first Months Pay which they
all Reed of the Congress’s Agents Except Dixon Ewing who never Reed
any Part of his first Mo Pay
[August 2, 1776] 2
1. Gurley Collection, ConnSL.
2. Date is based on the discharge of John Chester and Peleg Toker, August 2.
AUGUST 1776
19
Captain Richard Varick to Lieutenant Colonel Peter Gansevoort 1
Sir Albany Augt 2. 1776
I am directed by General Schuyler to desire You to forward to Gen-
eral Gates with all possible Dispatch, All the Junk Sc Oakham from Your
Post Sc all the Pitch, Except one Barrel, together with all the Steel Sc Iron
Sc that You will immediately send me a Return of what has been for-
warded from Your Post to Tyonderoga 8c that hereafter You will send me
a Return Every three Days, of what Articles You forward to General
Gates. -
All the Anchors, Cables, Rigging, Cordage, Military Sc Naval Stores,
Axes Sc Intrenching Tools, which are or shall arrive at Your post are
immediately to be forwarded without the least Delay. -
Pray let me intreat You from Time to Time to have strict Enquiry
made in the Commissaries & Contractors Stores at Your post, that None
of the above Articles may be in the least delayed in forwarding.
Forward the inclosed with Dispatch. I am Sir [8ccJ.
By Order Sec: R. V. Secry.
1. Schuyler Papers, Letters & Orders, 18 April, 1776-28 June, 1777, NYPL.
Journal of H. M. S. Rose , Captain James Wallace 1
In Hudsons River New York
AM Reev’d from the Ph[o]enix fresh Beef, at 11 weigh’d
the Stream Anchor and hove short on the best Br
First and Mide part little wind and clear Wr latter Calm
PM at 1/2 past Mer[i]d[ian] weighd and came to Sail Steer-
ing down the river as did the Phenix, Tryal Sc 2 Tenders,
at i/2 past 2 the Phenix Run on shore on the Flats off Terry
Town, Anchor’d in 4 14 fm as did the Tryal and Tenders
Weigh’d and dropt a Mile below the Phenix P[er] Order [of]
Capt [Hyde] Parker [Jr.], saw 7 Sail of Arm’d Vessels down
the River, at 10 the Phenix got off
1. PRO, Admiralty 51/805.
Journal of H. M. S. Phoenix, Captain Hyde Parker, Jr.1
August 1776. Moor’d Off Singsing.
Friday 2d AM Clear’d Hawse The Master employed Sounding Modt
and fair Wear
P M 14 pt Meridian Unmoor’d Weigh’d and Came to Sail,
the Rose, Tryal Sc two Tenders in Company, in runing
down the River, the Ship Grounded on a flat off of Tarry
Town, at 2 P M Carried the Stream Anchor out and
Attempted to heave off, but without effect, got some of the
Upper and lower Deck Guns forward to bring the Ship by
August 1776
Friday 2d
20
AMERICAN THEATRE
the Head, Carried the best Bower Anchor out in the
Stream and at 10 Hove the Ship Off Veer’d to % of a
Cable 2
1. PRO, Admiralty 51/694.
2. Ibid., 1/487 contains a copy of the log from July 15 to August 18, 1776, endorsed: “Capt
Parker’s Journal No 1 in Lord Howe’s Ire 31 Aug 1776.”
Brigadier General George Clinton to George Washington 1
[Extract] Fort Montgomery 2d August 1776.
On Thursday last the Shipping & Tenders fell down to the Mouth
of Croton River where they have ever since continued at Anchor near the
East Shore. Since which they have attempted once to land on this Side the
River with their Barge but were repulsed by our Militia.
On Satturday last the 300 New England Militia left Peeks Kill Sc
returned Home without giving me the least Notice of it, tho I believe
they had the Consent of the Committee of [Provincial] Congress who
expected in the New Levies from West Chester Sc Dutchess that Evening
to Supply their Place. They were disappointed, the Shore, of course un-
guarded Sc the very same Evening the Enemy’s Barge came up the River
six Mile from where the Shipping lay, went a Mile or Upwards into the
Country & took off a yoke of Oxen, a Steer, a Cow Sc 10 Sheep from the
Farm of one Baily, who it is said is on Board the Phenix , and I suppose
was their Guide.
1. Hugh Hastings, ed., The Public Papers of George Clinton, First Governor of New York (New
York and Albany, 1899), I, 282, 283.
Journal of the New York Provincial Convention 1
Die Veneris, 4 ho. P. M.
[White Plains] Augt. 2d, 1776.
Ordered , that Danl. Shaw, commander of the private sloop of war
called the Harlequin , be, and he hereby is, permitted to purchase from
James and Alexr. Stewart, or any other person, 1,200 weight of gunpowder,
for the use of the said sloop.
1. Journals of the Provincial Congress, Provincial Convention, Committee of Safety and Council
of Safety of the State of New-York. 1775-1776-1777 (Albany, 1842), I, 554. Hereafter
cited as New York Provincial Congress.
Peter R. Livingston to Robert Livingston 1
[Extract] Harlem 2 August 1776
. . . find every thing gitting readey with great alacrty a number of
people are employed to sink Vessels logs &c &c nearly opposite to the blue
bell to stop the way of the two Ships up above they lay about two miles
below Tailors point Six Grandola’s See went round from the East river
to the North last night which occasioned the Shiping we are told below
to move up towards the town to see what we were after they intend in a
few days to attack the two Ships up the river and endeavour to burn them
mMMfyObfylh.
L -ki li'in rub£u/h.: a* //*■ h ifim.JWrr^^Kfrs /t m
■Xt'&dfr swfr.
22
AMERICAN THEATRE
How[e] had a reinforcement on Monday of 2000. Highlanders and we
about that number from Boston by water . . .
2 OClock. I just Returned from the City, they say last night 40 trans-
ports more arrived, am very fearful the workes we have will require such
a number of hands to gaurd and work them properly that in case G Howe
should land at Mareneck and at Colo Philipes that he will hem them all in
and cutt off all communication by Sea and land, just as I came away a
flagg set off from the Army to G. Washington but could not stay to hear
the purport of it . . . Our Congress has passed a Resolve Acquiessing in
Gen: Washington’s Vacating the City when Ever he sees proper for the
good of the Service . . .
l. FDRL.
Journal of Ambrose Serle 1
[On board H. M. S. Eagle ]
Friday, 2d. August.
Govr. Tryon came on board this Morning to communicate the Infor-
mation he had just reed, that Hopkins, the Rebel Commodore, with the
Vessels under his Command, had stolen out of Rhode Island Harbor, and
intended to pass down the Sound, and through the East River by New
York, in order to assist the Rebels to destroy the two Ships that passed
some time since up the North River. It is not to be doubted however, if
the Intelligence be true, and the Passage be made, but that the Phoenix 8c
the Rose will give a good Account of them.2
1. Tatum, ed., Serle’s Journal, 52-53.
2. A rumor probably arising from the dispatch from Rhode Island of two galleys to reinforce
Washington’s small fleet at New York.
Journal of the Continental Congress 1
[Philadelphia] Friday, August 2, 1776
Resolved, That the Secret Committee and Marine [committee] be dis-
charged from fitting out vessels with cargoes to Bermudas, for purposes
expressed in the resolutions of Congress, of [June 6, 1776].
Resolved, That Mr. [George] Walton be appointed a member of the
Marine Committee, in the room of Mr. [Button] Gwinnett, who is absent.
The Marine Committee, to whom it was referred to enquire into the
conduct of Commodore Hopkins, brought in their report, which was read:
Ordered, To lie on the table, to be taken into consideration on Mon-
day next.
1. Worthington C., Ford, et al., eds., Journals of the Continental Congress, 1774-1789 (Washing-
ton, 1904-1937), V, 626, 628. Hereafter cited as Ford, ed., JCC. "
John Adams to Richard Cranch 1
[Extract] [Philadelphia] Aug. 2. 1776
I thank you for your Account of the Prizes taken, by our little Fleet.
We may judge by a little what a great deal Means. I hope We shall have
more Power at sea, before long.
AUGUST 1776
23
. . . Barry has taken another Tender. Another Prize is taken and car-
ried into Egg Harbour, and a Vessell has arrived here with a rich Cargo
of Arms, Ammunition, Flints and Lead, and dry Goods from Marseilles.
She brings no bad News from France.
1. L. H. Butterfield, ed.. The Adams Papers, Series II, Adams Family Correspondence (Cam-
bridge, 1963), II, 73-74. Hereafter cited as Butterfield, ed., Adams Family Correspond-
ence.
Diary of Christopher Marshall 1
[Philadelphia] August 2d 1776
. . . granted 3 passes for Camp . . . one to Capt Job Springer of Scooner
Grampus to Dartmouth N. England Government, one to Capt Corban
Barnes of Schooner Julia to Plymouth New England Government. . . . accot
last night was that the Congress Privater Capt [John] Craig of this port,
has taken & brought her into Egg Harbour, A Brig from Nevis.2 its Said
to be worth near Twenty Thousand pound &c
1. Diary of Christopher Marshall, HSP.
2. The brig Richmond, with rum, sugar, and £20,000 in gold on board.
Maryland Council of Safety to Brigadier General Henry Hooper 1
[Extract]
No 105
Sir, Since our last we have had advice from Major [Thomas] Price our
commanding officer in Saint-Mary’s, that the British fleet lay near the
mouth of Smith’s creek in Potowmack, that they were very weak in Land-
forces not exceeding 300 men, that they were so sickly that 50 dead bodies
had appeared on the shores, chiefly negroes, and that having gone up the
River Potowmack to take in water & returned, he imagined they would
soon sail from that Quarter. -
Their Forces appear so inconsiderable and contemptible to him, that
he has dismissed all the militia, and keeps only two independent Companies
to oppose them . . .
We do not expect from their weak state that any attempt will be
made, except to plunder, and we think the 500 regular Troops together
with the 200 Militia, a sufficient Force to protect your shore 2 until the
fleet sails, which we daily expect to hear of, and if some of them go to sea
& only a few remain at our Capes, and in Virginia to destroy our Trade,
as is suggested to us will be the case, the remainder of the militia also
may be discharged. -
If the schooner you have taken would answer to make an armed Boat
or vessel for the Defence of this Colony, we should be glad you would send
her over that she may be put in repair & fitted for the service, if she is
unfit, an Acct of her Size, value and stores will be agreeable to us.
[Annapolis] 2d Augt 1776
1. Council of Safety Letter Book, No. 1, Md. Arch.
2. The lower Eastern Shore counties of Maryland, on the Chesapeake Bay.
24
AMERICAN THEATRE
Maryland Council of Safety to the Maryland Delegates in
the Continental Congress 1
[Extract]
No 107
Since our last we have reed two letters from Major [Thomas] Price,
Copies of which are inclosed, from them you will learn the situation of
the Enemy below, our pilot boat came up last night & informs they are
not yet gone off, several vessels are dismasted, and on shore at the point of
St. George’s island with intention to burn them; Middleton thinks they are
going off down the Bay, and we hope soon to be able to write you to that
effect, altho’ we apprehend a visit to the Eastern shore, and are preparing
accordingly. - we have the Satisfaction to inform you that the report of a
Landing at Colo [Williaml Smallwood’s was not true - Mr Brents houses
were burnt and a good deal of damage done — we hear of no particulars of
any other mischief up above. . . .
We congraulate you on the safe arrival of the Molly Captn [Thomas]
Conway in great Wiccomico, Virginia, with 21,000 Wt of Gun Powder &
270 Stand of Small arms for the use of this Province, we shall get the
Cargo up here, as soon as we can with safety. . . .
[Annapolis] 2d July [sic August] 1776.
1. Council of Safety Letter Book, No. 1, Md. Arch.
Journal of the Virginia Navy Board 1
[Williamsburg] Friday the 2d day of August 1776. —
A Commission signed by his Excellency the Governor appointing Ciley
Saunders Capt of the Lewis Row Gallie was delivered to him by this
Board. -
A Commission signed by his Excellency the Governor appointing James
Markham Capt of the Page Row Gallie was delivered to him by this
Board. -
A Commission from his excellency the Governor appointing Henry Light-
bourn second Lieutenant of the Page Row Gallie commanded by James
Markham was delivered to him by this Board. —
A Commission signed by his excellency the Governor appointing John
Lusty first Lieutenant of the Page Row Gallie commanded by James
Markham was delivered to him by this Board. -
A Commission signed by his excellency the Governor appointing Stafford
Lightbourn first Lieut of the Lewis Row Gallie commanded by Ciley
Saunders was delivered to him by this Board. —
A Commission signed by his excellency the Governor appointing Samuel
Henley second Lieutenant of the Lewis Row Gallie commanded by Ciley
Saunders was delivered to him by this Board which he received.
A Commission from his Excellency the Governor appointing William
AUGUST 1776
25
Green first Lieutenant of the Sloop Defiance Commanded by Eliazer Cal-
lender was delivered to him by this Board which he received.
A Commission from his excellency the Governor appointing Lewis Jones
second Lieutenant of the Sloop Defiance commanded by Eliazer Callender
was delivered to him by this Board which he received. -
A Commission from his excellency the Governor appointing Eliazer Cal-
lender Captain of the Sloop Defiance was delivered to him by this Board
which he received. -
Ordered that the Row Gallie now lying in Rappahanock River whereof
Ciley Saunders is Captain be called and known by the name of the Lewis. —
Ordered that the Row Gallie now lying in Rappahanock River whereof
James Markham is Captain be called and known by the name of the Page. —
The Rules and Regulations made by this Board respecting the fitting out
the several Captains and Seamen engaged in the Naval service of this
common Wealth was referred to his excellency the Governor and Council
and being by them approved of It is Ordered that the same be Estab-
lished. -
Ordered that a Warrant Issue to Capt William Dean for Twenty pounds
upon Account for necessaries for the use of the Schooner Revenge. -
Ordered that Colo William Finnie deliver unto Capt^ Edward Travis
twenty sailors under Waistcoats for the use of the Seamen on Board the
Manley Gallie. -
Ordered that Mr Gabriel Maupin keeper of the Public Magazine deliver
unto Capt Edward Travis four hundred and twenty five pounds of Gun
powder and twelve twelve pound Ball for the use of the Manley Gallie -
Ordered that Colo William Aylett keeper of the public Store deliver unto
James Quarles eight Shirts for the use of the Marines on Board the Manley
Capt Travis which Shirts the said Quarles is to Account for at the rate of
twelve shillings and six pence pr Shirt -
1. Navy Board Journal, 28-30, VSL.
Journal of the Virginia Council of Safety 1
[Williamsburg] Friday August 2d 1776
The Rules for the Regulation of the Navy, of the Commonwealth of
Virginia, laid before the Privy Council by the Commissioners of the Navy
Board were also read and approved.
1. Mcllwaine, ed., Journals of the Virginia Council, I, 105.
Virginia Navy Board to Colonel Fielding Lewis, Fredericksburg 1
Sir Williamsburg August 2d 1776 —
Your Memorandum to Capt John Craig we have had under consid-
eration, we shou’d be very glad if you can with propriety stop the Salt as
we have not a Bushel, and it will be impossible to send a Vessel on a cruise
26
AMERICAN THEATRE
without Salt Provisions. The Congress having directed Six Rowe Galleys
for protecting Troops crossing the Rivers, one of which you’ll please to
have built of the following dimensions 71 feet Keel, 20 feet Beam six feet
Hole and six Inches rise.2 We wish you to employ as many Carpenters as
can work on her, that She may be finish’d with all expedition. We in-
close you the Commissions for the Officers agreeable to your List together
with some Warrants for the inferiour Officers, to Wit the Master, Masters
Mate, Surgeon, Surgeons Mate and two Midshipmen. Whatever rigging
you may want, you’ll please to send to Capt Charles Thomas for at War-
wick, and he will comply with your orders, being employ’d by the public
for that purpose, any thing in the public Stores at Fredericksburg that
may be necessary in fitting out of the Vessels you must order to them desir-
ing the Storekeeper to be particular in charging each Vessel as we are
desirous of knowing the Cost of them [&c.]
John Hutchings 1st Comr P.T.
1. Navy Board Letter Book, VSL.
2. Ibid., the Board wrote to Lewis on August 22 altering the dimensions to “eighty one feet
Keel, twenty feet Beam seven and half moulded Hole.”
Purdie’s Virginia Gazette, Friday, August 2, 1776
Williamsburg, August 2.
Since our last, we have certain advice that lord Dunmore, with his
motley band of pirates and renegadoes, have burnt the elegant brick house
of William Brent, esq; at the mouth of Aquia creek, in Stafford county,
as also two other houses lower down Potowmack river, the property of
widow ladies, with several ferry boats; that on Tuesday se’nnight he re-
landed on St. George’s island, but was beat off by 1200 Marylanders; that
he had burnt eight of his vessels, and was seen standing down the bay
the Thursday after with all his fleet.
“Extract of a letter from St. Eustatia, dated August 2, 1776.” 1
We have just received an account from Martinico that the Reprisal ,
Capt. Weeks [Lambert Wickes], belonging to the Congress, had an en-
gagement with the Shark sloop of war, of sixteen guns, belonging to his
Britannic Majesty, within sight of St. Piere’s wherein the former had
greatly the advantage, and acquired much honor amongst the French,
many of whom were spectators of the battle. The American vessel after-
wards going into the harbour of St. Piere’s, the Captain of the Shark
demanded the American rebel, as he termed it, but the French General
refused to deliver him up. A French frigate is just arrived from Old France,
with despatches, as late as the 22d of June, to the Governors of the different
islands, ordering them to protect and assist the American vessels as far
as possible, and to be prepared to defend themselves, if necessary. From
this it appears a French war is not far off.
1. Pennsylvania Evening Post, August 22, 1776.
AUGUST 1776
27
3 Aug.
Journal of H. M. S. Blonde , Captain Philemon Pownoll 1
Augt 1776 Moor’d off Point Champlain.
Saturday 3 AM reed fresh Beef wash’d between Decks, and work’d the
Ventilator.
do [moderate and cloudy]
put 2 Twelve Pounders, 200 Shot, 200 Cartridges &c into
Transports Longboats to go to the Lakes, by order of Captain
[Charles] Douglas
1. PRO, Admiralty 51/118.
The Freeman’s Journal , Saturday, August 3, 1776
Portsmouth [August 3].
By an Express from Falmouth last Evening, we are inform’d that
Capt. [Joseph] White the Day before, in a privateer,1 had arriv’d there,
having 40 men on board, with the particulars of the following prizes he
had taken, viz. The Brig Fanny, 130 Hhds Rum from Antigua, - Sloop
Betsy , 150 Hhds Rum, and a Brig from Antigua for Liverpool, with
230 Hhds Rum - Brig Harlequin from Nevis for London, 273 Hhds Sugar,
& 65 Hhds Rum — Ship Polly , from Antigua, 450 Hhds Rum, 12 Hhds
Sugar. Ship Anna Mariah, 495 Hhds Sugar, & 52 Pipes of Wine, and some
Bails of Cotton, carried into Falmouth. The Captain also took a seventh
Vessel, which he gave the Prisoners, - Capt. [Tobias] Lear, and Capt. Hoply
Yeaton, of this Town, we hear, are on board one of the Vessels, which put
into Towns End at the Eastward.2
1. The Massachusetts privateer sloop Revenge.
2. The Anna Maria , William Pringle, master, and the Polly, Tobias Lear, master, were brought
around from Townsend to Boston and libeled in the Admiralty Court of the Middle
District, New England Chronicle, August 29, 1776.
Journal of H. M. S. Liverpool , Captain Henry Bellew 1
Augt 1776 C: Ann No 62 W 28 Leags
Saturday 3 gave chase to a sail fir’d at her and brot her too, Sent a Boat
onbd found her to be from Antigua, laden with rum, for Ire-
land, but was in possessn of the Rebels, took the Rebels out
Sent a Petty Officer onbd her, and 4 men.2
Prizes in Company.-
First and midle parts fresh gales and fair, latter, hazey, lying
too, for the prizes, made sail at 5 PM 3
1. PRO, Admiralty 51/548.
2. The Devonshire, Fisher, Public Advertiser, London, October 2, 1776.
3. The Liverpool with two prizes and one recapture arrived at Halifax on August 10, 1776,
New-England Chronicle, September 5, 1776.
28
AMERICAN THEATRE
Account Book of William Sever 1
[Kingston] August 3d
Cash pd for 1 Months Advance pay to
Crew of Brigt Independence
1. Sever Account Book, 264. Courtesy of Captain and Mrs. Noel Sever O’Reilly, Glenview,
Illinois.
Will of John Ernest Kessler, Surgeon on Board the Continental
Ship Columbus 1
I John Ernest Kessler now Resident in Providence in the State of Rhode
Island and Providence Plantations, and Surgeon on Board the Ship Colum-
bus, belonging to the Free States of America, being Bound on a Cruise
against the Enimies of the American States, and Considering the uncertinty
of my Lifes being continued, and the chance of being Captivated by the
Enimy and having no Relations in America. Do by these presents make,
constitute, and Appoint my Friend William Bowen of the Town and
County of Providence, Phesitian, my Attorney in all Cases whatsoever.
(cum Facilitate substituends) more Especially to claim and Receive for me
all my Wages, that shall be Due to me from these States, and all shares
of Prize Money, that is or may be due to me from Time to Time, and
in Case of my Decease or of my not Returning again to America, I do
hereby Give and Bequeath to my said Friend Doctor William Bowen, to
his Hires and Assigns, all my said Effects and Estates that I shall leave in
America. Reserving and Giving first of all the Sum of Twenty Pounds
(Lawful Money) to my Friend Daniel Nauman, Surgeon in Philadelphia
as some acknowledgment for Favours already Received from him. and I
do hereby annul and make Void, any former Will or Power of Attorney
that I may have made, Ratifying and Confirming This as my Last Will
and Power of Attorney.
In Witness of all the above I the said John Ernest Kessler have
hereunto put my Hand and Affixed my Seale This Third Day of August
Annoq. Domini nostre Millissimo Septengentissimo Septigessimo Sexto
et anno Libertatis Americani Republicee Primo. 1776 Signed Seald and
pronounced By the said John Ernest Kessler as his Last Will and Power
before us
James Munro John Ernest Kessler, Surgeon
Obadiah Bowen to the ship Columbus 2
[Endorsed] August 3d A D 1776.
In Providence ss. Doctor John Ernest Kessler the Signer of the Instru-
ment on this sheet of paper Appear’d in Person and Acknowledged that
the same was done Freely and Voluntarily By him.
Corum Jabez Bowen
Justicario Pacis
1. Miscellaneous Collection, Vol. 12, RIHS.
2. Kessler entered on board the Columbus on January 18, 1776, as surgeon’s mate and was
promoted to surgeon on January 25, 1776. He succeeded Dr. Henry Malcolm who was
transferred that day to the Continental sloop Providence, Columbus Muster Roll,
Transcript of Military Papers, Arch.
230.18. .-
AUGUST 1776
29
Journal of the Committee Appointed to Build Two Continental
Frigates in Rhode Island 1
[Providence] August 3d 1776
Wheiras we have had the Misfortune in heaving out the Ship Warren ,
this Day, to carry away her Fore Mast, and to spring h[er] Main Mast
which must greatly retard compleating the said ship [illegible] but that
we do all in our powers to have them replafced] This Voted that Col
William Russell go [to] Middletown, and their procure one Main Mast
Work 28 Inches, 87 Feet long, one fore Mast [illegible] Inches. Diamiter
80 feet long one Mizen Mast [illegible] Inches Diamiter 78 feet long,
also Sparrs For Main and Topsaile Yards and Topmasts and that a
Vessell be procured to bring them Round hear on the best Termes they
can. and as soon as possible, if Sparrs are to be gott the Vessell is to be
Loaded with them.
Voted That Mr Daniel Hawkins go to Portsmouth and their procure
Masts and Sparrs of the above dimentions, that he have a Vessell on the
best termes he can. and freight the Sparrs hear takeing smaller ones
enough to Load her, that he spare no reasonable Expence in dispatching
this Business as soon as he can. and that the Treasurer supply him with
Money.
Voted that Jabez Bowen Write Letters to Mr Barnabs Dean of
Weathersfield and John Langdon Esqr of Portsmouth to procure the
above Sparrs for this Committee
Voted that Mesers Russells be desired to write to Mr William Foster
and request him to purchase Two Hundred Butts for Water Cask for the
Ships and have them Transported hear as soon as possible.
Voted That their be a Bill drawn on the Honble Stephen Hopkins
Esqr at Philadelphia for one Thousand Dollars in favour of Mr Wili[a]m
Arnold, he paying the Cash hear in One Month.
Voted That Mr James Sumner be paid Ten Shilling pr Day for his
and his Boys Wages, from last Monday Morning provided he keeps steddily
to Work till he has finished [illegible] Gun Carriges. also that
Cord be allowed five shillings P Day, from this date provided he continues
to Work with Mr Sumner.
1. Journal of the Committee who built the Ships Providence and Warren for the United States
AD 1776, RIHS. Hereafter cited as Journal R. I. Frigates, RIHS.
Libel of Captains Daniel Bucklin and Joseph White Against
the Prize Brigantine Harlequin 1
State of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations.
Providence, ss.
A Libel is filed before me, in Behalf of Daniel Bucklin, of Providence,
in the County of Providence, in the said State, Mariner, and Commander
of the private Sloop of War called the Montgomery, duly commissioned by
the Hon. Nicholas Cooke, Esq; Governor of said State; and also in behalf
30
AMERICAN THEATRE
of John White, Mariner, and Commander of the private Sloop of War
called the Revenge, belonging to Salem, in the State of Massachusetts Bay,
also duly commissioned with Letters of Marque and Reprisal, to cruize
against the Enemies of the United States of America, against the Brigantine
called the Harlequin, of the burthen of about 180 Tons, with her Ap-
purtenances, late commanded by Capt. John Goodwin; and also against
the Cargo of the said Brigantine, consisting of about 119 Hogsheads, 137
Tierces and 20 Barrels of Sugar, 62 Hogsheads of Rum, 2 Boxes of Shell-
work, See. bound from the English Island of Nevis, in the West Indies, to
the Port of London, in the Kingdom of Great Britain; which said Brigan-
tine, her Appurtenances and Cargo, as ’tis said, were lately taken and
captured upon the high Seas, by the said Daniel Bucklin and John White,
their respective Officers and Men, belonging to said Sloops of War, and
brought into the port of Providence aforesaid, and at and before the said
Time of Capture, belonged to and were the Property of some of the In-
habitants of Great Britain, and were used for the Purpose of carrying
Supplies to the British Fleets and Armies now acting against the said
United States.
The Justice of the above Capture will be tried, at the Court erected
in and for said State of Rhode Island and Providence Plantation, for Trial
of maritime Causes, to be holden at Providence on the 19th Day of August,
A.D. 1776, at the Hour of Ten in the Forenoon. This Notice is given,
pursuant to Law, that the Owner or Owners of the said Brigantine, her
Appurtenances and Cargo, or any Person or Persons concerned therein,
may appear and shew Cause, if any they have, why the same should not be
condemned.
John Foster, Judge of said Court.
1. Providence Gazette, August 3, 1776. This issue also carries notice of libel against brigantine
Mary sent in by privateer sloop-of-war Diamond, William Chace, but also taken earlier
by Wingate Newman in Philadelphia privateer Hancock.
Providence Gazette, Saturday, August 3, 1776
Providence, August 3.
Sunday last the Montgomery Privateer, Capt. Daniel Bucklin, of this
Port, returned from a Cruize, during which she took three valuable Prizes,
also two others in Company with a Privateer belonging to Salem:1 She
brought in with her a Snow of 180 Tons, Capt. [John] Goodwin, bound
from Nevis to London, having on board 119 Hogsheads, 137 Tierces and
20 Barrels of Sugar, 62 Hogsheads of Rum, 8cc.2
On Monday arrived a Brig, taken by the Diamond Privateer, Captain
William Chace, of this Port; her Cargo consists of 195 Hogsheads and some
Barrels of Sugar, 65 Bales of Cotton, 25 Tons of Fustick, and a Quantity
of Staves and Heading: she was bound from Tortola to Liverpool.3
Extract of a Letter from a Planter at Tortola to his Friend in Liverpool,
dated July 1, 1776, found on board the last mentioned Prize.
AUGUST 1776
31
If this unhappy Dispute between Great-Britain and America
should be brought to a Conclusion, and they be once more united,
there will be an Opening for Sale of Rum, though to the Wind-
ward the Price keeps up I hear to 2s. 6d. per Gallon owing to Gov-
ernment contracting with Mr. Blackburn for One Hundred Thous-
and Gallons for the Troops in America, I am afraid many Planters
here will suffer for want of Lumber, as they have it not in their
Power to send for it. I am informed there is a Deal of good Lumber
to the Southward of Georgia.
1. Captain Joseph White, of the Massachusetts privateer sloop Revenge.
2. The brigantine Harlequin.
3. The brigantine Mary.
Partial Payroll of the Continental Brig Andrew Doria 1
Cash Paid by Mr [Benjamin] Dunn to the following People 3rd Augt 1776
Mr [Dennis] Leary
15drs
<£4-10-0
Andw Scott
7drs
£2- 2-0
Mr [William] Lamb
9
2-14-0
Sami Dobbins
2
12-0
Mr [William] Moran
15
4-10-0
Robt Cockran
8
2- 8-0
Mr Cheles
9
2-14-0
James Brown
4
1- 4-0
Mr. [John] Dent
12
3-12-0
Danl Duffy
7
2- 2-0
Mr. [Elias] Rohl
9
2-14-0
James Williams
3
18-0
[John] Young
10
3- 0-0
Isaac Duverse
7
2- 2-0
Geo Dickson
3
18-0
Wm Kenedy
12
3-12-0
Jas Brade
6
1-16-0
Geo. Cowell
2
12-0
Jno Mackee
8
2- 8-0
Alexr Liviston
9
2-14-0
Jas McGuire
7
2- 2-0
Jerry Towhig
7
2- 2-0
Jno McCoy
7
2- 2-0
Timy Ohara
3
18-0
Patk Kinney
7
2- 2-0
John McNeal
7
2- 2-0
Jas Heath
8
2- 2-0
James Campbell
4
1- 4-0
Michl Bready
8
2- 8-0
Benjn Tate
5
1-10-0
James Hayse
8
2- 8-0
Sami Johnson
12
3-12-0
Jasper Chamberln
4
1- 4-0
Nichs Cooney
5
1-10-0
Cornelus Grimes
4
1- 4-0
George McCain
7
2- 2-0
Richd Wilson
5
1-10-0
David Clark
7
2- 2-0
Bill Adams
7
2- 2-0
James Duffen
9
2-14-0
Jno Glacker
7
2- 2-0
Andw Campbell
7
2- 2-0
David Edmiston
15
4-10-0
Danl Harper
3
18-0
Jno Christian
7
2- 2-0
James Angus
7
2- 2-0
John Anderson
7
2- 2-0
John Campbell
3
18-0
Thos Fisher
8
2- 8-0
Henry Frazer
7
2- 2-0
Willm Haselip
7
2- 2-0
Lawrce Meadows
2
12-0
212
156
32
AMERICAN THEATRE
Cash Paid by Mr [Benjamin] Dunn to the following People 3rd Augt 1776
Dick
3drs
£ 18-0
212]
Peter Miller
7
2- 2-0
1561 505 Drs
Jacob. Cook
7
2- 2-0
137J
John McCormick
5
1-10-0
9 3/4
Willm Robertson
5
1-10-0
5143/
Wm Hughes
5
1-10-0
Wm Johnston
4
1- 4-0
Receiv’d 534
Willm Steward
7
2- 2-0
514.3/4
John Lee
5
1-10-0
191/4 Dollers
John Cook
6
1-16-0
John Lee
2
12-0
Dragoon
3
18-0
Mr Jennings
14
4- 4-0
Wm Henderson
8
2- 8-0
Mr Leary
2
12-0
John George
1
6-0
Jerry Mahaney
7
2- 2-0
Willm Wilding
1
6-0
John Pindor
2
12-0
Robt Kearns
4
1- 4-0
Danl Duffy
9
2-14-0
Geo Kelly
10
3- 0-0
John Chisnell
10
3- 0-0
Michl. Bready
10
3- 0-0
137 drs<£ 151-10-0
Wm Johnson
.-8-0
Sami Dobbins
. -6-9
Ml Bready
.-1-6
Patk Kenney
1-17-3
John Mackee
.-5-0
£154.8.8
1. Nicholas Biddle Papers, HSP.
Nathaniel Shaw, Jr. to Captain Nicholas Biddle 1
N Londn Satturday [August 3, 1776]
Dr Sir/ 4 ocock after Noon
This day we din’d on a Turtle wich you Sent in hear, and was taken out
of the Wreck 2 and as he was destin’d for the Support of the Pres’t In-
famous Ministry in Great Brittain we Condemn’d him as a Tory — and
have dealt with him Accordingly — and I hope you’l have the Good
Luck to alter the Course of many more of them, that are sent on the same
Purpose Viz to fill their Damn’d Gutts Sec
AUGUST 1776
33
- how Ever to the Purpose Next time you send a Prize oblige the Prize
Master to Bring them Safe into NLondn 8c [not] Run them on Rocks 8cc —
but Capn [Elisha] Hinman desires you! take up his People and Send them
up in Irons — 3
- I have all the shirts shoes &c you desir’d me to git — The Ladys are much
Concern’d about your Health are Certain if you were well you would
be hear
- God Bless you if you Can Read this Letter its more Than I Can — I wish
you Luck — Never Quit the Andrew Doria —
Remember I give you this advice — a Frigate is not the Thing — I am
Dr Sir [8cc.]
N Shaw Jr
Nicholass Biddle Esqr Commandr of the
Continantal Briggnt Andrew Doria att New Port
1. Nicholas Biddle Papers, on deposit at HSP.
2. The prize ship Nathaniel and Elizabeth which had been driven on the rocks by H. M. S.
Cerberus.
3. Probably the prize crew that had taken the ship True Blue into Providence on June 8, 1776.
“Extract of a Letter, dated Ticonderoga, August 3, 1776.” 1
We have now on the Lake two schooners which mount 12 Guns each,
two Sloops, and five Gundaloes, the Gundaloes mount 4 Guns each; and
five Gundaloes more are almost finished. I hope we shall be able to give
our Enemies a warm Reception if they should dare to come.
1. Boston Gazette , August 12, 1776.
Captain Richard Varick to George Washington 1
Albany August 3d 1776
May it please Your Excellency
Agreeable to General Schuylers Orders I do myself the Honor to
Inclose you three Lists of Articles wanted for the Public Service on Lake
Chamblain, contained in the Paper marked A and do also inclose Your
Excellency another Paper marked B containing a true Account of such
Articles of these Lists as cannot possibly be procured at this Place.2
An Express is sent from this Place to Connecticut, with Instructions
to purchase the Sail Cloth 8c Cordage; which General Arnold says is to
be had in that Colony — And an Express is also sent to the Forges 8c
Furnaces at Livingstons Manor & Salisbury to procure the Swivel 8c Grape,
double headed 8c Chain Shot — if to be had there — None of the other
Articles are to be had nearer than New York — and I am directed by the
Genl to request your Excellency in his Name to Order the several Articles
which are wanting, to be sent up with all possible dispatch to this place —
With the Assistance of the Public Store keeper, I have procured from the
Proprietors of Vessels and the Merchants of this Place 8c Schenactady all
34
AMERICAN THEATRE
the Anchors, Cables 8c Cordage that was to be had from them — for which
I have made a full allowance. - I am with Respect 8c Esteem [&c.]
Richd Varick Secry
to M. Gen: Schuyler
1. Washington Papers, LC.
2. Ibid., the various lists which are in minute detail, from sail needles to speaking trumpets,
are headed as follows:
A. List of Articles wanted for the Gundaloes Arm’d Vessels & Batteaus
Articles wanted immediately for the Vessells and Gundaloes on Lake Champlain,
July 20- 1776
List of Articles wanted for the Vessells on the Lake Champlain July 24th -1776
B.
No. 1 Return of Articles wanted for the Public Service on Lake Champlain, which
cannot be procured at Albany, or at any Place between this & New York -except
for NB at the Bottom Albany August 3d 1776
No 2d Genl Arnolds first Requisition Articles wanted immediately for the Vessells &
Gundoloes on Lake Champlain - July 20- 1776
No 3 General Arnolds second Requisition - List of Articles wanted for the Vessels
on Lake Champlain July 24th 1776.
Captain Richard Varick to Hermanus Schuyler,
Assistant Commissary General 1
Dear Sir Albany Augt 3. 1776
Your Letter as well as that of Colo: [Cornelius D.] Wynkoop of the
first instant, directed to General Schuyler were delivered me Yesterday
Afternoon. —
I have some Days since sent a Bellows 8c set of Blacksmiths Tools, one
Ton of Iron 1 Hogshead of Oakham 8c a Quantity of Junk to Tyonderoga,
to be forwarded to You & have sent Orders to have It pushed on with
Dispatch. By the Genl Directions I have ordered the Pitch 8c Tar & steel
to be sent to You from Fort George. —
I shall however by the Very first Waggons, send to Mr [Christopher J.]
Yates at Cheshires, for Your Use 500 Iron 200 steel 3 Grindstones, some
more Oakham 8c spades & Axes. — The General desires that all Your Req-
uisitions may be made in Time, that the Service may not suffer.
A Captain Bernard Eddy from Rhode Island is on his Way to Skenes-
borough with fifty Ship Carpenters under his Command, these persons
are to be Employed in Constructing such Vessels as You shall direct. —
You will prepare for their Reception 8c Employ them in the most advan-
tageous Manner possible to forward the public Service. I am 8cca
Richd Varick
L Schuyler Papers, Letters & Orders, 18 April, 1776-28 June, 1777, NYPL.
Captain Richard Varick to Captain Bernard Eddy 1
Sir Albany Augt 3. 1776
You will proceed with the Carpenters under Your Command with all
possible Dispatch from Williams Town by the best 8c most closest Rout
to Skenesborough. Upon Your Arrival at that Place, You will put Yourself
AUGUST 1776
35
under the Direction of Harmanus Schuyler Esqr Assistant Deputy
Quarter Master General, who has General Schuylers Orders Sc will furnish
You with Directions for Employing Your Men. —
As in the present state of Affairs, Every Article allowed You by Your
Contract may not be had, the General hopes Nay he has the fullest Confi-
dence that You will be Contented with such as can, Especially as the Gen-
eral engages that Every Deficiency will be made up in Money. —
The General hopes that You Sc the Men Under Your Command, will
be early Sc late at a Work as the Constructing Vessels to maintain our
Superiority on the Lake. -
The General wishes Sc Expects that little Jealousies Which are the
Bane of Every service will not take place in Your Minds, but that You
will harmonize with every Person Employed in the public Service. — I am
Sir [&c.]
By Order of the Genl - R.V. Secry
1. Schuyler Papers, Letters & Orders, 18 April, 1776-28 June, 1777, NYPL.
Captain Richard Varick to Lieutenant Timothy Hughes 1
Sir Albany Augt 3. 1776
You, with the Party of Men under Your Command, will immediately
embark in three large Batteaus Sc proceed from this Place with all possible
Dispatch to Poughkeepsie, where You will deliver the Letter directed to
Mr [Jacobus] Van Zandt or in his Absence, to the Gentlemen having the
Direction of Building the Fr[i]gates there, Sc will there receive from him
or them six Coils slow Match, six Dozen large Sail, Bolt Rope & Marline
Needles, one hundred Weight of Twine Sc as many Blocks, as are already
finished for the Northern Army Sc a Quantity of Oakham Sc other Articles,
which You will take on Board Sc Immediately Reembark Sc Return with
Your Charge to this Place. —
Captn Peter Dop of this Place is to Embark with You on Board one of
Your Batteaus, he has' Orders to purchase Anchors Sc Cables Sc Other
Articles from the Proprietors of Sloops between this Place Sc Poughkeepsie,
You will order one Batteau to attend him Sc stop at such Places as he shall
chuse to land It, for the purpose of fullfilling his Orders, And proceed
with the Others to Poughkeepsie without Delay. — 2
If the Articles to be procured at Poughkeepsie Sc the [anchors] Sc Cables
to be purchased by Captn Dop shall prove too Burthensome for Your
Batteaus, You will embark Part of Your Cargo on Board of Sloops coming
up to this Place, taking the Skippers Receipt, thereby promising to deliver
It, to Mr Ph: Van Rensselaer, at this Place. —
I have the fullest Confidence that You will make No Delay in Execut-
ing this Business. — I am Sir [&c.]
By order of the Genl R. V. Secy.
1. Schuyler Papers, Letters & Orders, 18 April, 1776-28 June, 1777, NYPL.
2. Ibid., Varick wrote his instructions to Captain Peter Dop this date.
36
AMERICAN THEATRE
Captain Richard Varick to Captain Leonard Van Buren 1
Sir Albany Augt 3. 1776
I do herewith deliver You an Invoice of Sail Cloth Sc Cordage wanted
for the public Service, on Lake Champlain, Which You are to purchase
for the United states, at the Cheapest Rate they can be procured, in the
Colony of Connecticut or Elsewhere.
Mr [Jonathan] Trumbull [Jr.] the Paymaster General will furnish
You with a Letter of Credit, to the Amount of the Articles mentioned in
the Invoice. —
General Arnold informs Me, that the Sail Cloth may be had of Mr
Thomas Mumford of New London Sc Cordage of Mr Mortimer of Middle-
town, to which Places & persons You will be pleased to go Sc Endeavour
to procure these Articles; But You are not to confine Yourself to these
Persons only; If the Articles are to be had nearer to this Place or at a
Cheaper Rate, You will purchase them Sc bring them to this Place without
Delay, [or] forward them by a safe Hand, by the quickest Cheapest Sc most
direct Rout.
If You should need Assistance in procuring or forwarding any of these
Articles, You will apply to His Honor Governor Trumbull for his Order,
to be furnished therewith.
You will make no Delay in procuring Sc dispatching these Articles to
Albany, as a Delay in this Matter May prove detrimental to our Army in
the Northern Department.
A Captn Bacon who left this Place last Tuesday for New York, has
Directions from General Arnold to procure the Articles mentioned in
these Lists, in Connecticut, You will probably meet him at Governor
Trumbulls, You will make Enquiry for him there, Sc in Case he shall not
have reached that Place, You will leave a Letter for him there, Informing
him that You are sent to Connecticut on this Business, & requesting him
to desist from purchasing; That double the Quantity ordered, may not be
procured. - I am Sir [8cc.] By order 8cca
Richd Varick Secy
[Enclosure]
Invoice of Articles to be purchased for the Use of the United Colonies
- by Mr Leonard Van Buren.
50 Bolts Thick Sail Cloth
20 Do Light Toe Cloth or Oznabrigs
15
Hawsers
41/2 Sc 5i/2 Inches —
50 to
60 Fathoms
10
do
4- 41/2 do
50 to
100 do
1
Coil
6 Inch Rope
60
Faths
1
do
5 do
60
do
1
do
4 do
60
do
2
do
3 14 do
60
do
2
do
3 do
60
do
AUGUST 1776
37
1
do
2 1/2 do
120
do
4
do
2 do
120
do
2
do
I34 do
120
do
4
do
li/2 do
120
do
4
do
Ratlin Stuff
1
Coil
spun Yarn 2 & 3 Threads
20
Hausers 5 to 5i/2 Inches
40 to 120
Fatlrs
5
Coils Cordage 4 Inches
120
Faths
5.
Coils
Cordage 4 Inches
120
Fathoms.
5.
do
do 2 1/2 do
120
do
10.
do
do 2 do
120
do
10.
do
do I34 do
120
do
10.
do
do 1 1/2 do
120
do
5
do
12 Thread Ratling.
5
do
9 Thread Ratling.
20
Cwt Spun Yarn.
16
Cwt 214 Inch Rope.
20
Cwt 5 Inch Shrowd Hauser. —
Sir You will
be pleased to give the Bearer
Mr Leonard
Van Buren a
Credit on the
public Account for the Amount of the Above
Articles, to be
purchased by
him & forwarded to this Place.
Dated this
3d of August
1776.
By Order of General Schuyler.
Richd Varick Secy. —
1. Schuyler Papers, Letters & Orders, 18 April, 1776-28 June, 1777, NYPL.
Memoirs of William Smith 1
[Haverstraw] 3 Augt.
The Phoenix and Rose mean to escape and joined the Fleet at Staten
Island -The River was nearly obstructed off the North End of N York
Island & Preparations made to set them on Fire. The Phoenix got aground
in Tappan Bay above Fort Washington.
1. William H. W. Sabine, ed., Historical Memoirs from 12 July 1776 to 25 July 1778 of William
Smith, Historian of the Province of Neiv York, Member of the Governor’s Council and Last
Chief Justice of That Province under the Crown (New York, 1958), II, 2. Hereafter cited as
Sabine, ed., Memoirs of William Smith.
Lieutenant Colonel Benjamin Tupper to George Washington 1
Sir Dobbs’s Ferry 5. Afternoon 3d August
I am now to inform your Excellency that my Flag being hoisted on
board of the Washington I came up with the Ships & attacked at past
One this Afternoon. The Pheonix fired the first Gun which was return’d
by the Lady Washington whose Shot went thro the Pheonix - Upon my
Orders the Lady Washington put about to form a Line the tide was
such that the Washington & Spit fire was exposed to the Broad Sides of
the Ships for i/2 of an hour without Suffering mutch Damage, we en-
38
AMERICAN THEATRE
gaged them an hour & a half and then we thought to retreat to Dobbs s
Ferry about 4 miles below the Ships The Damages we Sustaind is as
follows. Viz
Washington 4 Slightly wounded Sail & riging mutch Damaged 13 Shot
in her hull —
Lady Washington Craiht her 32 Pounder no other Damage
Spit fire one killed 2 badly wounded hull 8c riging mutch Damaged —
Shark none kill’d or wounded hull’d four times.
The Whiting one Man lost both leggs and 4 more wounded riging mutch
Damaged two Men wounded one of them mortally,
it is thought of but not yet determin’d whether we shall retreat to Spiking
Devil or not we wish to give them another Drubing we Saw many
Splinters drifting down, I am Your Excellency’s [8cc.]
Benjm Tupper.
Lt Colo and Commander
1. Papers CC (Letters from George Washington), 152, II, 337, NA. Enclosed in Washington’s
letter of August 5 to the Continental Congress.
Journal of H. M. S. Phoenix, Captain Hyde Parker, Jr.1
August 1776. At Single Anchor in Tapan-Bay
Saturday 3d AM Weighed the Best and let go the Small Bower at Day
light Five Sail of Vessels in Sight. —
Light Airs and fair Wr at \/2 past Noon three Schooners and
four Row Gallies, in sight working up the River; carried
the Stream Anchor out for a Spring and hove the Ship broad-
side too; at 1 Six of Rebels Schooners 8c Row Gallies attacked
us; we began, 8c kept up a constant Fire at them for two
Hours, at which time they Row’d away down the River &
came to an Anchor in sight of us. Perceived one of the Gal-
lies to have Reed considerable damage, by the Rebels being
under the Necessity of hauling one on shore. At \/2 past 3
hove Short on the Stream 8c Weighed the Best Bower An-
chor, in order to Run down to the Rebels Vessels but the
wind coming more to the Westwd The Pilot thought it to
dangerous an Attempt, the Channell being so narrow as not to
allow the Ship room to Cast, let go the Small Br Anchor 8c
Veer’d to i/2 a Cable. In this Action we Reed two Shott only
in our Hull.
I. PRO, Admiralty 51/694.
Journal of H. M. S. Rose, Captain James Wallace 1
August 1776 In Hudsons River New York
Saturday 3d AM at 9 saw the Galleys under way turning up the River,
clear’d Ship for Action at Noon Calm, 6 Galleys and 12
Launches about 3 Miles below us rowing up to board us.
AUGUST 1776
39
At 1/2 past Mer[i]d[ian] weigh’d and drop’t near the Phenix ,
came too 614 fm Cheaton-Hook-head Ni/^Wt Tarry Town
EBNi/^N carried out the Stream Anchor and Cable to the
Westwd for a Spring aft] 1 4 before 1 the Galleys began
a smart fire on us brot our broad side to bear and kept
a Constant fire, at 3 the Gally’s much disabled row’d off
it being Calm we could not follow them. Thos Mayet
Marine Kild 1 Do Wounded & 3 Seamen: The Starbd
Quarter Gallery Shot away, some of the Rigging hurt &
several Shot in the Hull, the small Br Stranded 5 fm from
the Clinch at 4 light Airs at 5 Weigh’d the Best Br and
hove to 14 on the Stream, at 6 weigh’d the Stream and let
go the best Bow’r the Gally’s 6 miles below us.
1. PRO, Admiralty 51/805.
Journal of the New York Provincial Convention 1
Saturday Morning
[White Plains] Augt. 3d, 1776.
A letter from Pierre Van Cortlandt and Zeph. Platt, Esqrs. was received
and read, and is in the words following to wit:
Head-Quarters, Mouth of Croton, Augt. 2d, 1776.
Gentlemen — The enemy’s ships lie off here, and their barges row
up and down the river a nights; and notwithstanding our utmost
exertions some infamous rascal must have given them information
that the New-England troops went off on Saturday last, and not a
sufficient number coming in to guard the shore, they landed at one
Bailey’s on Sunday night, and went back a half a mile and drove off
one pair of oxen, two cows, one calf, one heifer and eleven sheep:
no doubt had the assistance of some tories on shore. . . .
1. New York Provincial Congress , I, 554, 555.
Constitutional Gazette, Saturday August 3, 1776
New-York, August 3.
Last Thursday, a number of ships, arrived at Staten-Island. They are
supposed to be part of the fleet, with the Hessian troops on board.
John Covenhoven to the New Jersey Delegates in
the Continental Congress 1
In Convention of the State of New Jersey
New Brunswick Augt 3d 1776
Gentlemen - As it is of great Importance that the Communication be-
tween New York, this & the Southern Colonies be preserved, and no ade-
quate provisions that we know of, having been made to keep open the
Ferries over Pasaick & Hackinsack Rivers between Newark & Powles Hook,
40
AMERICAN THEATRE
which in their present Situation may not only be safely obstructed by a
single armed Vessel of the Enemy lying near them; but the Ferry Boats
may be seized 8c the passing 8c re passing of our Troops on emergent Oc-
casions, thereby, for a considerable time impeded; And as from the ex-
posed 8c unguarded Situation of the Settlements up said Rivers, the Creeks
8c Country adjacent to Newark Bay the Enemy may receive Supplies of
Provisions either by Plunder or from disaffected Persons; And the making
Provision for the above Purposes; as they intimately consider all the
United States belonging to Your honorable House, We must desire You
to propose, at first Opportunity, in Congress, that the most speedy 8c ef-
fectual Measures may be adopted to obtain these salutary Ends —
We conceive there are but two Practicable Methods - Vizt By Batteries
at the Several Ferries or by armed Vessels. — The Ground on each Side of
the Ferries, being low salt Marsh, will not, without very great Expences,
admit of being fortified; but if this had not been the Case, a larger Number
of heavy Cannon wou’d be necessary to answer our Purposes than perhaps
can be procured; or if procurable, than woud be necessary if employed
on board one or more Vessels of the Row Galley or Gondola Construction -
Protection by armed Vessels have a further Advantage over Fortifications
at the Ferries; the Fortifications must have great Strength, a considerable
Number of Cannon 8a a large Body of Men stationed there, or a Descent of
the Enemy might take Cannon 8c Men together, as the Cannon cou’d not be
retreated with, and the Distance of the Ferries from Succour, too great to
expect Supplies in Time — On the Contrary, an armed Vessel stationed at
or near each Ferry of the Row Galley or Gondola kind, carrying only
an 18 Pounder each, with Swivels, Cohorns or Blunderbusses may be suf-
ficient, 8c their Forces may be occasionally united; for being so contiguous,
they may readily act in Concert; and by being made to draw but little
Water and to row swiftly, may if they find the Force attacking them too
powerful, secure a safe Retreat where the Enemy’s Tenders cannot pursue
them ~
But perhaps heavy Cannon may be spared for one Gondola 8c not
more; in such Case a Vessel of the Cat Schooner kind might be usefully
employed for the other Vessel: — We are informed there are two in Pasaick
River, well built 8c almost new 8c that either of them may be hired for
a small Consideration provided their Owners are assured of their being
returned in as good Order as when delivered or of being paid the Value
in Case they shou’d be irreparably damaged — The Dimensions about 45 feet
in Length — 14 feet, Breadth 4i/2 feet depth, draw but little Water 8c one of
them sails remarkably swift.
Altho Gondolas may not so advantageously attack Ships of War, yet
their Tenders, or Vessels of such Size as can approach the Ferries will
not chuse to come in the Way of an 18 or 24 Pounder —
If not a single Cannon of this Weight can be spared; perhaps both
the above-mentioned Cat Schooners may be usefully employed in this
AUGUST 1776
41
Service; they will probably carry either two six Pounders on each Side, Sc
a 6 or 9 Pounder in the Bow, or three 4 Pounders on each Side Se
a 6 Pounder in the Bow — besides Swivels, Cohorns & Blunderbusses (as
they may be procurable,) Spears Sc small Arms —
We were so perfectly convinced of the Importance & Utility of mak-
ing Provision for the above Purpose, that had the State of our Funds per-
mitted it, as much depends on Dispatch, We might probably have gone
into the Measures necessary to that End, not doubting but Congress, when
convinced of their general Utility to the United States wou’d have ordered
a Reimbursement of the Expences - Sec
Two other armed Vessels might be advantageously stationed at proper
Places between the Ferries abovementioned Sc the Mouth of Raritan River;
they might Cooperate occasionally, either for the Purposes afsd, or for an-
noying the Enemy, or be employed to protect the Ferry from South to
Perth Amboy Sc the Navigation of Raritan River; which Protection wou’d
be a great Saving either in Troops crossing the Ferry to Amboy or in
transporting Provisions, Baggage Sec. from Brunswick, by Water, to the
Camp at Amboy —
As it is important that no Time be lost in making the afsd Provision;
And as from the Multiplicity of interesting Business before Congress, this
may be delayed; If Congress will provide for the Expence, Sc request it,
We shall be willing to give a helping hand towards carrying their Resolu-
tions on this Subject into Effect
We are Gentlemen [8cc.]
By Order of the Convention
John Covenhoving Vice President 2
1. Papers CC (New Jersey State Papers, 1775-88), 68, VI, 203, NA.
2. This letter was read in Congress August 6. It was resolved that provision should be made
“for keeping open the communication between that state and New York, by way of
the ferries over the rivers Passaick and Hackinsack . . . and that this Congress will
reimburse the expences of such service to the state of New Jersey.” Ford, ed., JCC, V,
634.
Caesar Rodney to Thomas Rodney 1
[Extract] Philada. August the 3d 1776
Yesterday Came to Town a Ship belonging to the Congress from France
with ten Tunns of Powder, about forty Tunns of Lead, one thousand Stand
of Arms Sec. Sec. And the Same day an Armed Veshell taken by Captain
[John] Barry 2
At sea -
Since I finished my other Letter have been up to Congress where
We Reed Inteligence by letter from Captn. Weeks [Lambert Wickes] in
the Congress ship, the Reprisal , That he has at Sea on the 13th of July
taken two prizes, a Ship and a Schooner bound for Liverpool Loaded with
Cotten, Sugar Rum Sec.3 The Letter Came by the Prize Schooner which
42
AMERICAN THEATRE
arrived in an Inlet near Egg Harbour — and the Ship Prize has been Seen
off the Capes of Delaware and Supposed by this time got in 4. . .
1. George Herbert Ryden, ed., Letters to and from Caesar Rodney 1756-1784 (Philadelphia,
1933), 100-01. Hereafter cited as Ryden, ed.. Letters to and from Caesar Rodney.
2. The sloop Lady Susan.
3. The ship Friendship and schooner Peter.
4. Two letters were written to Thomas Rodney this date. This entry is an extract from both
letters.
“Extract of a letter from Philadelphia, August 3.” 1
Since my last, we have arrived, a sloop from North-Carolina with naval
stores, and a sloop of 8 four pounders; she belonged to the Goodrich’s
of Virginia, and was commanded by one of them; was out 3 days from
Bermuda, when he discovered and gave chace to the brig Lexington ,
Captain Barry, but finding his mistake, put about too late; for in about
an hour and a half, Barry ran along side, when she struck. She has 8 Ne-
groes on board; all, or most of the men, to the amout of 25, entered on
board of Barry - 2
This morning we have an express from a schooner taken by Captain
Weekes, in the Continental ship Reprisal ; she was bound from St. Vincents
for Liverpool, with upwards of 100 hogsheads of rum, and is safe at
Absecomb Inlet. They bring an account of his having taken a ship of
4 or 500 tons burthen, from Grenada for London; she was quite full, and
by the captors said to be worth 35,000 1. A ship was seen last Wednesday
to the southward off our Cape, by the North-Carolina man, which we hope
is the prize.3
Captain Fowler, in a sloop belonging to your city, is arrived safe in
port with 4,000 1. worth of indigo, in 12 or 13 days from Charlestown; she
passed the [British] fleet in a thunder storm. - By him we learn, that two
deserters from the fleet confirm the accounts which General [Charles] Lee
received from the five deserters, already published here, and further add,
That the brig that had the Captain of the Commodore on board for
London, had returned off Spencer’s Inlet: the said Captain died soon after
he got on board, and was buried on Long-Island the 3d of July: That the
men began to grow sickly, and they are dissatisfied with General Clinton’s
conduct; they suspect he keeps a private correspondence with General
Lee: That there was some talk of his being under an arrest: That the last
rumour among them was, of their embarkation for Long-Island in New-
York government. The Commodore’s ship is so much shattered, it will take
them some time to refit. The 4th of July he hoisted his pendant on board
the Experiment. One shot from the fort, took off three midshipmen’s heads,
who happened to stand in a range, one of whom is a Nobleman’s son.
A few days before Captain Fowler sailed, the whole fleet was in
mourning, supposed for the death of Sir Peter Parker, who was wounded,
and lost a part of his breeches in the late engagement. — 4 Captain Fowler
AUGUST 1776
43
thinks the two large ships will not be able to go over the Bar, so as to
get out.
1. Constitutional Gazette, August 7, 1776.
2. The Lady Susan, Captain William Goodrich. Among those who entered on board the
Lexington was Richard Dale, whose Memoir in The Port Folio (June, 1814), reads in
part: “upon his return from Bermuda - whither he had gone with William Gutteridge
pic] - he was captured by captain John Barry, commander of the United States’ brig
Lexington, and on the same day entered as a midshipman on board said brig. This
occurred in July, 1776.’’ The owner of Lady Susan, Joseph Hinckson of Bermuda, chal-
lenged the capture on the grounds that his sloop had been illegally taken over by Lord
Dunmore. On August 22, 1776, the Adimralty Court in Philadelphia ruled that the
owner receive one half the money arising from the sale of Lady Susan. The remainder
to go one third to Barry and his crew, and “two-thirds for the Use of the thirteen
united States.” Records of the Admiralty Court of Pennsylvania, April 13-December 3,
1776, LC Photocopy.
3. The schooner Peter was the vessel arrived at Absecon, and the prize ship Friendship was
the one sighted by the North Carolina sloop.
4. Sir Peter Parker remained very much alive after the engagement, but the nature of his
wound brought forth a satirical verse in the Constitutional Gazette, July 27, 1776:
If “honor in the breech is lodg’d,”
As Hudibras has shewn;
It may from thence be fairly judg’d
Sir Peter’s honor’s gone.
Journal of the Virginia Navy Board 1
[Williamsburg] Saturday the 3d day of August 1776 -
Ordered that Mr. Gabriel Maupin keeper of the public Magazine deliver
unto Thomas Meriwether One hundred and twenty Gun Flints and six
Quire of Musquit Cartridge paper for the use of the Cruizer Liberty Capt
[Thomas] Lilly —
Ordered that Colo. William Aylett keeper of the public Store deliver
unto Doctor William Christie four pounds of Bark for the use of the
Cruizer Liberty Capt Lilly —
Ordered that Cornelius Forrest do supply Capt Deane with two thousand
pounds of Bread for the use of the Schooner Revenge —
Ordered that a Warrant Issue to Doctor Thomas Christie for Ten pounds
and eight pence for Medicine furnished for the use of the Brig Liberty
Capt Lilly —
Ordered that a Warrant Issue to Captain Thomas Lilly for One hundred
and fifty nine pounds three shillings and ten pence upon Account for
Disbursements of the Brig Liberty —
Ordered that a Warrant Issue to Capt William Deane for forty four
pounds fifteen shillings and four pence the Ballance of his Account this
day settled for the payment of his Seamen on Board the Schooner Revenge
from the time of their Enlistment to the thirtieth day of July One thou-
sand seven hundred and seventy six also for sundry Disbursements and
pay of Carpenters on Board the said vessell —
1. Navy Board Journal, 31-32, VSL.
44
AMERICAN THEATRE
Journal of the Virginia Council of Safety 1
[Williamsburg] Saturday August 3d 1776.
Ordered, That Commissions issue appointing Edward Travis Esquire
Captain of the Manley Galley, John Harris first Lieutenant, and Joshua
Singleton Second Lieutenant.
Also Commissions appointing Thomas Lilly Esq Captain, Thomas
Herbert first Lieutenant and George Rogers second Lieutenant of the
Brig Liberty.
Ordered That a Commission issue appointing James Quarles Gentle-
man, first Lieutenant of Marines under Captain [John Catesby] Cocke.
1. Mcllwaine, ed., Journals of the Virginia Council , I, 107.
Dixon Sc Hunter's Virginia Gazette, Saturday, August 3, 1776
Williamsburg, August 3.
We have just received at a certain port in this colony a supply of 450
barrels of gunpowder, and near 200 stand of arms.
Governor Sir Basil Keith to Vice Admiral Clark Gayton 1
Sir Spanish Town Augt 3: 76
I met the Council this Morning, when I laid your Letter of yesterdays
date before them, which gave the greatest Satisfaction to the Board, and
in consideration of the protection and Assistance of those Ships Sc Vessels
you assure us are to remain in the Ports of the Island for that purpose, and
that the Stormy Season is fast advancing they have unanimously advis’d me
to take the embargo off the Trade which is done, and they may conse-
quently proceed to Great Britain as soon as you are pleased to give orders,
and regulate their time of Sailing I must beg you will inform me what
day the Man of War is to Sail from Port Royal and the last day of sailing
from Bluefields that I may be guided accordingly
The Inhabitants of Hanover express themselves in terms of the great-
est respect Sc Gratitude for your most ready Concurrence with me for their
Assistance. I am Sir with great respect [&c.]
Basil Keith
[Endorsement by Gayton] August 3d 1776 Copy of a Letter from the
Governor of the Embargo being taken off with the Thanks of the Council
and the Principal Inhabitants of the Parish of Hanover for my Assistance
during the late general alarm of an intend’d insurrection.
1. PRO, Admiralty 1/240.
Valentine Morris to Vice Admiral James Young 1
(Copy) St Vincent, August the 3d 1776.
Sr: Least you should not have heard it, I take this opportunity of in-
forming you, that the day before yesterday an American Vessell mount-
ing Twenty six Carriage Guns was at Souffnir bay in St Lucie, and in that
AUGUST 1776
45
Bay and the Carenage were from ten to twelve other Americans, Whalers
and on Traffick; the Privateer is represented as an uncommon fine Vessell,
whether a consort of the one the Shark had her engagement with I cannot
say: you Sr may rely on this information, which I could not forgive myself
not forwarding to you as early as I could with any tolerable degree of safety
do, and remain Sr [&c.]
Valentine Morris.
1. PRO, Admiralty 1/309.
4 Aug. (Sunday)
Captain Charles Douglas, R. N., to Vice Admiral Richard
Lord Howe 1
My Lord, Isis, Quebec, August the 4th 1776
This is conveyed by the Pearl, having under her Convoy, three Trans-
ports carrying round the Rebel Prisoners. And the Tartar, forthwith to
be relieved by the Bute at the Isle of Bic, after ranging round a great
part of the Gulph of St. Laurence, taking a State of the several Fisheries,
& cruizing until the 15th of September between Cape Ray and Scatari,
is to wait upon your Lordship.
Very shortly after my last was sent away, I received Information by
Express from Chambly, that because of Want of density of the Ground,
thro’ which the Engineers were preparing a Road, the Enterprize of getting
the Hulls of the three Vessels, transported overland from thence to St.
Johns, would not answer: as to remedy the looseness thereof, would require
more time and Labour, than the Season and several other Circumstances
could admit of. General Carleton being just then returned from Montreal,
and approving of the measure, all the Artificers I could muster superin-
tended by Lieutenant [John] Schank who commands the Canceaux, were set
to Work on the 23d Ultimo, to take down the Frame of a Ship building
here — On the 26th her Stern frame, Stem, Keel, and some of her Floor
Timbers went away in Long-boats for the River Sorel, and I hope are by
this time at St. Johns; where Blocks were previously ordered to be laid,
for her Reconstruction; her length from Stem to Stern is eighty Feet —
the said long boats My Lord were willingly ceded, as may appear by the
herewith inclosed, And are to be employed on Lake Champlain. I flatter
myself that the Masters of the Transports, above the Rapids of Richlieu,
may still (for since my last they have made Difficulties,) be prevailed
upon, to follow the laudable Example Set them by their Brethren here —
Who are all to depart for Spithead, the moment their men return from
the Sorel.
In Consequence of the pressing Requisition of General Carleton,
apprized of Mr Schank’s Men instead of reserving the Canceaux arm’d
Ship, to carry his more recent dispatches to the Eastward as was intended
(keeping the Gaspee for that purpose) I have sent her up to the Sorel.
Lieutenant Schank is to superintend the Reconstruction of the Vessel at
m** *
rawing of British Warship Used on Lake Champlain, 1776. Possibly HMS Inflexible.
AUGUST 1776
47
St. Johns, which he saw pulled to pieces at Quebec, and to command her
on the Lake, with his Officers and Men from the Canceaux, about forty in
Number making Part of her Crew — A Frame taken down in the Sorel, &
that of the Maria arm’d Schooner, are some time ago taken in hand - but
how soon all our Force will be afloat, is impossible for me to ascertain;
so much being necessary, 8c our Means respecting the Magnitude of the
Enterprize, so scanty; 8c the Loss of Time in getting every thing sent so
far up against predominating Westerly Winds and opposing Currents,
so great; Yet I’d fain hope it might be brought to Completion, some time
in September. — The Major part of the Seamen necessary for this Equip-
ment, must be furnished by His Majesty’s Ships; are to be attached to the
three Vessels above alluded to; (when rebuilt,) to our flat bottom’d and
the Gun-boats; And are to be commanded by Capt. [Thomas] Pringle of
the Lord Howe- Lieut. [Joseph] Nunn has declined serving on Lake
Ontario, and resumed the Command of the Magdalen. Mr John Stone 2d
Lieutenant of the Lizard by my order, & Mr John Curling Mate of this
His Majesty’s Ship, who were to have served as Lieutenants under him,
are transferred to Lake Champlain, where a good many Officers of that
Rank are wanted. - All such Officers 8c Seamen, thus to be employed, are
only lent or to be lent, from their respective Ships, until further Order:
and for their Encouragment, are to have extraordinary Pay from General
Carleton, equal to what they would have in their several Classes, on board
His Majesty’s Ships of War at Sea — Capt. Pringle 8c Lieut. Schank, are
paid as Masters and Commanders - Warrant and petty Officers, the same
Pay as in the Ships to which they belong, and each able and ordinary
Seaman is to have 17s/6d P Mensem added to his Navy Wages -His Excel-
lency wishes the Isis , the Juno , the Blonde, the Triton and Lord Howe to
continue in this River, 8c in their present Stations; the Canceaux in the
Sorel; the Bute at the Isle of Bic, the Gaspee 8c Magdalen Schooners, to
be kept in readiness for carrying Dispatches as is the Juno for any par-
ticular Exigency — The Triton is returned to the Foot of the Rapids of
Richlieu.
For farther particulars, I beg leave to refer You to Captain [Thomas]
Wilkinson, And have the honor most respectfully to remain [8cc.]
Chs Douglas
P.S. I have been under the necessity of ordering Guns, with their Carriages,
proportion of Shot, Tackle, Furniture 8cc. to be spared from His Majesty’s
Ships ’till the Lake Business be over: vizt. from the Isis, ten twelve, 8c four
Six Pounders. Blonde Six twelve Pounders. Juno four twelves 8c two Sixes.
Pearl the same; Triton, four Nines and the Lord Howe and Bute, also four
Nine pounders each.
1. PRO, Admiralty 1/487.
Memorial of Agreen Crabtree 1
To The Honorable Council of the State of the Massachusets Bay Sitting
at Watertown the 4th Augst 1776
48
AMERICAN THEATRE
The Memorial of Agreen Crabtree, Commander of the Schooner
Hannah & Molly
Humbly Sheweth -
That your Memorialist would Set forth to Your Honors that there was
a Proclamation Issued out at Hallifax the 17th October 1775 to Encourage
persons to take Shelter in the Province of Nova Scotia and that there are
Numbers who Resort there for the Sake of their Trade, and many of Our
profess’d Enemies that belong to that Government are known to be Sup-
plying them. Your Memorialist Prays that in Case he shall find any Such
in the Seas or on our Coast, He may have Your Honors particular Direc-
tions therein, and Your Memorialist as in Duty bound Shall Ever Pray &c —
Agreen Crabtree
1. Mass. Arch., vol. 164, 45.
Journal of the Massachusetts Sloop Tyrannicide , Captain John Fisk 1
Remks on Sunday 4th of August 1776
At 7 A M saw two sail gave Chaise to the Eastermost one
at 10 spake her a Briggt from St Nicola mould [Mole] bound
to Novascotia Sent first Leiutenant 6 men on board took the
Capt Joseph dean and 6 men on board of us Gave Chaise
after the Other sail the Brigt foll[ow]ing after us left the Briggt
very fast at half after 1 1 made the other sail to the west ward
pleasant weather
Lattd in 38d.55m Longd in 63d. 57m
1 [P. M.] Pleasant weather in Chaise of the schooner Came up with
5 her found she was from Domin[ica] bound for halifax sent
the 2 Leiutenant and 6 hands on board put A prize master
& hands on board both Vessels and Ordered them both for
salem 2
1. John Fisk Journal, AAS.
2. The brig was the Betsey, Joseph Dean, master; the schooner was the Three Brothers, David
Smith, master.
Journal of the Rhode Island Sloop Independence ,
Captain Jabez Whipple 1
Remarks on Sunday August th 4 1776
At 8 AM One Eight Dollar Bill Lost
a 10 Am took In the top Gaelon Sail the wind Breses Forwards
the Laters part plesant A Good Ozservation
Lattd 38:55 Londgd in 63:49
The First of these 24 Hours Begins With plesent wether smuth
See handed Sail Atd took In topsail and set for sail a [il-
legible] in Flying Jibb Reefs Ma[in]sail In foursail at PM
Sot Trysail a Large [sea ahead] 2 sot Fo[re] sail at 12 Do Took
in Topsail
1. Independence Journal, RIHS.
2. Ibid., taken from what seems to be a mate’s log.
AUGUST 1776
49
“A Letter from a Gentleman, who was in the Engagement
wth the Ministerial Pirates off Tarry-Town, dated
Sunday Morning, Aug. 4.” 1
Sir, I have just Opportunity to inform you, that Yesterday at 1 o’Clock,
P.M. the Gallies attacked the Phoenix and Rose off Tarry-Town. The
Lady Washington fired the first Gun on our Side, in answer to one re-
ceived from the Phoenix ; this first shot from us, entered the Phoenix. The
Washington Galley, on board of which the Commodore’s Flag was hoisted,
then came up within Grape-Shot of the Ships, and singly sustained their
whole Fire for above a Quarter of an Hour before any other of our Ves-
sels took a Shot from her (the Tide wasting them more than the Pilots
expected, to the Eastern Shore, and the Lady Washington falling back to
take her Station in the Line according to Orders.) The Spitfire advanced
in a Line with the Washington, and with her behaved well. We had as
hot a fire as perhaps ever was known for an Hour and an Half. The
Washington, on which I was on board during the whole Engagement,
had the Ledgings of her bow Guns knocked away, which prevented our
working them, and was otherways considerably damaged, being thirteen
Times hulled, had three Shot in her Waist, many of her Oars carried away,
&c. The Lady Washington, after hulling the Phoenix six Times, had her
bow and only Gun, a Thirty-two Pounder, on which we placed much
Dependence, split seven Inches, and her Gun Tackles and Britchings car-
ried away. The Spitfire was hulled several Times, and received one Shot
between Wind and Water, which not being quickly discovered, occasioned
her making much Water. The rest of the Gallies received considerable
Damage in their Rigging, Sails and Spars. Under these Circumstances,
our Commodore, Colonel Tupper, thought it prudent to give the signal for
our little Fleet to withdraw, after manfully fighting a much superior Force,
for two Hours. — Never did Men behave with more firm determined Spirit
than our little crews; one of our Tars being mortally wounded, cried to
his Messmates, “I am a dying Man, revenge my Blood, my Boys, and carry
me along Side my Gun, that I may die there.” -We were so preserved by
a Gracious Providence, that in all our Gallies (which consisted of Six) ,
we had but two Men killed and Fourteen wounded; two of which are
thought dangerous. - We hope to have [anjother touch at these Pirates
before they leave our River, which God prosper.
P.S. The following are the Particulars of the Gallies, with their killed
and wounded:
The Washington, Capt. Hill, 4 wounded.
Whiting, M ’Clave, 1 killed, 4 wounded.
Spitfire, Grimes, 1 Killed, 3 wounded.
Crane, Tincker, 1 wounded.
On board a whale boat 2 wounded.
1. New-York Gazette, August 12, 1776.
50
AMERICAN THEATRE
Master’s Log of H. M. Brig Halifax 1
Augst 1776 Remarks off Staten Island, New York
Sunday 4 AM Perceivd the Rebels at New York towing some Old Ves-
sels up the No River which we Supposed were to Sink in the
Channel to prevent the Passage up or down. Sent on bd the
Adml to Acquaint him there with
1. PRO, Admiralty 52/1775.
Journal of Ambrose Serle 1
[On board H. M. S. Eagle]
Sunday, 4th [August].
In the Afternoon the Renown of 50 Guns and the Flora of 32 Guns,
with 22 Sail of Convoy, came into the Harbor. We have had so many
Arrivals of late, that the Rebel Commanders, we learn, give out to their
People, that we send Ships down in the Night, which come up in the
Course of the next Day, as a manoeuvre to intimidate them.
The Structures, which we supposed yesterday to be Fire Stages, were
towed up the North River this morning; and seem to be intended for
Cheveaux de Frize to block up the Passage, either to prevent the Ships,
that are now above, from coming down, or our Fleet from getting up,
without being raked by their Batteries. It is of a peculiar Construction; and
all the Industry of malevolence, which is the most active Sort of Industry,
has been used to complete it. Our People don’t seem to regard it, and
fancy they can easily run it down, or remove it out of their way.
1. Tatum, ed., Serle’s Journal, 54.
Diary of Dr. Thomas Moffat 1
[On board H. M. Sloop Swan]
Sunday Agust 4th Thermometer 68. noon 74 PM the Renown Flora
and a Transport Ship and Brigantine with a Prize Sloop from Hamburgh
passd up to the Fleet and the Niger came to Anchor at the Hook.
1. Thomas Moffat’s Diary, LC.
Diary of Christopher Marshall 1
[Philadelphia] 4th Augst 1776
. . . wrote 2 passes . , . one to James M’Cluer Liuetenant Marines
Ship Randolph, to the Camp.2
1. Diary of Christopher Marshall, HSP.
2. James McClure was commissioned a Marine second lieutenant on June 25, 1776. Ford,
ed., JCC, V, 478. The above entry is the only evidence that he was assigned to the
Randolph. His Marine service seems to have ended with his departure for camp.
McClure, on January 1, 1777, was commissioned a captain-lieutenant in the 2d Regiment
of Philadelphia Artillery, Hazard, et al., eds. Pennsylvania Archives, 5th series, III, 1030.
AUGUST 1776
51
Lord Dunmore to Lord George Germain 1
[Ship Dunmore in Potomac River,
Virginia], 4th of August -
Seeing a Tender of Captn Hamonds (that he had sent to Sir Peter
Parker) coming up I would not close my letter till I saw Mr [Richard]
Whitworth, who commands her, and I am extremley sorry to find that No
4 contains but too true an Account of our loss before Charles Town. I have
letters from Sir Peter [Parker] and General Clinton, both informing me
that it is perfectly out of their Power to give me any sort of assistance,
which will render my Situation (if possible) more intollerable than it
has been for these fourteen Months past, that I have been constantly pened
up in a Ship hardly with the common Necessaries of life, but what makes
it now a thousand times worse, in that I am left without even the hope of
being able to render His Majesty the smallest Service, this I must say is
truely discouraging, and leaves me in the utmost difficulty to determine
what to do; my utmost desire is (when I do resolve) that I may do what
may be most agreeable to His Majestys wishes and the best for His Serv-
ice. Mr Simenton, the bearer of this, or Governor Eden, who accompanies
him, will be able to inform your Lordship particularly, of the forlorn
State in which they have left us; and I have the Honor to be, My Lord [8cc.]
Dunmore
1. PRO, Colonial Office, 5/1353. Continuation of July 31 letter.
Vice Admiral James Young to Count d'Argout 1
English Harbour, Antigua,
Sir 4th August, 1776
Captain Chapman of His Brittannic Majesty’s Ship the Shark has
transmitted me an Account of His being attacked off St Pierres road,
Martinique, by an American Pirate, called the Reprisal , carrying 120 Men,
and 18 Six pound Guns; which He would have taken, had She not been
protected by the Forts, and received into the Road of St Pierre. Captain
Chapman acquaints me he desisted from Engageing the Pirate, as soon as
the Fort at St Pierre’s by firing at him, had Signified they deemed the
Vessel under their protection, as He supposed they believed her to be
only an American trading Vessel comeing into their Road; however after-
wards when Captain Chapman followed her into St Pierre’s Bay, and
acquainted Your Excellency, with the particulars of his Engagement; and
desired your permission to Seize and take possession of her as an American
Pirate; who could carry no Kings Commission, nor be Armed by any
lawful Authority to Wage War; I am certainly very much Surprized to find
you should hesitate or make any difficulty to permit him to do so. Surely,
your Excellency cannot intend to Open the Ports of His Most Christian
Majesty and give an open and avowed protection to Ships Armed for
Offensive War, by His Brittannic Majesty’s Rebellious Subjects in America,
who are professedly sent into these Seas to Cruize & Annoy, and take the
52
AMERICAN THEATRE
Vessels and property of the King of Great Britains Faithful and Peaceable
Subjects. After this Explanation, I cannot suppose your Excellency will any
longer protect the Pirate abovenamed; and I have sent Captain [Thomas]
Eastwood of His Brittannic Majesty’s Ship of War the Pomona , to De-
mand in the Name of the King of Great Britain (my Master); the delivery
of said American Vessel, her Men, Arms Sec., that I may bring them to
tryal for the Offences Committed by them contrary to the general Law
of Nations, and their Duty as Subjects. —
Since I have had the honour to Command the British Squadron
in these Seas, I have endeavoured all that lay in me, to Cultivate friend-
ship, and good faith, with His Most Christian Majesty’s Governors at
all his different possessions in these Seas, as likewise with those of other
European Powers in Amity with Great Britain and whenever during
the present trouble, any mistakes may have happened, have readily en-
tered into proper Explanations concerning them, and if I thought the
Officers, under my Command, at any time wrong, I have blamed, and
Reprimanded them for such Conduct, and given all due Satisfaction in
my power; after such friendly behaviour, and inclination in me towards
the Allies of Great Britain, I could not but expect an equal return, and
confess the greatness of my Disappointment to find so gross an Insult now
offered to the British Flag, through your Excellency’s Acquiescence —
Whilst the American Vessels came into these Seas unarmed, (’tho the
Traffick they were employed in, was often very pernicious and dangerous,)
I did not in any instance, suffer the Ships under my Command, to attack
them within the limits of any Port in Amity with Great Britain; however
I presume your Excellency, as well as I do will readily draw the Line
of distinction, between Vessels Manned and Armed for Offensive War, and
Trading Vessels, and that the Neutrality and protection which was af-
forded and claimed by the latter, cannot be given the former, but they
must be treated by all Powers in Amity with Great Britain as Pirates. —
I wish to receive you[r] Excellency’s answer, and a clear explicit explana-
tion of your Sentiments on this Subject; by which my future Conduct must
be regulated, and that I may likewise transmit the same to the Court of
London, by a Ship of War I shall send to England, immediately on Captain
Eastwoods return: I have the honour to be Your Excellency’s [8cc.]
[James Young]
P.S. I must entreat your Excellency will signify your determination about
giving up the American Vessel to Captain Eastwood; that He may be
enabled to Act in that matter agreeable to Commands he has received
from me.
[Copy]
1. PRO, Admiralty 1/309.
AUGUST 1776
53
Vice Admiral James Young to Captain Thomas Eastwood,
H. M. Sloop Pomona 1
(Copy)
Secret Orders
In case the American Vessel [Reprisal] you are directed, by my Order
of this date, to Demand the delivery of, from the Governor of Martinico,
is still remaining in that Bay; You are to Anchor in the Pomona as near
to her as you can; and constantly to watch her motions; and be ready to
Slip and follow her in case She should attempt to get away from thence
before you receive the Governor’s Answer, You are in that case to follow
her (notwithstanding the Forts may fire to prevent your doing so) until
you get beyond the Limits of the Port, and then attack, and use your
utmost endeavours to take, burn, sink, or otherways destroy said
American Vessel. Should you Succeed in your Endeavours to take her you
are not to return back to St Pierres but bring her forthwith to me. —
However should the Compte D’argout agree to give up the Vessel, her
Arms, Tackle, Furniture Sec. to you, but Object to Giving up the Company
of said Vessel to be tryed by the Laws against Pirates; You are in that case
to accept the Vessel, her Arms, Tackle, Furniture Sec, and Suffer the
People to go on shore, bringing away the Vessel as directed in your
other publick order of this date. - During your Stay in St Pierres Bay
you are to use your best Endeavours to get the best Intelligence you can,
concerning the American Vessels, and the Trade now carried on by them,
and report the same to me at your return, but you are to be careful to
make these Enquiries with privacy and delicacy so as to give no publick
offence to the French Government; for which this shall be your Order.2
Given under my Hand onboard
the Portland in English harbour
Antigua the 4th August 1776.
1. PRO, Admiralty 1/309.
2. Ibid., Young directed Captain Eastwood to make his request for the Reprisal “with firm-
ness, tho in such decent terms as cannot be deemed affrontive.”
Master’s Log of H. M. Sloop Hawke 1
August [17]76 At Anchor in Prince Rupert Bay Dominica Cus-
tom house NE 2 Miles
Saturdy 3d at 7 weighed Se Stood out of the bay Under Single Reefd
TSls Standing to the SoWd after the Seaford Made a
Shortend Sail Occasionally
First Se latter Parts fresh Gales Se Cloudy Middle fresh Gales
Se Squally with Constant Rain Attended with Thunder Se
lightning at Noon Standing for Martinico the Seaford
in sight at 3 PM spoke a french Ship from St Piers to
Marsails at 5 Spoke the Seaford brot too hoisted out a
boat Se sent the Captain on Shore Ship Plying in for St
54
AMERICAN THEATRE
Piers 8c the Seaford stood to the No Wd to speak a sail ]/2
past saw the Seaford fire at a brigg in Shore on which the
Batterys fird 6 Shoats at the Seaford at 8 the Captain Re-
turned on bd Hoisted in the boat 8c Plyd off 8c on till 4 in
the
Sunday 4th Morning then brot too at 7 saw the Seaford to Leeward
bore Down 8c spoke her Hoisted out the boat 8c sent on
board her \/2 past she Returnd Hoisted in Do Made Sail
8c parted Company with the Seaford
1. PRO, Admiralty 52/1780.
5 Aug.
Captain Charles Douglas, R.N., to Vice Admiral Richard
Lord Howe 1
(Copy) [Isis, Quebec] August the 5th
An Account from St: Johns just received, gives me reason to believe,
that the Frame which was building in the Sorel, 8c which I (with General
Carleton’s Approbation) ordered to be taken down, before I left Chambly,
will be ready for Launching about the 16th and the Maria about the 30th
of this Month - the Lieutenants Butler 8c Starke 2 (such by my Order only)
superintend their Reconstruction - Captain [Thomas] Pringle’s Command,
My Lord, on Lake Champlain will be very extensive, 8c I dare assure
myself, his Execution of the important Duties thereof, will justify my
having appointed him thereto; As also General Carleton having sollicited,
my so doing: And I’d fain hope recommend him to such advanced Rank,
as your Lordship only can bestow.
It has been represented to me, since the foregoing was written, that
there is an additional Number of prisoners, (hourly expected down the
river) to be sent away, I have added the John & Christopher to the three
other Transports.
As many of the Transports are immediately to sail, I confine the
Tartar s Cruize between Cape North 8c Cape Ray, until the 15th of next
Month, 8c shall send Orders to Captn [Thomas] Mackenzie of the Lizard
at St. John’s, to take a State of the Fisheries for your Lordship. Tho’
our preparations for Lake Champlain, will at any rate be late, seeing
many things have been in a Manner to create, yet if the hourly expected
Victuallers do not arrive, I most fear Delay from a want of salted Pro-
visions for the Army, on their leaving this Country — We are able to supply
all the Seamen to be employed on the Lake, either belonging to His
Majesty’s Ships, or others, being in number about three hundred; but out
of our Stock of four Months victualling sent out under the Tartar s Convoy,
and the Remains of what We brought with Us (comparatively little) We
can do hardly any thing at all for the Troops.
1. PRO, Admiralty 1/487. Continuation of August 4 letter.
2. Lieutenant John Starke, of the Maria, wrote, of this period:
The Maria was the only Vessel on the establishment of the Navy ordered for this
AUGUST 1776
55
Service, the rest being Provincial Vessels — Lieut Starke had her taken to pieces,
and carried over land, the distance of twelve Miles, together with her Masts, rig-
ging, Guns, Stores &c and had her rebuilt, and again equipped for Service, in a
short time. He also exerted himself with zeal, in the carrying over the other vessels
and craft intended for the expedition on the Lake, and in the equipment of them.
These services were beyond the usual course of his duty as an officer serving under
a Commission from the Admiralty, whose authority does not extend to the Lake;
but the advantage and even the necessity of His Majesty’s Service required them —
His indefatiguable diligence and activity upon this occasion, and also his knowl-
edge in various branches of the Mathematics, displayed in constructing Machines,
and in applying the various mechanic powers, necessary for transporting the Vessels
and craft from the foot of the Rapids of Chambly to St John’s, have been men-
tioned much to his credit by the officers who were present, particularly by Sir
Charles Douglas the commanding Naval Officer, who directed and superintended
these operations; and for which, he had the honour to receive the thanks of Sir
Guy Carleton the Commander in Chief, given out in Public Orders.
This very extraordinary and singular piece of Service, which can scarcely be
paralelled in any age or country, of carrying twelve Miles over land, and dragging
up the rapid and shallow stream of the River Sorell, a number of Vessels of various
sizes and constructions to form a great Naval Armament, was carried into execution
and completed with great exertions of ingenuity and labour, in the space of three
months.
“The case of Lieutenant John Starke of His Majesty’s Navy, together with a Short
Sketch of the Operations of the War in Canada, in which he was employed, during the
years 1775, 1776 and 1777,” NMM, Ms. 49/129. Hereafter cited as Lieutenant Starke’s
Narrative, NMM.
Master’s Log of H. M. Armed Vessel Canceaux 1
August 1776 Anchord abreast of Deschembeaux Point [St. Law-
rence River] -
Monday 5 At 4 A M the Capt set out for St Johns - 2
1. PRO, Admiralty, 52/1638.
2. Lieutenant John Schank had been detached to take command of one of the British ves-
sels outfitting for service on Lake Champlain.
John Langdon to William Whipple 1
[Extract] Portsmouth 5th August 1776
My Friend — Your favo’r of the 22d ult is now before me, in which you
mention the number of Men, that are to be allowed each Ship, and that
they must be shipped for One Year, or more, this is the very first of
my knowing these two matters — I am very impatient to know my Depart-
ment as we may Expect some prizes bro’t in by the Schooners, every Day,
in that Case I should not be able to Act. if there is only to be one Agent
let me Know it, & also inform General Washington, that Orders may be
given to those Armed Vessels employed by the Continent, to call on me
for Supplies, and deliver Prizes 8cc. I understand that Captain Bradford
the Agent for Prizes for Massachusetts has the direction of those Armed
Vessells, I hope it is only meant while in that Coloney. when they are in
this Colony, I hope the Agent here, will have as much Power as the
Massachusetts this you’ll look into, as I think there are some Schemes on
foot to keep every thing in their own hands, by no means let the Agent
of any Colony have it in their power to order Continental Vessels to Cruize
where he pleases, and to bring the prizes into his own Colony when
other Harbours are more handy, pray dont fail to see this matter done
56
AMERICAN THEATRE
immediately that there might not be any interference of Agents it is
very Odd that the President does not Signify to me my Appointment,
and what I am to do, all this time I am Agent and other People doing
the Business, I mean of what comes in now since my Appointment, it is
not so when any one appointed for the other Colony -
You say you tho’t I had ample power, to fit the Ship for Sea I tho’t
the [Marine] Committee meant so, but it was impossible for me to
prevail on them to say so, and therefore could not Act upon Uncertainties -
It is very unaccountable that Governor [Stephen! Hopkins will say the
Ships at Providence are as toward as this, when he has not seen neither.
I have myself seen both, and when its certain we have waited since first
of June for Guns to go on withall and those at Providence not a Mast
made, or Tops, and the Ships tho’ Launched not more than three Quarters
or two thirds done at this time now these things are fact, for which you
have my word, which I hope is equal to Mr. Hopkins’s, and if that will
not do, can produce Thousands of Witnesses, by our not having the
first Guns, and proper attention paid our Ship the Continent have lost
full as much as would pay for the whole 13 Sail, however things will go
on Just so, it is hard that we can’t have Orders for some of them Carbines
which were taken for our Marines they are the proper Guns, only 100
would do very well, I suppose the Ship to find all Arms of all sort . . .
Pray what Wages had the Master builders at Phila who built the Ships
P Day? am glad the Officers are appointed agreeable to Memo — as some
of them have been Employed on board . . .
1. John Langdon Letter Book, Captain J. G. M. Stone Private Collection, Annapolis.
John Langdon to Josiah Bartlett 1
[Extract] Portsmouth 5th Augt 1776
... I am at a loss for words to Express my feelings on the good News
from the Southward [Charleston] they behave most manfully, the Reg-
ulars poor Devils How an Admiral or a General looks with his Breetches
shot away it would been happy if they had lost what was in them. . . .2 We
have Just got glorious News from the Eastward, one of our Privateers has
taken Six prizes West India Men, one of which is Capt Lear of this Place,
who owns his Ship himself, tho’ she is made over to Lane Sc Co for Security
against British Ships only, pray you and Brother Whipple, ask about that
matter, there can be no doubt but the Ship 8c his Adventure is Lears, and
never in the Hands of our Enemies, they are all Loaden with Sugar Sc
Rum Sec taken by one Privateer from Salem to the Southwd of Bermudas,
and Eastward the British Ships and Cargoes will be Condemned and the
Cargo of Lear but it will be hard to have him loose his Ship as he is worked
hard for it and is a staunch Friend to his Country - 3
L John Langdon Letter Book, Captain J. G. M. Stone Private Collection, Annapolis.
2. Commodore Sir Peter Parker had his trousers shot away during the action at Charleston.
3. The prizes were taken by Captain Joseph White, in the Massachusetts privateer sloop
Revenge. See The Freeman’s Journal, August 3, 1776. Captain Lear was the father of
Tobias Lear, who became Washington’s secretary after the war.
AUGUST 1776
57
Journal of the Massachusetts Sloop Tyrannicide, Captain John Fisk 1
Remks on Munday 5th of August 1776
4 [A. M.] Stood to the Southward
12 Ends pleasant weather
Lattd in 38d.5m Longd in 64d.23m
Squally weather and rainy at 1PM saw a sail to the
southward gave Chaise at 7 spake with her the Briggn
Salley from Rode Island for Suranam Jno Tower Master
1. John Fisk Journal, AAS.
Journal of the Massachusetts Council 1
[Watertown] Monday August 5th 1776
On a Certificate, from Henry Gardner Esqr it appearing that Agreen Crab-
tree, Commandr of the Armed Schooner, Hannah if Molly had given Bonds
Agreeable to the Resolves of the General Court, his Commission as Com-
mander of said Schooner was delivered to him as Also his Instructions —
The Petition of Benjamin Goodhue Sc Miles Greenwood both of Salem,
Humbly Sheweth -
That your Petitioners in Company with several other persons are
fitting out a Privateer Schooner of War call’d the True American, to be
Mounted with Ten Carriage Guns, and to be Navigated with Eighty Men
And whereof Daniel Hathorne is intended to be Captain — Your Petitioners
Humble Prayer therefore is that the said Daniel Hathorne may be Comis-
sionated as Captain of the said Privateer Schooner of War; and your peti-
tioners as in duty bound Shall ever pray Sec Sec —
Read Sc Ordered, that a Commission be issued to the Above named Daniel
Hathorn as Commander of the Schooner True American, on his giving
Bonds Agreeable to the Resolves of Congress - 2
1. Mass. Arch., vol. 19, 146, 147.
2. Ibid., vol. 7, 243, Continental Bond, $5,000, was given this date.
David Cobb to Robert Treat Paine 1
[Extract] Boston Augt 5th 1776
My Dear Sir I [t] wou’d give me great pleasure Sc satisfaction to have a
line now & then from Philadelphia so that I might peep into the Secrets
Sc Mysteries of the Grand Book of Temporal Fate; but if I do not, my
Weekly Journal will go on, such as it is, ’till eternal fate, prevents it.
Monday 29th Benja Davis Sc others that were taken yesterday, landed at
the Long Wharf from Marblehead Sc from thence conducted to the
prison; they have a number of Women with ’em. - the Cargo of the
Ship consist of £15,00 Sterling in Cash, a quantity of English Goods,
200 Tierces of Beef &c 2
58
AMERICAN THEATRE
Tuesday 30th Nothing. -
Wednesday 31st A Schooner was bro’t into this port today, taken by two
Whalemen; she is from Jamaica to Liverpool, Nova Scotia, Laiden
with Rum 8c Salt; she is said to be own’d by Derby of Salem 8c sail’d
from thence above a year ago, when the Capt had orders to make
her Jamaica property; since which he has been Trading from Jamaica
to Nova Scotia - her Condemnation is uncertain.3 - the Tory Ship
came from Marblehead to this port to day -
Thursday, Angst 1st A General Fast. - no particular occurrance -
Fryday 2d A Large Jamaica Ship is arriv’d at Townsend at the Eastward,
sent in by one of our Privateers 4
Saturday 3d The Juliana a Jamaica prize Ship, was tri’d at Salem yester-
day, when the Mate claim’d \/s of the Ship 8c some of her Cargo, as
being Jamaica property; the evidence was so clear, that the Jury were
oblig’d to acquit the part claim’d. - it gives some uneasiness. - but I
am just inform’d that the Congress have allow’d the seizure of all
West India property, exceept Bermudas 8c the Bahamas, which I re-
joice at — 5
Sunday 4th Capt [Joseph] White of Darby’s Privateer has arriv’d at
Casco Bay with two very large Jamaica Ships, having taken on this
Cruize no less than 4 or 5 of sd Ships - what grand fortunes will soon
be amass’d.6 . . .
1. Robert Treat Paine Papers, MassHS.
2. The ship Peggy, from Nova Scotia for New York, taken July 27 by Washington’s schooners
Hancock and Franklin.
3. Probably the schooner Patty, taken east of Mount Desert and libeled against August 15,
1776. Neiv-England Chronicle, August 15, 1776.
4. The ship Anna Maria, taken by Captain Joseph White in the Massachusetts privateer
sloop Revenge.
5. The Lady Juliana, taken by Captain John Adams in the Pennsylvania privateer sloop
Chance. Cobb refers to the Congressional resolve (July 24) to no longer respect *British
West India property. Ford, ed., JCC, V, 606.
6. Captain White commanded the Massachusetts privateer sloop Revenge. She was the prop-
erty of Joseph Lee, Miles Greenwood and others, rather than Richard Derby. Lee
was a resident of Beverly; Greenwood, of Salem, Mass. Arch., vol. 6, 339.
John Bradford to John Hancock1
Dear Sir Boston 5th Augst 1776
I have the Honour to inclose You an Ac/ct of the Ship peggy s Cargo,
as it stands in her Clearance from Hallifax, I have not yet begun to un-
load her being all the last week at Salem Attending the trial of the scotch
Vessells which are Apportion’d as follows vizt %6 of the ship Lord How[e ]
to the Schooners 4/16 to the Connecticut Brig %6 to this Colony Sloop.
n/i6 of the Brig Annabella and the ship George to the Schooners %6 to the
Brig 2
The principal part of the Cargo’s of the Scotch vessells being sent to
[Newl york, and as it will be some time Ere any moneys will be Reed
for any of the vessells wch are in my hands and my not being Able to git
AUGUST 1776
59
any from the late Agents, Occasions a great want of money. I flatter my
self some way may be found out to Supply me, it gives me pain to be
thus troublesome Sir but if the intercourse was not shut up between
philada & here, I shou’d be able to get supplies the Brig Dispatchs Cargo
Amounts to near 10,000 Dollars, and her out fit is very Considerable, and
I’ve paid of three portlidge Bills one of wch had run Six months, besides
a great sum I’ve been Oblig’d to advance for the schooners, which are very
Expensive; I hope Mr Morris will send my dispatches forward for the
Brig, as she has been Ready for the Sea five weeks, with fish a perishable,
and Oil a wasting Article on board.3
I cant yet Obtain any Accounts from the Late Agents But they tell
me they have Ballances due to them. I shou’d feel happy to Receive my
Commission, as it woud give me a Sanction with the Late Agents, which
at present they are unwilling to allow me, its marvelous to me that
[Jonathan] Glover & Bartlet [William Bartlett] shou’d not have money’s in
their hands belonging to the Continent as they’ve had so many valuable
prizes. I shall not add but present You my most Respectfull Salutations
praying for a Continuance of your health, that your importance in the
States of America, may be continued till she becomes very Respectable
among the Nations of the Earth I am Dear Sir [8cc.]
Jn Bradford.
1. Walter Fuller Don Collection, SI.
2. Five of Washington’s armed schooners, the Connecticut state brig Defence , and the Massa-
chusetts state sloop Tyrannicide shared in the proceeds.
3. The brig Dispatch, formerly the prize Little Hannah taken by John Manley in Washington’s
armed schooner Lee on December 8, 1775, was purchased by Bradford at the end of
May. He acted on orders from Robert Morris who planned to send dispatches by her
to France, and to put on board a certain John Philip Merkle who was to sell the
Dispatch’s cargo and invest the proceeds in munitions.
Advertisement of Sale of the Cargo of Prize Ship Lady Juliana 1
On Wednesday, 7th of August at ten in the morning, will begin
the sale of the cargo of the prize ship Lady Juliana, from Jamaica, now
lying at the Hon. John Hancock, Esqrs Wharf,
consisting of
315 hogsheads and 57 tierces of choice sugars, 94 puncheons and hogs-
heads of rum. 180 bags and 14 casks of piemento, 390 bags of ginger,
19 tons of dying wood 568 Jamaica hides, very large, 63 planks of Mo-
hogany, 19 Tons o’ Fustick, 25 tierces Spanish cocoa, 1 cask tortoise shell,
1 hogshead of old copper, brass and pewter, 17 elephants teeth
Conditions of Sale
1. That every bidder shall advance 5 per cent on every bid, and the
highest to be the purchaser.
2. That every purchaser shall pay down as earnest money 10 per cent,
and the remainder in three days after the purchase, on forfeiture of the
advance money.
60
AMERICAN THEATRE
3. If any dispute arises between two or more bidders, the article in
dispute shall be put up again.
J. Russell, Auctioneer.
1. Boston Gazette, August 5, 1776. The sale was not completed on that day, and the New-
England Chronicle for August 8 advertised: “To-morrow Morning, at Eleven o’Clock,
Will be continued the Sale of the Cargo of the Lady Juliana, at Hancock’s Wharf,
J. Russell, Auctioneer.” The Chronicle, August 15, announced that Lady Juliana, “an
excellent Ship and well found.,” would be sold the next day.
Captain Abraham Whipple to Nicholas Brown Sc Co.1
Gentlemen Cranstown August. 5. 1776 —
In my first Vige in your Sloop George to Barbados and Martnico the
Harbour-Master att. Martnico Gave me the Two Guns that Stands by
Mr Nicholas Browns Sc John Browns hous which att the time theay was
Sot there I Lent them to you to Stand thare While the Next War Which
has Now Cominsed the 4 July thare foare I Desiare that you Would
Dilver the Guns or pay me the price that theay may Valued at by Inde-
frant men I Licke wise Lent Nicholas Brown Sc Company one pare of
Swivel Guns When Comdoar Hopkins Was A Going to Gunia In the Briggt
Salley Which you Never Returned to Me Which I Desiare that you will
pay the price of New pare Reday Swivld or Return me the Guns As you
Know I want the Value of them from Yours att Comand.
Abraham Whipple
N B - Settle it With Mrs Whipple 2
1. Nicholas Brown Papers, JCBL.
2. Ibid., Whipple wrote again the same day asking the Browns to settle with Captain William
Wall. This letter contains the following endorsement: “Memodm Brother Jno Brown
bot & paid for the 2 Guns to Capt Whipple @ 50 Dols for the two & I paid John
my half wch he Indost with a pencil on Sd Recpt Nt>vr. 1776. Test Nichs Brown.”
Newport Mercury , Monday, August 5, 1776
Newport, August 5.
Last Friday se’nnight a sloop from Bermuda arrived at Nantucket,
who the day before, to the southward of that island, saw 53 sail of square
rigged vessels, standing to the westward; which ’tis likely, are part of the
Hessian fleet.
Last Wednesday arrived at New-London, the sloop Betsey, Capt.
Benjamin Bigelow, in 15 days from St. Eustatia, with a large quantity of
duck, 6 tons of powder, some small arms, See. Mr. William Turner, of this
island, came passenger in the above vessel, and informs that a large number
of troops have lately arrived at Martinica and 9000 at Porterica.
Last Monday morning two brigs went up the east side of the island;
one of which is an Antiguaman, loaded with sugar, rum and cotton, sent
in by the privateer Diamond , Capt. Chase, but had been taken before by
Capt Newman, of Philadelphia, and was taken again by Capt. Chase, be-
cause she had no copy of Capt. Newman’s commission on board: 1 — The
other brig is a whaleman, which is released.
1. The brigantine Mary. She was condemned as a prize in favor of Captain Newman, Septem-
ber, 2, 1776. Admiralty Papers, vol. 9, 1776, R. I. Arch.
AUGUST 1776
61
Captain James Wilkinson to Captain Richard Varick, Albany 1
[Extract]
let me inform you my Dear Sir that Genl Arnolds Character has been
here traduced lately in the most villainous assasign like manner, and I
understand the aspersions prevail with you. allow me then to obey the
Dictates of justice, by asserting that I have been a spectator of His Conduct
in the Hour of Danger, in the Moment of Gay Security have observed
His exertions where the public Interest was concerned & have always
found Him, the intrepid, generous friendly, upright Honest Man — is it
for Men, who cant boast more than an easy enjoyment of the Continental
Provision, to blast the Reputation of Him, who having encountered the
greatest perils, surmounted extremest hardships, fought and bled in a
Cause which they have only encumbered? No forbid it Honor, forbid it
Justice - these are effusions of a Heart actuated by no partial Tie or prej-
udiced View. -
We have an Acct from Canada (which wants confirmation) that the
Enemy had left St Johns with their Artillery, all to two hundred Men
who remain in the Garrison, and this in consequence of the Arrival of a
French Fleet — whether this is a Fact, whether it is meant only as a Decoy
or whether they have drawn their Force from this, in order to penetrate
the Country in a different Quarter is the Question. We understand that
in attempting to bring several Vessels into the Lake from Chamblee the
Carriages failed and they were destroyed - that they had continued their
old mode of Tyranny in such a Degree as again to establish the Canadians
Our Friends, and that the foreigners deserted in great Numbers to the
back settlements or Country.
Our Navy are in great forwardness but I seriously believe we shall
have no other use for them than to transport our Army into Canada. -
Mount Pleasant on Mount Independence
5th August 1776
1. Andre de Coppet Autograph Collection, PUL.
George Washington to John Hancock 1
[Extract] New York, August 5, 1776.
The inclosed copy of a Letter from Col: [Benjamin] Tupper, who had
the General Command of the Gallies here, will inform Congress of the
Engagement between them and the Ships of War up the North river on
Saturday Evening and of the Damage we sustained; what injury was done
to the Ships I cannot ascertain. It is said they were hulled several times by
our Shot. All accounts agree, that our Officers and Men, during the whole
of the Affair, behaved with great Spirit and bravery; the damage done
to the Gallies shews beyond question, that they had a warm time of it, the
Ships still remain up the river and before any-thing further can be at-
62
AMERICAN THEATRE
tempted against them, should it be thought advisable, the Gallies must be
repaired. . . .
By a Letter from General Ward of the 29th. Ulto, he informs me,
that two of our armed Vessels the day before had brought into Marblehead,
a Ship bound from Halifax to Staten Island, she had in about 1509 £ Cost
of British Goods, besides a good many belonging to Tories. A Hallifax
paper found on board her, I have inclosed, as also an Account sent me by
Mr. [Ebenezer] Hazard transmitted him by some of his Friends, as given by
the Tories taken in her; their Intelligence I dare say is true, respecting the
arrival of part of the Hessian Troops. General Ward in his Letter men-
tions the day this prize was taken, Capt. [William] Burke, in another of
our Armed Vessels had an engagement with a Ship and a Schooner which
he thought were Transports and would have taken them, had it not been
for an unlucky accident in having his Quarter Deck blown up. Two of
his men were killed and several more were wounded.2
The Hulks and three Cheveaux de frieze that have been preparing
to obstruct the Channel, have got up to the place they are intended for,
and will be sunk as soon as possible.
1. John C. Fitzpatrick, ed., The Writings of George Washington (Washington, 1931-1944), V,
370-72. Hereafter cited as Fitzpatrick, ed., Writings of Washington.
2. The ship Peggy, taken by Washington’s armed schooners Hancock and Franklin. Captain
Burke commanded Washington’s schooner Warren.
George Washington to John Bradford 1
Sir Head Quarters N Yk. 5th Augt 1776
Yours of the 29th Ulto is duly Received; for the future I must desire
all Warlike Stores 8c Necessaries for an Army, taken by the Armed Vessels
in Public Service, may be safely Stored, under care of the Different Agents
’till they receive Orders from proper Authority, you will please to enjoin
it upon the different Commanders of the Continental Cruisers, to be par-
ticularly careful no Embezelment is made by their Crew or others. - I am
sir your [8cc.]
G. Washington
To Mr John Bradford one of the Continental
Agents at Boston
1. Washington Papers, LC.
General Orders of Vice Admiral Richard Lord Howe 1
Memo/ [H.M.S. Eagle ] August 5th. 1776
The Captains 8c Commanders of His Majs Ships 8c Vessels of War in
this Port, are respectively to keep their Provisions 8c Water compleated
to a Proportion for three Months unless they are otherwise, particularly
directed / 8c to hold their Ships in Constant readiness for Sea. -
1. Order Book of Captain William Cornwallis, R. N., NYHS.
AUGUST 1776
63
Journal of the Continental Congress 1
[Philadelphia] Monday, August 5, 1776
The Board of War brought in a report, which was taken into con-
sideration: Whereupon,
Resolved , That the commanders of all ships of war and armed vessels
in the service of these states, or any of them, and all letters of marque
and privateers, be permitted to inlist into service on board the said ships
and vessels, any seamen who may be taken on board any of the ships or
vessels of our enemies, and that no such seamen be entitled to receive the
wages due to them out of the said prizes, but such as will so inlist, and
that all other seamen, so taken, be held as prisoners of war, and exchanged
for others taken by the enemy, whether on board of vessels of war or
merchantmen, as there may be opportunity:
A petition from Esek Hopkins, commander in chief of the continental
fleet, was presented to Congress, and read; setting forth, that “he has been
informed that certain complaints, interrogatories and report, charging him
with sundry crimes and misdemeanors, had been exhibited to the honor-
able Congress; the purport of which complaints, Sec. he is ignorant of;
and praying that he may be furnished with copies thereof, and of all other
proceedings against him, which are now before this honorable body; and
that time may be allowed him to prepare for, and a day assigned for, his
being heard before Congress in his own defence.”
Resolved , That the prayer of the petition be granted, and that Friday
next be appointed for hearing Commodore Hopkins.2
Resolved, That the Marine Committee be directed to order the ships
and armed vessels, belonging to the continent, out on such cruizes as they
shall think proper.
Resolved, That Monday next be assigned for hearing and determining
the Appeal against the verdict and sentence passed on the schooner Thistle.
1. Ford, ed., JCC, V, 630, 631.
2. Ibid., 641, on Friday, August 9, the hearing was “postponed to Monday next, at 11 o’clock,
and that Captain [John Paul] Jones be directed to attend.”
Josiah Bartlett to John Langdon 1
[Extract] Philadelphia August 5th 1776
Sir, Since my last, a vessel fitted out by the Secret Committee has arrived
here from Marseilles in France which place she left the 8th of June. She
has brought for the use of the American States 1000 good muskets, about
ten tons of powder and about 40 tons of lead Sec Sec. - A small privateer
from this City called the Congress has taken a vessel bound from the West
Indies to Halifax and sent her safe into port beside a cargo of West India
goods -there was found on board 1078 Joes -672 guineas and some other
gold coin.2 — Capt Barry in the Lexington, one of the Continental vessels
64
AMERICAN THEATRE
has taken and sent in here a privateer of six carriage guns commanded by
another of them infamous Goodrichs of Virginia.3 - Capt Weeks [Lambert
Wickes] in the Reprisal another Continental vessel has taken and sent in
a sloop bound from the West Indies to Liverpool - he has also taken a
ship from Grenada to London which is not yet arrived - both loaded with
West India goods 4 . . . Your [&c.]
P.S. Josiah Bartlett
August 6 yesterday arrived here two prizes taken by Capt Weeks - one
the ship before mentioned, having on board it is said 500 hogsheads of
sugar - the other a brig bound from the West Indies to Ireland taken since
the ship and sloop - the particulars of her cargo I have not heard.5 This
is the best way of supplying ourselves with necessaries since Britain will
not suffer us to procure them by trade and I expect another year we shall
be well supplied this way - Yours Sec J.B.
1. William Whipple Papers, Force Transcripts, LC.
2. The ship Juno was bound to Bristol; not to Halifax. She was taken jointly by the Pennsyl-
vania privateer sloops Congress and Chance.
3. The sloop Lady Susan, William Goodrich, commander.
4. Wickes’s first two prizes were the schooner Peter and the ship Friendship.
5. The brig Neptune with a cargo of rum.
Journal of the Pennsylvania Council of Safety 1
In Council of Safety,
[Philadelphia] August 5th, 1776.
By order of the Board, Ab’m Mason was directed to deliver to Tho’s
Hazlewood as much old Sail Cloth as he may want to Cover Fire Rafts.
1. Peymsylvania Colonial Records, X, 668.
Robert Smith to the Pennsylvania Council of Safety 1
Gentlemen,
I am now ready to raise a Number of frames, But the depth of water
oposite to where we have framed them, is not sufficient to bear them off,
we must go lower down. The water there is deeper, but we have not room
enough on the Beach to raise them, I wo’d therefore propose that a Number
of Labourers should be set to work at a gully that has been made in the
Bank by the rains that has fallen from time to time, to enlarge this gap,
that we may have room to lay the floors at a sufficient distance from
the water, till we can erect the upper works in order to add weight that
the tide may not Carry them off before we have finished the frame.
Mr Hicks tells me that he cannot employ the Labourers under his
care at the fort, before they are discharged. Supose you should order
him to set twenty-five or thirty of those People on this service, and put him
in a way how they are to be vituald; there is Lodging ready near the place
for 312 men, there they may sleep. I Beg, Gentlemen, that this may be
AUGUST 1776
65
attended to, otherways I shall be hindered much, and the public business
will lag behind. I am, Gentlemen, [Sec.]
Robt. Smith.
Bellengsport, August 5th, 1776.
Directed. To the Committee of Safety, Present.2
1. Pennsylvania Archives, 1st series, V, 8.
2. Smith was not aware that the Committee of Safety had been succeeded on July 23, 1776
by the Council of Safety.
Maryland Council of Safety to Van Bebber & Harrison 1
No 112
Gentn We have reed by Captn [John] Martin all the Goods you sent us
according to Invoice and Bill of Lading, except 10 Bbls of Gun Powder,
which he says is a mistake Sc that they were never put on board - if there
be any mistake, you must rectify it, if no mistake, - charge the captn with
the Powder.
Captn [William] Stone has presented us a memorial claiming the
Brig Friendship , as his property, copy of which we send you inclosed, Sc
to which we Shall be glad hereafter of having y[our] Answer. -
We shall endeavour to make you remittances by every opportunity,
we do not know the cargoe of the Brig Friendship } Colo [Robert] Hooe is
down at Chingoteague Sc will write you fully of the cargo put on board,
Some Tobo bread & flour are the chief articles, you will do the best you
can for us and send by first good opportunity follg articles Vizt Guns with
Bayonets, coarse Woollens, coarse Linens - Gunflints, Lead, Powder Sc Salt
Petre - we have heretofore wrote you by Captn Handy, a Duplicate whereof
is now inclosed, when the Fall Sc Winter comes on, we shall do better we
hope - Dunmore’s fleet is gone off from the mouth of Potowmack very sickly
and in great distress, - perhaps our bay will be clearer of Ships of war, than
it has been, if so we shall remit you fully- in the mean Time draw on
us if you are in want of Cash, payable either in Maryland or Pennsylvania,
and we shall pay due honour to your drafts. -
Captn [Thomas] Conway is safe arrived in great Wiccomico in Virga,
we shall get his cargo up Soon, and dispatch him as quick as possible, we
are with due regard [&c.]
[Annapolis] 5th Augt 1776
1. Council of Safety Letter Book. No. 1, Md. Arch.
Master’s Log of H. M. S. Roebuck 1
August 1776 Geofrge’s] Island [Potomac River] NWi/2N 2 Miles
Thursday 1st AM at 1 1 The Fowey made the Signl to Weigh -First
Part Squally with rain Thunder Sc Lightning. Latter Modt Sc
Cloudy P. M. sent Men on Board some of the Vessels to
Prepare them for sea.
A M at 8 the Fowey Sc Otter with Part of the Fleet Weigh’d
Friday 2d
66
AMERICAN THEATRE
8c made sail, at 9 Made the Signal for sailing, 8c Set the
Remainder of the Brig we had Cut Wood from, On fire
First & Latter Part, Light Winds & fair, P. M. Burnt Several
unserviceable Vessels, 8c made the Signl 8c Weigh’d with the
Remainder of the Fleet, The Pembroke Tender join’d
us with her Prize 2 at 9 Departed this Life M Sellers Sea-
man, at 10 Made the Signl & Anchor’d in 7 fath Point
Look Out NEbN 4 or 5 Miles,
Saturday 3d A M. at 5 Made the Signl 8c Weigh’d as did the fleet the
Galley fill’d halld a Longside 8c took the 6 Pounder out
of her and what Arms we could find 8c Veer’d her a Stern
again Sailing Round Smith’s Point, Wind Mill Point
SWi/2S 4 Lgs
First 8c Latter Parts Modt 8c fair P M Saw a Sail to the
NE 8c made the Otters Signl to chace & the Signl for the
fleet to Close i/2 pt 7 Made the Otters Signl. to Leave off
chace at 8 New Pt comfort S W 6 Lgs
Sunday 4th A M. at 8 made the Signl and Anchor in 5 \/2 fath Cape
Henry SbE 4 Miles at 12 Made the Foweys Signl to chace
Modt. & fair, P. M. The Otter Weigh’d 8c sail’d with Part
of the Fleet
Monday 5th A M. got some Cyder out of the Pembrook’s Prize
Do Weather
P M the Foivey sail’d with the ships bound to the Eastwd
1. PRO, Admiralty 52/1965.
2. Susannah , from Rhode Island for South Carolina, with cider and chocolate, Howe’s Prize
List, March 31, 1777, ibid., 1/487. The Susannah, a sloop, had sailed from Rhode Island
June 15. Her master was Peleg Remington; her owners, Richard Salter, Welcome Arnold,
and William Wall, all of Providence, and her cargo consisted of “80. bbls Cyder, 6 Hhds
N.E. Rum, 10 bbls Flour 1100 lb Cheese 150 pair Lynn Shoes, 10 Boxes Chocolate, and
6 Boxes hand Soap,” Outward and Inward Entries, R. I. Arch.
Captain Andrew Snape Hamond, R.N., to Hans Stanley 1
Dear Sir, Roebuck Tn Virginia 5th Augst 1776
You hear seldom from me for want of opportunitys to write to you,
and because I have nothing material to acquaint you with. The history of
a defensive kind of war, which has been my misfortune for some time past
to have been engaged in, is painful for me to relate, and would give you
no pleasure to read. In short, the support & protection that I have been
under the absolute necessity of giving to Lord Dunmore 8c his floating
Town, consisting of a Fleet of upwards of 90 Sail, destitute of allmost every
material to Navigate them, as well as seamen, has given full employment
for three Ships, for these three month past, to prevent them from falling
into the hands of the Enemy; and had we to deal with People the least
enterprizing, we should not have been able to have done it so long. How-
ever this inconvenience is now nearly at an end, as I am sending all that
is able 8c in a condition to go to Sea to St Augustine, after having destroyd
LjmL'wTn
\ dfrTb'cm/yL
Chesapeake Bay .
68
AMERICAN THEATRE
about twenty sail, and put the people that inhabited them into other Ves-
sels. We shall then be much more at liberty to act offensively against the
Enemy than we hitherto have been, which if we had a sufficient force to
do might be done to great advantage, as on Account of the Navigable
Rivers of this Country, there is no part of the continent where ships can
assist land operations more than in this. But unfortunately my Lord
Dunmores Troops have been so few in number, such a motley set, and
so full of disease, that it has been totally impossible to do or attempt any
thing of consequence; and our whole exploits have amounted to nothing
more than burning & destroying Houses on the Banks of the Rivers, and
taking the Cattle off the Farms; which decides nothing. Whenever a Thou-
sand Men can be spared, properly equipt, for the service of this Colony,
with eight or 10 sail of small Ships to act with them, they may distress the
Colonys of Maryland & Virginia to the greatest degree, and employ more
than ten times their numbers to watch them.
I say nothing to you about what is going on at head Quarters, as from
a want of small Vessels for Packets, our communication and correspond-
ence with each other is less frequent than you can possibly imagine. I
hope that defect will be supplied us from home, as we cannot here get
proper Vessels, and if we could, we should want both Guns & Men for
them; and without them we shall never be able to stop the kind of Trade
the Rebels mean to carry on during the Winter, which is to be done in
fast sailing Pilot Boats, and caried on from the small inlets on the Coast,
where our Ships will not be able to get near them; and to confess the
truth, I am clearly of opinion that unless we can withhold the foreign
supplys from getting into the Country, this is likely to be a very tedious
war. The Troops in these two Colonys have scarcely a second shirt, and
their Coats are allready in Rags, so that they will certainly feel great dis-
tress next winter. They however talk largely of resources within themselves,
but, upon my word, from the best authority I can get, the fact is much
other ways.
I have the pleasure to tell you that since the Congress have declared
themselves independant states, there is a spirit of loyalty broke out in
the lower Counties of the Delaware and on the Eastern Shore of Maryland,
which properly managed & cultivated may turn to a very good account.
It seems they have long had divisions among them on religious accounts,
and the Churchmen are clearly of opinion that it is the Presbyterians that
have brought about this revolt, and aim at getting the government of
America into their hands, which they (the Churchmen) are rather de-
termined to die than submit to. These Friends are numerous, and inhabit
a Country that forms a Peninsula, by the Chesepeak Bay on one side
and the R. Delaware on the other, which from water to water is only about
twelve miles. Whenever an Attack is made upon Philadelphia, which I
hope will not long be delayed, these People declare they will assist; and
want only arms & ammunition (which the other party have by degrees got
from them) to do it by themselves.
AUGUST 1776
69
In the beginning of the Year I sent to Admiral Shuldham to ask for
such a force to be sent to me, that would authorize me to make an at-
tempt to clear the passage of the Delaware and an attack upon the Town,
which at that time was very defenceless. By unfortunate and unavoidable
delays, it was the end of April before I received his answer. He agreed with
me, he sayed, in every article of my request, but from the distress of the
Army, which had obliged them to evacuate Boston, no troops could be
sent to assist me, nor was there a cohorn or Howitzer in store. Upon this,
I gave up all thoughts, as you may conclude, of attacking so formidable
a pass; but being desirous of reconnoitring the River, and seeing a little
what the thing was, to enable me the better to proceed when a force
should arrive, I took the Liverpool with me and sailed up the River within
a few miles of their Chevaux de frizes, as they call them, which are im-
mense frames of thick wood, sunk with Ballast in a narrow part of the
River, defended by batterys on each side, and a floating one in the middle;
together with 13 Row Galleys, each carrying one Gun, from a thirty two
pounder, to an eighteen pounder, and from Seventy to fifty Men.
As soon as the Enemy perceived that we had stoped, and were busyly
employed in filling out empty water Casks, they sent all the armd craft
down to attack us, and brought with them a Vessel fitted as a fire ship for
the purpose of destroying us. We met them under sail (as the Tide ran too
rapid to ride with a spring upon the Cable) and lay under the disadvantage
of being obliged to engage them at the distance they chose to fix on, which
was scarcely within point blank shot: and being such low objects on the
water, it was with some difficulty that we could strike them; so that we
fired upon them near two hours before they thought proper to retire
8c row off.
unfortunately at this juncture the Roebuck grounded and being high-
water, could not be got off ’till 4 the next morning, but as it was soft
mud, the ship did not receive the least damage.
It was then so thick a fogg, that nothing could be discerned ’till about
8 o’Clock, when it clear’d up, and we perceived the Galleys at Anchor
about 3 Miles above us. The wind had changed and now blew up the
River, and we pursued them imediately with all our sails; and they as
industriously avoided us by plying their oars 8c sails. This Chace lasted
only about two hours, when it fell so little wind, that we were not able
to stem the tide of ebb, and not having six inches water more than the
Ship drew in the best of the Channel (which was not above a quarter of
a Mile wide, though the River from bank to bank was about a Mile 8c half)
I was under the necessity of Anchoring.
The Galleys rowed to a point of land on the western shore 8c
anchored also.
When I found there was no prospect of bringing them to a close en-
gagement, but that they meant to retire as I advanced, and not having
a force sufficient with me to make an attack upon the chevaux de Frize,
I found it would answer no good purpose to go further up the River,
70
AMERICAN THEATRE
which every mile made more intricate; but it was best to try if we could
draw the Galleys down to a wider part of the River, where we should be
in less danger of getting aground, when we could run near them and
have a better chance for destroying them. Accordingly when the ebb tide
made, about 5 in the afternoon, we got under way and turned down the
River with an easy sail; The Galleys with their former attendants, en-
creased by several large Launches, with each a Cannon in their Bow,
imediately followed us, and kept up a smart fire, but cautiously remained
at their usual distance. This gave me great hopes, I should be able to draw
them into a wider part of the River, but about 10 at Night they thought
proper to stop near New Castle, when I found I could not get them
any further I anchored also for the Night, intending to pursue them again
at day light, which when I attempted to do, they run again up the River;
at least those that we saw did, which was only 1 1 sail ; the rest I conclude
were disabled: but have never to this hour been able to get an exact ac-
count of what they suffered.
after waiting in their Neighbourhood three days, finding there was
no prospect of getting them down, and having fully executed all I had in
View in going up the River, and entirely repaired the very little damage
they did us, I came down the River, and finding letters from the Admiral
acquainting me that Sir Peter Parker was gone to Attack Charles Town: I
imediately intended sailing to join him thinking the Roebuck could be of
more use there than to remain cruizing off the Delaware. However in this I
was dissapointed for when I came of [f] the Capes of Virginia, I received
such an Account of Lord Dunmore’s situation, as obliged me to look in
upon him, wher[e] I found I had just arrived in Time to save him out
of the hands of the Rebels.
Before this letter reaches you I conclude you will have heard of the
ill success of the unfortunate expedition; on which I shall make no com-
ments, but least you may have heard the story imperfectly send you the
General’s letter. These little miscarriages I trust will have a good effect
in the end. Englishmen allways ralley when things are at the worst, and
I have not the least doubt but our Affairs at the end of the Campaign
will wear a better aspect than they do at present. One thing I must own
astonishes me, which is the astonishing delay the Troops have made in
getting out here. They arrive now in the very worst season. The Heat of
these two months is more than an Inhabitant of the northern parts of the
World can endure, and an Army acting here should go into Summer Quar-
ters, as well as winter ones.
The letter you did me the honor to write to me in January, came to
me about two months ago, and made me extreamly happy; as I ever shall
be to hear of your health & wellfare, events that I can never be indifferent
about, while I have breath to draw.
The Vessel that carry this is now getting under sail therefore am
under the necessity of concluding it. Pray give my kindest love to Mr
Sloane & his family Pon Brewer & all Friends.
AUGUST 1776
71
I allways am my Dr Sr with the sincerest attachment [&rc.]
A. S. Hamond
1. Hamond Papers, UVL. Stanley was governor of the Isle of Wight.
Journal of the Virginia Council of Safety 1
[Williamsburg] Monday August 5th 1776.
Resolved That Captain William Mitchell with the Quota of the Com-
pany of Marines under his Command, repair on Board the Cruiser Brig
Liberty Captain [Thomas] Lilly, to perform Duty; and that a Commission
be granted him, to continue in force during the time of his present Cruise
and no longer. Captain Mitchell was sworn Commission issued and de-
livered.
Ordered that the Keeper of the Magazine deliver Captain William
Mitchell for use of his Company of Marines fifty-four Bayonet Belts and
a hundred weight of Lead.
1. Mcllwaine, ed.. Journals of the Virginia Council , I, 108.
Virginia Navy Board to John Herbert, Portsmouth 1
[Williamsburg, August 5, 1776] 2
Sir The Commissioners having determind to build the two Gallies up
the Southern branch of Elizabeth River, would be very glad to agree with
you, to undertake the building them altogether by the Ton, You’ll there-
fore please to come up or send your Son to agree on terms by Monday
sen’night I am [&c.]
Thos Whiting 1st Comr
1. Navy Board Letter Book, VSL.
2. Date is approximated. Entry appears in letter book between an August 2 letter from
John Hutchings, 1st Commissioner, pro tern., and one from Thomas Whiting, 1st Com-
missioner, August 13. However, the Navy Board adjourned from August 7 to August 12,
1776, so the letter probably was written on Monday, August 5, the day that Whiting
resumed his position as 1st Commissioner.
Journal of H. M. S. Fowey, Captain George Montagu 1
August 1776
Thursday 1
Friday 2
Saturday 3
Sunday 4
At Single Anchor [in Potomac River]
A M fired a Gun and made the signal for Sailing Smith’s
Point SEbS 3 or 4 Leagues
Modt with some rain -
at 5 A M made the signal for Sailing at 6 Weighed and
lay too with the Maintopsail to the Mast for the Fleet to
get Underweigh.
Fresh Gales and Clear at Vi past 6PM made the signal
and came too with the Bt Br in 6 fm
i/2 past 5AM Made the signal and Weigh’d - Fleet in
Compy-at 10 fired Two Shot [at] a Sloop which proved
to be a Sloop Driven on the Eastern Shore last Night
Modt and fine Wear at 9 A M the Roebuck made the
72
AMERICAN THEATRE
Signal for Anchoring - Do repeated it i/2 Past came to°
with Bt Br in 7 fm Veerd to lA of a Cable.
Cape Henry HEL2E Smiths Island NEbN off Shore
about 5 Miles —
Do Wear P M Sailed hence his Majesty’s Sloop Otter with
part of the Fleet
Monday 5 A. M. Washed and cleaned between Decks.
Light breezes and fine Wear at 4 P M. fired a Gun and
made the signal for Sailing - Weighed and Came to Sail
with part of the Fleet in Company, at 10 Anchored Cape
Henry West distance 4 Miles 2
1. PRO, Admiralty 51/375.
2. Ibid., the Fowey parted with a portion of Lord Dunmore’s fleet on August 7, cruised off
the Virginia Capes for two or three weeks, and arrived at Sandy Hook on September 7.
Journal of the North Carolina Council of Safety 1
[Halifax] Monday August 5th 1776.
Resolved That John Webb of Halifax be permitted to Export to
any of the French or Dutch Islands in the Sloop King Fisher James Ducaine
Master eighteen thousand Hogshead Staves he having entered into Bond
and Security in the sum of two thousand pounds to import into this prov-
ince the Net proceeds of the Staves abovementioned in Salt Arms, Am-
muntion and other Warlike Stores
1. Secretary of State Papers (Provincial Conventions and Congresses/ Councils 1774-1776), NCDAH.
Stephen Egan to Governor Patrick Tonyn 1
(Copy) [St. Mary’s River] Monday 5th August 1776
Sir, An express is just arrived from Mr [John] Martin with an account
that a Schooner with 40 men a large flat and another Vessel force not
known are now on their way to take [Lieutenant William] Grant plunder
this place and do what mischief they can, the whole number of men be-
tween 240 and 300.2 I have sent intelligence to Captain Graham, Mr Grant
thinks proper to go off directly when tide turns and abandon us and leave
your Sloop a prize. I think with our force here we may give a good account
of them, but he will not risque the King’s Vessel and so many brave fellows.
Martin is taken but found means to send off Anderson, who says if no
accident happens they must be here next Ebb, which will be this Evening,
this instant Grant sends me word he’ll wait off the Barr - 1 am your
Excellency’s [&c.]
(Sign’d) Stephn Egan -
[Endorsed] Copy Mr Egans letter to Governor Tonyn No 1. in Govr
Tonyn’s No 20 of 15th August 1776
1. PRO, Colonial Office, 5/556, 707, 710.
2. Ibid., 719.
AUGUST 1776
73
Journal of H.M. Schooner St. John, Lieutenant William Grant 1
Augt 1776 Anchor’d in St Mary’s River
Monday 5 at 7 (A M) unmoored weighed Sc Came to sail Sc turned down
towards the No point of Amelia Island 8c came to Anchor
upon receiving information that 3 Armed Vessels from Sun-
bury were on there passage here with an intent to destroy
the King’s Schooner Sc take Wrights 8c Egans Negroes off
Amelia Island, they are said to be on their passage 1 Flat
with one 4 Pdr Sc 8 Swivels 1 Schooner They did or
would not tell her force No of men said to be in the Vessels
are 220 sent an Express to Capt Graham of this bad news,
Cleared Ship for Action and put all the Arms in readiness
Modt Sc clear weather at 2 P: M: Weighed Sc Came to sail,
plied round Amelia No Point in Co with a Brigg at 3
Anchor’d with the Bt Br in 4 fath: water Veered to 1/9
Cable Amelia Island No Point W:N:W: 2 miles St Mary’s
Bar E by S 5 Miles Off Amelia shore y4 of a Mile at 8 sent
the Boat Manned 8c Armed ahead to lie Guard 8c make Signls
in Case the Rebell Fleet should come, sailed hence the Brigg
for the West Indies. Exercised the People at small Arms and
kept them under Arms all night
1. PRO, Admiralty 51/4330.
Governor Patrick Tonyn to the Commanding Officer of the
British Ships in Savannah River 1
(Copy)
Sir, An expedition against this Province being preparing, by all accounts
in Carolina and Georgia, a part of the operations is to be carried on by the
inland Navigation.
Cockspur situation will not prevent a communication between
Savannah and South Carolina, from whence several Vessels have lately
passed laden with Indigo, and have been shipped on Board a fast sailing
Vessel at Savannah, which has proceeded down a Creek called the St Augus-
tine passage. A Vessel lately which had eight thousand pounds sterling of
Indigo on Board made this passage, and is gone to the foreign Islands;
since the middle of June three Vessels with Rice have done the same, and
are gone to a foreign Market.
This has induced me to send you the inclosed sketch, which will shew
the Situation, the Rebels take the opportunity of a dark night to make
the passage. -
For the enterprize intended against this Province Row Boats to carry
Cannon in the Bow an eighteen pounder, four of these Boats I know are
building at Beaufort, two at Savannah, and several in other parts. A pri-
vateer is fitting out at Sunbury, and other armed Vessels are equipping in
the different Creeks in Georgia. -
74
AMERICAN THEATRE
Six Vessels are clayly expected to slip into some of the Ports on the
Coast of Georgia from the Islands, they have supplies for the Rebels.
Mr Thomas Yonng a Gentleman of large Property in Georgia, was
strongly recommended to me as a loyal Subject, he obtained two or three
protections from me for his Vessel to supply His Majestys Islands with
Provisions, under the sanction of his recommendation, and loyalty to His
Majesty. I hear since he has also procured protections from the Rebel
Congress for his Vessels, and his motives are to supply the Rebels. I hope
you will let this circumstance be known to all His Majestys Ships under
your Command, that proper search may be made in any Vessel belonging
to Mr Thomas Young that comes in their way. -
The Pensacola and Jamaica Packet is arrived here, Lieut: Clark
[Arthur Clarke] who commands her informs me that some Rebel Cruisers
have been in the Keys to the Southward of this Province, this should be
made known to any of the King’s Ships that may be passing in those parts.
If we can here be of any use to any of the Ships at Cockspur you have
only to command it, I shall be happy to render you all the Service in my
power. -
Sir Peter Parker having added to the station at Cockspur the Active
and Sphynx, I hope you will be enabled to have some Success against these
frequenters of the Georgia Coast, and extend your Cruising to this Prov-
ince, particularly to St Mary’s River — Wishing you all success— I am Sir
[&c.]
(Sign’d) Pat. Tonyn-
St Augustine 5th August 1776 —
[Endorsed] Copy — Governor Tonyn’s letter to the Commanding Officer
of His Majesty’s Ships Savannah River — No 2 — In Govr Tonyn’s (No 3
private) of 26 Aug — 1776.
1. PRO, Colonial Office, 5/556, 755-58.
Vice Admiral Clark Gayton to Philip Stephens 1
Sir Antelope Jamaica August 5th 1776
I beg leave to acquaint their Lordships that Elis Majestys Ship Pallas
was to have Sail’d the 26th of last Month with near a hundred Sail of the
Trade had not an intend’d general Insurrection of the Negroes been dis-
covered, which oblig’d the Governor with the advice of his Council to
lay a general Embargo on the Shipping, to establish Martial Law, & to re-
quest me, to keep the Ships under my Command in Port for the safety &
protection of the Island which I comply’d with.
On the 3d instant he inform’d me that as the Season of the Year was
so far advanc’d; it might be attend’d with great loss to the Trade detaining
them any longer should a Hurricane happen; and that as the Measures
which had been taken prov’d so effectual in suppressing this Rebellion
(which I apprehend was to have been General throughout the Island) he
had with the advice of his Council taken off the Embargo, but stil thought
it necessary to continue Martial Law for some time longer, and requesting
AUGUST 1776
75
that the Atalanta 8c Racehorse ; might not be recall’d from the North Side
of the Island, where I had instantly dispatch’d them on the first account
of this Rebellion and given their Commanders directions to give every
Assistance in their Power to quell the same.
I have therefore order’d Captain [William] Cornwallis to Sail the 6th
inst for Bluefields, to remain their Forty eight Hours to give the Trade
time to compleat their Water after being detain’d so long and then to
proceed with them into the English Channel agreeable to my former
orders. I have order’d the Maidstone to go with him but have desir’d that
as soon as ever he judges the Convoy to be in Safety to make her Signal
to seperate and have order’d Captain [Alan] Gardner to return with all
possible dispatch 8c join me here as the Governor 8c Council have request’d
me to keep the Ships in Port as much as possible for the safety and protec-
tion of the Island, as they are still apprehensive of the Negroes taking the
Advantage of their absence to rise.
As the West Florida Sloop is ready to Sail, and I judge it of great con-
cequence her getting on her Station in the Lakes of the Mississippi I have
order’d Captain Cornwallis to take her under his Command as she might
be of Service in going through the Gulph with the Convoy and then to
make her Signal to Seperate to go to Pensacola, all which I hope will meet
with their Lordships approbation.
I beg leave to acquaint them that His Majestys Ship Antelope arriv’d
the 27th of last Month after having seen the Trade in Safety, she brought
in two American Sloops, one with Rice the other with Lumber which is
a great acquisition to the Island those Articles being much want’d.2
I further beg leave to acquaint their Lordships that I have given
Mr Thomas Lloyd a Commission appointing him Master 8c Commander
of the Atalanta (in the room of Captain Underwood Deceased) and have
order’d him to be Borne as a Supernumerary on board the Antelope ’til
her arrival I have likewise given Mr Thomas Cadogan the Second Lieutt
a Commission for First and have appoint’d Mr Chas Holmes Everitt,
Second, and Mr James Cotes to be Lieutenant of the Porcupine Schooner,
and Inclosed is a list of Officers Made, with the State 8c Condition of His
Majestys Ships 8c Vessels under my Command for their Lordships infor-
mation.
In the latter part of my Letter of the 2d July, I inform’d their Lord-
ships of my having purchas’d a fine Brigg of near 130 Tons Burthen, 8c
that she 8c the Racehorse were capable of bearing Masters 8c Commanders,
with proper Officers 8c Eighty Men, submitting it to their Consideration
puting them on that Establishment, which I beg leave to say I think would
be great use; as the Americans have a Number of Arm’d Vessels superior
to those, with their present Complements. I am, with respect Sir [8cc.]
Clark Cayton
1. PRO, Admiralty 1/240.
2. Sloops Hope, George Cuzens, master, with rice, and Flying Fish , Littlefield, master, with
lumber; both from North Carolina. Gay ton’s Prize List, February 26, 1778, ibid.
76
AMERICAN THEATRE
Captain William Cornwallis, R. N., to Philip Stephens 1
Pallas, Port Royal, Jamaica
5th August 1776.
When I was at Cape Coast I received information that there was an
American Bri^ in the River Gabon with Arms and Ammunition on board;
I fell in with Captain Warren in His Majesty’s Sloop Weasel at Accra and
detached him to the said River, and as I imagined a small Vessel would
be necessary to examine the River, I ordered Lt Bray of his Majestys Ship
under my Command on board a Prize of the Atalanta s to accompany Capt
Warren. Lieut Bray has since joined the Pallas and acquainted me they
had seized the Brig and carried her to Antigua I am Sir [8cc.]
W: Cornwallis
1. PRO, Admiralty 1/1611/3/7, LC Transcript.
William Bingham to Silas Deane 1
[Extract] St. Pierre August 5th 1776
Sir The Committee of Secret Correspondence having honor’d me with
the Appointment of their Agent in the West Indies to transact their Affairs,
both in the commercial 8c political Line, have instructed me to inform
you of it, 8c to cooperate with you in giving them constant Intelligence
& Advice concerning every Matter that may be connected with the Interest
or improved to the Advantage of the ETnited Colonies. And as frequent
opportunities present from this Place to the different Ports in France as
well as America, they are very desirous that we should maintain a regular,
frequent 8c well serv’d Correspondence, in order that both they 8c you may
be duly 8c reciprocally informed of every interesting Event that may be
passing on either side of the Water, for which Purpose I shall endeavor
to obtain a correct 8c extensive Knowledge of the Affairs of my Department.
I shall examine 8c inform myself of everything I see or hear that is relative
to the Situation or Interest of America, 8c shall transmit you by every
opportunity the Result of my Enquiries 8c Observations.
The Committee desire that “You will address your Current Despatches
to me under Cover to the General, but when you have any particular Mat-
ters to communicate, either to Congress, themselves, or me, that you think
should not be risqued thro that Channel for fear of Inspection, that you
would procure a Mercht in France to put such Despatches directly for me
under Cover to a Mercht in Martinico, with an express Injunction to de-
liver them into my own Hands. But as soon as I had made Acquaintance
with an established Merchant of good Reputation in Martinico, that I had
best name him to you, that you may so address your Despatches without
the Intervention of a Merchant in France” You will therefore plan to direct
them to Monsr P Begorrat Negotiant au St Pierre, Martinique, pour remet-
tre a Monsr Bingham de Philadelphie. . . .
From the Reception I have met with from the General, I have the
greatest Reason to believe that France is very favorably disposed towards
America. He has informed me that by a Frigate which had just arrived,
AUGUST 1776
77
he had received some Dispatches of a very important Nature from his
Court. That his Orders were to favor the Americans throughout all their
Ports 8c protect their Commerce at Sea, whenever 8c wherever they should
find an opportunity.
The Continental Sloop of War the Reprisal of 16 Guns, 8c one of the
Ministerial Fleet the Shark of the same Weight of Metal, but better man’d,
have lately had an Engagement opposite the Port of St Pierre. I was a
Spectator of the whole of it from on shore.2 And to the honor of America,
the Reprisal damaged the Shark so much, that She was forced to sheer off
in order to refit, when the Fort fired upon her 8c put an End to the Engage-
ment. Never did I feel the Sensation of Joy in a more lively Degree, than
upon viewing the different Treatment which the two Commanders met
with from the Inhabitants of St Pierre; Capt [Lambert] Wickes was com-
plimented 8c caressed beyond measure, whereas Capt [John] Chapman was
under the necessity of procuring a Guard of Six Men to protect him from
the Insults of the Mob . . .
Since writing the above his Excellency has done me the Favor to show
me a Letter he has just received from Admiral Young sent express by the
Pomona Sloop of War. He therein demands in the Name of the King his
Master, that these American Pirates (as he stiles the Reprisal 8c her Crew,)
that have taken Refuge in the Harbor of Fort Royal, may be delivered
to him, in order that they may be brought to Tryal 8c proceeded against
accordingly; 8c calls the Protection given them a gross Insult offered to
the British Flag 8c with his Excellencys Acquiescence, he mentions that
he shall dispatch a Ship of War immediately to London, with his Excel-
lencys Answer, which is as spirited & animated as we could wish or the
occasion require; Prudential Reasons woidd not admit of his saying more,
but he refuses his request in a categorical decisive Stile.
1. "The Deane Papers,” Collections of the Connecticut Historical Society, XXIII, 31-32, 33-34.
2. Bingham came as a passenger in the Reprisal from Philadelphia. He must have been
landed, probably at Pointe du Precheur, before the engagement.
6 Aug.
Isaac Smith to John Adams 1
[Extract] Salem August 6th 1776
Yours of the 17th Ulto I have reed As to the Massachusets raising
more Men — would say the sea ports are draind very much by those going
a privateering 8cc. and the late success of One belonging here (Capt White)
who with Another has taken four ships 8cc. two are in att the Eastward.
One between 4 8c 500 hhd laid Barbadoes Sugars the Others from Antigua
his success, now with two Other prizes sent in before,2 which makes every
body this way going upon the business there is now four or 5 fiting Out.
One sails to day — We have had Our Coast pretty clear for sometime till
lately, 8c A ship or two are att the Eastward, 8c have taken A Number of
Coasters [illegible] fishermen 8cc Amongst which I have One, by which
shall suffer £300 Ste[rg] — 8c last week a ship off Cape Codd took a brig
78
AMERICAN THEATRE
with flour from Phila-We have & are still paying for a Vessell to gaurd
the Eastward Coast: but has been lying in harbour the chief of his time
8c doing no service, (Obrian!) 3
I am Anciou[s]ly concernd as to the event of Our Affairs att [New]
York as there must happen some, grand event soon may itt please God
to disappaint Our enemies in all there scheams 8c bless all Undertakeings
for Our defence 8c priveledge’s — I have he[a]rd to day As though a Num-
ber of Vessel Is were culecd from Cannecticut, which I think would be of
great importance, properly managd to stop or set fire to the fleet when
they may come to Attack the Town — I suppose the first division of the
Hessians are Arr[ive]d before now att [New] York, after which there will
be a movement —
1 Adams Papers, MassHS. Materials drawn from the Adams Papers in the Massachusetts His-
torical Society are copyrighted and are printed by special permission of the Society.
2. Captain Joseph White in the Massachusetts privateer sloop Revenge. See The Freeman’s
Journal, August 3, 1776 for description of prizes.
3. Captain Jeremiah O’Brien of the Massachusetts state schooner Machias Liberty.
Journal of the Massachusetts Council 1
[Watertown] Tuesday - August 6th 1776 —
Ordered - that the Comissary General be and he hereby is directed to
deliver out of the Colony Stores to John Lambert Commander of the
Schooner Diligent or to his Order five Barrels Pork, One Barrel Rum 8c
half Barrel Molasses —
Ordered - that the Comissary be and he hereby is directed to deliver out
of the Colony Stores unto Capt John Clouston, Commander of the Sloop
Freedom, or to his Order the following Articles takeing proper Receipts
for the same Vizt -
half Ton Powder, One Iron Hearth 8c Copper, One Drum 8c fife, Six Bolts
Sail Duck for the light Sails, two Boxes Candles, half Barrel Lamp Oil,
One hundred 8c twenty Gallons Rum —
The Memorial of John Stickney In behalf of Himself
Thomas Jones 8c Joseph Marquand all of Newbury Port in the State afore-
said in behalf of Himself & the Above said Owners of the Schooner Call’d
the Washington, Humbly Sheweth that your Memorialist, have fitted out
the said Schooner Washington. Burthen fifty Tons, mountg Six three
Pounders, Ten Swivels 8c two Cohorns, Nathl Odiorne Commander. Thos
Clough first Leut John English Second Leut - with Thirty five Men, with
Twenty Barrels of Beef 8c Pork, Twenty hundred Bread, Two hundred wt
Powder with Ball Answerable thereto, Your Memorialist Pray your
Honors would Commissionate said Schooner Washington, for a Private
Vessel of Warr, 8c Whereas your Memorialist Cannot procure a Sufficient
Quantity of Gun Powder Prays your Honors would spare so much out of
the Colony Store, for the use Aforesd he paying a Proper Consideration
therefor, and your Memorialist as in Duty bound shall every pray 8cc 8cc -
John Stickney -
Read 8c Ordered that Nathaniel Odiorne be Comissionated as Comander
AUGUST 1776
79
of the Schooner Washington, he giving Bond and Complying with the
Orders of Congress as Also the Comissary General be directed to deliver
Mr John Stickney two Hundred weight of Gun powder he paying for the
same -
Bonds being given by John Stickney Sc Nathl Odiorne a Comission was
Issued out to the said Odiorne as Commander of the Schooner Washington
fitted out by them to make Captures of Our Enemies Vessels, and Instruc-
tions were delivered Him —
1. Mass. Arch., vol. 19, 147, 148, 149, 150.
Journal of the Rhode Island Sloop Independence,
Captain Jabez Whipple 1
Remarks on tusday Angst th 6 1776
At 6 AM. Bunets on the forsail Refs out Mad Sail Got out flying
Jibb Boom sot Jibb @11 AM Saw two sail Gave chase provd
to be A man of war and tender hove a Bout Gave Chase to us
Lattd In 36 Longd in - 62 - 13
Saw the two formentioned Vesels In Chase of us heavy sea we
Draw from the ship but the Sloop Gains upon us all hands to
Qarters @ 6 PM the Sloop Gave over Chase Bore Away toward
the ship @ 7 Lost sight of them we sot sqr Sail to ward Estward
1. Independence Journal, RIHS.
Journal of Lieutenant John Trevett 1
[June 22 to August 6]
We carried w[ith] us one of the bills, which the Hon. President received
with pleasurfe] 2 We tarried one day longer than we needed, on the
account of seeing Independance declared, which was on the 4th day of
July 1776. 3 The next day we set out for New York, on our way for Rhode
Island When we arrived at Newport, we went immediately on board the
privateer which was lying in the harbour of New Port, we brought dis-
patches for Capt. [Nicholas] Biddle, whom we had the pleasure of finding
on board, we found they had made a short cruise since we were taken,
and had captured one Jamaica Ship, but being chased hard by a British
Frigate, they ran her on shore at Fisher’s Island reef, and lost the Ship,
and all her sugars, but saved 100 puncheons of rum, sails Sc stores, which
were sent to Mr. Nathaniel Shaw of New London, who was appointed
Agent, and Capt. Biddle gave me my share of prize money, which I re-
ceived from Mr. Shaw, so ends this Cruise.
1. Trevett’s Journal, NHS.
2. Trevett and the prize crew from the recaptured transport Oxford had arrived at Williams-
burg on June 21. Trevett recorded: “I drew a bill on the Hon. John Hancock, then
President for the cash we received from the State of Virginia,” ibid.
3. The Declaration of Independence was not publicly announced in Philadelphia, until July
6, 1776, when it was read by Thomas Mifflin in the square before the state house.
Trevett’s departure from Philadelphia was probably on July 12, 1776, as Charles Bid-
dle, writing to his brother Nicholas on July 11, stated: “some of your Men are here Wait-
ing for you,” Nicholas Biddle Papers, HSP.
80
AMERICAN THEATRE
Nathaniel Shaw, Jr.’s Account Against the Connecticut Privateer
Sloop American Revenue 1
1776
Sloop American Revenue
Wm. Packwood Commdr
Dr
August
6
To the Hull Guns 8cc.
£2700.
To 20 Tons Piag Iron £193.13.
. 6Vi
To freight ditto from Nor[wi]ch
5.
. —
To Scow hire for Shingle Ball[as]t
6.
. —
193. .19. .6
To pd. Robinson Mum ford for a
Boat,
Sails
& Oars
20. .-
To 5 Long Oars Containing] 125
feet, @ 6
3. .2. .6
To 8 Short ditto 120
feet (a) 4d
2. .-. .-
To 2 Barrells Tarr
2. .8. .-
To 1 Barrell Pitch
1.10. .-
To Use Kettles 8c Stage Scow 8cca
1.10. .-
To 3 Barrells Tallow wt 610 lb a 8d
20. .6. .8
To 30 lb White Lead
@ i/
1.10. .-
To 4 Barrells Lampblack
2/6
10. .-
To 3 Gallons Oyl
8/
1. .4. .-
To 2 Tallow Brushes
@1/6
3. .-
To 40 lb Oakam
3d
10. .-
To 20 lb Spikes
i/
1 • • 1 • • '
To 29 lb Nails
i/
1 . .9.
To 200 feet plank pine
2d
1.13. .4
To 600 feet pine Boards
8/4
2.10. .-
To pine Sparrs for Stantials
1. .4. .-
To ditto to line the ports
12. .-
To ditto for the Comboose
18. .-
To platform for ditto
1.18..-
To Brick, Lime 8c Mason
1.17. .-
To Iron Comboose from Brigt. Boulton
O K.
To 1 Copper Funnell for do
>
• . • •
To 1 Green Hide
8. .-
To 2 sides Leather
1.15. .-
To 1 ditto
1. .4. .-
To 2 lb Twine
@ 3/
6. . -
To 4 Sceans Marline
i/
4. .-
To 10 lb Cordage
110/
53. .-. .-
To Single 8c double Blocks Strapt with
3 i ft
Hoops 8c thimble
J
To Nath Hemsteds Bili for 120 lb Cordage
5. .-. .-
To Alexr Merrills Bill
8. .2. .3
To James Telleys ditto
10.16. .7
To pd Sami Coit for 5% days work
5/
1.14. .6
AUGUST 1776
81
To pd Jno Turner for 11 days do
6/
3. .6. .-
To pd James Darrow 4 do
6/
1. .4.
To pd Peter Darrow IO1/2 do
6/
3 . . 3 . . —
To pd Peter Darrow Junr. 8L2 do
3/
1. .5. .6
Amo Carrd Forwd
£3084.. I.IOU2
To Amo Brot Forwd
£3084. . 1 . 1 0 i/od
To Thomas Holt 4 days w[ork]
1. .4.
To Victualg people 43 s/4 days
1/
2. .3. .9
To pd Jona Setchell for 7 days work
5/
1.15. .-
To pd Wm Boulton 10 ditto
3/
1.10. .-
To pd Davd Robinson 5 ditto
3/6
17. .6
To pd Daniel Brown 8 do
3/
1. .4. .-
To pd Wm. Powers for 21 do
4/
4. .4. .-
To pd Thomas Williams 8 do
3/
1. .4. .-
To pd Josh Champlin (pd by packw[oo]d)
0. .0. .0
To pd Wm. Potter for 5i/2 do
4/
1. .2. .-
To pd Soldiers for Work
6 . . 5 . .4
To pd 3 hands from Stonington
9. .-
To pd Jona Leeds Bill
3 . . 6 . .—
To pd Mrs. Waterman Boardg bill
2. .0. .8
To 30 Galls Rum fitt[in]g Out
5/
7.10. .-
To pd Ichabod Powers Bill
4. .7. .7
To pd Jno Owens ditto
10. .2. .9
To pd Boardg a Sea Men
6 . .—
To pd Phineas Stantons do
3.13. .6
To pd Walter Dunns Bill
1.13. .-
To Wm Leeds Bill
21.16. .6
To pd Doctr Nemans Expences to Norwich
12. .-
To pd David Pool for 2 days Work
8. .-
To Benja Dyers Bill
3. .4. .8
To Doctor Lathrops ditto
32. .4. .-
To Chest Lock 8c Rags as p Leffingwells Bill
19. .5
To 16 barrells Beef
@ 60/
48. .-. .-
To 7 barrells ditto 60/ of Jno McCurdy
21. .-. .-
To 5 barrells Pork @ 90/
22.10.
To 6V2 barrells ditto 80/
26. .— . .-
To 12 barrells do from Jno M’Curdy 80/
48. .-.
To 4 barrells do. pr Braddick
16. .-
To 10c lq 191bs Bread
11.18. .9
To 19. 2. ditto
@ 21/
1
00
CO
CM
To 9..0..14 Flour
18/
8. .4. .3
To 2 Bushells Indian Meal
3/6
7. .-
To 7 Bushells Corn
3/6
1. .4. .6
To p Freigt. provisions from Lime & Norwich
4. .3. .6
AMERICAN THEATRE
To 16 Cheeses wt
1 barr Beans
p[ar]t Cask Rice
>■
OO
O
a few Rags &
other Medicines
Amo Carrd Over
£3420.18. .214
To Amo Brot Over
£3420.18. .2i/4
To pd Springer freigt ditto
11. .-
To p Docter NewMan Bill fori
17 4 10
Shoates poltery potatoes 8ccJ
To 1 Firkin Butter wt 77 lb a lOd
3. .4. .2
To Vi bushell Salt
3. .-
To 50 lb Coffee
@ i/
2.10. .-
To Vi C Sugar
1.16. .-
To 30 Galls Rum
6/
9. .-.
To 2 Keggs Brandy
60/
6 . .-. .-
To p Sami Belden for a bbr Vinegar
1.10. .-
To p David Gardiner’s Bill for 1 bbl do
& 1 Lock
1.16. .-
To p Arche Robertson for Candles
2. .9.11
To 4 Load Wood
7/
1 . . 8 . . —
To p Wm Brookes for Fresh beef
1.18. .-
To p W for potatoes See
5. .2. .-
To Expresses to Lebanon 8cc
65/
To p Governr for Commissn
35/
V/ « • • •
To 1 Arm Chest
3 . . — . . —
To 1 Small ditto
15. .-
To 4 Small ditto for Cartriges
10. .-
To 11 P Pistolls
@ 25/
13.15. .-
To 19 Musketts
60/
57. .-. .-
To 20 Cartouch Boxes Belts Sec
5/
5 . .— . .-
To 17 Bayonets belts frogs 8cc
7/
5.19. .-
To 5 Boarding Hatchetts
5/
1 . . 5 . .-
To 13 Powder Horns fill’d 8c Priming Wires
3. .5. .-
To 54 lb Muskett Ball
6d
1. .7. .-
To 1 rheim Cartridge paper
3. .-. .-
To 6 Quire fine Paper
7. .6
To spare ram rods
1. .6
To Box Partrige Shott 8c Langurage
3 . .— . .—
To 250 Flints
11. .-
To 1054 lb Powder
5/4
1
F“ H
OO
CVJ
To pd the Armorer for
n
Q 1
Sundrys bot of Cobb
O . . /
To p ditto for files Sec
12. .5
To p ditto for Brush
1.
AUGUST 1776
83
1
7.
.6.
.6
To pd do for Gun Screws
To pd Doer Woolcot
for Sweet Oyl
To Lember Calkins Bill for 12 p
Hand Cuffs 8c Shackles
To Sami Latimers Bill for Broad Ax
Draw Knife 8c Hd Cuffs
Amo Carrd Forwd
To Amo Brot Forwd
To 300 three pound shott
To 5 Boxes Containing] 60 Canisters shot
2.15. . 6
7. . 4. .-
7 . . 3 . .3
<£ 3878 . . 3 . IO14
£3878 . . 3 . 10i/4
27. . -. .-
16. . -
To 15 Cartridge Boxes for three Pounders
1.10. .-
To 74 Iron Bound Water Casks
74. .0. .-
To 6 Water Hogsheads
@ 9/
2.14. .-
To 1 sounding Line
10
2. .-
To 1 Sounding Lead
10
1. .-. .-
To p W Saltonstall for Hooks 8c Palms
2. .8
To p ditto for 3 Brushes
2. .3
To p for Sail Needles
10. .6
To 2 Speakg Trumpets <£
1 . . — . . —
To 1 Spy Glass
3. .-. .-
To p for Collars
6. .-. .-
To p Pat. Angel for drum 8cc.
1.14. .2
To 3 Cod Lines 8c Leads
1. .-. .-
To 1 pr Steelyards
1. .-. .-
To 1 Grindstone 8c traught
1. .-. .-
To 12 lb Chalk
2. .-
14.16. .2
To Jno Ways Bill
6.12. .1
To pd Ichabd Youngs for Carpenters Tools
4. .5. .6
To p for Steel 1/ p Bellows 4/6
5. .6
To pd. Tormintors 8c Ladle
6 . . 6
To Hour Glasses
10. .-
To Compasses
1.17. .-
To 4 lb Twine
@ 2/6
10. .-
To Jno Wards Bill for Masthoops
11. .-
To Tin for the Oars
12. .6
To p Henry Jepson for Gimblets
2.11
To John Deshons Bill Wharfg |
9 7 6
storage 8c filling Water J
To Joshua Starrs Bill
4.12. .6
To 97 Yards Light duck
@ 3/6
16.19. .6
To 4 yards Canvas
5/
1 . .— . .-
To 15 Yards Ticklingburg
3/
2. .5. .-
To Richards Deshons Bill
5 . . 6 . .6
84
AMERICAN THEATRE
To 40 yards Old Canvas
for Hammocks 2/ 4.
To 29 Yards Ticklingburg @3 4. .7. .-
To Wm Packwoods Bill 15. .6. .4
To Josh Packwoods Bill 78.. 8..-
To advance Seamen as pr Bill 12. .4. .-
4187.17.9
To mistake in McCurdys port <£10 short 10.-.-
4197.17.9
5 Pet Comms £ 209. 17.. 9
4197.17. .9
£4407.15. .6
1. Nathaniel and Thomas Shaw Papers, Ledger 4, YUL. A rough draft, with omissions, and not
totalled, is in Ledger 9, ibid.
Colonel Thomas Thomas to George Washington 1
[Extract]
from the scituation of the Men of Warr and Tenders now opposite
this place in Hudson’s River think it my duty as Commanding officer
here to Inform your Excellency of the Advantageous scituation of the
Ground here for placing some Cannon to play upon the shipping whilst
Attacked by our Gallies; the Cannon may beplaced upon an Eminence
within near half a Mile of the shipping, and if your Excellency should
think the above plan Expedient, an Engineer might be Necessary to form
abreast work for three or four peices of Cannon which I beg your Ex-
cellency in that case will Order up with the Necessary Apparatus and
Intrenching Tools -I Conceive shall be able to collect a sufficient Num-
ber of men with those allready under my Command here to throw up
abreast work in a very short time in an Evening after planned by an
Engineer -
should your Excellency think this Advisable it may be Necessary to
Order the Commodore of the Gallies to postpone an Attack upon the
shipping untill a proper breast work is thrown up, in case his Orders
should oblige an Attack sooner — I dont pretend to dictate to your Ex-
cellency but only take the Liberty of stating the above for your Excellency’s
Consideration with which I would wish your Excellency’s Indulgence.
Tarry Town 6th Augt 1776
1. Washington Papers, LC.
Journal of Ambrose Serle 1
[On board H. M. S. Eagle]
Tuesday, 6th. August.
Nothing material occured this Day. In the Evening, it was intended to
send up the Solebay Frigate of 28 Guns to assist the other Ships above the
AUGUST 1776
85
Town; but the Wind falling, rendered the Design too dangerous to be
prosecuted.
1. Tatum, ed., Serle’s Journal, 56.
General Orders of Vice Admiral Richard Lord Howe 1
Memo/ [H. M. S. Eagle] August 6th. 1776
It has been thought necessary to appoint Mr. John Hunter, Master
of His Majesty’s Ship Eagle, to be Master Attendant at the Port or Anchor-
age where the Fleet shall be from time to time, assembled, for directing
the Pilotage of the Fleet, 8c Placeing the Ships in the most Convenient
Stations, according to the Orders he will receive from the Commander
in Chief for those Purposes —
This General notice of his appointment Sc authority in such Cases is
given.
It hath been further judged expedient to nominate the said Mr. John
Hunter to inspect 8c regulate in Conjunction with the Naval Store Keeper
afloat the demands 8c expences of the Naval Stores furnished for this
Fleet, suitable communication of the state of the Naval Stores is therefore
to be made to him occasionally, for enabling him to regulate the Expences
8c Supply’s thereof according to the Tenor of the 19th Article of the Stand-
ing Orders on these Heads —
1. Order Book of Captain William Cornwallis, R.N., NYHS.
Continental Marine Committee to Captain John Paul Jones 1
In Marine Committee Philada August 6th 1776
Sir. We have ordered the Provisions 8c Stores you requested, to be sent
onboard the Sloop Providence which you Command under Authority of
the United States of America so that the said Sloop being now ready
for Sea, You are to proceed immediately on a Cruize against our Enemies
8c we think in 8c about the Lattitude of Bermuda may prove the most
favourable ground for your purpose — 2
Herewith we deliver you an extract from the Journals of Congress
respecting the Navy Prizes Sec by which you will know with precision what
Vessels can be made Prizes 8c which not You have also herewith a list
of the Continental Agents in each State 8c to some of them your Prizes
must be addressed according to the Ports they arrive in — Your Cruize may
be for Six Weeks, two or three Months just as Provisions, Water 8c other
Circumstances point out to be best. If you gain any material Intelligence
You must put into the nearest part of the Continent 8c dispatch an Express
to us with the same
You must by all opportunitys transmit us an Account of your pro-
ceedings 8c of such Occurrences as you meet with, You are to be par-
ticularly attentive to protect, Aid 8c assist all Vessells Sc property belonging
to these States or the Subjects thereof. It is equally your duty to Seize,
take, Sink; Burn or destroy that of our Enemys. Be carefull of the Sloop her
86
AMERICAN THEATRE
Stores and Materials, use your People well thereby Recommending the
American Naval service to all who engage in it, and we also Recommend
Humane kind Treatment of your Prisoners
These things duly observed will recommend You to the attention
& regard of this Committee We are Sir [&c.]
Fras Hopkinson John Hancock Geo Walton.
Wm Whipple Rob1 Morris Arthur Middleton
Joseph Hewes Fras Lewis
Geo: Read
1. Papers CC (Letters of John Hancock, and Miscellaneous Papers) , 58, 161-62, NA.
2. “It was proposed to Send me from Philadelphia by Land to take Command of the Hampden
in Connecticut, but I rather preferred to continue in the Providence, the Hampden
being a far inferiour Vessel to the discription that had been given of her to Congress,”
Jones to the President of Congress, December 7, 1776, Papers of John Paul Jones, LC.
Maryland Council of Safety to Jesse Hollingsworth 1
No 111
Sir, You are requested by the Council of Safety to purchase for the use
of the public one good Scow proper for transporting heavy Cannon - also
let us know whether you can purchase any flat bottomed boats with
8 or 10 oars, that would carry fifty men each, or any Barges or whale
boats - please to let us hear from you, & the Price at which they may be
got. - if there be none to be had, whether you would undertake to have
some built this fall. We are [&c.]
[Annapolis] 6th Augt 1776
1. Council of Safety Letter Book, No. 1, Md. Arch.
Journal of the Virginia Navy Board 1
[Williamsburg] Tuesday the 6th day of August 1776
Ordered that the Schooner now lying in Rappahanock River whereof
Richard Taylor is Captain be called and known by the name of the
Hornet -
It is agreed by this Board that the Contractors of the different Districts for
purchasing provisions, Ship materials naval Stores and all other Necessaries
which they may by this Board be Acting to purchase for the use of the
Navy are not to be Liable or Answerable for any Accidents that may pro-
ceed from Fire, Robberies, the Enemy or the Loss of Cattle Dying with the
Distemper. -
Ordered that Colo William Aylett keeper of the Public Store deliver unto
Capt Thomas Lilly one Bolt of Oznabrig, two pieces of Duck and twelve
pounds of Twine for the use of the Brig Liberty -
Ordered that Colo William Finnie deliver unto Capt Thomas Lilly thirty
five Shirts for the use of the Seamen on Board the Brig Liberty -
Ordered that a Warrant Issue to Miles Taylor for Twenty one pounds
thirteen shillings and six pence for Scabbards, Swords and other Articles
furnished Capt [George] Muter for the use of the Hero Gallie-
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88
AMERICAN THEATRE
Ordered that the petition of the Marines from on Board the Henry Gallie
against Capt [Robert] Tomkins be refered to a future day for a hearing
thereof -
Ordered that Colo William Finnie deliver unto Capt [Richard] Taylor
four Bolts of Canvas No 3 for the use of the Schooner Hornet -
1. Navy Board Journal, 32-34, VSL.
Journal of the Virginia Council of Safety 1
[Williamsburg] Tuesday August 6th 1776.
Warrants from the Navy Board to Captain Richard Taylor2 for
Two hundred and twenty three pounds sixteen shillings and seven pence —
And to Captain Thomas Lilly for Ninety four pounds six shillings were
presented countersigned by the President and Ordered to be recorded.
Ordered That the Treasurer be requested to lay before this Board
a State of the several Sums of Money paid into the Treasury, and arising
from the Sales of Vessels and their Cargoes taken by the Captains, James
and Richard Bar[r]on.3
Instructions to Captain Lilly,
Sir, You are to proceed with the Brigg Liberty under your Com-
mand to Hampton Road or whenever Captain James Cocke is to
join him and Captain [John] Calvert of the Row Galley4 to act
in conjunction with them against the Enemies of America if such
Junction shall be judged necessary or seperately as you may think
best You are to protect and defend all our Friends to whom it
may be necessary and in your power to afford protection and to
take, sink or destroy all Vessels belonging to the Enemies of Amer-
ica— As your Cruiser was fitted out principally for the Protection
of York River, Vessells trading in that River, and the Inhabitants
of its Shores should be Objects [of] your peculiar attention — The
Same Instructions are intended for Captains [Edward] Travis and
[William] Deane.5 It is left to your discretion when and in what
manner to engage the Enemy.
1. Mcllwaine, ed., Journals of the Virginia Council , I, 109-10.
2. Taylor was captain of the schooner Liberty which was renamed Hornet on this date.
3. James Barron was commander of the boat Liberty, and Richard Barron of the boat Patriot.
4. Calvert commanded the row galley Norfolk Revenge ; Cocke, the brig Raleigh.
5. Travis was captain of the galley Manley, and Deane of the schooner Revenge.
Captain Andrew Snape Hamond, R. N., to Captain George Montagu,
H. M. S. Fowey 1
Roebuck at the Capes of Virginia
Sir the 6th Augt 1776.
The Sickly and weak State of the Troops under Lord Dunmores
command, as well as the bad condition of the Transports have determined
His Lordship and my self to proceed with them to New York; being clearly
of opinion that remaining within the Capes without power of Acting
AUGUST 1776
89
against the Rebels only tends to bring disgrace on his Majesty’s Arms,
and give Spirits to the enemy.
It is therefore my direction to you, that you remain with His Ma-
jesty’s Ship under your command on this station, and use your utmost
endeavours to prevent any of the Rebel Vessels from getting in or out
of the Capes, and in every other respect to annoy the Enemy by every
means in your power. I have left my Tender the Pembroke to cruize with
you, but as Soon as you are joined by the Otter , or any other Ship or ves-
sel of War, It is my desire that you dispatch her to me imediately at
New York and give me an account of every thing that may happen in my
Absence from Virginia which I flatter my self will not be above 14 days at
farthest.
I am much concerned at the Shortness of your water, but imagine
by the assistance of the Tender you will be able to get some small Sup-
plies from Smith’s Island, so as not to be obliged to go off the Station untill
relieved by some other Ship. I am, Sir [&c.]
1. Hamond, Letters and Orders, 1775-1778, UVL.
Captain Andrew Snape Hamond, R. N., to Richard Whitworth 1
By Andrew Snape Hamond Esquire &ca &ca
You are hereby required and directed to Cruize off the Capes of
Virginia untill you meet with His Majesty’s Ship the Fowey , when you are
to deliver the enclosed dispatches to Captain [George] Montagu, and
follow his Orders for your further proceedings
Given under my hand on board
his Majesty’s Ship the Roebuck at
Cape Henry in Virginia the 6th
August 1776 A S Hamond
To Mr Richd Whitworth
commander of the Roebuck s Tender the Pembroke.
1. Hamond, Orders issued 1776-1777, UVL.
Journal of H. M. Schooner St. John, Lieutenant William Grant 1
Augt 1776 Amelia Island No Point W:N:W: 2 miles
Tuesday 6 Fresh Breezes and Clear wr Empd stowing every thing away
& clearing the Decks for action, Exercised the Men at small
arms, bent a new Foresail Barracaded the Schooner at 4
(P m) the pilot boat & Rook returned from assisting the
Troops in the Pompey, at 8 sent the Boat Manned & Armed,
wt an Officer to reconnoitre and row Guard — All hands under
Arms at 10 The Boat returned, saw nothing remarkable
I. PRO, Admiralty 51/4330.
90
AMERICAN THEATRE
Lieutenant William Grant, R.N., to Captain Graham 1
(Copy) St John Tuesday Morning 6th Augst 1776
Sir, I am glad to see, you have got safe down — I sent Mr Oliver the
Pilot and both Boats to your assistance — I would recommend the Sloop
and Pilot Boat to join me, where they will be at greater liberty for de-
fence and resistance — If the Vessels should appear, and the superior
number should attempt to board the Schooner I command I hope you
will send me a reinforcement of twenty men at least, they never shall have
her.
You’l please to observe that [Stephen] Egan told me and sent me
repeated word, that Wright’s Negroes and his own would join and form
their Camp under the North end of Amelia, where the Schooner now lyes
within a quarter of a Mile of the Shore, it is but just around the point —
I would be glad to consult with you upon the disposition you in-
tend to make, and have sent the Boat to wait on you — And am with great
respect Sir [&c.]
(Sign’d) Wm Grant -
[Endorsed] Copy Lieut Grant’s letter to Captain Graham No 5 In Govr
Tonyn’s (No 20) of 15th August 1776
1. PRO, Colonial Office, 5/556, 723-26.
Governor Patrick Tonyn to Captain Thomas Bishop,
H. M. S. Lively 1
(Copy)
Sir, I beg leave to inclose a copy of intelligence just now come It being
also confirmed to yourself by Lieutenant Grant of His Majestys Schooner
St John —
Considering it a fortunate circumstance that His Majesty’s Ship
Lively under your Command is at this time in this Province, and being
confident that His Majesty’s Service on an extensive and general view
is the true object of your Conduct, I therefore hope you will not think
this requisition incompatible with the orders you may be under from the
Admiral —
The St. John Schooner of four Guns being the only aid in the mari-
time department, except an armed Vessel fitted out by Letter of Reprisal
now in this harbour, and Lord William Campbell’s Schooner that arrived
at the same time with the Lively —
As you are informed of the present situation of the St. John and
His Majesty’s Troops in St. Mary’s River, I have directed the Sloop
Captain Osborne Commander and the Schooner Lady William Captain
Gickie Commander to put themselves under your Command —
With this force you will give me leave to request of you to pro-
ceed with all imaginable dispatch with His Majesty’s Ship Lively to St.
AUGUST 1776
91
Marys River in order to support His Majesty’s Schooner and Troops in
those parts against all attempts made by the Georgia Rebels, and I further
beg that the utmost efforts may be put in force against these invaders of
this Province and His Majesty’s wise Government —
I trust you will take upon you on your arrival at St. Marys or with
His Majesty’s forces to give such orders and Commands as you may
think fit for the general benefit of this Province consistent with the circum-
stances of events — I have the honor to be with the greatest respect Sir [8cc.]
Signed Pat. Tonyn
Council Chamber St Augustine 6th August 1776
Eleven o’clock at night
[Endorsed] Copy Governor Tonyn’s letter to Captain Bishop No 2.
In Govr Tonyn’s No 20 of 15th August 1776
1. PRO Colonial Office, 5/556, 711-12.
Journal of H. M. S. Pallas, Captain William Cornwallis 1
August 1776 In Portroyal Harbor Jamaica.
Tuesday 6th Vi past 5 AM Weigh’d and made sail with 22 Merchant
Vessels in Company, at 8 Portland Point WBS 4 or 5
leags, Vi past shortened sail for the Convoy.
First part Fresh Breezes and Cloudy latter light airs, At
4 PM Point Pedro NEBE 4 or 5 miles, Vi past brot too,
join’d with His Majestys Ship Maidstone, close reeft the
Topsails, down Top gallt yards, at 6 Point Pedro EBN 7
or 8 miles, Bluefields NWBN,
1. PRO, Admiralty 51/667.
7 Aug.
Trial of the Ship Princess Royal 1
Nova Scotia
Court of Vice
Admiralty
Cause
. John Burr Esqr Commander of his Majesty’s Ship of War
the Milford VS the Ship Princess Royal a Recapture
5th August 1776 Libel hied and entered order made thereon as on hie.
7th August 76 Court opened by making Proclamation as usual. Libel
read Judge proceeded to examine Witnesses.
George Davis being duly Sworn deposeth that he is a
Mariner on Board the Ship called the Princess Royal,
that on or about the 10th of July last off of the Island
of Bermuda they were chased by an Armed Schooner
called the Sturdy Beggar htted out by some of the Colo-
nies now in Rebellion that the said Schooner Fired
at and hailed the said Ship Princess Royal, and ordered
them to hoist out their Boat and go aboard the said
92
AMERICAN THEATRE
Schooner, that Archibald Duffy the Captain of said
Ship Princess Royal told them he could not hoist out
his Boat as it was Lumbered up, they in the Armed
Schooner then hoisted out their own Boat 8c came
aboard with Twelve men all Armed, took Possession of
the Ship, 8c took out the master, Boatswain, 2d Mate, 5
Foremast men, a Black man Passenger 8c a Prentice Boy
And then Shaped their Course for new England, that on
the 25th of July last Captain John Burr Esqr Com-
mander of his Majesty’s Ship the Milford gave Chace
to the Ship Princess Royal, within about 3 Leagues of
Cape Anne, 8c took her within about 3 Miles of New-
bury, 8c Brought the said Ship Princess Royal into the
Port of Halifax 2 that said Ship and Cargo is owned by
Persons residing in England 8c some of them in Jamaica.
Signed George Davis Alexander Lieth late mate now
Master of the Ship Princess Royal, Appeared 8c Claimed
the said Ship Princess Royal 8c her Cargo in behalf of
Archibald Duffy the former Master of said Ship, David
Seemoody of London Mercht 8c others which was read
as on file. The Advocate General then moved for a
decree. The Judge Ordered the decree to be pro-
nounced as on file, by which the Claimant was ordered
to pay, one neat Eighth part of the said Ship and Cargo
to the Captors thereof, 8c on such Payment the Ship and
Cargo to be returned to the said Claimt for the use of
the owners thereof.
Court adjourned without day in this Cause. —
1. Vice Admiralty Register, vol. 5, 1769-1777, N. S. Arch.
2. See Master’s log of H. M. S. Milford, July 25, 1776. Volume 5, 1208.
John Langdon to Bayard, Craig Sc Co., Philadelphia 1
Gent Portsmouth August 7th 1776
This will be handed you by Express Mr Greenleaf who is sent off to
inform you of the arrival of the prize Ship Rezuard loaded with Sugars,
Rum, Cotton Sec lately belonging to London, to which place she was bound,
from To[r]tola, taken by your armed Vessell the Hancock Captain [Win-
gate] Newman — On the Ships appearing off the Harbour, I ordered Capt.
[Thomas] Thompson immediately to send the Boats belonging to the
Continental Frigate to give her Assistance and see her safe moored along
side of the Wharf, which was soon done. I shall give every necessary
Assistance to Mr [William] Barton the Prize master till further Orders
from you. I am with respect [8cc.]
Jn° Langdon
P S. Mr Mercer and Mr Moore, who I understand are part Owners where
AUGUST 1776
93
with me few days since, where they are now I know not -2
1. John Langdon Letter Book, Captain J. G. M. Stone Private Collection, Annapolis.
2. See New-England Chronicle , August 15, 1776. According to the register, the Hancock, a
brigantine, was owned by John Bayard, Joseph Dean & Co., Hazard, et al., eds., Pennsyl-
vania Archives, 2nd series, I, 502.
Cotton Tufts to John Adams 1
[Extract] [Weymouth August] 7th.
. . . Am informd that a Jamaica Vessell with 300 Hhds. Sugar yesterday
morning got into Providence taken by our Capt. Chase.2 - Pray what is
Hopkins Fleet about. — Would not our Privateers do service at Newfound-
land among the Liverpool Men.
1. Butterfield, ed., Adams Family Correspondence, II, 82-83. Continuation of August 6 letter.
2. William Chace, commander of the Rhode Island privateer sloop Diamond.
Journal of the Rhode Island Sloop Independence ,
Captain Jabez Whipple 1
Dayly Remarks On Wensday th 7 Augst 1776
[4 A.M.] sot T Sail and all the small Sail Lattr part plesant
wether smuth Sea a Good observation
Lattd. OBsrd 35. .54 Longd 60:7
the first part of this 24 hours Begins with plesant wether
smuth sea Middel plesent Light Brezess Beniman Syms
raysing a muteny on Boord the Slupe Independence 8c peleg
hoxey master Gave a Frapping 8c found it to Be the Method to
take —
1. Independence Journal, RIHS.
Interrogation of Thomas Stacy, Prize Master of the British
Ship Jane 1
[Providence]
Interogatories answered by Thomas Stacy Prize Master of the Ship
Jane.
Aug. 7th 1776
Intero. When was the Ship taken and by whom?
the said Ship was taken the 22nd Day of July 1776 by the
private Sloop of War called the Diamond Wm. Chace com-
mander
From whence was the said Ship bound and, to what port? -
from the Island of Dominica to the Port of Bristol in Great
Britain
Was the said Ship equipped with any Cannon?
She had on board 4 Cannon 4 pounders 8c some powder and
Shott. —
Interog. What are the Contents of the said Ships Cargo, and what
Tonage is She? —
Answr
Interog
Answr
Interog
Answr
94
AMERICAN THEATRE
Answr She is of the Burthen of about 220 Tuns and her Cargo con-
sists of about 310 hhd of Sugar, about 200 Barrels of Oyle 8cc - 2
Sworn to Aug. 7:1776 1
before me Thomas Stacy
John Foster Judge in Prize Matters J
[Endorsed] No 2 Interogatories answd by Thos Stacy Prize [Master] Aug.
7th: 1776 Wm. Room late master of the Jane
1. Admiralty Papers, vol. 9, R. I. Arch.
2. Ibid., the ship’s papers list the cargo as follows:
No 5 General Clearance for 109 Casks of Muscovado Sugar at Dominica - July 1:
1776-
No 6. Certificate for 109 Casks of Sugar at Dominica - July 1: 1776 —
No. 7. Certificate for 109 Casks Sugar at Dominica - July 1: 1776 —
No. 9 Certificate for 109 Casks Sugar at Dominica - July 1: 1776.
No. 10. Certificate for 298 Casks Sugar and for 89 Barrels Whale Oyle at Rupert’s
Bay July 2: 1776 —
No. 11. Certificate for 189 Casks of Muscovado Sugar at Prince Ruperts Bay July 2:
1776
No. 12. Certificate for 89 Barrels of Whale Oyle at Ruperts Bay July 2: 1776.
The prize papers include the register of the Ship Jane at Bristol, a square sterned vessel
of 120 tons, on April 27, 1775, and a copy of Captain William Chace’s Continental com-
mission of July 6, 1776 supplied to the prize master.
Agreement to Supply Masts and Spars for the Continental Frigates
Built at Providence 1
This Agreement made at New Hartford, the 7th day August in the
Year of our Lord One Thousand seven hundred Sc seventy Six, Be-
tween, Abraham Pettibone, Abraham Kellogg, Seth Smith Sc Martin
Smith, On the One part and William Russell in behalf of the Naval
Committee of Providence on the Other part, Witnesseth, That the
said Pettibone, Kellogg Sc Smiths hath Under taken and doth hereby
undertake Sc Agree to Supply the said Naval Committee with the fol-
lowing Masts Sc Sparrs as follows Vizt
One Main Mast, Eighty Eight feet long, to Work Twenty Eight Inches,
One Fore Mast, Eighty feet long -, to Work Twenty seven Inches,
One Mizzen Mast, Seventy Eight feet long, to Work Twenty Inches,
Two Main yards, Seventy five feet long, to Work Seventeen Inches
Two Main Top Masts, Fifty one feet long, to Work Each Seventeen
Inches -
Two Fore Top Masts, Fifty feet long, to Work Sixteen Inches,
Two Main Top sail yards, Fifty one feet long, to Work Ten Inches,
Two Fore Topsail yards, Forty Eight feet long, to Work Nine Sc half
Inches -
Two Crockett yards, Fifty four feet long, to Work Eleven Inches.
Two Sparrs for Sweeps, Forty five feet long, to Work Eight Inches, -
All which Masts Sc Sparrs are to be Good Sc Sutable for the Ships [of]
Warr they are designed for. And Deliver the same at or near the Ferry
in Hartford as soon as maybe to the Care of Mr Barnabs Deane —
AUGUST 1776
95
And The said Naval Committee on their part Agree to pay the said
Pettibone, Kellogg & Smiths, on the Delivery of the said Masts & Sparrs
as aforesaid at and after the same rate which Mr Barbs Deane payd Abra-
ham Kellogg for those he has Supplyed him for the Ship of Warr Building
at Chatham, and also over and above said price what Extray, Expence
& Damage they the said Pettibone, Kellogg & Smiths, may be obliged to pay
in Order to make all possable Dispatch in Geting such Masts & Spars Down
to Hartford ferry. —
In Witness whereof the Partys have hereunto set their hands the day and
year above Written —
Witness
Herman Smith Wm Russell in behalf of
the Naval Committee of
Providence
1. Silas Deane Papers, ConnHS.
Nathaniel Shaw, JR- to Governor Jonathan Trumbull, Lebanon 1
[Extract] New London Augst. 7, 1776
. . . We have purchased the Bermudians Sloop for the Colony at
£ 2710.15/6 Phiia Cury which was the very lowest price we could git
& their was severall people from Providence who whould give the Same
Viz what She Cost- We shall fitt her out soon as possible agreeable to your
Directions 2 . . .
1. Shaw Letter Book, YUL.
2. To replace the brig Defence, and to take the same name.
Major General Horatio Gates’s Orders to Brigadier General
Benedict Arnold 1
Upon your Arrival at Crown-Point you will proceed with the Fleet
with [sic of] the United States under your Command, down Lake Cham-
plain to the narrow Pass of the Lake, made by the Split Rock; or to the
other narrow Approach, down the Lake made by Isle-aux-Tetes, and the
opposite Shore. You will Station the Fleet in the best Manner, to maintain
the Possession of those Passes, according as your Judgment shall determine,
cautiously avoiding to Place the Vessels in a Manner which might un-
necessarily expose them to the Enemy’s heavy Artillery, from the Shore.
You will most religiously observe that it is my positive Order, that you
do not command the Fleet to Sail below the Pass of the Isle-aux-Tetes
above mentioned, incessantly reflecting, that the Preventing the Enemys
invasion of our Country, is the ultimate End of the important Com-
mand, with which you are now intrusted. It is a defensive War we are
carrying on; therefore, no wanton risque, or unnecessary Display of the
Power of the Fleet, is at any Time, to influence your Conduct. Should the
Enemy come up the Lake, and attempt to force their Way through the Pass
you are stationed to defend in that Case you will act with such cool deter-
mined Valour, as will give them Reason to repent their Temerity. But
96
AMERICAN THEATRE
if, contrary to my Hope and Expectation, their Fleet should have so en-
creased, as to force an entrance into the upper Part of the Lake then after
you shall have discovered the Insufficiency of every Effort to retard their
Progress, you will, in the best Manner you can, retire with your Squadron,
to Ticonderoga. Every Vessel in the Fleet, being furnished with a
Batteau, you will have it in your Power to Keep out Scout Boats at Night,
and occasionally to annoy the Enemys small Craft. In the Day Time, your
Boats can act, when Opportunity offers, under Cover of the Cannon of the
Fleet.
As the most Honourable the Congress of the United States, rest a
great Dependence on your Wise and prudent Conduct, in the Management
of this Fleet, you will on no Account, detach yourself from it, upon the
lesser Services, above mentioned. A resolute, but judicious Defence of the
Northern Entrance into this Side of the Continent, is the momentous Part,
which is committed to your Courage and Abilities. I doubt not you will
secure it from further Invasion.
As I am entirely unacquainted with martime Affairs, I shall not pre-
sume to give any Directions, respecting the Duty and Discipline of the
Seamen and Marines, on board the Fleet. I have traced the great Outline
of that Service, which your Country expects from the Rank and Character
you have acquired.
I have, as is my Duty, fixed the Limits, beyond which you are not
to go; But you must communicate that Restriction to nobody. I wish, on
the Contrary, that Words, occasionally dropped from you, with that
Prudence which excludes every Sort of Affectation, and which, I believe,
you possess, may, together with all your Motions, induce our own People
to conclude it is our real Intention to invade the enemy; which, after
all, may happen. It will keep up their Spirits, without affecting your
Reputation, whatever may be the Event.
It only remains for me to recommend you to the Protection of that
Power upon whose Mercy we place our Hopes of Freedom here, and of
Happiness hereafter.
You will frequently report the State and Situation of your Fleet, and
of every interesting Occurrence.
Given at Ticonderoga, this 7th Day of August 1776. —
Horatio Gates
1. Gates Papers, NYHS. Copy in Washington Papers, PC.
“A List of the Navy of the united States of America on
Lake Cham[p]lain Aug. 7th 1776 1
C. Guns
Swivels
and Men
L Row Gaily. Congress
6 .
16
80
2. do
W ashington
6.
16
80
3 - do
Schuyler
6.
16
80
4 - do
Lee
6.
10
65
Schooner Royal Savage
12.
10
60
Lake Champlain from Crown Point to Valcour Island.
98
AMERICAN THEATRE
G. Guns
Swivels
and Men
Sloop
enter prize
10.
10
60
Schooner Revenge
8.
10
40
Schr Liberty
8.
8
35
Gondola Newhaven
3.
8
45
do
Providence
3.
8
45
do
Boston
3.
8
45
do
Spitfire
3 4
8
45
do
Philada
3.
8
45
do
Connecticut
3.
8
45
do
New Jersey
3
8
45
do
New York
3.
8
45
NB. each Gaily Mounts 2.
24 pounders, 2. 12 pounders 8c 2 -
6 pounders,
each Gondola 1. 12 & 2. 9 pounders
The Sloop 8c Schooner carry 3 - 4 8c 6 pounders
6 Gondola’s end compleat - one Gaily Launched
The Sloop 8c Schooners compleated - the whole will be ready compleated in
the course of this month 8c four other Gally’s will be compleated by the
middle of September
1. Hayes Manuscripts, NCDAH.
2. Mr. Edwin N. Rich, Wellfiect, Mass., and Mrs. James Lonergan of Ticonderoga, N. Y., have
done extensive research on Arnold’s vessels and their armament. Copies of their findings
are in the holdings of the Naval History Division, Navy Department, Washington, D. C.
Brigadier General Benedict Arnold to Major General Horatio Gates 1
Dear General Skensborough Augt 7th 1776
I found on my arival here last evening, the Gallies much forwarder
than I expected, three will be launched in a Fortnight, if not sooner 8c
Timber is Cutt For three or four others, the Carpenters are Very Indus-
trious, 8c spirited, nothing will Retard the building but want of Plank,
8c Iron, I have wrote Capt. Varick to hurry on the Latter, 8c have ordered
the Carpenters to omit building more Gondalos than those on the Stocks —
as they take a large quantity of Plank, 8c retard the Building of the Gallies,
which are of more Consequence. One Gundalo will be Launched
To morrow 8c the eighth 8c last in a few days — The Seamen will be Drawfted
this afternoon, 8c to’morrow I hope to have the pleasure seeing you at
Tyonderoga. I am with Sentiments of Esteem 8c respect Dr. General [8cc.]
B Arnold
PS Militia come In fast, nothing new at Albany the 4th Inst
B A
1. Gates Papers, NYHS.
George Washington to John Hancock 1
[Extract] New York, August 7, 1776.
I have transmitted a Copy of a Letter from Mr. Jona. Glover, setting
forth the nature and Grounds of a dispute between him and a Mr. [John]
Bradford respecting their Agency.2 Not conceiving myself Authorized, nor
AUGUST 1776
99
having the smallest inclination to interfere in any degree in the matter;
It is referred to Congress, who shall determine and give direction upon it
in such manner as they will Judge best. I will only observe, that Mr.
Glover was recommended to me as a proper person for an Agent when
we first fitted out Armed Vessels and was accordingly appointed one, and
so far as I know, discharged his Office with fidelity and Industry.
1. Fitzpatrick, ed., Writings of Washington, V, 379-81.
2. Continental Agent in Boston.
George Washington to John Hancock 1
Head Quarters, 1. OClock P. M., August 7, 1776.
Sir: Since closing the Letter which I had the honor to write you this
Morning, two deserters have come in, who left the Solebay Man of War
last Evening. - one of them is a Native of New York. Their Account is
that they were in the Engagement with Col. Moultrie at Sullivan’s Island
on the 9th. July [Vc]; the particulars they give nearly correspond with the
narrative sent by General Lee; that they left Carolina 3 Weeks ago as a
Convoy to 45 transports, having on board General Clinton, Lord [Charles]
Cornwallis and the whole Southern Army, consisting of about 3000 Men,
all of whom were landed last week on Staten Island, in tolerable Health.
That on Sunday 13 Transports part of [Richard] Howe’s fleet and
having on board Hessians and Highlanders, came to Staten Island: that
the remainder of the Fleet which was reported to have in the whole 12000
Men; had parted with these Troops off the Banks of Newfoundland and
were expected to come in every moment; that they were getting their
heavy Carriages and Cannon on board; had launched 8 Gondolas with flat
Bottoms, and 2 Rafts on Stages to carry Cannon. These men understand
that the attack will soon be made, if the other Troops arrive; That they give
out they will lay the Jerseys waste with Fire and Sword. The computed
Strength of their Army will be 30,000 Men. They further add, that when
they left Carolina one Transport got on Shore, so that they were not able to
give her relief, upon which she surrendered with 5 Companies of High-
landers to General Lee, who after taking every thing valuable out of her
brunt her
That the Admiral turned General Clinton out of his Ship after the
Engagement, with a great deal of abuse; great differences between the
Principal Naval and Military Gentlemen; that the Ships left in Carolina,
are now in such a Weakly distressed condition they would fall an easy Prey.
I am, etc.
P.S: The Ships are changing their position, and the Men of War forming
into a Line but I still think they will wait the arrival of the remaining
Hessians before any general attack will be made. Monday’s return will
shew our strength here.
1. Fitzpatrick, ed., Writings of Washington, V. 382-83.
100
Governor Josiah Martin to Lord George Germain 1
On board The Sovereign Transport in
the Narrows of New York Harbour
My Lord, August 7th 1776.
Ihave the honour to acquaint Your Lordship that Iarrived on the 1st
instant with General Clinton and his Division of the Army at this place,
where I find all manner of preparation going forward for the great scene
that is likely to be opened on this theatre; and which I most fervently hope
will soon close with all honour and glory to the Vigour and spirit, and to
the Wisdom and magnanimity of Britain’s Councils.
I am to pray Your Lordships pardon for the omission of some advices
in my Dispatches from North Carolina which Iought to have transmitted
earlier. - The first My Lord regards the institution of a Court of Vice
Admiralty in Cape Fear River, which in the course of its proceedings, took
cognizance of prizes, brought into the Port, by the King’s Ships of War,
after the Act of Parliament prohibiting all trade with that Province, and
most of the other Continental Colonies became known there; as well as
of such as were brought in previously to the declaration of that law. but
lam to observe to Your Lordship, that most, if not all of the condemnations
which passed, were founded on breaches of former Acts of Trade, the
circumstances My Lord which led me to the measure of instituting a
Court of Vice Admiralty at that period, Matter myself will justify it to
Your Lordship, however it may seem, at first view, to militate against the
intentions of the Act of Parliament before alluded to.
When General Clinton arrived in North Carolina in March, Pro-
visions were extremely scarce on board The Ships there. At this time
and soon afterwards, no prohibition then known, the Cruizers brought
in Sundry American Vessels loaded with Rice bread and flour 8cc. all of
which were locked up from use for want of some legal mode of pro-
ceeding against them. The Captors urged me to establish a Court of
Vice Admiralty that their prizes might be brought to trial. The General
saw it absolutely necessary that the Cargoes should be distributed for
the immediate support of The Ship’s Crews and the few Soldiers who
were there, as well as the need there would be of such supplies when the
number of mouths should increase by the arrival of the expected Arma-
ment from Ireland. The prohibitory Act of Parliament arrives while
these matters were agitated. — Isaw My Lord that it contained no express
restraint ofthe powers vested in me as His Majesty’s Governor of that
Province to constitute a Court of Vice Admiralty, while it bore a mani-
fest interdict to the Captors to bring their prizes into the Ports of a
Colony ofa description too corresponding with the then state of North
Carolina. I represented this to the Captains of The King’s Ships of War,
who acknowledged they were forbid by the Act to bring Prizes into such
Ports: Alleging on the other hand, that if following the letter of the
AUGUST 1776
101
Act, they were obliged to send their prizes to distant Ports, where they
might be tried, they should unman their Ships, and render them unfit for
service; and that as they confidently relied on the expediency, and neces-
sity of the case for their indemnification, they wished to hazard the trial
of their prizes in a Court of Vice Admiralty there. After mature con-
sideration, being clearly of the opinion that the Act of Parliament did
not restrain the jurisdiction of the Vice Admiralty Court; discerning no
possible ill consequence from the condemnation and sale of Prizes at
that Port, and seeing that the ends and objects of the Act of Parliament
of preventing succour going to the Rebels were fully answered while the
purchase of prizes and their Cargoes was necessarily confined to His Ma-
jesty’s Fleet and Army, I gave into the measure of erecting a Court of
Vice Admiralty, and that relief was afforded by it in a formal course of
proceeding, which necessity must otherwise have compelled the Comman-
der in Chief to take by the strong hand of power.
My next omission My Lord was the neglect formally to notify
to Your Lordship that with the approbation of General Clinton I hired
the Ship Jenny John McNeil Master of three hundred and ten Tons
burthen for the reception and accommodation ofa number ofHis Majesty’s
faithfull subjects who fled to the Fleet in Cape Fear River for protection,
and could not be otherwise provided for. of this circumstance My Lord
Ishall think it proper at the present opportunity to advise The Lords Com-
missioners of His Majesty’s Treasury and Ishall humbly hope that my
conduct in both these cases will meet with Your Lordships approbation.
My best information since the unfortunate check of the Loyalists
in North Carolina, (of which Ihad the honour to give Your Lordship
the minutest detail then in my power in my Dispatch No. 1.) teaches me
to think their good purpose was frustrated atlast by egregious misconduct;
and that they would have made their way good, even in the small force
they appeared, if they had been conducted with a little more prudence;
the want of which cannot be enough lamented: more especially as expence
to Government, was necessarily incurred, in the course of that unlucky
business.
Ihave now My Lord the sore mortification to find my family inaccessi-
ble at only Twenty miles distance: but Itrust the time is at hand that
will deliver them, and me from misery; my share of which, abstracted
of the circumstances of my family’s distress in a sort of Captivity, (that
Your Lordship will believe have not been a little afflicting to me) Ileave
to Your Lordship to compute, after observing, that I have now spent nearly
fourteen months on board divers ships, under every possible disadvantage,
and inconvenience. Ihave the honor [8cc.]
Jo. Martin.
1. PRO, Colonial Office, 5/318, LC Photocopy.
102
AMERICAN THEATRE
Journal of Ambrose Serle 1
[On board H. M. S. Eagle]
Wednesday, 7th August.
A Rifleman, who got off from Long Island last night, was brought
on board this Morning, and his Gun with him. It was of a handsome
Construction, and entirely manufactured in America. As there are no
Flints in this Country, they have smuggled them in from Holland &
France.
The Orpheus 8c Greyhound , two Frigates sent out upon a Cruize,
returned without seeing any thing of the Fleet, which gives much anxiety.2
1. Tatum, ed., Serle’s Journal, 56,57.
2. Transports, with Hessian troops on board, under convoy of Commodore William Hotham.
Journal of the Continental Congress 1
[Philadelphia] Wednesday, August 7, 1776
A letter from Captain N. Biddle to the Marine Committee, was laid
before Congress, and read; Whereupon,
Resolved , That the General [Washington] be directed to propose an
exchange of Lieutenant [James] Josiah, by giving in exchange for him
a lieutenant of the navy of Great Britain, and that the general remonstrate
to Lord Howe on the cruel treatment Lieutenant Josiah has met with, of
which the Congress have received undoubted information.2
1. Ford, ed., JCC, V, 635-36.
2. See Hancock to Washington, August 8.
Committee of Secret Correspondence of the Continental Congress
to Silas Deane 1
Dear Sir Philadelphia August 7th, 1776.
The Above is a Copy of our last, which went by the Dispatch Captain
[Peter] Parker.2
The Congress have since taken into consideration the heads of a
Treaty to be proposed to France, but as they are not yet concluded upon,
we cannot say more of them per this conveyance.
You will see by the Newspapers which Accompany this, that the ex-
pedition against South Carolina is foiled by the gallant resistance made
there. The Enemy, much diminished by Sickness, it is thought will at-
tempt nothing farther in those parts. The people of North Carolina, Who
at first had taken up their Bridges, and broken the Roads, to prevent the
Enemy’s penetrating their Country; have since, being ready to receive
him, repaired the Roads and Bridges, and Wish him to Attempt making
use of them.
Gen: Howe is posted now on Staten Island near New York, with
the Troops he Carried to Halifax when he was driven out of Boston.
Lord Howe is also arrived there with some reinforcements, and more are
expected, as the great push seems intended to be Made in that Province.
AUGUST 1776
103
Gen. Washington’s Army is in possession of the Town, about which Many
entrenchments are thrown up, so as to give an opportunity of disputing the
possession with G: Howe, if he should attempt it, and of making it cost him
something: but it is not so regularly fortified as to Stand a Siege. We have
also a flying Camp in the Jerseys, to harass the Enemy if he should attempt
to penetrate thro’ that Province to Philada.
In the different Colonies we have now near 80.000 Men in the pay
of the Congress. The Declaration of Independence Meets with universal
approbation, and the people everywhere Seem more animated by it
in defence of their Country. Most of our Frigates are Launched in the
different Provinces, and are fitting for Sea with all the expedition in our
power. They are fine Ships, and will be capable of good service. Our
small Privateers and Continental arm’d Vessels have Already had great
success as the papers will shew you: and by abstaining from Trade
ourselves while we distress that of our enemy’s, we expect to Make their
Men of war weary of their unprofitable and hopeless Cruises, and their
Merchants Sick of a Contest in which so much is Risk’d and Nothing
gained. The forming a Navy is a very capital object with us, And the
Marine Committee is ordered to bring in a Plan for increasing it very
considerably. The Armed Boats for the defence of our Rivers and Bays
grow More and More in repute. They Venture to attack large Men of
War, and are very troublesome to them. The papers will give you
Several instances of their success.
We hope that by this time you are at Paris, and that Mr [Thomas]
Morris has joined you, whom we recommend to you Warmly, and desire
you May Mutually co-operate in the Public Service. With great esteem
We are Dear Sir [Sec.]
B. Franklin Benj. Harrison Robt Morris.
[Endorsed by Deane] Letter from Secret Committee 3
1. New England Historical and Genealogical Register (Boston, 1877) , XXXI, 100.
2. The Dispatch was taken off the Delaware Capes by H. M. S. Orpheus, and the dispatches
and letters sent by her were cast overboard before capture.
3. While endorsed from the Secret Committee, the letter was from the Committee of Secret
Correspondence; one of the signers, Benjamin Harrison, being a member of the latter
committee and not of the former.
Margaret Tarras to Captain Nicholas Biddle 1
Philad August, th 7. 1776.
Sir
Mr pain being gone to the camp I have Taken the liberty to trouble
you with a answer to your Letter Capt biddle goodness I know will excuse
the Writeing and the Stile, with a heart full of greif for the Fate of a
worthy brother obligd to Smother that greif For fear of more distressing
an aged father, the prayers of that father and Sister Shall attend and wish
you Success in all your undertakeings for your lmmannity And trouble
you took tho without effect for his release 2 Poor fellow his letter has a
most broke his father heart To think their insults is not enough but to
104
AMERICAN THEATRE
threaten To wip him two but Shure they dare not do it? heaven and earth
will avenge our cause and Such Wretches will not go unpunished? I waited
upon Mr hancock With your letter he told me a copy of my brothers
letter Was yestarday read in Congress that an order was gone For his im-
mediate release that he was very Sorry to hear of his ill usage and would
do all that laid in his power to forward his exchange and that he Should
have all the redress in their power to give — Such Assurance has a little
abated our trouble as I am in hopes in a little wile, he will be with you
again I do Not dough t your Still useing your interrest when the order
arrive to forward his exchange Should you have An oppurtunity to Send
to him please to let him know We are as well as we can be wile he is pris-
oner amongst Savages that was enough but to hear he is used ill is Double
trouble but I hope he will live to repay them Back the whole! his father
begs you will accept his Thanks for what you have done for him? for my
Self I will ever retain a grateful 1 Sence of what Capt Biddle has done to
Serve my Brother
Margret Tarras
1. Nicholas Biddle Papers, on deposit at HSP.
2. Lieutenant James Josiah, first lieutenant of the brig Andrew Doria, who had been captured
in the prize ship Crawford, and was a prisoner on board. H. M. S. Cerberus. He was a
son of Emanuel Josiah, an aged former ship captain of Philadelphia, and Margaret
Tarras was an older sister, Pennsylvania Magazine of History and Biography, LXXIX,
453-55.
Deposition of John Parks, Prizem aster of the Ship Friendship 1
Port of Philada p —
Personally appeard before me — John Park Master of the Prize Ship Friend-
ship (taken by Capt Weeks [Lambert Wickes] in the Reprisal) now riding
at anchor in the port of Philada who being duly Sworn deposeth 8c saith
that the said Ship is now in so leaky a Condition that there is great danger
of injuring her cargoe which consists in part of Sugar 8c other perishable
comodities in case the same be not unladen or some part thereof so as to find
out 8c Stop the leak —
Sworn 8c Subscribed John Parks
Augt 7th 1776 -
Certified] - Geo: Ross
Mem: on making the above Depositn a Warrant issued to Maurice
Rodgers Merchant William Davis 8c John Lockton Ship Masters licensing
them or any two 8cc to unlode so much of the Cargo as might be neces-
sary to come at 8c stop the Leak and prevent further Damage 8c make Re-
turn 8cc.
1. Admiralty Court Papers, HSP.
Pennsylvania Gazette, Wednesday, August 7, 1776
Philadelphia, August 7.
Since our last arrived at Egg-Harbour the brig Richmond , taken by
AUGUST 1776
105
the privateer Congress , Capt. [John] Craig, of this port; she was bound
from London (but last from Nevis) for Halifax, laden with rum, sugar
and molasses, and had a great quantity of gold on board, said to be worth
near 20,000 1.
“Another letter from Philadelphia, August 7.” 1
Since my last, we have arrived, a sloop from North Carolina, with
naval stores, and a sloop of 8 four pounders; she belonged to the Good-
rich’s, of Virginia, and was commanded by one of them; was out three
days from Bermuda, when he discovered and gave chace to the brig
Lexington, Captain Barry, but finding his mistake, put about, too late; for
in about an hour and a half, Barry ran along side, when she struck. She
has eight Negroes on board; all, or most of the men, to the amount of
25, entered on board of Barry. — [William] Goodrich is a prisoner on board
the brig.2
This morning we have an express from a schooner taken by Capt.
Weekes, in the continental ship Reprisal; he was bound from St. Vincents
for Liverpool, with upwards of a hundred hogsheads of rum, and is
safe at Absecomb Inlet. They bring an account of his having taken a
ship of four or five hundred tons burthen, from Grenada for London;
she was quite full and by the captors said to be worth 35,000 1. A ship
was seen last Wednesday to the southward of our Cape, by the North-Caro-
lina man, which we hope is the prize.3
Capt. Fowler in a sloop belonging to your city [New York], is arrived
at Egg-Harbour with 4000 1. worth of indigo, in 12 or 13 days from Charles-
town; she passed the fleet in a thunder storm -
1. New-York Journal , August 8, 1776.
2. Sloop Lady Susan.
3. Schooner Peter and ship Friendship.
Maryland Journal, Wednesday, August 7, 1776
Baltimore [August 7].
Capt. John [sic James] Campbell, Commander of the Enterprize Pri-
vateer, from Baltimore, has taken and sent into Chingoteague, a brig
loaded with Molasses; and a ship from Barbadoes, to England, is sent
into Sinepuxent, on the 24th ult. When the Brig left Capt. Campbell, he
was in chase of a ship, deeply laden, and expected to be in possession of
her in a few hours. The prize ship which is safe arrived in Sinepuxent, is
said to have on board a great Quantity of Spanish dollars, Sec. See. and was
taken by Capt. Campbell the 18th ult.
Maryland Council of Safety to the Maryland Delegates
in the Continental Congrees 1
No 121.
Gentn We have been informed Lieutt Steuart, of Captn [John Allen]
106
AMERICAN THEATRE
Thomas’s Company has lately accepted a Commission from Congress in
the marine service 2 - if the fact is so, it must superceed the commission
he holds under us, & upon a presumption of the truth of it, we have filled
up the vacancy occasioned by the removal & promoted the other officers,
& inclose the commissns to you to be delivered the several officers, if Mr
Steuart is removed, or return to us, if he is not. We are [&c.]
[Annapolis] Augt 7th 1776
1. Council of Safety Letter Book, No. 1, Md. Arch.
2. John Stewart appointed Marine captain June 25, 1776 for the frigate building in Maryland,
the Virginia. Ford, ed., JCC, V, 478.
Maryland Council of Safety to Captain James Nicholson 1
No 122.
Sir We have some powder and small arms arrived at great Wiccomico in
Virginia 2 - we want your Small Tender to go up that river for them, and
the ship Defence to go down below the mouth of Potowmack to pro-
tect her - come down therefore, as soon as you can, & call on us for a letter
to the person, who has the military stores under his care. We are [8cc.]
[Annapolis] 7th Augt 1776
1. Council of Safety Letter Book, No. 1, Md. Arch.
2. In the brig Molly, Captain Thomas Conway.
Journal of the Virginia Council of Safety 1
[Williamsburg] Wednesday August 7th 1776.
Ordered that a Draft be made on The Honble The Virginia Dele-
gates at Congress in favour of Daniel and Samuel Hughes for four hundred
and twenty nine and one third Dollars for two peices of Cannon by them
furnished for the use of the Potowmack Rowe Gallies in the Service of
this State; Also, that a Draft be made on them in favor of the Council of
Safety of Maryland for the expence of proving the said Cannon.2
1. Mcllwaine, ed., Journals of the Virginia Council, I, 111, 112.
2. For the expense of proving two eighteen pounders, Maryland was paid “Twenty eight
pounds, two Shillings,” Red Book, XV, Md. Arch.
Master’s Log of H. M. S. Roebuck 1
August 1776 Cape Henry SbE 4 Miles
Tuesday 6th A.M Took the Remainder of the Cargo out of the Pem-
broke's Prize and Strip’d her 2
Light Winds and fair P M at 3 Departed this Life
Serjt Tenham of Marines Weigh’d & Shifted our birth
and Anchor’d in 4i/£ fath Cape Henry SbE 4 Miles
Wednesday 7th A M. at 3 departed this life Jno Johnson Corpl Made
the Signl Weigh’d & made sail with the Remainder of the
fleet, and set fire to two unserviceable Vessels Cape
AUGUST 1776
107
Henry WSW 3 Miles, 18 Sail in Company,3 at 12 Cape
Henry West 4 Lgs
First & Latter Parts Modt & fair.
1. PRO, Admiralty 52/1965.
2. The sloop Susannah.
3. One vessel in this convoy carried the departing Lord Dunmore.
Journal of the North Carolina Council of Safety 1
[Halifax! Wednesday August 7th 1776
Capt Hardy Owner of the Brig Betsey bound on a Voyage to Hamburg
on Continental Service having represented to this Board that he himself
risques the Vessel against the danger of Seas and the barratry of the Master
and that [John] Gale and [William] Colvert nominated by this Board as
proper Persons to take the Command of her are strangers to him and he
apprehends unacquainted with those Seas to which she is bound, Resolved
that the former Resolution respecting this matter so far as it relates to
Gale and Colvert be rescinded 2 and that the Committee of Edenton to
appoint any known Freind of American Independance to the Command
of the said Brigg.
1. Secretary of State Papers (Provincial Conventions and Congresses/Councils 1774-1776), NCDAH.
2. Resolve of August 1, 1776.
Richard Ellis to Cornelius Hartnett 1
Dear Sir New Bern 7th Angst 1776 —
above you have an abstract of a Letter from Mr [Peter] Knight con-
cerning the Guns, Swivels, Ball &ca &ca ordered for the use of the Pen-
sylvania Farmer and paid for at least as far as 800 Dollars wd go which I
remitted him in Bills,2 he never has advised me how much the whole of
the articles ordered cost; I should be glad to have your Directions whether
to order him to Dispose of them on acct. of the province or not -We
have at last got in the way of running Bullets, and this week will have
as many as will do for the Brig. Mr [Joseph] Leech has been at the Mari’s
works about 18 miles up Trent 3 Days ago, and says he saw him cast several,
and after that Day he was in no Doubts but he cd run 100 or more a Day,
the Brig goes down tomorrow or next Day at farthest - This Day I
purchased a small Sloop and not having procured either officers or men,
beg you will send me an order to Mr Sitgraves to let me have (on Comply-
ing with the terms) one of the two Commissions he has in his possession as
she will be ready to sail by the time Mr Neal returns, not a line to be got
in Town I refer you to the Bearer Mr Neal for news I am Sir yours and
the Gentlemen of the Council’s [&c.]
Richd Ellis
1. Secretary of State Papers (Correspondence of Council of Safety, 1776), NCDAH. Hartnett was
chairman of the North Carolina Council of Safety.
2. Ibid., the abstract of the letter from Peter Knight, dated Philadelphia, July 15, 1776, reads:
“Should you incline to have the Cannon &rc a sold, could sell them now to a profit ex-
pected you wd have said something about the sale of them as you cannot get them to
your place; but suppose you mean to have them ly at the risque of your Province till
winter, and then perhaps send for them."
108
AMERICAN THEATRE
Lieutenant William Grant, R.N., to Governor Patrick Tonyn 1
Copy Off St Maries Barr 7th Augst 1776
Sir I had the honour to write you yesterday, inclosing the intelligence
from Mr [John] Martin which I am sorry to Acquaint you is too true. -
The Moment I received it I sent for [Stephen] Egan and desired him to
take such measures as he thought best to Secure Lady Egmont’s Property.
As I proposed going off the Barr; At the same time sent an express to
Captain Graham Unmoor’d, Weighed, and dropt down the Schooner to
Amelia North End, and Anchor’d about a quarter of a Mile from the
Shore — As soon as the Tide would permit I sent the Pilot and Midship-
man in two Sailing boats to Assist Captain Graham — The Sloop and
Pompey who got down to Egan’s landing on Thursday Morning.
I wrote Captain Graham and have Sent you a Copy inclosed.2 On
which he came on board the St John I repeated the same request and
much pressed of him a reinforcement of (20 Soldiers) also pressed him
to embark the Troops in the St John, Governor’s Sloop and Pompey,
urged in that case we could make a resistance by being united, and prevent
their landing on Amelia by placing them in such a Manner to prevent
them passing Amelia Point — In Answer to which Captain Graham told
me, he would Consult Egan and the Wrights — And give me an Answer
in the afternoon, As the Ebb was made, and the Rebels Vessels expected to
make their Appearance every Minute — I sent the Pilot in the afternoon
to wait on Captain Graham, who brought me back word from him, that
he would write me to Morrow Forenoon, (or if convenient) come himself,
I kept the Schooner in the best Place and Position for defence she would
Admit of and the boats Mann’d and Armed to reconnotre the Coast along
Cumberland and Amelia Shore — at 9 (P M) my Officer called on Captain
Graham, who was on board the Governor’s Sloop, he told him that some
of Wrights Negroes had returned from Lynch’s Plantation near the No
End of Cumberland Island, and said there was no Vessels to be seen in
the Sound — at 4 (A M) saw a large flat resembling a Vessel cut down
and made into a floating Battery, with one Mast and liberty Colours
flying, full of Ports and a great Number of Men. — Hove Short, loaded
the Guns with Round and grape Shot. Saw two More Vessels coming
round Cumberland Point after the flat who was rowing and To[w]ed
by other boats towards us — at 6 she came nigher us and fired 3 Shot which
went past and near the Schooner — Weighed and fired a Shot at them.
It being quite calm got the boats ahead double Mann’d the Oars and
with the utmost difficulty got her over the Barr — Saw the Rebel Schooner
another Vessel and several boats go up Amelia North River — soon after
saw a large Smoak and heard an Explosion supposed to be the Sloop set
afire or blown up by Captain Graham, who I am positive will do every-
thing in his power for the good of the Service and will take every Method
to prevent the Troops from falling into the Hands of the Rebels — My
fatigue and hurry will not permit me saying more on the Event — please
AUGUST 1776
109
to communicate my letters to Colonel [Augustine] Prevost and Captain
[Thomas] Bishop I have sent them express into Nassau by Woodland the
Pilot. I have the Honour to be Sir Your Excellency’s [8cc.]
(Signd) Wm Grant
[Endorsed] Copy Lieut Grant’s letter to Governor Tonyn No 6 - In
Govr Tonyn’s (No 20) of 15th August 1776 3
1. PRO, Colonial Office, 5/556, 731-34.
2. See Lieutenant Grant to Captain Graham, August 6.
3. Tonyn to Lord Germain, August 15, PRO, Colonial Office, 5/556, 703-05.
Journal of H. M. Schooner St. John, Lieutenant William Grant 1
Augt. 1776 Amelia Island No Point W:N:W: 2 miles
Wedsdy 7. at ]/2 past 4 (A M) Saw a large Vessel riding in our stream
at the So end of Cumberland Island about 2 or 3 miles
distance, at 5 being light found her to resemble a Hulk Flat
or floating Battery full of men, wt a battery of 3 Gun ports
on an Angle with a large Mast 8c the Liberty Flagg flying
and some Boats about her We prepared for action, loaded
all the Guns with round 8c Grape Shot Do loaded the small
Arms Got up the Hand granadoes. At i/2 past 5 we perceived
her coming towards us with a Number of Boats towing
her 8c that she came up fast with us began to heave up dur-
ing this time, She fired 3 Shot which went past 8c near us
fired on[e] Shot at her, saw a Schooner 8c another small Ves-
sel wt several Boats come round the point after the Flat.
It being quite Calm Manned the Boats 8c Double Banked
the Oars & towed the Schooner off, hoisted our Colours 8c
fired 1 Gun at 8 with great difficulty we got over the
Barr at y2 past 9. We saw a great smoke and heard an Ex-
plosion over the No point of Amelia which we imagined to
be the Governor’s sloop blown up by Capt Graham at 1 1
Anchor’d of [f] the Bar, secured the Guns, Arms 8c Ammuni-
tion Lattd obsd 30°40' No
Little wind 8c fair Weather at i/2 past 4PM saw the Troops
upon Amelia Beach, brot to with her head to the So ward
sent the Boats ashore to bring the Troops on Board if they
chused to embark or give them what assistance we could,
they returned wt a Message of the Troops being in great
Distress for Provisions Sent the following Articles to them
Viz 1 Cask Flour; 1 Do Pork 8c 1 Do of Rum in the sloop
Rook at i/2 past 5PM reefed the Topsails 8c handed the
Main topsail 2
1. PRO, Admiralty 51/4330.
2. Ibid., the St. John had left her post at the mouth of St. Mary’s River and sailed for St. Au-
gustine, where she arrived August 16, 1776.
110
AMERICAN THEATRE
George Logan to Samuel Lawford 1
[Extract] St Augustine August 7 1776-
Dear Sir, I wrote you some Weeks ago by a vessel bound to Bristol,
which I hope came safe to hand as it informed you of our safe Arrival at
this place and of our Detention here, for want of a proper 8c good oppor-
tunity, but my Mother having applied to the Governor, he intends to
send us in a Vessel of his own, part of the Way, which will facilitate our
journey very much; so by the Politeness of the Governour, we may be
able to get away in a few Days. — Since I wrote you, I must tell you that
the Fleet destind to subdue So: Carolina has been totally defeated in the
following Manner — the Bristol 8c Experiment each of 50 Guns, the Active,
Actaeon , Solebay 8c Sphynx each of 28 and a Bomb were orderd to attack
a fort on Sullivants Island about 4 Miles from Charles Town; the first
fort they had to pass — Accordingly the pilot Sampson brought them too
800 yards from the Fort, a heavy hre commenced on both sides for 9 Hours,
when at length the Bristol (Sr Peter Parker’s Ship) having lost two of
[her] Masts, her Captn 8c 60 Men killed 8c many wounded; the Experiment
lost her Captain 8c 40 men killed and many wounded — And many Men
in the other Vessels killed 8c wounded, they thought proper to sheer
off with the Ebb Tide in the Evening in a most shattered Condition, and
had it not been for want of powder of which the Provincials had not
enought at the Fort, some of them must have been sunk, but they wasted
Powder for two Hours, and they ran away during that Interval. — during
the Action the Actaeon Frigate ran a shore and was burnt by order of
the Admiral — This Fort was commanded by Colonel [William] Moultrie
(Brother to the Lieutenant Governor of this place) and defended by
200 resolute Fellows, it mounts on the Front 30 twenty four Pounders,
but the British Fleet was so situated that they could work but 15 of them,
but it seems they managed these so well as to rend Destruction with every
Shot — Before the Action General Clinton had landed 1400 Men on the
Back of the Island in order to Attack the Fort in the rear, but [illegible]
they miscarried as General Lee was before hand with him and under-
stood the Country best. The Fort lost 10 Men, and had some few Wounded. -
Thus you see this great Armament fitted out by Lord Germain to
subdue the Rebels in So: Carolina after being off the Town 3 Weeks
was obliged to steer for Virginia in a most ignominious manner being
intirely conquer[e]d by few men 8c a Palmetto Cabbage Stalk and land
Battery — Had they gained this Battery, they had another larger 8c Stronger
to take before they could come near the Town which is well fortified
as I told you in my last — So may the Enemies of America perish — Suppose
you had heard this before, but I believe in a different Manner, but I have
Related the Truth and had it from people who were on Government side
and present at the Action - I doubt not but it makes now much Noise with
you 8c that some will say that the Carolinians can fight 8c manage a Cannon
AUGUST 1776
111
as well as Lord Cornwallis or Germain — however they may pay for it in
the End. . . .
1. Brown Book, IX, Md. Arch. An intercepted letter. Letter continued September 3, 1776.
Count d’Argout to Vice Admiral James Young 1
Sir, At Fort-Royal the 7 August 1776
According to the dispatch which your Excellency has just forwarded
to me, the 4th of this month, I see that the account given you by Captain
Chapman is not accurate.
The 27th of July last the Captain, being on land, noticed two
leagues to the Windward, west of the Point, a ship which maneuvered,
to come to anchor in the Roadstead of St. Pierre. He embarked forthwith,
cut his cables, weighed anchor and overtook the ship toward 9 P.M.
near Pointe du Precheur. The frigate, the Shark , bred first and after a
Combat of almost 3 quarters of an hour she desisted from fighting and
made for Pointe du Precheur, giving chase to a schooner up to the very
ports of our cannon. Since it was not known that the vessel she was
chasing was her dispatch boat, one of our batteries fired two rounds from
the cannon, which forced her to stand out to sea again, Meanwhile the
American sloop of war peaceably anchored in the roadstead at two o’clock
in the morning.
These are the facts according to which you should judge if the details
which were transmitted to you are indeed incomplete.
If your Excellency has made all efforts to maintain the amity and
good faith which must prevail between us, I surely have not neglected
my efforts to contribute to it. In this regard, I believe still that it was due
to a misunderstanding that one of your frigates on the 3rd of this month
fired two cannon shots into one of our Merchant ships flying its flag.
As for turning over to you the Bostonians frigate which has taken
refuge under the flag of the King my Master, I would consider myself
unworthy of His confidence if I acquiesced to such a request. Surely if
your Excellency knew me better you would not have asked it. I will content
myself with noting my surprise to you, age having taught me to speak
calmly of things which I feel with passion.
Such is my resolution, which you have no doubt already anticipated.
Moreover, I am going to send an account to my Master the King, sending
him your request, his orders on the subject, in such case, form the basis
for my conduct. I have the honor to be [8cc.]
D’argout
[Endorsed] Compte D’argout’s Answer to Vice Admiral Young’s Letter of
the 4th August 1776
1. PRO, Admiralty 1/309.
112
AMERICAN THEATRE
8 Aug.
Petition for a Commission for William Carleton to Command the
Massachusetts Privateer Schooner General Gates 1
To the Honorable the Council of the State of
Massachusetts Bay in New England,
The prayer of your Petitioner humbly Sheweth —
That they have fitted the Schooner called the General Gates in a
Warlike manner mounting Eight carriage Guns and carrying Forty men
whereof William Carlton is commander and John Gardner jun 8c Partners
are owners, with an intention of cruising and making Captures of the
Vessels belonging to the Enemies of the United States of America, therefore
to Effect said purposes your Petitioners humbly beg a Commission may
be granted to sd Carlton commander of sd Schooner to make captures
of such Vessels as are abovementioned
and as in duty bound your Petitioners shall every pray
William Carlton John Gardner Junr Benja Goodhue
Salem 8th August 1776
N.B. Thirty Bis Provissions
five hundred Weight of Gun Powder —
[Endorsed] In Com[m]ittee of Council Augt 9th 1776 Read 8c Order’d
that the above named Willm Carleton be com[m]issionated as Comr of
the Schr call’d Genl Gates, he complying with the Resolves of Congress 2
Jn° Avery Dpy Secy
1. Mass. Arch., vol. 165, 40.
2. On August 8 and 9 commissions were granted to John Tucker, schooner Harlequin, and
to John Gill, schooner Independence, ibid., 34, 35, 37. Owners of the Harlequin petitioned
the General Court for 500 pounds of gunpowder on August 29, ibid., vol. 210, 118.
Boston Committee of Correspondence, Inspection and Safety,
to the Massachusetts Council 1
May it please your Honors -
The Committee of Correspondence, Inspection 8c Safety for the Town
of Boston beg Leave to represent to your honourable Board that a
Complaint has been made to them “that a certain Briggantine lately a
Prize taken by some of the Continental Cruisers whereof one Pine 2
a Person inimical to these States is now Master, is in a very secret Manner
getting ready for the Sea at an obscure Part of the Harbour of Lynn
called the Pines” — a Situation peculiarly adapted for such a clandestine
Purpose as carrying off Prisoners of War 8c other disaffected Persons 8c very
contiguous to the Residence of the most capital [Tory] now among us —
It is unnecessary for this Committee to suggest to your Honors the
Danger to which the Departure of this Vessell might subject us — it
is too striking to need any Representations — We therefore pray your
Honors to give such Directions to the Committee of Lynn, in whose Name
AUGUST 1776
113
as well as our own we make this Application, as to your Wisdom shall
seem competent to remedy the Evil complained of —
By Order Sc in Behalf of the Committee
John Browne Chairman
[Endorsed] Reed at the Board Augt 8, 1776
In Committee of Council [Watertown] Augt 8, 1776 Read & Committed
to Richd Derby Esqr to inquire into the Subject Matter of this Memorial
and to make report and the Committee of Correspondence, Inspection
and Safety of the Town of Lyn are directed in the Mean Time to have a
strict Eye upon the Brigt. mentioned in this Memorial and not Suffer her to
depart untill due Enquiry can be made relative to this Matter —
Jn° Avery Dpy Secy
1. Mass. Arch., vol. 165, 36.
2. Only two prizes had been sent into Lynn, both brigs, the Jane and William. They had
been condemned and sold at Marblehead July 4 and July 18, respectively. Which of
these had a master named Pine is not evident. New-England Chronicle, June 20, June
27 and July 4, 1776.
Journal of the Massachusetts Council 1
[Watertown] Thursday - August 8th 1776 —
Ordered that the Comissary General be and he hereby is directed to
deliver out of the Colony Stores to Simeon Sampson Commander of
the Brig Independence , or to his Order the following Articles Vizt Six
Firkins Butter, four hundred Swivel Shott and Seven Swivel Guns -
1. Mass. Arch., vol. 19, 152.
William Jackson's Claim 1
The Claim of William Jackson who was a passenger on board the
Brigt Elizabeth Peter Ramsay masr bound from Boston to Halifax, taken
by Commodore Manly and others to the following Bills of Exchange Sc
Cash demanded out of his pockets, p order of Joshua Wentworth Esqr
Agent for the united states of America. -
1 Sett Bills drew by Jno Wentworth, on Jno Nelson
Esqr London 30 days sight dated 27 Feby 1776
Sterling
Value — <£ 60. .0. .0
1 Sett ditto drew by Wm Dinkinson on Messrs Bow-
man Sc Robinson London, 30 days sight dated 26
march 1776 in favr of Nicholas Horsenail, and by
him Endorsed value 10..0..0
1 Sett ditto, drew by Thomas Bamford on Stephen
Bamford Esqr, Ireland, 30 days sight, dated 14th Feby
A D 1776 value — 30 - English
1 Sett ditto drew by William Wetherston on Alexr
Charles Esqr London, 30 days sight dated 19th Septr
1775 value 34.. 1.. 9
114
AMERICAN THEATRE
1 Sett ditto, drew by Nicholas Horsenail on the Com-
missioners of the Navy London 30 days sight dated
27th March 1776 value 25
Total amt in Sterlg money is £159. . 1 . .9
Cash, as follows (vizt)
56 mild dollars
6/
16.16. .0
2 Cobb ditto
0.12. .0
38 Crowns
6/8
12.13. .4
6 half Crowns
3/4d
1 . .
17 Pistareens
1. .0. .5
32. .1. .9
25 Engs shillings
l/4d
1.13. .4
331^4 dollars
l/6d
2. .9. .6
1/2 Guinea
0.14. .0
Lawful my
£ 36.18. .7
Boston Augst 8, 1776
Copy Examd by Jona M Sewall Cler
Errors Excepted William Jackson
Suffolk ss Augst 8, 1776 William Jackson made oath to the truth of the
aforegoing Claim before me -
Joseph Greenleaf Just peace
1. Revolutionary War Prize Cases, Court of Appeals, 1776-1787, NA.
John Bradford to John Hancock 1
Dear Sir Boston 8th Augst 1776
Your favour of the 25th. ultimo. I last night Received, have the honour
of Receiving my Commission under your Signature, for which [illegible]
under the highest Obligations, and shall make it my chief Study to conduct
with that Rectitude which may meet the Approbation of my constituents
The arrival of the Commission will set matters to rights I hope.2
it gives your freinds the highest pleasure to hear you enjoy so much health,
may it be Continued for important blessings, so wishes Dear sir Your
[&c.]
Jn Bradford
no Auctioneer has been Applied to or any deputy thought on As you Sir
gave me an Early hint you shou’d mention thi[s.]
1. Walter Fuller Don Collection, SI.
2. Bradford had the commission published in the New-England Chronicle , August 15, 1776.
John Bradford to Robert Morris 1
Sir Boston 8th Augst 1776
Your much Esteem’d favour under the 30th July, is Before me, am
much Oblig’d by the Concern you’ve express for the inconvenience. I’ve
been put too for the want of money, you need not have made the least
AUGUST 1776
115
Apology Sir As I am very thoroughly convinc’d of the Rectitude of your
intentions, and shou’dn’t wonder if in the multiplicity and the very
important matters which must engage all your Attention you should have
forgot me. Which the Letter you Refer to convinces you had not,2
I saw Capt [William] Bartlet and [Jonathan] Glover the day after I
Reed that Ltr. and communicated that part to them, they tell me (as I
wrote the Worthy president) that they shall on the Settlement of their
Accounts, have a Ballance to Receive, General Washington having taken
so Great a part of the Cargo’s out of their hands 3
I have been under a Necessity of Borrowing Money, and shall be
obliged still to borrow: if an Oppertunity shou’d offer of sending along
the money it wou’d be very Acceptable seeing I cant Obtain dra[f]ts on
philada
I wish you and your friends a continuance of your health in this
very hot Season, being with all due Respect Sir [8cc.]
Jn° Bradford
1. Papers of Robert Morris, Accession 1805, LC.
2. At that time Morris was a member of three standing committees of the Continental Congress:
Marine, Secret, and Secret Correspondence.
3. As his appointment had superseded the agencies of the men appointed in 1775 to take
care of the prizes brought in by Washington’s schooners, Bradford had made an un-
successful effort to secure money which might be in their hands. See William Bell Clark,
George Washington’s Navy (Baton Rouge, 1960), 170-73.
New-England Chronicle, Thursday, August 8, 1776
[Boston, August 8]
To be Sold by Auction, At the House of Mr. Benjamin Burdick,
in Marblehead, the 29th Instant, The Ship Ann, with her Boats and
Appurtenances. Also a Quantity of Bread, and many other Articles.
William Watson to George Washington 1
Sir- Plymouth 8th. August 1776
Capt [Sion] Martindale, the bearer of this will Inform your Excel-
lency that he, when he was about to sail in the Continental arm’d Brig-
antine the Washington, was obligd to draw on the Agent, for sundry
Articles in the Cloathing way, (for the use of his people who were almost
naked, and without which they co’d not go to sea) amounting to £ 80
L Money, which were delivd 8c by Capt Martindale charged to such persons
as reed them.
Capt Martindale, had taken from him, his Books & all the papers
which related to this matter, 8c can not tell to whom, or in what proportion,
the sd goods were deliver’d
I have conducted as Agent with Integrity, and with a View to the
public good, 8c flatter my self that my services have been approved,2 8c
that your Excellency will not let me suffer by this unexpected event 8c
116
AMERICAN THEATRE
that your Excellency will please to direct, in what manner I shall be reim-
burst. - I am with great Respect [8cc.]
William Watson
1. Washington Papers, LC.
2. Watson had been appointed by Washington as agent at Plymouth. He served until superseded
by the Congressional appointment of John Bradford as Continental Agent for Massa-
chusetts.
Journal of the Massachusetts Sloop Tyrannicide, Captain John Fisk 1
1 [A. M.]
2
6
11
12
1 [P. M.]
9
Remks on Thursday 8th of August 1776
Calm
Down all sails
Light Airs of wind 8c Cloudy weather
Saw a sail barring SE gave Chaise
Exercizd Cannon and small Arms
Lattd in 35d 9 m [Longd] in 62d 47m
Moderate breaze [8c] pleasant weather the
Chaise to the westward
freash breaze and squally
1. John Fisk Journal, AAS.
Application for Letters of Marque and Reprisal for the
Rhode Island Privateer Sloop Montgomery 1
Sir, Providence August 8th. 1776
We the Subscribers all of Providence in the State of Rhode-Island
and Providence Plantations, Merchants, request your Honor to grant
a Commission, or Letters of Marque and Reprisal to William Rhodes
Commander of the Private Sloop of War Montgomery of which we are
Owners,2 She is burthened about Sixty Tons, carries Ten Carriage Guns
Four Pounders and Two Pounders, and Ten Swivel Guns, manned with
Sixty Men, and fitted with a suitable Quantity of Muskets, Blunderbusses,
Cutlasses, Pistols, Powder, Ball and other Military Stores. She hath on
board Twenty barrels Beef and Pork Forty Hundred-weight of Bread, Two-
barrels of Flour, with some Rice, Beans, Pottatoes 8cc. Samuel Warner -is
First Lieutenant, Thomas Ruttenber Master and Joseph Bucklin junr.
Second Lieutenant. We are with great Respect Sir [8cc.]
D Laurence Wm Rhodes
Jos: Bucklin John Smith
1. R. I. Arch.
2. Continental Instructions were issued the same day along with the commission. The former
bear Rhodes’s acknowledgment, as follows: “Providence August 8th 1776 I acknowledge
the foregoing to be a true Copy of the Instructions delivered me this Day by his
Honor the Governor, with my Commission, or Letters of Marque and Reprisal, as
Commander of the Private Sloop of War Montgomery. William Rhodes.” Ibid., Maritime
Papers, Revolutionary War, 1776-1783. A manuscript of a song for the Montgomery (see
illustration) , undated, but probably issued at the time of the commissioning, is in RIHS
Mss., vol. 13, and reads:
AUGUST 1776
117
Come all you young fellows of Currage So Bold
Come Enter on Bord and we will Cloth you with gold
Come Repair umto Providence and their you Shall find
A Sloop Called the mount gomery Shall Pleasure your minds —
She is all Rigecl and fited and So neatly trimd
She Is molded Like ware work and She Sails Like the wind
She has all things Convenient and fit for our Design
god Prosper the mount gomery for She Sails Like the wind--
Capt Rhods he Commands hur and He Calls hur his one
He will breeze her abought me boys before he Comes home
their is Hussions and helanders and Englishmen Like wise
we Will make prisees of them all me boys Until the Day that we Dy —
Nathaniel Shaw, Jr.’s Account of Receipt and Distribution of
Goods from Commodore Esek Hopkins 1
1776
April 19
22 Contg.
Received of Admiral Hopkins
30 Bolts duck N 1 & 2 /viz No 1. 14 bolts 561 Yd
No 2. 15 bolts 6011^ Yds
No 4. 1 do 40
9 . . 1 . . 20 Iron Bolts &c
34 Cannon wt. 1243 . . 1 . 26 lb
229 Carrige Weels 192. .0. .27
1159 Cartrages
30 Ramers Worms & Spunges
104 lb Copper Ladles 5 do wht 27 lb
2 Large Morters 8. .0. .4
8 Small ditto 10 . . 0 . . 0 2 beds for do 6 of do
Iron Mounted
6 Smaller ditto 1. .0.23 1 Brass Howet (Crack’d)
4198 hand granardoes & Sheels 24.8.3.0 lb
Copper Hoops Wt 910 lb
1700 Eighteen pound Shott
1100 Twelve ditto
2297 Nine ditto
. sent
to
> N.Y.
as p
- Receipt
1260 Six ditto sum of them are 4 lb
4 Thirty two do 13 Doublehead & Sliding
3 . . 0 . .20 old Iron.
28 lb Leaden Approns
20 lb Copper plates
21 . .3.12 lb Bread from Bomb Brig
28 lb Copper hoops
35 lb Old Copper
13 Wormers
9 Carriage Wheels 7 Ct
11. .0.21 Old Iron
783 Nine pound Shott
118
AMERICAN THEATRE
1776
Augst 8
33 Eighteen do
640 Nine do
Carriage Gunns wth their apurtinances from Boomb Brig
d[elivere]d Capt Hacker
Reed <£ 294. . 18/ from Prosper Withmore
Reed £ 328
622.18
1 Brass Howet & 2 Carriages p David Harris to Ezek Chevers
as p Rect
80 Six pound Shott del Oliver Cromwell
181 Four pound ditto to the Defence
And to Whome delivered.
9 . . 1 . . 20 Iron Bolts &c to Samel Latimer charged to S Latimer
3 . . 0 . . 20 ditto — charged to Mess Ledyard
6 Leaden Aprons wt 28 lb
20 Copper plates for the Trunions of the Cannon
wt 18 lb
50 Eighteen pound shott 200 ditto
50 Twelve pound ditto 200 ditto
10 Cannon wt 392 .2.17
40 Carrage Wheels wt 32.1. 24
2 Copper Ladles 12 lb & 14 Ramers worms 8cc Dd Coin Salton-
stall
76 Cartridges 18 pounders Do
21 . .3.12 Bread from the bomb Brig deld Brig Andr
Groton
Do
50
50
15
30
5
3
4
2
200
40
50
300
47
6
24
Dore charged
for Groton
for Groton
Cartriges 18 pounders
do 12 pounders
do 12 pounders
Nine pound Shott
Copper Ladles wt 30 lb
Wormers, 5 Ramers & Spunges
Cannon Nine pounders 75. .0.20 "1 for Row Gaily
Copper Ladles wt 8i/2 lb J Capt Stanton
Eighteen pound Shott fort at Mamecock
Nine pound Shott 30 Cartrages for Row Gaily Capt
Stanton
Ditto do 5 do ditto deld do for ditto deld ditto
Eighteen pound Shott for fort at Mamecock
Twelve pound ditto for do —
Cannon 308. .0. .6 1 .. , , . .
Carriage Wheels wt 19.. 3.. 9 j t0 1 a e p la
for the 12 pounders on travel-
3 Copper Ladles wt 15 lb
6 Wormers & 4 Spunges
ing Carriges dl Col Salton-
stfall]
L .2. .4 old Iron deld N. S.
’*** St*.
^Jf0***£ 4
Manuscript of a Song for the Montgomery.
120
AMERICAN THEATRE
3 Nine pound Cannon wt 56. .1.15
2 Copper Ladles wt 9 lb
4 Wormer’s Ramers Sc Spunges
9. .2. .17
2 do del Hacker in
the Hampden for
j Roe Gaily
Capt Tinker
old Iron deld John Rolles for Langurage for
Fort N S
30 four pound Shott Row Gaily the Whiting Capt McCleave
3 double headed Shott wt 9 lb 1 Jr -n • n u *
oo i i ^ , T r , t / [ delivered] Brig Cabot
22 hand Granadoes lnc[h]l/2 J
50 Nine pound Shott ^ for Roe Gaily
100 Six pound ditto j Capt Tinker
500 12 Sc 275 18 pound
Cartrages
Fort Trumbull dd
N Saltonstall
for Fort at Groton
4 Wormers Sc Staffs Sc
2 Ramers Sc Spunges
250 Eighteen pound Shott
250 Twelve pound ditto
9 Wormers without Staffs dd N Saltonstall for
Fort Trumbull
Copper Hoops on Nine barl wt 71i/£ 1 deld Colony
Copper Hoops 7H/9 J Ship
36
36
50 Nine pound Cartrages del Colony Ship
1 Copper Ladle for a hand pump dd the Ship 7i/£ lb
1 1 1/2 lb Copper plates 2y4 do Copper Hoops for do.
4 Copper Ladles 24 lb deld Ledyard for Groton
200 Six Sc 100 Nine pound Shott deld Wm Latham for
Stonington
1. Shaw Papers, Book 38, YUL.
Brigadier General Benedict Arnold to
Major General Philip Schuyler 1
[Extract] Skenesborough, 8 August 1776
Capt: Varick has been very active and industrious in procuring the
Articles for the Navy many are arrived at Tyonderoga, and proper Steps
taken to procure the others. - The Carpenters go on with great Spirit -
The eight Gondalos will be compleated in a few days - One Row Galley is
gone to Tyonderoga, and will soon be fitted and armed, three others will
be launched in ten days or a fortnight - Four others will be set up in a
few days - great part of the timber being cut— Iron, Sails, Cordage and
Anchors will be wanted in a few days about two tons of the former is
here, and Six Tons will be wanted to compleat the Gallies in hand Twelve
or fifteen Tons will be necessary for the Gallies to be set up It will ex-
pedite the Building if Six or eight Tons can be sent up In Spikes from five
to Seven Inches long chiefly about Six Inches -
This afternoon I return to Tyonderoga, & in a few days propose to go
down the Lake with the vessels compleated, about ten Sail -
1. Washington Papers, LC.
AUGUST 1776
121
“Extract of a letter from a Gentleman off Fort Washington, to
his Friend in this City [New York], dated August 8, 1776.” 1
On the Morning of the 4th Instant, I gave you a short Account of
our Brush with the Phoenix and Rose Men of War, off Tarry-town, on
Saturday last. Give me now leave to add thereto the following remarks:
The Force with which we were to attack these Ships being entirely
inferior to theirs, our Dependence, under Providence, was to find them,
or force them, into such a Situation as they could not bring their Broad-
sides to bear upon our Gallies; and indeed in this Situation the Phoenix
was, about twelve Hours before we got up to her, being at that Time
fast aground; but before we could reach them, both Ships were entirely
clear, with Springs out upon their Cables, and their Broadsides ready
to engage us. Let me observe here that this was not at any Time the Case
with the Frigates that were attacked by our Gondolas at Philadelphia;
which makes all odds: For had the Tide or the Channel prevented the
Phoenix and the Rose bringing Springs upon their Cables and their Broad-
sides to bear, our Gallies would, no doubt, have managed them in our River
without much Difficulty. But our gallant Commander was determined to
exchange a few Shots with them at all events. The Enterprize was worthy
a People contending for their dearest Rights: For it is a Fact that the
Ground-tier of even one Side of the Phoenix, was equal to all the Force of
our Gallies put together. Judge then — let the World - let our Enemies
judge, if the Sons of Connecticut and Rhode-Island, from which States our
Gallies were almost wholly officered and manned, did not behave with a
Spirit and Intrepidity becoming the Descendants of such noble Ancestors,
in fighting, for two Hours, an Enemy of at least four Times their Force. —
O! ye despicable ministerial Bawlers! - it could only have entered into
such servilly dastard Souls as your own, to believe that the brave Americans
were Cowards.
We expect e’er many days to have another strike at them upon a
more advantageous Footing; when I hope to give you a more pleasing
Relation. To [ha]ve six Galleys within the Distance of Grape Shot from
the Broadsides of a British Frigate and a Ship of the Line, for the Space of
two Hours, and to loose but two Men, is highly deserving our Admiration
and Gratitude. All our wounded Men, except one, are likely to do well.
I have been to see them and find that they are taken the greatest Care
of. The Commanders of the galleys are anxious to finish this Business,
so as to join you at New-York before any Attack may be made there.
1. New-York Gazette , August 12, 1776.
Memoirs of Major General William Heath 1
[New York, August] 8th. — A row-galley and two fire-sloops went up the
river. It was intended to attempt burning the British ships in Tappan
Bay.
1. Abbatt, ed.. Heath Memoirs, 44.
122
AMERICAN THEATRE
New-York Journal, Thursday, August 8, 1776
New York, August 8.
Tuesday last arrived Capt. M’Kay from St. Eustatia, with a cargo
of rum, sugar, fruit, &c. having met with none of his Majesty’s cruisers in
the voyage, till he made Block Island, on his homeward bound passage,
when he was chased by two frigates, but being near the shore, soon got
out of their reach -
Vice Admiral Richard Lord Howe to Philip Stephens 1
Number 3. Eagle off of Staten Island
Sir, August the 8th 1776.
By the Detention of the Sandwich Packet I am enabled to inform
You of the Arrival of a great part of the dispersed Transports from the
Clyde. Some of them had been separated early from the Flora in bad
Weather by the Misconduct of the Masters, as Captain [John] Brisbane
represents; And others, subsequent to his Arrival with them off of Boston,
in the very foggy Weather he met with on his passage from thence.
The Brune separated from Commodore Hotham, and the Niger with
the Light Horse from Halifax, are also arrived here.
On the 2d of this Month the Solebay, Thunder Bomb and Saint
Laurence Schooner, with the Transports carrying the 15th, 28th, 33d,
37th, 46th, 54th, and part of the 4th and 44th Regiments; The Ordnance
and Victualling Transports from South Carolina; And the Boreas with the
50th Regiment in three Transports from Jamaica; joined the Fleet.
The Renown with the Transports part of the Flora's Convoy which
had put into Halifax; the Malaga mentioned in my first Letter, and another
of the Transports belonging to the Hessian Embarkation, which had also
proceeded for that Rendezvous after their Separation from Commodore
Hotham, arrived here the fifth Instant. The Dispatch Schooner, which
came from Halifax with this Convoy and separated from it the 13th past,
is still missing.2 They sailed from Halifax the 3d of last Month.
Commissioner Arbuthnot acquaints me by that Opportunity, that the
Jersey Hospital Ship put into Halifax the 8th past: The Commander
having been obliged by the Weakness of the Ship, to order her Anchors
to be cut from her Bows in the bad Weather he met with on his passage
out, and to throw over board the Flat Boat he was charged with.
The enclosed Copy of Commodore Hotham’s Letter to Vice Admiral
Shuldham of the 24th of June will inform their Lordships of the Commo-
dore’s proceedings and Intentions at that Period. The Brune sent
with his Letters to Halifax, joined him again a few Days after, and pro-
ceeded with him on his Way to this Port, until the 19th of last Month:
But then separated from him in Chase. Since that time, when he was
supposed to be about eighty Leagues to the Eastward, I have not had the
Satisfaction to receive any further Intelligence from him.
Captain [Charles] Thompson 3 sailed three Days since for Jamaica,
with no other Restraint upon his immediate Return to that Island,
AUGUST 1776
123
except the Charge of two Transports, which he was to see one hundred and
fifty Leagues to the Eastward of this port on their Voyage to Cork to bring
Provisions for the Army.
Their Lordships will see in the Dispatches from Sir Peter Parker,
(of which I have added a Copy from that sent for my Information by
the Solebay ) the State of the Ships that have been employed on the Expedi-
tion under his Command: and also the Disposition he has made of the
Ships left to the Southward.
I shall wait ’till I have seen the Commodore, before I trouble their
Lordships with any Propositions respecting the purpose for which those
Ships have been so appointed: The Condition of the Sloops particularly,
seeming such as will disqualify them for any essential Service.
The Army continuing in the same Situation as mentioned in my last,
leaves me no Room to make any Addition to this Letter concerning the
particular Services that may be required of the Naval Force assembled at
this Port. I am Sir [&c.]
Howe
1. PRO, Admiralty 1/487.
2. The Dispatch , Lieutenant John Goodridge, was taken July 12, 1776 by the Massachusetts
state sloop Tyrannicide, Captain John Fisk, and sent into Salem.
3. Captain of H.M.S. Boreas.
Journal of Captain Henry Duncan, R.N.1
[On board H.M.S. Eagle off Staten Island]
8th [August]. — Saw a canoe coming bom the shore. Sent and brought
her on board with four riflemen that had left the rebels. During the
time we have been here, we have observed the rebels very busy in
erecting batteries, fitting out row galleys, and making large and high build-
ing of wood to sink in the river to destroy the navigation above the town:
the row galley and floating batteries have been sent several times against
the Phoenix and Rose , but we hear they have always been beat off with
loss.
1. The Journals of Captain Henry Duncan, Navy Records Society (London, 1902), XX, 120-21.
Hereafter cited as Duncan’s Journals.
Major Francis Hutcheson to Major General Frederick Haldimand 1
[Extract] Camp at the Watering Place on
Dear Sir Statten Island August 8th 1776
I wrote to you the 28th of last Month by a Ship to Ireland and
now take the oppertunity of the Packet to acquaint you of the arrival
of General Clinton from South Carrolina with Seven Regiments Vizt
15th, 28th, 33d, 37th, 46th, 54th, 57th the[y] got into sandy Hook
the first Instt with two Ships of the Guards, and three of the Hessians
that parted Company from Commodore Hothams fleet, some time ago, and
put into Halifax; a Colonel Rluck Commands the Hessians, he speaks some
English, & seems to wish to speak it better, one of the Ships that has their
124
AMERICAN THEATRE
Rifle Men on board, fell in with & took a large Sloop bound from Phila-
delphia to France, loaded with Flour, they brought her to Halifax, where
she is Condemned, and will be sold for their Account; the Rebells have
several privateers at Sea, that have taken some West India Men home-
ward bound that are great prizes for them . . .
Our Army are in great Health 8c Spirits, and I beleive we wait only
being Joined by the Hessians, to do something of Consiquence, as soon
as they arrive 8c are Brigaded, I will send you the line of Battle — The
Phenix 8c Rose men of War are still about 40 Mile up the North River,
but We have no Cummunication with them as yet, 8c have no doubt but
Numbers of the Country People have got on board of them for Refuge
who are friends to Government. We have Just now heard, that they At-
tacked the Ships last Saterday, with five floating Batterys, which were
drove back with great loss. . . . [Charles] Lee is on his March back
from South Carrol ina and will incurrage them in every Villany when
he arrives - Sir Peter Parker is not as yet got in his Ship the Bristol is
under Jury Masts - General Clinton with the transports parted from him,
soon after the[y] Sailed from Charlestown — We in the Qr Master General
Department are hard at Work. We have built ten large Battoes that will
carry each (with Ease) 100 Men Armed 8c Accoutered, and are still going
on; as they are flat bottomed, like those we had on the Lakes last War,
I think they will answer better than those sent from England. We have
already Coaftorn] sufficient to make a first landing of Six thousand Men,
with fifty ps of Ordnance ready Mounted, which will go on shore on plat-
forms laid on three Cannoes,- Each with a frunt to let down like the
Scows, on which the Guns will be run off on the shore — It is most
amazing what can keep Commodore Hothams fleet, we have had these
ten days past the finest Winds that can blow for them. The Packet is
in orders to sail tomorrow Morning, but I beleive she will be kept ready
to push off the Moment that fleet appears. I will keep this Letter open to
the last Moment in hopes to acquaint you of it
Governor Tryon is very well he is on board his Ship Dutches of Gordon ,
he desired me to present his Compliments to you when I wrote, he seems
very grave and I fear is not well pleased, his Consiquence is rather
Eclipsed by the Number of great folks we have now among us . . .
Lord [Charles] Cornwallis, General [John] Vaughan and Governor
Martin came with the fleet from the Southward. We have too many great
Men togather, to agree well long, there must be seperate Commands made
for them, none think themselves unequal to the task, by the orders of
Yesterday Genl Clinton is to Command the first line 8c Lord [Hugh]
Percy the Second line of the Army, but the Barron De He[i]ster when he
comes, will be Second in Command to General Howe. . . .-
1. Haldimand Papers, BM.
2. Ibid., Hutcheson wrote another letter to Haldimand on August 12: “I have now the pleasure
to acquaint you of the long wished for arrival of Commodore Hotham with the fleet
from England . . . Before the arrival of the foraign troops or the Guards, We had
12361 Rank & file fit for Duty.”
AUGUST 1776
125
Continental Commission of Captain Stephen Cleveland 1
In Congress.
The delegates of the United colonies of New Hampshire, Massachu-
setts Bay, Rhode Island, Connecticut, New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania,
the Counties of New-Castle, Kent 8c Sussex on Delaware, Maryland, Vir-
ginia, North Carolina, South Carolina and Georgia, to
Stephen Cleveland Esquire.
We resposing especial trust and confidence in your patriotism, valor
conduct 8c fidelity; Do by these presents constitute 8c appoint you to be
Captain of the Armed Brigt called the Despatch , in the service of the
Thirteen United Colonies of North America, fitted out for the defence of
American liberty, and for repelling every hostile invasion thereof. You
are therefore carefully 8c diligently to discharge the duty of Captain by
doing 8c performing all manner of things thereunto belonging. And we
do strictly charge 8c require all Officers, Marines 8c Seamen under your
command to be obedient to your orders as Captain. And you are to
observe 8c follow such orders 8c directions from time to time, as you
shall receive from this, or a future Congress of the United Colonies, or
Committee of Congress, for that purpose appointed, or Commander in
Chief for the time being of the Navy of the United Colonies, or any
other your superior officer, according to the rules 8c discipline of War,
the usage of the Sea, and the instructions herewith given you in pur-
suance of the trust reposed in you. This Commission to continue in force,
until revoked by this, or a future Congress.
By order of Congress.
John Hancock, President.
Dated at Philadelphia, August 8, 1776.
Attest. Chas. Thomson, Secy.
1. George Cleveland Journal, El.
John Hancock to George Washington 1
[Extract] Philadelphia, August 8th 1776
Sir Your letters of the 7 with the papers enclosed are received and now
under consideration of Congress.
Enclosed I send you a resolution passed respecting lieutenant [James]
Josiah. He was first lieutenant of captain Nicholas Biddle 8c was taken in
a ship capt Biddle had made prize of, by the Cerberus Frigate
By a letter which he found means to convey, he informs that “he is
used worse than he ever thought one englishman could use another — that
he was sent before the mast with the rest, but upon refusing to do duty
was given under the charge of three boatswain’s mates, & expects the gang-
way soon, as he is daily threatened.” . . .
You will please to mention the matter of Lieut Josiah as real infor-
mation, but not discover that it was by Letter, as it may prove injurious,
in case he is not Exchang’d.
1. Washington Papers, LC.
126
AMERICAN THEATRE
Henry Tudor to the Pennsylvania Council of Safety1
[Extract]
. . . your Pettitioner is a Regular bred Pilot for this River 8c Bay,
and also Acquaintd with the Coast, as may Appear by Certificate Annex’d
from, under the hands of Several Gentlemen 8c Repectable Citizens of
Philadelphia.
That Your Pettitioner is desirous of Serving his Country in the Gen-
eral Cause of Liberty, and hopes Your Honours will think him Worthy
being Appointed Pilot of the Province Ship Montgomery - Commanded
by Commodore Samuel Davison which Charge your Pettitioner will En-
deavour to Perform, with the best of his Abilities 8c is with true Respect
and Esteem, Your, Honours [8cc.]
Henry Tudor
[Philadelphia, August 8, 1776] 2
1. Gratz Autograph Collection, Case 5, Box 27, HSP.
2. As Tuder was appointed to the post requested on August 9, 1776, it is a safe assumption
that his undated petition was prepared the day before. Pennsylvania Colonial Records,
X, 679.
Journal of the Virginia Council of Safety 1
[Williamsburg] Thursday August 8th 1776.
Resolved that Francis Lennis, Master of the Sloop Eagle, belonging
to Richard James, be permitted to trade in the sd Sloop, laden with ten
hogsheads of Tobacco and two hundred Barrels of Flour at the Island of
Saint Croix, or any other port allowed of by Congress, according to the
regulations by them prescribed, the said Francis Lennis entered into and
acknowledged Bond with Security for that purpose which is ordered to be
filed.
1. Mcllwaine, ed., Journals of the Virginia Council, I, 113.
9 Aug.
Essex Journal and Neiv Hampshire Packet, Friday, August 9, 1776
Newbury Port, August 9.
On Wednesday last was carried into Portsmouth, by the Hancock Priva-
teer, who sailed from Philadelphia, a large three deck’d ship named the Re-
ward, of between 5 and 600 tons burthen, she was a 20 gun ship last war, in
the service of the British King, she was from Tortola, bound to London,
and had on board between 10 and 11 hundred hogsheads of Sugar, 86 hogs-
heads of Rum, 12 Bales of Cotton, 9 Cannon, and some Brass ditto -There
were on board said ship, a number of Turtle directed to Lord North, with
his name cut in the shell, the best of which, Capt. Wingate Newman, Master
of the Privateer, is determined to send to the Hon. John Hancock.
The Public having been only transiently informed of the capture of the
Privateer Brig Yankee-Hero, of this Port, of which James Tracy was late
AUGUST 1776
127
commander; as her engagement with the Milford Frigate was a bold action
and well conducted, considering her unavoidable situation, you may if you
please Mr. Printer give the following narrative of it, chiefly collected from
those who were in the engagement.
Captain James Tracy sailed from Newbury Port the 7th of June in the
Yankee-Hero for Boston, with 26 men only, including officers; this number
was not a quarter of his complement; he was provisioned for a six months
cruize, and was to take in the remainder of his men at Boston; the after-
noon he went out, going round Cape Ann he observed a sail in the Offing,
but in his situation did not think of looking after her: Two boats full
manned with their musquets, who had put out after the sail came on board,
and informed him a number of transports had been close in with the Cape
that day - 14 men from the two boats joined him, and sent their boats on
shore; he had now 40 hands in the whole (only a third his complement) with
these he put away for the sail which bore E.S.E. about 5 leagues distance, the
wind being then Westerly; at 6 miles distance they perceived her to be a
ship, and soon from her management to be a ship of war. As a contest with
her must have been very unequal, Capt. Tracy who intended to make a har-
bor that night, ordered the brig to be put about for the shore not then sus-
pecting the ship could come up with him; but he had not tacked 10 minutes
before the Westerly wind died away, and the ship taking a fresh southerly
breeze came fast in, endeavouring to cut the brig off from the shore: After
some time the ship thus getting in the wake of the brig, the wind again came
fresh to the westward upon which the brig hawled to the wind in the best
angle for the shore; the ship gave chase, and in an hour came up within half
a mile and began to fire her bow chasers which the brig only answered with
a swivel, Capt. Tracy reserving his whole hre, until the ship, keeping a con-
stant fire, came up within pistol shot upon his lee quarter, when the brig
gave her the best return they could make from their main and quarter deck
guns, swivels, and small arms, and after then, kept up a constant fire: The
ship was soon up along side, and with 12 nine pounders of a side, upon one
deck, besides forecastle and quarter deck guns, and with her marines, over-
looking the brig as high as her leading blocks, kept a continual fire, after
some time the ship hawled her wind so close, (which obliged the brig to do
the same) that Capt Tracy was unable to fight his lee guns, upon this he
backed under her stern, but the ship which sailed much faster, and worked
as quick, had the advantage and brought her broadside again upon him,
which he could not evade; and in this manner they lay not a hundred feet
from each other, yawing to and fro, for an hour and twenty minutes, the pri-
vateers men valiantly maintaining their quarters against such a superior
force. About this time the ships foremost guns beginning to slack fire;
Capt. Tracy tacked under her stern, and when clear of the smoak and fire,
perceived his rigging to be most shockingly cut, yards flying about without
braces, some of his principal sails shot to rags and half his men to appear-
ance dying, and wounded -
128
AMERICAN THEATRE
Mr. Main, his first lieut. was among the first wounded, and Mr. Davis
one of the Prize Masters, fell in the last attack. In this situation they went
to work to refit the rigging and to carry the wounded below, the ship having
then taken a broad sheer some way off, and none of her guns bearing; but
before they could get their yards to rights, which they zealously tried for in
hopes still to get clear of the ship, as they were now nearer in shore, or to
part from her under the night she again came up and renewed the attack,
which obliged Capt. Tracy to have recourse to his guns again, though he
still kept some hands aloft to his rigging, but before the brig had again fired
two broadsides, Capt. Tracy received a wound in his right thigh and in a
few minutes he could not stand; he laid himself over the arm chest and bar-
ricadoe, determined to keep up the fire, but in a short time from pain and
loss of blood, he was unable to command, growing faint, and they helped
him below; as soon as he came too, he found his bring had ceased, and his
people round him wounded, and having not a Surgeon with them, in a most
distressed situation, most of them groaning, some expiring- Struck severe-
ly with such a spectacle, Capt. Tracy ordered his people to take him up in a
chair upon the quarter deck, and resolved again to attack the ship, which
was all this time keeping up her fire; but after getting into the air, he was
again so faint, that he was for some time unable to speak, and Ending no al-
ternative, but they must be taken or sunk, for the sake of the brave men that
remained, he ordered them to strike to the ship. Thus was this action main-
tained upwards of two hours in a low single deck’d vessel, with not half the
metal the ship had, against an English Frigate, whose navy had been the
dread of nations, and by a quarter the number of people in the one as the
other, yet the victors exulted as though they had overcome a force as much
superior as this was inferior to them. The brig had four men killed and thir-
teen wounded including officers, the number in the Milford wounded, is not
known, though there were some. The deprivation of these brave officers
and men is to be regretted by all friends to this country -With justice to
Capt. [John] Bur[r] of the Milford , it must be acknowledged, he treated
them with humanity and politeness the officers and men that were wounded;
but to the eternal disgrace of Britain, and the present king and parliament,
let it be recorded, that in this very action above related, upwards of thirty
Americans (prisoners in Milford) were forced at the forfeit of their lives to
fight against their countrymen, and the officers and men of the Yankee
Hero, that were not wounded, are now detained in several of their ships,
and may meet with the same cruel fate — an exaction, that even Savages have
not been known to require. It is to the credit of the Hero's men, that not
one would enter upon the ship’s books, though not only urged by every
persuasion, but by threats.
Capt. James Tracy, and Mr. Main his first lieutenant, we hear, are like-
ly to do well of their wounds, though they mend but slowly; they and the
other wounded men are at Halifax; twelve of the Hero's men were kept on
board the Milford - Mr. Robert Tracy his second lieutenant, and the rest of
the brig’s company, are on board the Renown Commodore [Francis] Banks.
AUGUST 1776
129
Journal of the Massachusetts Sloop Tyrannicide, Captain John Fisk 1
2 [A. M.]
8
10
12
1 [P. M.]
7
Remks on Friday 9th of August 1776
Steady breaze and Cloudy
Down all sails saw nothing of our Chaise
Stood SW in hopes to git sight of her
Carpenter Employd fishing top mast
Lattd in 34d 21m Longd in 6 Id. 31m
Small breaze of wind and Rainy weather
Light Airs of wind Cloudy weather
1. John Fisk Journal, AAS.
Journal of the Rhode Island Sloop Independence ,
Captain Jabez Whipple 1
Remarks on fryday August th 9: 1776
a 10 AM Saw 3 Sail Steering to go N E 2 sqr Rigd won Sloop the sloop
Being a head put a Bout Stood to the others AM put a[bout] a Stood after
them Being two Legus to winderd mad the Best Way After them .Lattd
plesent nothing more remarkabell on this sid a Good Obezsevation
Lattd by Oz 34:46 Longd in 59:30
This first part of this 24 hours Begins With plesent Still in Chase As
formentioned At 6 P M Came up with the Sloop Brume It provd to be
Captn Knot with 2 prises Won a snow and the other a Brigg 2 Middle Vry
Light Brezes and plesant Smouth Sea
1. Independence Journal, RIHS.
2. The Connecticut privateer sloop Broome, William Nott commander.
Connecticut Gazette , Friday, August 9, 1776
New-London, August 9.
Capt. William Chace, sent into Newport, last Monday, a Ship from
Dominica, bound to England with 300 Hogsheads of Sugar and 100 Barrels
of Oil.1 And we hear that another Prize Ship went up Providence River the
same Day.
On Thursday Night of last Week, the new Ship of War belonging to
this State, lying at Say-Brook, was struck by Lightning which did considera-
ble Damage to her Main-Mast and Mizen-Mast.2
Intelligence from Montauk.
Thursday, July 25. At 7 A.M. saw a Ship S.E. from the Point, standing
for Block-Island; at 4 P.M. saw another S.W. from the Point, standing in.
Friday 26. No Discovery.
Saturday 27. At 1 A.M. heard a Number of Cannon S.E. from the
Point; at 5 A.M. saw a large Ship E.S.E. from the Point.
28, 29. No Discovery.
Tuesday 30. At 5 P.M. saw a Ship S.S.E. from the Point.
Wednesday 31. No Discovery.
130
AMERICAN THEATRE
Thursday, August I. At 3 P M saw a Ship S.W. from the Point, stand-
ing to the Eastward; at 6 came up with the Point, fired several Guns, and
then stood to Sea.
2, 3, 4. No Discovery.
Monday 5. At 5 A.M. saw two Ships S.S.W. from the Point; at 1 1 came
up with the Point, stood in for Watch-Hill till 3, and then went to sea.
1. The ship Star and Garter.
2. The Connecticut ship Oliver Cromwell.
Diary of Ensign Caleb Clap 1
[New York] August 7th General Washington sent A flag of Truce into
Lord How, is Reported that informd, that if any of the British Troops
shoud, fall into our Hand that he shall Treat them as Prisoners of War, but
as to the forren Troops he shall not give them any Quarter
August the 9th at evening the 6 Rowgalleys that ware up the River, movd,
down against the City,
by the best information the Enemy are now about 12 or 15 thousand strong,
that Governor Dunmore is now with the fleet at the Island. -
1. “Diary of Ensign Caleb Clap, of Colonel Baldwin’s Regiment, Massachusetts Line, Continental
Army, March 29 until October 23, 1776,” The Historical Magazine, 3rd series, III, 249.
Hereafter cited as “Caleb Clap Diary,” The Historical Magazine.
Suit of the Owners of the Pennsylvania Privateers Congress
and Chance against Captain John Adams 1
[Extract]
Port of Philadelphia J On the ninth Day of August in the Year of our
Pennsylvania ss.t - J Lord one thousand seven hundred and seventy six
Before the honorable George Ross Esqr Judge of the Court of Admiralty
. . . Came Richard Peters Esquire one of the Proctors of the said Court and
exhibited unto the said Judge the Bill of Philip Moore 8cc: against John
Adams and prayed that the same was read in the Words following to wit . . .
The Bill of Philip Moore and others Owners of the Privateer Sloops
Chance and Congress fitted out of the said Port to cruize against the Ene-
mies of these United States
Sheweth - That a certain John Adams was duly commissioned and
appointed Captain and Commander of the sd Sloop called the Chance . . .
on the high Seas did arrest seize and as prize take a certain Ship or Vessel
called the Lady Juliana commanded by Captain Christopher Stevens . . .
That on the high Seas and within the Jurisdiction of this Court while
the said Ship Lady Juliana was in the Possession of the said John Adams
as Prize he the said John Adams did embezzle and to his own private and
particular Use take and convert the following Articles part of the Cargo of
the said Prize Lady Juliana to wit one thousand Dollars equal to three
hundred and seventy five pounds current Money of Pennsylvania three
Bags containing four hundred and fifty Dollars equal to one hundred and
sixty eight pounds fifteen Shillings like Money and a Quantity of Ships
AUGUST 1776
131
Plate and other Articles equal in Value to three hundred pounds Sterling
equal to five hundred and twenty five pounds Money of Pennsylvania which
said several Sums and Articles to the Value thereof amounting in the whole
to fifteen hundred and eight pounds fifteen Shillings Pennsa Curry the said
John Adams doth now detain and keep and refuseth to make Distribution
thereof or produce the same to be libelled in this or any other Court of
Admiralty of these States contrary to the said Agreement and all good Faith
and Justice -
Wherefore your Complainants pray that Process may be issued by this
honorable Court to arrest and take the Person of the said John Adams . . .
Philada Augt 9th 1776 - Richard Peters Proctor
Schedule Annexed for Complainants -
1000 Dollars £ 375..
3 Bags contg 450 Dr 168. .15. .
8 lbs Cold computed at 440
Ships Plate valued at
300 £ Sterg Ex: 75 p Ct
£1508. . 15. 2
1. Records of the Admiralty Court of Pennsylvania, April 13 -December 3, 1776, LC Photocopy.
2. Captain Adams questioned the jurisdiction of the court in this case. He contended that the
Admiralty Court had been established only to try the legality of prizes brought into
Philadelphia. Ibid.
Lieutenant Alpheus Rice to Captain John Paul Jones 1
On Board the Sloop Providence
Sir off Chester August the 9th 1776
I have given Mr. [William] Hopkins Satisfaction, & there now subsists,
a good understanding between Us. - I am Conscious that I was Culpable. -
but have this to Say in excuse - that I was in a passion. - am sorry for it. -
8c pray that you would overlook it. — from Your most, Obedient Servant,
Alpheus Rice 2
[Endorsed by Jones] letter from Mr. Rice when under Confinement.
1. Papers of John Paul Jones, 6486, LC.
2. Rice was Marine lieutenant on board the Providence, having been transferred June 12, 1776
from the Andrew Doria. Providence Muster Roll, Transcript of Military Papers, XL, 666,
R. I. Arch.
Maryland Council of Safety to the Maryland Delegates
in the Continental Congress 1
[Extract]
No 129.
Gentn We have the pleasure to inform you that the enemy’s fleet left Po-
towmack River on Friday last, and is gone off down the Bay; they had col-
lected a number of small vessels, which they had dismasted, and left on the
point of St George’s Island, with intention to set fire to them, but a high
Tide floated them off, and they were driven on Shore near our Guard, who
132
AMERICAN THEATRE
have taken possession of them, and have found sundry goods and other ef-
fects on board to the value of three or four hundred Pounds currency; some
of the Hulks may be repaired, and made fit for service. - they burnt some
other small vessels, and from appearance expect they are gone down to the
Cape - our Pilot Boat is just returned yesterday evening and says he heard
at Pyanketank, that the men of war had Stopt in Hampton Road, and were
making demands of fresh provisions and water, and promised, on being sup-
plied, to leave the Bay - The Deserters, of whom many have come over to
us, inform that the Tory families are going, some to the West Indies - others
to Halifax, and the Roebuck to New-York.
[Annapolis] July [sic August] 9th 1776
1. Council of Safety Letter Book, No. 1, Md. Arch.
Purdif’s Virginia Craze tie, Friday, August 9, 1776
Williamsburg, August 9.
By advices from Hampton, we learn that last Wednesday morning the
Right Hon. the Earl of Dunmore, Viscount Fincastle, and Baron Murray of
Blair, Mouilli, and Tillimet, after dividing his fleet, and burning ten or a
dozen vessels, took leave of the capes of Virginia, where he has, for more
than a twelvemonth past, perpetrated crimes that would even have disgraced
the noted pirate BLACK BEARD. One part of the fleet was seen to stand
to the southward, it is imagined for South Carolina, the other to the north-
ward, supposed for New York. Their strength, from the information of
two negro deserters, who came up to Hampton in the evening, amounts to
near 400, regulars, negroes, and Tories; that they were now tolerably
healthy, and had lately got a supply of provisions, which they took from a
Rhode Island vessel. - So respectable a band will, no doubt, be a most valua-
ble acquisition to the generals Howe and Clinton!
We have just got a supply of 290 half barrels of gunpowder, and 90
stand of arms; and 436 barrels, with 18 chests of arms, arrived safe some lit-
tle time ago.
Journal of the Virginia Council of Safety 1
[Williamsburg] Friday. August 9th 1776.
The Board having received information of the arrival of Captain [John]
Pasture, at Hampton, with 7500 lbs of Gun powder, consigned to this board
by Messrs Vanbiber and Harrison of Saint Eustatia, Resolved that Captain
Pasture be instructed to leave one thousand weight of the said Powder at
Hampton, for the use of the Troops on that Station, And that Captain
James Barron carry one thousand weight to Portsmouth of such as he may
judge proper for Cannon for the use of the Garrison there, Also that the res-
idue of the said Powder be brought to Jamestown by Capt Pasture.
Information was made to the Board by Captain Barron that the Com-
missioners of the Navy having appointed a person to victual the Fleet the
Commissary of Provisions had refused to supply them any longer and that
AUGUST 1776
133
the Agent Victualler is not yet ready to enter upon the duties of his Office,
Ordered therefore that the said Commissary continue to supply the Fleet as
usual, till that can be done by the Officer appointed by the Navy Board.
A Letter, was written to Brigadier General [Andrew] Lewis, desiring
him to send orders by Express to disband the Minute Men and Militia,
lately drawn into Service in the Northern parts of this Country, as the
Departure of the British Fleet renders it unnecessary to keep them longer
in Service.
1. Mcllwaine, ed., Journals of the Virginia Council, I, 114, 115.
Journal of the North Carolina Council of Safety 1
[Halifax] Friday August 9th 1776
Richard Dunnivan lately belonging to the Syren man of War a prisoner
on parole in Halifax came before the Council and moved that he might be
Naturalized and Admitted to the privileges of a Free Citizen of this State,
and to this end declared that he was willing to take an Oath of Allegiance to
the States which being granted and he having taken and subscribed to an
Oath for that purpose Resolved therefore that the said Richard Dunnovan
be discharged from his parole and that he be henceforward considered as a
Member and Free Citizen of this State
1. Secretary of State Papers (Provincial Conventions and Congresses/Councils 1774-1776), NCDAH.
Journal of the Georgia Council of Safety 1
At a meeting of the Council,
[Savannah] Aug. 9th, 1776
Capt. [Daniel] Roberts, Messrs. [John] Girardeau and [Samuel] Saltus
being appointed a Committee to agree with some gentlemen about loading,
etc., some vessels for the service of the public, reported that they had, agree-
able to orders, met at Mr. Lavien’s; that they had agreed with Mr. Philip
Moore on the following terms, viz.: That he should have one-half penny
per pound freight on Indigo and ten pounds per cent commissions for buy-
ing and selling. That the public should guarantee the vessel against the
weather, in proportion to what they ventured in her, and as Mr. Moore’s
vessel runs no risque, the Committee recommended that two thousand
pounds be ventured in her, which was agreed to. They also report that Mr.
Ratoone offers his vessel to the public; that she is upwards of seventy ton
burden, well built, rigged and fit for sea, and that he asks for her no more
than two hundred and sixty five pounds.
They also recommended that this vessel be purchased and that Commis-
sioners be appointed to procure a load of rice for her, and send her off - and
that Messrs. Thomas Maxwell, Senr., John Winn, Senr., and John Kell be
Commissioners for that purpose — which being considered, it met with the
approbation of the Board.
Orders were issued that Mr. Edward Telfair have permission and au-
thority to take any quantity of pitch pine plank, that may be upon Mr.
134
AMERICAN THEATRE
Rae’s wharf, or elsewhere in and about Savannah, for the purpose of build-
ing a galley, and that he be obliged to take a sworn measurer to take an ac-
count of it previous to a removal, and pay the proprietors, at the rates and
prices of such plant, heretofore used for the public service.
1. Allen D. Candler, comp., The Revolutionary Records of the State of Georgia (Atlanta, 1908),
I, 178-79. Hereafter cited as Candler, comp., Georgia Records.
Captain Thomas Bishop, R.N., to Governor Patrick Tonyn 1
(Copy) Lively off St Mary’s 9th Augt 1776-
Sir I’ve just time to acquaint you that this morning Osborne fell in with a
sailing Boat belonging to the St John Schooner, by which find she and the
Troops have quitted their Station, this gives me much concern, having flat-
tered myself, should have had it in my power to have given you a very good
account of your troublesome rebellious Neighbours, but this precipitate re-
treat has dash’d my most sanguine hope, and being disappointed of the Lady
William Schooner’s accompanying me, and missing the St John find it out of
my power to do any thing on this Coast for the benefit of the King’s service,
have therefore sent Osborne with your Letter to Cockspur, and shall pro-
ceed directly for New York - 1 am Sir With gratitude and great respect [&c.]
(Signd) Thos Bishop
[Endorsed] (Copy) Captain Bishop’s letter to Governor Tonyn No 1-
In Govr Tonyn’s (No 3 private) of 26 August 1776.
1. PRO, Colonial Office, 5/556, 754.
J. Kitching to Governor Patrick Tonyn 1
Copy St Augustine August 9th 1776
(Sir) I have the honour to inform your Excellency that on Thursday the
first day of August last an Armament by Land & Sea being fitted out from
the Town of Sunbury in the Province of Georgia. Consisting of a large flat
on which was Mounted One Twelve pounder & Six Swivels with two Small
Schooners Attendants and about One hundred and Eighty Men, destined for
the River St Marys, with Hostile intentions against His Majestys Armed
Schooner St John, to lay waste Mr Wrights Fort, and to plunder the Island
of Amelia with other plantations adjacent thereunto. I thought it a duty
incumbent on me as an Officer of the Crown to give the earliest intelligence
thereof to the Commanding Officer of His Majestys Ships then lying at
Cockspur, where I repair’d the day following hopeing from thence some re-
lief might be given by Capt [John] Stanhope,2 to whom 1 related the whole
of this enterprize, with advice how to conduct matters, to frustrate their
designs — Capt Stanhope inform’d me he was not in a Capacity to render
the least Assistance, being then very Short of Provisions and that if the
Sphynx Frigate did not arrive within a few days with some expected Supplys
he would be under the necessity of putting to Sea in Order to make the best
of his way to the Fleet, for these above recited reasons, and not haveing Or-
ders to Act in a matter of the kind, Capt Stanhope declin’d sending (any)
AUGUST 1776
135
the least Succour or intelligence. On Sunday Morning following a Schooner
Arriveing at Cockspur bound for St Augustine I took a passage in her in
hopes to have been here in time to have given your Excellency intimation
thereof that some force might have been sent form hence to their Assistance
but am Sorry to find the length of the passage prevented anything of the
kind being done. However I am still of Opinion, that If your Excellency
would order an Armed Vessel to run into Sapello or Saint Catharine’s their
retreat might be cut off and a number of them taken prisoners. I have the
Honor to be Your Excellency’s [&c.]
(Signd) J : Kitching 3
[Endorsed] Copy Mr Kitching’s letter to Governor Tonyn. No 7 -
In Govr Tonyn’s No 20 of 15th August 1776.
1. PRO, Colonial Office, 5/556, 735-38.
2. Commander of H. M. Sloop Raven.
3. Kitching was Customs Collector at Sunbury, Georgia. He also provided Governor Tonyn with
intelligence of defenses and ships at Sunbury, ibid., 727-29.
10 Aug.
Captain Charles Douglas, R.N., to Vice Admiral Richard
Lord Howe 1
Copy Isis , Quebec, August 10th 1776
My Lord, The Prisoners lately taken at Lake Champlain, the Pearl waited
for, being just come down; She sails tomorrow - By Accounts received
from Chambly they go on as briskly as can be expected at St Johns, in put-
ting up the several Frames of Gun-boats, and the two Schooners Maria 8c
Carleton ; the latter will be first ready, but I find not so soon as I had reason
to believe, by eight or ten days, some of the Artificers being ill of
Fluxes - another armed Brig sent out to General Carleton, by the Treasury
Department, is just arrived, her ten six pounders and twenty five Men, will
be of Use on the Lake — Westerly Winds 8c Calms much prevailing, the
long-boats of most of the Transports, have for some days, been employed in
staging up Provisions, from one Ship to another, relays of which are placed
for that Purpose, all the Way from this to the Mouth of the Sorel: when this
Business is compleated, they are to depart for England, some very few
excepted - those below the Rapids of Richlieu first, 8c that very shortly.
The Apparatus for Lake Champlain, being of very considerable Magni-
tude, 8c the Service of very great Importance, General Carleton as I am, is
very sollicitous to have the Armament particularly well Officer’d - I have
therefore added Mr Willm Burchell Master’s Mate of the Blonde, who is
very deserving, 8c above eleven Years since passed his Examination, to the
Number of Officers appointed to serve as Lieutenants, on the approaching
Expedition - I beg Leave most humbly 8c earnestly to recommend him to
your Lordship, for establishing Rank accordingly: at present he acts as Lieu-
tenant of the Blonde, in the room of Mr James Dacres who has assisted the
Quarter Master General ever since the Army entered St. Peter’s Lake, in
which Situation a Sea Officer has been absolutely necessary in this terra-
queous Expedition; Mr Dacres is to have a Command of Consequence on
136
AMERICAN THEATRE
Lake Champlain, upon which he will be second Sea Officer in point of Seni-
ority, with the Pay of a Master 8c Commander annexed by the General My
Lord, I have the Honor most respectfully to remain [8cc.]
Chs Douglas
P.S. The Ship taken down here, And to be re-constructed at St: Johns, is to
be called the Inflexible - The Wind is now Easterly, 8c We look with Impa-
tience for the expected Victuallers from Ireland; To guard against a
Change, or Calms, The Boats are kept in readiness, as alluded to in the fore-
going, to convey their Contents upwards, but as yet We have heard nothing
of any such Victuallers, being entered the River.
As it is more than probable, that Lieut [John] Schank, with the Ship’?
Company of the Canceaux, will because of the Lake Service, be detained
here very late; I presume your Lordship, will have no Objection to her win-
tering here, if it should be found necessary, more especially as Mr Schank’s
Service, may also be very useful next Year upon the said Lake.
1. PRO, Admiralty 1/487.
Journal of the Massachusetts Sloop Tyrannicide , Captain John Fisk1
1 [A. M.]
7
11
1 [P. M.]
4
6
Remks on Satterday 10th of August 1776
Lay By under mainsail 8c Gibb
Lay By up NWBW of North
Made sail rainy weather
Saw a sail barring NNE gave Chaise we Came up fast Car-
ried away squairsail tack lost Duncan Morrison over a board
hove too out boat but Could not save him made sail Again
Lattd in 35d 5m Longd in 6 Id 8m
Pleasant breaze and Cloudy weather
Fired a shott at Chaise
She hove too found her to be the Briggt Cathrine from Nan-
tucket for Suranam Jno Barnicoat Master Belonging to Mr
Timothy Fitch sent the 1st Leiutt on board to over hall
her let him proceed on his Voige we stood to the north-
ward
1. John Fisk Journal, AAS.
Providence Gazette , Saturday, August 10, 1776
Providence, August 10.
Tuesday last arrived here a Prize Ship, taken by the Diamond Privateer,
Capt. William Chace, of this Port: She was bound from Dominica to Bristol,
and had on Board 310 Hogsheads of Sugar, and 200 Barrels of Oil.1
A Prize Ship mentioned in our last to be taken by the Montgomery
Privateer, Capt. Daniel Bucklin, of this Port, is arrived at Dartmouth: She
was bound from Barbadoes to London; her Cargo consists of 200 Hogsheads,
40 1 ierces and 4 Barrels of Sugar, 106 Hogsheads of Rum, 127 Bags and 15
138
AMERICAN THEATRE
Barrels of Ginger, 22 Bags of Cotton, 1 Pipe of Madeira Wine, and 39 Bar-
rels of Oil.2
Another valuable Prize taken by the Montgomery, in Conjunction with
a Salem Privateer, is arrived at Falmouth.
Thursday last arrived here a French Sloop from the West-Indies, laden
with Molasses, &c. The Captain informs, that a Fleet of 20 Spanish Men of
War, were lately seen steering for the Havannah.
Some American Vessels, it is said, have been lately seized by the Portu-
guese, whose Dependence on the British Crown for Protection and Aid
against their Spanish Neighbours, obliges them to comply with every thing
required of them.
1. The ship Jane. Captain Chace’s libel against the prize is also in this issue of the newspaper.
2. The ship Eagle. See also this issue for Captain Bucklin’s libel.
Muster Roll of the Continental Sloop Fly 1
Muster Roll of the Officers and Men belonging to the Sloop Fly Hoysteed Hacker Esqr Commr
when en-
tered into
the Service
What Vessel
turned
over from
When
turned
over
Men’s Names
Stations in
which they
have entered
Run, dead,
Sick, Discharged
or turned over
1775
1776
Nov. 20
Brigt Cabot
Jany. 20
Hoysteed Hacker
Captain
turned over to Brig Hamden Aug 10
“ 25
Ship Alfred
“ 30
John Fanning
Lieutenant
Run July 15
1776
Jany. 3
Robert Robinson
First Mate
March 16
Leven Daskell
Second Mate
1775
Dec. 23d
William Weaver
j Cooper &
Steward
turned over to Hamden Aug. 10
Sloop
Feby. 13
John Downe
Boatswain
turned over to Columb[us] June 9
Providence
Decern-
Thomas Burgess
Able Seaman
turned over to Columbus June 9 &
her 28
returned 24 do.
H 4*
Joseph Jackys
ditto
turned over to ditto June 9
1776
Jany. 1
Joseph Sherman
Landsman
discharged April 10
“ 6
John Young
Able Seaman
Run April 13th
“ 1
William Pearce
ordinary “
turned over to Hamden Aug 10 &
dischd Oct. 10
“ 1
John York
ditto
Run July 4th
“ 11
Joseph Breed
Landsman
Put on Shore sick at N. L. April 8th
“ 1
Christopher Crandol
ditto
Run April 13th
" 11
John Cook
ditto
" 2
Daniel Scranton
ditto
Run April 30th
“ 17
Quako Chadwick
ditto Negroe
“ 11
John Clarke
Cook
“ 8
Weden Carpenter
Landsman
Run July 4th
** 2
Stephen Fowler
ditto
Run April 9th
“ 1
Parker Flail
ditto
Run April 12th
" 6
Samuel Tyler
ditto
put on shore sick at N. L. April 8
“ 1
William Johnston
Ordy Seaman
turned over to Brig Hamden Aug 10
4 4 4 4
Reuben Deway
Landsman
turned over to ditto Aug 10
4 4 4 4
Mackson Chase
ditto
turned over to Alfred Mai 16
Feby 1 1
William McHoster
ditto
Jany 1
John Chadwick
Boy
May 30
Samuel Hacker
Boy
Turned over to Brig Hamden Aug.
10, 1776
April 30
John Lance Hacker
ditto
Feby. 8
Lawrence Ash
Ordy Seaman
discharged June 19th
The above is a true Muster Roll of All the Officers and Men belonging to the Sloop Fly under my Command
from the time of their entering until this day.
Sloop Fly August 10th 1776
(Copy)
1. R. I. Arch.
Hoysteed Hacker
AUGUST 1776
139
Nathaniel Shaw, Jr. to Captain Samuel Alcott, Hartford * 1
New London Aug. 10, 1776
Inclosed is Robert Knights Receipt for some Cordage Sc Sail Cloth,
which is intended for the Vessels fitting on the Lake 8c must be immediately
sent of[f] for Albany to the Care of Philip Van Renslear Store Keeper it
would be best to have the waggon that carries the Sail Cloth Covered It
was purchased here by Capt Leonard Van Beuren, who I suppose will be
with you by the time this boat gets up. He will leave a draft with you for
the amount of my Bill on Jona Trumbell Esqr pay Master General Sc beg
you will desire him to make the draft pay to you Sc send it to Albany by the
Wagoner or some safe hand Sc let me know when you receive it, I would not
have given you this trouble but know the Service requires it. I am 8cc.
N Shaw }unr
N B. Pay the frt £3, the storekeeper will pay the Cartage
30 bolts Duck (a) £6 £180
Frt 3
£183
1. Shaw Letter Book, YUL.
Nathaniel Shaw, Jr.’s Account Against the Connecticut State
Schooner Spy 1
Schooner Spy Robt Niles Commander to Nath Shaw Junr Dr
1776 To 213i/2 lb Powder a 5/4 £56.16..-
Aug 10 to 84 lb Muskett Ball /6 2. .2. .-
£58.18. .-
To My Commissions 2i/£ pCt 1..9..6
£60. .7. .6
[Endorsed] Schooner Spy No 7
1. Nathaniel Shaw Accounts, ConnSL.
Orderly Book of Brigade Major Peter Scull 1
Head Quarters [Ticonderoga],
Aug. 10th 1776
Lieut. Col. Courtland [Philip Van Cortlandt] with the Officers and
Soldiers of Col. Wynkoop’s Regimt, and the Companies of the New-York
Militia to go in Batteaus to morrow Morning early to Skeensborough - they
are to take as many Boats as possible - The Batteau Master to deliver them
the Boats this morning — The Batteau Master is immediately to send to the
different Incampments and collect all the Oars. - Neither officer or Soldier is
for the future to use any of the Oars for any other purpose than that they
were design’d for - proper Poles must be cut to carry Provisions and Bag-
gage.
140
AMERICAN THEATRE
Col. [Joshua] Wingate’s and Col. [Isaac] Wyman’s Regts to Furnish 12
Sub[altern]s 12 Serjts 12 Corp, 5 d[ru]ms 8c 259 privates to assist in manning
the Fleet 2
They must be sent to B. G. [Brigadier General] Arnold at Head Quar-
ters. at six O Clock this evening - They will have the same extra Allowance
as the other troops serving in the Fleet - The Genl desires that as many Sea-
men as those Corps can furnish may be sent with the above Command.
1. MNHP.
2. These were men from two New Hampshire militia regiments.
Lieutenant Colonel Robert Hanson Harrison to Brigadier General
Thomas Mifflin 1
[Extract] Head Quarters New York August 10th 1776.
Apprehensive that the Enemy, It they go up the North River, may at-
tempt to go down the Creek in their Boats and destroy Kings bridge, His
Excellency judges it Necessary, that you should direct Colonel [Rufus]
Putnam 8c Monsr [Antoine Felix] Wiebert to mark out some Convenient
spot where a small work proper for its defence and security must be thrown
up, as speedily as may be.
His Excellency wishes you to sink as soon as possible the Vessels 8cc. for
Obstructing the Channel, and should you want more, that you will certify
Genl Putnam of the same.2
1. Washington Papers, LC.
2. Washington on August 11 urged Colonel Rufus Putnam “to hasten the Sinking of Vessels and
other obstructions in the River at Fort Washington as fast as it is possible.” Charles S.
Slack Collection, Dawes Memorial Library, MCL.
Journal of H.M.S. Niger , Captain George Talbot 1
August 1776
Friday 9
Saturday 10
Do [Sandy Hook] N 67.00 W 54 Leags
at 3 AM saw a sail in the SE Qr at 4 Wore ship 8c gave
Chace at 6 Fir’d a shot 8c Brot her too a Brig from the Coast
of Brazil 8c St Eustatia Laden with Spermacety Oil belonging
8c bound to Nantuckett Jonathon More Master took the
Master Mate 2 of the People 8c 7 Passengers out of her sent a
Petty Officer 8c 5 Men to take Charge of her 2 at 7 saw a sail
in the SW Qr at 10 made sail
Light Breezes 8c Fair Wr
at 5 PM hoisted out the Barge 8c sent her Man’d 8: Arm’d
with the 1st Lieut after the Chace a sloop bearing SSW 3
Leags at \/2 past 9 Fir’d a swivel a sigl for the Sloop Kept
Do Every \/2 Hour till 12
at 1 AM the Barge returned having made a Prize of 8c took
out of the sloop the Master (Moses Lipett) his mate 8c 5
hands Left a Petty Officer 8c 6 men onboard to take charge
of her a Prize belonging 8c bound to Rhode Island From St
AUGUST 1776
141
Cruize Laden with Raw Sugar & Salt 3 at Noon the Brig &
Sloop in Compy
1. PRO, Admiralty 51/637.
2. There is no record of this in Howe’s prize list for March 31, 1777.
3. The sloop Hope, Moses Lippitt, master, which cleared from Providence, Rhode Island, for St.
Croix, April 26, 1776. See Volume 4, 1481.
Journal of the Continental Congress 1
[Philadelphia] Saturday, August 10, 1776
Resolved , That the said [Secret] committee be directed to deliver to
the order of the Marine Committee, such quantity of arms and ammunition,
as may be necessary for the use of the continental frigates.
1. Ford, ed., JCC, V, 645.
Journal of the Pennsylvania Council of Safety 1
In Council of Safety,
[Philadelphia] August 10th, 1776.
Resolved, That it is the opinion of this Board, that the present dissatis-
faction which prevails in the Naval Department of this State, arising from a
disputed Command, will greatly weaken the defence provided for the River
Delaware, and that a hearing of the Officers before Convention, and a speedy
determination of that matter, would be Conducive to the security of this
State.
1. Pennsylvania Colonial Records, X, 680.
“Extract of a letter from Philadelphia, August 10.” 1
We have this day an account of a Jamaica Guinea ship, with 7 hogsheads
of sugar, 8 or 9 of rum, and 7,000 dollars, being taken by a privateer from
Maryland, and is safe arrived in port, also a New England brig from Martin-
ico. The Antigua brig I mentioned in my last, fell in with the Boreas man of
war, when the prize master passed for the real Captain, went on board, and
shewed his papers, and was politely treated; (the Boreas was from the West-
Indies and Carolina.) The Captain desired him to keep well to the east-
ward, but the prize master said he was not afraid of the Americans, as they
were a pack of cowards; to which the Captain replied, he was mistaken, for
at Carolina they fought more like devils than men, much more than cow-
ards.
1. Connecticut Journal, August 21, 1776.
Journal of the Virginia Council of Safety 1
[Williamsburg] Saturday. August 10th 1776.
It being represented to this Board, that the publick landing at Quarles’s
Warehouse is a proper place for building Vessells for the public service, and
that the Warehouses there (at present useless) are very proper for reception
of the Workmen as well as the materials for carrying on the Work, and nec-
essaries for subsisting the men, This Board think proper to recommend to
142
AMERICAN THEATRE
the Court of the said County of King William to permit Mr Caleb Herbert
and his Workmen to occupy so many of the said Houses as he shall find nec-
essary as long as he shall be engaged in building for the Country, and to al-
low him at the expense of the public, to make such necessary additions to
the said houses as he may be directed to do by the Commissions of the Navy.
Ordered, that Colonel George Weedon of the 3d Battalion be permitted
to apply to the Commissioners of the Gun manufactury at Fredericksburg or
to Mr James Hunter for such Arms as they may have already finished for the
publick, upon his delivering as many other Guns which are now in the pos-
session of his Battalion in their room, which Guns are desired to be for-
warded to this place without delay for the use of the marine Companies in
York and James river
1. Mcllwaine, ed.. Journals of the Virginia Council , I, 116, 117.
Dixon and Hunter’s Virginia Gazette , Saturday, August 10, 1776
Williamsburg, August 10.
A Captain of a vessel, who is just arrived with powder and arms, in-
forms, that he met with Lord Dunmore’s fleet off the Capes, standing out to
sea, in two divisions, one to the southward, and the other to the
northward. They have been several days lying in Lynhaven Bay, and have
burnt some small vessels which probably they had not men to manage, or
were unfit for a voyage. - May they never return.
Vice Admiral James Young to Philip Stephens * 1
Sir, English Harbour Antigua 10th August 1776
By the Argo I acquainted their Lordships that the Shark Sloop had En-
gaged an American Privateer off St Pierres Bay, Martinico; and transmitted
for their further information Copys of Captain [John] Chapman’s Letter to
the Governor of Martinico, and his Answer thereto, likewise Captain Chap-
man’s Letter to me on the occasion. Since then, I sent Captain [Thomas]
Eastwood in the Pomona Sloop, with a Letter to the Compte D’argout (Gov-
ernor of Martinico,) Copy of which Letter, and of Captain Eastwood’s Or-
ders, and Instructions thereon are inclosed, and Marked No 1, 8c 2; and the
Paper marked No 3 is the Compte D’argout’s answer to my Letter; by which
their Lordships will perceive that all kind of Protection, and Countenance,
is given to the American Rebels, at the French Islands, and I can likewise as-
sure them of the same being done at the Dutch and Danish Islands: So that
I apprehend We shall now be very much pestered with these kind of Armed
Vessels, and that they will make no manner of Scruple to Arm and fit them,
for Sea, at all the Islands in these Seas, not belonging to Great Britain; as
they certainly can more readily procure Ammunition and Naval Stores for
them at said Islands, then in America. - The Vessel I wrote about is now
heaving down and Refiting at Port Royal, Martinico; it is said She sails very
well, and had taken before her arrival there Three Prizes, Vizt a Ship from
Grenada, a Brig from this Island (bound to Ireland, with Rum) and an-
other to Glasgow, all which She sent to America.
AUGUST 1776
143
Their Lordships I presume will perceive by the Governor of Marti-
nique’s Answer to my Letter that any further Correspondence with him (or
indeed with any of the Governors at the other Islands) will be useless. I
therefore hope they will be pleased to give me such farther Instructions as
may be thought proper, and necessary on the present occasion, as by the
Kings late Instructions We are so very strictly enjoyned to Observe the
exactest Neutrality towards the Foreign Ports. - I likewise wish to receive
their Lordships farther directions about that part of the Kings Instructions
relating to the keeping the American Prisoners, as they will soon increase
here to a considerable Number; and there is no place of Security provided
to keep them on shore, neither can it be proper in this Climate to Croud
the Ships with them, as that would undoubtedly cause great Sickness to
happen onboard, and thereby very much distress the Service. - I have just
now received a Letter from Governor [Valentine] Morris of St Vincent,
Copy of which, marked No 4 is inclosed; by it their Lordships may perceive
I have not been mistaken in the Surmise I mentioned in the beginning of
this Letter. I shall send the Pomona to Sea to morrow, with directions to
Cruize between Port Royal Harbour and the Island of St. Lucia, to endeav-
our to intercept said Vessels, and will write at the same time to Captain
Chapman (who was directed by my Orders of the 16th July last to Cruize
about those Islands) to assist in the like Service, and I flatter myself they
may by keeping a good look out, be enabled to intercept and take the afore-
said Armed Vessels. I am Sir [&c.]
Jam8 Young.
1. PRO, Admiralty 1/309.
II Aug. (Sunday)
James Warren to John Adams 1
[Extract] Boston, August 11, 1776
... I wish I could entertain you with any important intelligence. We
have nothing going forward here but fixing out privateers, and condemna-
tion and sale of prizes sent in by them, so many that I am quite lost in my
estimate of them, and West India Goods are falling at a great rate. Yester-
day arrived a prize taken by a [New] York Privateer with several hundred
bags of cotton (a capital article), etc., etc.2 While all this is going forward,
and whole fleets have been here, and might have been taken by your ships if
at sea, I can’t sufficiently lament the languor, and seeming inattention to
so important a matter. A very fine ship lies at Portsmouth waiting only for
guns,3 and I am told there are not yet orders issued for manning those at
Newbury Port.4 This delay disgusts the officers, and occasions them to re-
pent entering the service. . . .
1. Warren-AcLams Letters Being Chiefly a Correspondence among John Adams, Samuel Adams,
and Jaynes Warren . . . (Boston, 1917-1925), I, 267-69. Hereafter cited as Warren-Adams
Letters.
2. The ship Earl of Errol, 270 tons, John Bartlett, master, from Jamaica for London.
3. The Continental frigate Raleigh.
4. The Continental frigates Boston and Hancock.
144
AMERICAN THEATRE
fill’d
Nathaniel Shaw, Jr.’s List of Ordnance Stores Shipped to the
Army in New York 1
[New London August 11, 1776]
Invoice of Warlike Stores Shipt to New York p David Harris & Consigned
to Ezekiel Chevers Commissary of ordinance Stores viz
2 boxes Containing]
16 Carcass’s
1 bar Conta
1 paper Quick Match
11 Long paper Tubes or fallse fires
300 Tin Tubes
39 Flannel cartrages
258 Fusees
2 papers pitch
1 pr pinchers
4 Irons
1 Spring
6 Fire Rings
3 Fire Rings
16 Sheels fill’d
1 Brass Howet
2 Carriages
175 Empty Sheels
To Joseph Trumbull p Harris
1 box 20 Arms from Baleys
1 box 24 do
1 box 30 do Brass Mounted
all Returned but these
charged to Gen Washington
1. Shaw Papers, Ledger 39, YUL.
Nathaniel Shaw, Jr.’s Account of Ordnance Stores Shipped to
New York 1
[New London, August 11, 1776]
1776 The Ordinance Store at N York Ezekiel Chevers Esqr
Apr Recever General Dr.
£ 18
23 9 Brass Morters 14. .0. .4 @120/
50 Seven Inch Chells 12. .3.22
150 Five & half Inc do 20. .0. 10
2 Wooden Beds for the 5i/> Inc Morters
6 Iron Mounted not apprized
1 Brass Howet from the Boulton deld Robt. Coak
May 3998 Shells of Different Sizes 22 ton. 15.2.24
10 1 Brass Mortar 4. .0. .0
6 Small do 1 . .0.23
@ 20/
p Capt [Robert] Niles
£ 84. .4. .0
29.14. . 7
0. .0. .0
40 . . 0 . . 0
410. .2.10
31. . 5. .1
AUGUST 1776
145
30 59 Shels & 1 Shott 5. .3. .25 @18/
p Capt Hacker
Aug 1 Brass Howet
11 2 Carriages not apprized
pr David Harris
To pd Davd Harris f[reigh]t of do
1. Shaw Papers, Ledger 39, YUL.
5. .7. .6
40.
£640.14. .0
6.10. .0
Major General Horatio Gates to Governor Jonathan Trumbull 1
[Extract] Tyconderoga 11th August 1776
. . . Our Fleet since the Arrival of the reinforcement of Carpenters
grows daily more 8c more powerful, inclosed is a List 2 of those Man’d,
Armed, 8c ready for Action at Crown Point a Schooner, a Row Gaily &
three more Gondolas are rigging here 8c will this Week Join those at Crown
Point when General Arnold will sail with the whole down the Lake - Three
fine Row Galleys will be finished in a Fortnight at Skeenesborough 8c di-
rectly Join the rest of the Fleet under General Arnold, this is a Naval Force
when Collected that promises to Secure the Comand [of] Lake Champlain
. . . Captain 8c Thirty Nine Carpenters, from Rode Island, Hired by
the united States, at prodigious Wages, General Waterbury writes me Word,
are Inoculated at Williams Town. I beg you Sir to write to Governor
Cooke to Dismiss them immediately, pay they do not deserve a penny, they
should on no Account be permitted to come to Skeensborough, I am con-
fidently assured we can do without them.
1. “Revolutionary Correspondence of Governor Nicholas Cooke,” Proceedings of the American
Antiquarian Society New Series, XXXVI, 332-34.
2. A copy of this letter was sent to Governor Cooke, but the list was not enclosed.
Journal of H.M.S. Jersey , Captain William A. Halsted 1
August. 1776 Montock Point NNW. 16 Leagues
Sunday 11 at 4. AM. sounded from 70, to, 50, Fathoms. Do Ground.
out 3d and 2d Reefs Topsails, at 6 saw a ship 8c Brigg to
the NW who bore down to us, both fitted for War. we
hauled to the Northwd and fired several shot at the Brigg,
who attempted to cut off a Brigg in our Company. Gave
chase out all Reefs Topsails.
Light Airs and Cloudy Weather, at i/2 past 7 PM, finding
the Chase gained on us considerably, bore up sounded in 35
faths black Ouze like the former, in 1st & 2d Reefs Topsls
1. PRO, Admiralty 51/493.
Vice Admiral Richard Lord Howe to Lord George Germain 1
Eagle, off Staten Island.
My Lord, 11th August 1776
Conceiving it of the utmost Importance, in pursuit of the Objects of the
146
AMERICAN THEATRE
special Commission with which I had the honor to be charged by His Majes-
ty, that the Colonies in Rebellion should have the earliest Information of
His Majesty’s most gracious Intentions, with respect to the Restoration of
Peace, and the granting of Pardons to such of His Majesty’s Subjects as, by a
speedy Return to their Allegiance, might deserve the Royal Mercy; I
thought proper, in the course of my Voyage, to prepare a Declaration to that
Effect, together with a circular Letter address’d to the Governors, or, in
their Absence, the Lieutenant Governors or chief Magistrates, of the respec-
tive Colonies; Copies of which I have the honor to inclose to your Lordship,
Ns 1 & 2. -
1 had little expectation that these Letters and Declaration would reach
the Hands of His Majesty’s Governors. - My Object was, that they should be
circulated as much as possible throughout the Provinces; and I hoped to
have found an opportunity of landing them soon after the time of their
Date, by means of some Vessel I might meet with upon the Coasts; But no
opportunity offered ’till I arrived off the Harbor of New York, on the 12th
of last Month, when I dispatched the first Lieut of the Eagle, to Amboy,
with those intended for the Colonies to the Southward of New York, direct-
ing him to deliver them to any Person who might appear in Authority, and
to desire they might be forwarded by the Post. -
The inclosed printed Paper No 3, which came accidentally to my
Hands, will inform your Lordship of the Resolution of the General Con-
gress, upon their Receipt of the above mentioned Packets, which it seemed
were transmitted by Mr (called General) Mercier [Hugh Mercer], the Com-
manding Officer at Amboy, to Mr Washington at New York, and by him to
the Congress. -
Captain [William C.] Burnaby in the Merlin Sloop was charged with
the Packets for the Colonies of Massachusets Bay, Rhode Island, Connecti-
cut, and New Hampshire, and directed to land them at Rhode Island - On
the 28th of last Month he returned, with a letter to me from Mr [Nicholas]
Cooke, acknowledging the receipt of my letter & Declaration, and acquaint-
ing me that he had communicated them to “the General Assembly of that
State’’ then sitting at Newport, who would transmit Copies of them to “the
most Honorable the General Congress of the united States of America, to
whom every application ought to be Addressed, and must be referred.” A
Copy of Mr Cooke’s letter to me is enclosed No 4 —
As the issuing of the above mentioned Letters and Declaration, is the
only Measure I judged necessary to take before I could have a Conference
with General [William] Howe, I have nothing further to add in this separate
Dispatch but my hopes of being informed by your Lordship, that my Con-
duct is honored with His Majesty’s Approbation. - I am 8cc.
Howe
Inclosures
No 1 - Copy of Lord Howe’s circular Letter to the Governors, dated June
20th 1776-
2 Copy of Lord Howe’s Declaration, dated 20th June 1776.
AUGUST 1776
147
3 - Resolution of the Congress, 19th July 1776
4. - Copy of a Letter from Mr Nichs Cooke of Rhode Island to Lord
Howe, dated Newport 21st July 1776
[Endorsed] Lord Viscount Howe. R 28th Septr
1. PRO, Colonial Office, 5/229, LC Photocopy.
Josiah Bartlett to John Langdon 1
[Extract] [Philadelphia] August 11th 1776
Dear Sir. Yours of the 29th ulto is come to hand and I congratulate you on
your late appointment. Col Whipple sets off to morrow morning for Ports-
mouth and takes with him your commission as Continental Agent and will
be able to inform you of every thing relative to it. He will be likely to
make a little stop at New York and will go by the way of Providence and if
possible procure the guns for your ship See which stops may prevent his
being with you as soon as this may reach you, but will no doubt in a few
days after. He takes with him sixty thousand dollars for the account of
New Hampshire . . .
You have no doubt heard that Clinton and Cornwallis since their defeat
at South Carolina have joined General Howe - Governor Dunmore and his
ragamuffins it is said have left Virginia and are supposed to be going to join
General Howe. I think we may expect that some important event will soon
take place at or near New York -God grant it may be favorable to the
United American States
August 13th. Col Whipple left us for New Hampshire yesterday 2
o’Clock. I am [8cc.]
Josiah Bartlett
1. William Whipple Papers, Force Transcripts, LC.
Robert Morris to Silas Deane 1
[Extract] Philada August 11th, 1776
Dear Sir I have been so exceedingly harrassed with Public business of var-
ious kinds that it has not been in my power to be so good a Correspondent
to you as I always intended, but as you know my situation you’l make allow-
ances & excuse it. I am much Concerned that we have been so unfortunate
in our Remittances to you. One ship whose Cargo Cost £6000 Curry and
upwards has been taken sometime since this Cargo was intended for Cadiz
to address of Messrs Duff & Welsh with orders to hold the Nt pceeds at your
disposal but as they will never receive it you need not write to them on the
Subject,2 Since that a Brigt Charming Polly (first Capt McFaden [William
McFadden]) Capt [Philip] Lacey has been taken on this Coast with a Cargo
of near £3000 Curry that was bound for Bourdeaux Consd to Messrs Delap
with orders to Account with you for the Ntpceeds 3 besides these Genl Wash-
ington has unloaded either two or three Vessells that were loaded on pur-
pose to make Remittances to you and their Voyages by this means are broke
148
AMERICAN THEATRE
up. other Cargoes are 8c have been necessarily detained by the Men of War
on our Coasts and in our Bays Sec, hitherto you will think your self un-
lucky in these untoward Circumstances and you have really been so, but this
must not dispirit us for you may depend on it, I will persevere in making
you the necessary Remittances with all possible Expedition, and you will in
the end be fully Convinced of my attention to you
By this Conveyance I remit sundry bills to Messrs Sami 8c J. H. Delap
Amounting to <£ 2000.0.9 Sterlg with orders to hold the same at your dis-
posal the amount being towards the Indan Contract and you will apply it
accordingly, by other Conveyances I shall remit more bills as fast as I can
get them - in the mean time I hope you will appear in such a respectable
character as to be able to obtain all the Indian Goods on Credit untill the
remittances get safely to hand these Goods will be exceedingly wanted and
I most sincerely wish you may not have lost one mom[ent] in obtaining 8c
sending them out. . . .
I have in a former letter told you the whole Continent wou’d be in
want of Woolen Goods the ensuing Winter and you may depend that suffi-
cient supplys cannot be sent out in time. We have lately got in a most No-
ble Crop of Flax and every body that understands cleaning 8c manufacturing
of it are employed this will furnish large quantitys of Coarse Linens, but
Linens of about 2/ to 3/ Stg p yard, good shirting Linens Table Linen, Rav-
ens or other Duck fit for Tents, Sail Cloth of all sorts, Cambricks, Lawns,
Muslin Sec will all Continue to be much Wanted, all sorts of Cutlary Ware,
Coppers Tin 8c Lead 8c every kind of Goods fit for Winter Wear must bring
any price I therefore propose that Tom 4 8c you shou’d try yours and our
Credit jointly and propose to some of the most Wealthy Houses in France to
ship out quantitys of suitable Goods to Martinico 8c Cape Francois to be re-
shipped from thence hither, I dont care how much Value you send the
more the better especially if you can get Insurance made on the Value from
the West Indies here against all Risques we will employ good Vessells in
transporting them hither and it will very often be in my power to obtain
Convoy as our Frigates will frequently be Cruizing in the West Indies. I
wou’d propose that you shou’d immediately send off as large a Value as you
can in Winter Goods 8c an assortment every Month afterwards suitable for
the Season at which they may be expected to arrive.
These Goods may if you please come out 2/3ds on account of Willing,
Morris 8c Compy and l/3d on your Acct You must fix with those that Ship
them the length of the Credit and the Interest to be paid for their advances
as well as their Commission Sec. youl observe that British Manufacturers
were before the present Contest shipped from England in the greatest
abundance for 2 14 pCt Comn on 12 Months Credit, after which 5 pCt Inter-
est to Commence if the payments were not then made; I am very sensible we
cannot expect that Confidence from French 8c other Foreign Merchants now,
that we formerly enjoyed with the Merchants in England, but I know that
all Trading People do 8c must run Risques 8c that they are content to do so,
when paid an equivalent, now when it is Considered that from our late Non
AUGUST 1776
149
Exportation agreement, and from other interruptions to Commerce, it is not
possible we can Remit bills previously or have proper Funds in Europe, it
will not be thought strange that we shou’d under such Circumstances seek
for Credit, and if our Cause is Crowned with success (which I think must be
the case sooner or later) there is little danger in trusting us or indeed none
at all, 8c that on the Contrary if we shou’d be unsuccessfull the Goods may
be stopped in the West Indies for you may be sure we will not order them
from thence unless we see perfect security in sending. I say when these
things are attended to, not half the danger will appear that may at first be
imagined, now if the Goods arrive safe we can sell them instantly for ready
Money at very high prices and wou’d immediately Invest the Money in the
purchase of Tobacco, Indigo, Flour wheat 8c such other produce as may suit
the Fren[ch] Market. If Insurance can be made on these Products against
the Risques the Remittances will thereby be Rendered Certain 8c the pay-
ment for the Goods speedy I hope therefore you will exert Yourselves to
the utmost to Effect this plan and if any French or Dutch Houses choose to
join you in it they may be a third, you a third 8c we a third or in any other
proportion you like better. At Martinico Wm Bingham Esqr 8c Mr Richd
Harrison will Receive 8c forward the Goods at Cape Francois Mr Stephen
Ceron[io] or in his absence Mr Jno Gaignard. . . . You may depend that the
pursuit of this plan deserves your utmost exertion 8c attention so farr as your
mind is engaged in the making of Money for there never was so fair an op-
portunity of making a large Fortune since I have been Conversant in the
World And you may assure yourself and all Concerned in this matter that
I will manage whatever comes here to the utmost advantage and make the
most immediate Returns for the Value, therefore I hope you will execute
something Considerable without delay . . . there are many changes in Con-
gress since you left us some for the better 8c some Worse. Our Frigates are
really fine Ships and the Marine Committee have it in charge to Report
ways 8c means for encreasing it and this can be done with great facility 8c dis-
patch, so that you may expect these States to become very formidable on the
Seas next Summer or Sooner . . .
1. Silas Deane Papers, ConnHS.
2. Ship Aurora , Captain Getscheus, taken and carried into Gibraltar.
3. The Charming Polly was taken by H. M. S. Orpheus.
4. Thomas Morris, half brother of Robert Morris.
“Copy of a Letter to Captain Richard Smith of his Majesty’s Ship Lark ,
Dated Perseus at Sea the 1 1th. of August 1776.’’ 1
Sir
I am sorry to acquaint You that several of the Ships under my Convoy
are exceedingly refactory and inattentive to the Signals made for His Majes-
ty’s Service, which gives me reason to believe that some of those who sail
best incline to make the best of their way, which may occasion detriment to
the Service: I therefore humbly represent that if your orders will admit of
150
AMERICAN THEATRE
joining Convoys and keeping Company, we may be better above to execute
the Service intended. l am Sir [&c.]
G. K. Elphinstone 2
[Endorsed] No 1 In Lord Howes No 25
1. PRO, Admiralty 1/487.
2. The Lark had under convoy twenty-four sail of victualers, and the Perseus, twenty transports
with troops and provisions, Tatum, ed., Serle’s Journal, 123, 130.
12 Aug.
Journal of H.M.S. Blonde , Captain Philemon Pownoll 1
Augt 1776 Moored off Point Champlain.
Monday 12 AM Employ’d occasionally, sent a Mate and 20 Men for the
Service of the Lakes,2 work’d the Ventilator,
Clear Wr and fine, PM nothing remarkable hapned
1. PRO, Admiralty 51/1 18.
2. Ibid., on the following day the Blonde sent “a Midshipman and 20 Men for the Service of the
Lakes.” On September 4, the journal noted: “past us the Tritons longboat with 37 Men
for the Service of the Lakes,” and on September 7, “the Isis Longboat and Two Longboats
from Transports pas’d us going to Chamblee with 90 Seamen for the Lake Service.”
John Langdon to Nicholas Brown, Providence 1
Sir- Portsmouth 12th August 1776
Your favour P Captain Hawkins I’ve reed am sorry for the Misfortune
of the Masts; on receiving your Letter, immediately orderd our Mast makers
to examine the Docks for Masts they have got some of them, and are at
work, shall soon have them ready. Capt Hawkins is at Newbury will soon
be here with his Sloop to take them round, have order’d some to be hawled
for Top Masts 8cc shall take every care to give every dispatch in my power,
we shall, Hew them; and also toung’d them, that they may be lighter for
transporting on deck - Colo [Joseph] Nightingale has been here, with
whom I’ve discoursed fully relative to the Guns; I’ve desired him
to inform the Committee that I depend on the next Guns to your’s
and therefore if the Contract is wrote & sent down, I will sign it, and
send it back, and in that case my Guns will be done (as I conceive) full
time for Your second Ship,2 therefore I cant conceive the least impropriety
of your lending me the Guns for this Ship now, as mine will be done in time
for you, as I never meant to interfere with the first Contract for Guns, for I
understood when there, that the Committee could not cast any more at so
low a price; therefore expect to pay more.
If it suites the Committee, should choose to have 26, 12 pounders, 6 Six
pounders - 20 Swivels, but should it not suit, the whole T wenty Six to be
Twelve pounders, Eight or ten 18 pounders would do, I mean if the Guns
can be lent out of those already cast, which I hope they may, as it will most
certainly serve us all to get this Ship out - Should the Committee see fit to
spare them, pray send teams off immediately with them to Boston to the
Care of Messrs Brusk and Hammott who will send them me by Water pray
AUGUST 1776
151
let me know by return of post if they will spare them, and how soon they
will set off, pray send by the first teams, one of each sort. - I am with Re-
spect [8cc.]
John Langdon 3
1. John Langdon Letter Book, Captain J. G. M. Stone Private Collection, Annapolis.
2. Continental frigate Providence.
3. Ibid., Langdon wrote a similar letter this date to Jabez Bowen, Providence.
John Langdon to Charles Miller 1
Sir— Portsmouth 12th August 1776
Your favour of the 8th instant I receiv’d by which I find you have direc-
tions to deliver Provisions for this Ship I’ve wrote to Messrs Breck 8c Ham-
mott to receive it and send it round P Coaster. I am ordered to lay in Six
Months Provisions and to keep that good, therefore you’ll be good enough
to spare as much as you can to Compleat the same. I gave an order on you
in favour of Messrs Breck 8c Hammott for One hundred barrels beef one Do
of Pork One hundred barrells of Flower, Fifty bis of Bread, five Casks of
Rice, four or 5 Firkins of Butter 8cc the whole or as much of these Articles as
shall be Convenient youll please forward - I shall be very glad of about
Twenty or thirty Hhds Salt, which youll please Order Ship’t here for the use
of the Continent, or deliver it to Messrs Breck 8c Hammott who will ship
it - I am with Respect [8cc.]
John Langdon
To Charles Miller Esqr Commissary Boston
1. John Langdon Letter Book, Captain J. G. M. Stone Private Collection, Annapolis.
Order of Massachusetts Council to Replace Guns Loaned by
Jonathan Glover 1
In Com[m]ittee of Council [Watertown] Augt !2[th] 1776
Ordered - That the Com[m]issary General be and he hereby is directed to
deliver Colo Jonathan Glover three four Pounders that are on Cambridge
Com[m]on and three four Pounders on Boston Com [m] on; being in lieu of
four double fortifyed four Pounders belonging to Said Coll Glover and one
three Pounder to Coll [Azor] Orne which are now on Board the Sloop Ty-
ranicide Jno Fisk Comr - as Also the Sponges 8c Laddies belonging to the
same if there should be any
Jn° Avery Dpy Secy
Ordered - That the Com[m]issary General be and he hereby is directed
to deliver Col Jonathan Glover or to his Order five hundred Weight
Powder — he paying for the same at the Rate of five Shillings p [lb.]
1. Mass. Arch., vol. 165, 44.
John Bradford to John Hancock 1
[Extract] Boston 12th Augst 1776 —
. . . Orders are come forward to deliver all the provision that came in
152
AMERICAN THEATRE
the Ship Peggy to the Depy Commiss[ary] and he tells me he cant redeliver
any part to me without an Order for that purpose, Will you please to send
pr Next post the Necessary directions; Since the Grand prize wch was sent to
portsmo; has been sent in here by two [New] york vessells a Ship from Gra-
nada with 400 hds Sugar 430 Bales Cotton an Article much wanted,2 I hope
to have the pleasure in my next to Acquaint you Sir, with the Arrival of
some of the Continental prizes. The Hancock and Franklin being on their
Cruise in pursuit of Jamaica ships; the Lynch is Return’d without success,
the Warren & Lee Sailed Saturday last.
I shall be glad Sir in your next if you will say who you would have me
Appoint as a Deputy, and to do the Duty of Auctioner, as you mentioned
no person, and, Sam Elliot Son to Mr [William] Greenleaf. is Agent for the
Brig Defence Capt [Seth] Harding, we have spoke to him Greenleaf to Sell
the scotch vessells, but I am no more Attached to him than to any other per-
son.
I have not yet been able to come at the Invoices of all the Goods on
board the Ship Peggy. Mr Glover sending them forward to the General, tho
I’ve wrote to Judge [Timothy] Pickering to know if he had all the invoices,
he promised me to bring all that was lodged with him to Boston that I
might Copy them. I find he has a Copy of the whole; for he tells me he has
Sempels, & Davis 3 and. that mentioned in my former Ltr to you was
Reids, Mr Reid says the Wines are good. I know not how you are
Supplied shall I send any particular sort forward, for your own use Gen-
eral Ward will be sending some Muskets forward to [New] york soon as I
have furnished him with 27. partly out of the peggy and some I got Repaired
of the former Stock from the scotch ships: , I hope Ere long I shall receive
orders to send away the Brig,4 Fish and Oil being perishing Articles. . . .
Mr [Jonathan] Glover makes fair promises of Settleing as Soon as possible I
shall use every argument in my power to get his, with the rest of the ac-
counts Settled, tho I am afraid their will be no ballance in favr of the
States. I am under a Necessity again to mention the pressing occasion I
have for money, having purchased a Cargo of 10000 Dollars for the
Brig, you will please to Remember sir as I have sent forward to head Quar-
ters so great a part of the Arms of the Scotch ships, and the Continent hav-
ing no more interest than 9/16 in one and 11/16 in the other, that no great
[amount] will remain with me, if the intercourse was not Obstructed be-
tween philaa and this place the Matter would be made Easy but no Excha is
wanted. I had Seal’d my last letters before Mr Ellis Grays Bills were drawn
for 400 Dollars, therefore did not advise - I have a long time since Advanced
all my own money and have borrowed £600 of my friends
1. Walter Fuller Don Collection, SI.
2. The ship Earl of Errol, 270 tons burden, New-England Chronicle, August 15, 1776.
3. Robert Semple and "the pious Benjamin Davis” were among the Tory passengers on board
the ship Peggy bound from Halifax for New York. She was taken by Washington’s
armed schooners Hancock and Franklin on July 28, and carried into Marblehead, ibid.,
August 2, 1776.
4. The brig Dispatch.
AUGUST 1776
153
John Bradford to George Washington 1
Sir- Boston 12th Augst 1776
I am honour’d with your Excellencys Signature under the 5th Instant,
directing me to take the Necessary Care of all the Warlike Stores, and
Necessaries, for an Army, till I may receive Orders from proper Authority,
your Excellency may rely on the Strictest punctuallity in Complying with
any future Orders I may Receive
I have not Omitted since I have been in this department giving a par-
ticular caution to each Commander to prevent any Embezlements, and have
furnished them with the resolve of Congress on that head, but it Signifies lit-
tle, for great Complaints are made, by those who came in the last prize, that
they Acted more like pirates than men who were so honorably employ’d. I
am taking every measure to Efface that notion of their being privateers, for
while they continue in it they will Act like such. Great need there is of a
reform in our little Navy which I hope in time may be effected I have the
Honour to be with great truth [8cc.]
Jn° Bradford
1. Washington Papers, LC.
Advertisement of Sale of Three Scotch Transports 1
Boston, August 12, 1776.
To be Sold at Public Auction, On Wednesday, the 21st Instant, at the
Hon. John Hancock, Esqr’s. Wharf,
The Prize Ship Lord Howe , about 230 Tons, with her Appurtenances.
She is a fine sailing Ship, built by the late Mr. Walker, of this Place, about
three Years since.
The Prize Ship George , about 250 Tons, with her Appurtenances. A
fine burthensome Ship, Falmouth built, about 2 Years old.
The Prize Brig. Annabella, upwards 200 Tons, with her Appurte-
nances, a very swift sailing Brig, and well calculated for a Privateer. — She
was built in Virginia, about 18 Months past.
Every Vessel has one Suit of Sails compleat.
The Inventories of the above Vessels may be seen at the Sheriff’s Office,
in Cornhill, five Days before the Sale.
Wm. Greenleaf, Sheriff.
The Sale will begin at 10 o’Clock in the Morning of Wednesday, the
21st instant. At the same Time and Place, will be sold, about 50 Chaldron
of Scotch Coal; with a Number of other Articles.
1. New-England Chronicle, August 15, 1776.
“Interrogatories Answered by George Weight Babcock Prize Master
of the Prize Ship called the Starr and Garter ” 1
Interog. 1 When and by whom was the said Ship taken? -
Answr By the private Sloop of War called the Diamond Capt Wm
Chace Commander, on the Twenty fifth Day of July 1776 2
154
AMERICAN THEATRE
Interog. From whence was the said Ship bound and what Port was She
bound to?
Answr She was bound from the Island of St Christopher to the Port of
London in great Britain. -
Interog. Who was Master of the said Ship. -
Answr Thomas Hamson. -
Interog. What are the Contents of her Cargo?
Answr. By the best information I could get her Cargo consists of about
178 hhd 10 Tierces and 16 Barrels of Sugar, 45 Puncheons
of Rum. -
Interog. What People have you brought in the said Ship, which belonged
to her, when She was taken?
Answr The second Mate, the Carpenter, 3 Foremast men and a Boy.
Interog. Where are the said Ships Papers? -
Answr On board the said Sloop Diamond , Capt. Chace was exam[in]ing
them, and said he would deliver them to me the next Day
after the Ship was taken, but another Vessel heaving in
Sight he immediately pursued after it, and Night coming on
I lost Sight of the Sloop, and thought best to proceed with
the Ship to the Port of Providence. George Wl Babcock
Answered upon Oath Aug. 12th 1776 —
Before Jn° Foster Judge in Prize Matters
[Endorsed] No 3. Interogatories answered by Capt. Geo W. Babcock
1. Admiralty Papers, vol. 9, 1776, R. I. Arch.
2. Captain Chace’s libel against the Star and Garter is in Providence Gazette , August 17, 1776.
Newport Mercury , Monday, August 12, 1776
Newport, August 12.
Last evening a drowned man was found at gravelly point in this town;
’ tis said he belonged to the Andrew Doria, Capt. Biddle, who sailed the day
before with the Columbus. 1
1. An odd incident, as the drowning helped to fix the sailing time of the two Continental vessels.
Connecticut Courant, Monday, August 12, 1776
Hartford, August 12.
A few days since, the new Ship of War belonging to this State, lying at
Say Brook, was struck by Lightning, which did considerable Damage to her
Main-Mast and Mizen-Mast. 1
1. The ship Oliver Cromwell.
Journal of the Connecticut Council of Safety 1
[Lebanon] August 12th, 1776.
Gave an order on Capt. Sami Squire of Fairfield, in favour of Capt. Seth
Harding of the brig Defence , for forty barrels of pork, forty barrels of beef,
AUGUST 1776
155
forty bushels of beans and peas, and forty bushels of Indian corn, for the use
of the brig Defence. Order delivered to Capt. Harding, August 12th, 1776.
Gave an order on Capt. Sami Squire of Fairfield, in favour of Mr. Nathl
Shaw junr, for sixty barrels of pork, the Colony’s use. Order delivered to
Capt. Harding , August 12th, 1776.
Orders were given to Capt. Harding of the Colony’s brig Defence to
cruise against the enemies of the United American States as soon as fitted to
sail, for the space of about eight weeks, and to use every precaution in his
power and discretion to cause any prize he may take to be brought into some
port of the United [States,] and there secured and condemned; and after said
cruise is ended to return to his place of rendezvous.
1. Hoadly, ed., Connecticut Records, XV, 499.
George Washington to John Hancock 1
[Extract] New York, August 12, 1776.
Sir: I have been duly honored with your favours of the 8th and 10th In-
stant with their several inclosures. I shall pay attention to the Resolution
respecting Lieut. [James] Josiah 2 and attempt to relieve him from his rig-
orous usage ....
This Moment (10. O Clock) report is made by General [Nathanael]
Greene, that a Man of War came in Yesterday, and that Sixty Sail of Ships
are now standing in; no doubt they are a further part of the Hessian
Troops.
1. Fitzpatrick, ed., Writings of Washington, V, 416-19.
2. See resolution of August 7, 1776.
“Extract of a letter from New York, August 12.” 1
We expect to be attacked every tide, the ships have now got their sails
all up.
I have just been informed, that the two privateers out of this place,
(but now at Fire Island) 2 after an engagement yesterday afternoon, of a
quarter of an hour, took and carried in there a brig (cannot tell where she is
from or what she contains) the privateers were seen to stand off; so that we
hope they have before this another prize.
1. Dunlap’s Maryland Gazette, August 20, 1776.
2. The Continental sloop Schuyler, Captain Charles Pond, and the New York state sloop Mont-
gomery, Captain William Rogers.
Journal of Ambrose Serle 1
[On board H. M. S. Eagle]
Monday, 12th. [August]
This Morning, as soon as it was light, we were gladdened with the Sight
of the grand Flight [ sic fleet] in the offing. The Joy of the Navy 8c Army
was almost like that of a Victory.
The Fleet came up this Evening to the number of 107 Sail. What is
156
AMERICAN THEATRE
very extraordinary, they have lost but 8 men in the whole Passage of 14
Weeks; and just before they came to the mouth of the Harbour they fell in
with Capt. Davis [Henry Davies] of the Repulse , who convoyed the Remain-
der of the Embarkation from Portsmouth, though he sailed some Weeks af-
ter the Commodore [Hotham]. So large a Fleet made a fine Appearance
upon entering the Harbor, with the Sails crouded, Colors flying, Guns salut-
ing, and the Soldiers both in the Ships and on the Shore continually
shouting. The Rebels (as we perceived by the Glasses) flocked out of their
lurking Holes to see a Picture, by no means agreeable to them.
1. Tatum, ed., Serle’s Journal, 62.
Journal of H. M. S. Preston, Captain Samuel Uppleby 1
August [1776] Sandy Hook NWbN 3 or 4 miles
Monday 12 saw a strange Convoy, made the Signal for a Pilot at 6 the
Repulse saluted us with 13 Guns retd 11. came on board
a Pilot stood in for Sandy hook in Company the Repulse s
Convoy
Little wind and variable weather, saluted Lord Howe with
13 Guns which he returned Anchored off Staten Island,
found riding here the Vice Admirals Lord Howe 8c Shuld-
ham with a large Fleet of Men of War and Transports,
hoisted out the Boats received Water from the Asia.2
1. PRO, Admiralty 51/720.
2. Ibid., the flag of Commodore William Hotham was on board the Preston, which had sailed
from St. Helens, England, on May 6, 1776, with the Brune, Emerald, Carcass bomb and
Strombolo fire ship, convoying a fleet of ninety-two transports.
Brigadier General Hugh Mercer to John Hancock 1
[Extract] Woodbridge 12 Augt 1776
Sir, Since break of day this Morning upwards of Eighty sail of Ships have
been seen standing in from Sea towards N York - And on requisition of
Genl Washington - Col [Samuel] Miles’ two Battalions of Riflemen have
gone on to reinforce his Excallenceys Army - also Col [Samuel] Atlees Bat-
talion of Musketry - about four hundred sett off from Amboy this after-
noon, and as many of the flying Camp 8c Volunteers as will make up two
Thousand I shall have ready at New ark 8c Bergen to assist in the defence of
N York as required -
I am this Moment informed that since I left Amboy the Number of the Ene-
mies Ships at Sandy hook is upwards of 100 -
1. Papers CC (Letters from General Officers), 159, 174, NA.
Journal of the Continental Congress 1
[Philadelphia] Monday, August 12, 1776
Agreeable to the order of the day, Commodore Hopkins attended, and
was admitted; when the examination, taken before the Marine Committee,
AUGUST 1776
157
and the report of the said Committee in consequence thereof, were read to
him; and the commodore being heard in his own defence, and having deliv-
ered in some further answers to the questions asked him by the Marine
Committee, and two witnesses being, at his request, introduced and exam-
ined, he withdrew.
The Congress then took into consideration the instructions given to
Commodore Hopkins, his examination and answers to the Marine Commit-
tee, and the report of the Marine Committee thereupon; and, the farther
defence by him made, and the testimony of the witnesses; and, after some
debate, the farther consideration thereof was postponed. 2
1. Ford, ed., /CC, V, 647-48.
2. In the Hopkins Papers, RIHS, are some fragments of the defense offered in justification of
his actions. They read:
I am glad that I am to be tryed by a Court that I Can have no Dout But will Judge
from Maters of fact and not from aney Rumer propagated out Dor[r]s With out the
Least foundasion and that further I am Humbly of opinion that the Reputation of
the Navey has Not Sufford by aney misconduct of myne by wante of Disipline or
aney other way
in answer to the Report of the Comitte that I did During my Cruse S[ou]thwd
Did not pay Due Regard to the tenor of my Instructions
A. that my ordors was maid the 5 day of Janarey and I did Not Saile till the 17th
of febuarey which alterd the Stacion of the Enemy Priticler as to the Strength of the
fleet at Virginia and all the ministeral Ships Living North and South Carlina as
apears by Letters from the Navel Comitte as also it aperd to Me they Did not Expect
I Should Strictly folow the ordors, But my one Judgment and Prud[enc]e acording to
the Last Article In my odors. And was it Strictly understood I should, the next
place by my Orders after South Carolina where it appears there was nothing to do,
was to go to Rhode Island -
Autobiography of John Adams 1
[Philadelphia] Monday August 12. 1776. 2
Commodore Hopkins had his hearing, as in the Journal. On this Oc-
casion I had a very laborious task, against all the Prejudices of the Gentle-
men from the southern and middle States, and of many from New Eng-
land. ... I thought, however that Hopkins had done great Service and made
an important beginning of Naval Operations.
It appeared to me, that the Commodore was pursued and persecuted by
that Anti New England Spirit, which haunted Congress in many other of
their proceedings, as well as in this Case and that of General Wooster. I
saw nothing in the Conduct of Hopkins, which indicated Corruption or
Want of Integrity. Experience and Skill might have been deficient, in sev-
eral Particulars: But where could We find greater Experience or Skill? I
knew of none to be found. The other Captains had not so much, and it
was afterwards found, they had not more Success.
I therefore entered into a full and candid Investigation of the whole
Subject, considered all the Charges and all the Evidence: as well as his An-
swers and proofs: and exerted all the Talents and Eloquence I had, in justi-
fying him where he was justifiable, and excusing him where he was
excusable. When the Tryal was over Mr. [William] Ellery of Newport,
158
AMERICAN THEATRE
came to me and said you have made the old Man your Friend for Life. He
will hear of your Defence of him, and he never forgets a Kindness. 3
1. L. H. Butterfield, ed., The Adams Papers, Diary and Autobiography of John Adams (Cam-
bridge, 1961), III, 405, 406. Hereafter cited as Butterfield, ed.. Diary and Autobiography
of John A darns.
2. While Adams dated his comments on the day that Hopkins appeared before Congress, the en-
try really covers August 12, and August 15, 16, when the debate continued.
3. Adams added in his autobiography:
More than twenty Years afterwards, the Old Gentleman hobbled on his Crutches
to the Inn in Providence, at four score Years of Age, one half of him dead in con-
sequence of a paralytic Stroke, with his Eyes overflowing with tears to express his
Gratitude to me. He said He knew not for what End he was continued in Life,
unless it were to punish his Friends or to teach his Children and Grand Children
to respect me. The President [Jonathan Maxcy] of Rhode Island Colledge [Brown
University] who had married his Daughter, and all his Family shewed me the same
affectionate Attachment.
John Adams to Abigail Adams 1
[Extract] [Philadelphia] Aug. 12 76
A french Vessell, a pretty large Brigantine, deeply loaden, arrived here
yesterday from Martinique. She had 50 Barrells of Limes, which are all
sold already, at such Prices, that the Amount of them will be sufficient to
load the Brig with Flour. A Trade We see, even now, in the midst of sum-
mer is not totally interrupted, by all the Efforts of our Enemies. Prizes are
taken in no small Numbers. A Gentleman told me a few days ago that he
had summed up the sugar, which has been taken, and it amounted to 3000
Hdds. since which two other ships have been taken and carried into Mary-
land.
Thousands of schemes for Privateering are afloat in American Imag-
inations. Some are for taking the Hull ships, with Woolens for Am-
sterdam and Rotterdam — some are for the Tin ships -some for the Irish
Linnen ships - some for outward Bound and others for Inward Bound India
Men - some for the Hudsons Bay ships -and many for West India sugar
ships. Out of these Speculations many fruitless and some profitable Proj-
ects will grow.
We have no News from New York. All is quiet there as yet. Our Ex-
pectations are raised - the Eyes of the World are upon Washington and
How, and their Armies. The Wishes and Prayers of the virtuous Part of it,
I hope, will be answerd. If not, yet Virtues grow out of Affliction.
1. Butterfield, ed., Adams Family Correspondence, II, 88-89.
George Bryan to the Pennsylvania Council of Safety 1
The Port-officer begs Leave to inform the Gentlemen of the Council of
Safety, that Anthony Marmajou master of the Brigantine L’Heureuse
Famille from Martinico has this day entered (inter alia)
5 Sc i/2 Tons of Sulphur.
13 Musquetts with Bayonetts fitted.
15 pairs of pistols
AUGUST 1776
27 pieces of Sail Cloth
Some Druggs & medicines
159
[Philadelphia] 12t[h] August 1776
Geo. Bryan
1. Henry C. Van Schaach Autograph Collection, vol. 2, 284, ChHS.
Stephen Steward to the Maryland Council of Safety 1
Gentlemen [West River, August 12] 2
In behalf of you I have agreed to give William Waters one hundred 8c
seventy five pounds provincial money for his boat 8c materials as p Invento-
ry, herein for the use of the Province, sent a hand up with W. Waters in
order to towe the boat down, I have wrote to John Steel, please to send
down by the boat the swivil guns, half a barrel of Cannon powder, 8c half a
dozen pounds of musket powder - If you have any such linen as you made
tents of shoud be glad you would send 100 yds of it to make small sails with,
8c one ream of sheathing paper to secure the Magazine with Mr Waters is
well acquainted with the bay and I think would be a very serviceable man
for a Captain. I am Gentlemen [8cc.] Stephen Steward. -
An Inventory of Rigging 8c tackle belonging to the boat Sally
vizt
1 Main sail.
1 Fore do.
1 Jibb do.
1 Top do.
2 anchors.
1 Cable.
1 Row boat.
2 Oars.
1 Water cask.
1 Runner 8c tackle.
1 Draw bucket.
1 Marlind spike.
1 Hammer
1 Hair broom.
1 Brass Compass.
1 Pewter Bason 8c 3 plates.
1 Earthen dish 8c 1 plate.
1 Tea Pot.
2 Earthen bowls.
1 Tin Jack.
1 Lead 8c Line.
1 Tallow Brush.
1 Table.
1 Tin Fender.
4 knives 8c 4 forks.
2 Pewter spoons.
1 Tinder box flint 8c steel.
1 Candle Box.
1 tin Lanthorn.
1 Scraper.
1 Scrubbing brush.
1 Axe.
2 Iron Potts
1 Combouse
1 Wooden bowl
1 pr Hhd Slings
1 pr bbl Slings
1 Harness tubb
William Waters.
1. Correspondence of Council of Safety, Md. Arch,
2. The date is approximated from the following entries in the Journal of the Maryland Council
of Safety for Tuesday, August 13, 1775: “Ordered That Western shore Treasurer pay to
Captn Wm Waters one hundred and seventy five [pounds] for a Boat. Ordered, That
Commissry of Stores deliver to Stephen Steward ten Swivel guns with furniture, 72 barrels
of Cannon Powder & 6 w of Musquet powder.” Ibid., Council of Safety Journal, 29 August
1775 to 20 March 1777.
Vice Admiral James Young to Philip Stephens 1
Sir, English Harbour Antigua 12th August 1776.
I am now to desire you will be pleased to acquaint my Lords Commis-
sioners of the Admiralty, that since my last Letters to them of the 24th July
last by the Argo , His Majesty’s Ship the Hind, struck the Ground comeing
160
AMERICAN THEATRE
into English harbour; which has occasioned her to Leak so very much that I
have thought it necessary to heave her down, and examine into the Damages
She may have received by said accident, and I am now preparing her for Ca-
reening at Jumbo point; the Portland being employed on said Service at the
Capston Wharf. -
I have also the pleasure to acquaint their Lordships that I have now
met with another Brigantine, that on a careful Survey, has been reported fit
to be made an Armed Vessel for the use of His Majesty, which have directed
to be purchased and the Naval Officer at Antigua Yard to draw Bills on the
Navy Board for £750 sterling the Appraised Value of said Brigantine; the
Reported Condition and Valuation which is inclosed and marked No 1 -
The 10th Instant I caused her to be Commissioned and called the Peli-
can (agreeable to their Lordships directions) and have appointed Lieuten-
ant John Plummer Ardesoif from the Hind to Command her, and have also
appointed Mr Billy Douglas to be Lieutenant of the Hind in his room,
which I hope their Lordships will approve.
The inclosed Papers marked No 2 and 3 are the State and Condition,
and Disposition of the Squadron, which I desire may be communicated to
their Lordships. 2 I am Sir [8cc.]
Jam3 Young
1. PRO, Admiralty 1/309.
2. Under July 27, 1776. See Volume 5, 1255.
13 Aug.
New-England Chronicle , Thursday, September 5, 1776 1
Halifax, August 13.
Saturday night last [August 10] arrived below, and Sunday morning
came up to town, his Majesty’s frigate Liverpool , from Head-Quarters, and
brought in with her a Jamaica ship, and an Antigua brig retaken; also, a
Philadelphia sloop bound to some part of New-England.2 We are informed
that General Howe and the Army under his command are encamped on an
Island near New-York, called Staten-Island.
We have undoubted authority, that two Thousand Highlanders under
the Convoy of three Frigates, and three armed schooners on a new construc-
tion for drawing the least quantity of water, have been dispatched by Lord
Howe up the Bay of Fundy, to penetrate by that side into the New-Hamp-
shire Government, and that Col. M’Lane with 3000 of the lower country Mi-
litia of Canada, with 600 Indians are on their full march to join that Body
of Highlanders at the head of the River St. John’s, and to cooperate with
them.
On the 2d inst. arrived his Majesty’s Frigate Milford, Capt. [John]
Burr, from a cruize, and bro’t in a prize Schooner loaded with Fish and
Lumber for the West-India Market. - 3 Also, the Princess Royal, a home-
ward Jamaica ship, (loaded with Rum, Sugar, and other valuable Articles)
which having parted her Convoy, fell in (off the Bermuda Islands) with a
AUGUST 1776
161
Letter of Marque Schooner in the American service of 6 Guns, and some
swivels, bound to Santa Cruze who took her and put an officer and 12 men
on board. But after they had her in possession 16 days, she fell in with the
Milford , in Boston Bay, who retook her, but the Prize Master and his men
took to their boat and got on shore before the Milford came up.
1. Reprinted from the Nova Scotia Gazette.
2. The recaptured vessels were the Ship Nevis, from Nevis for London, and the brig Devonshire,
from Antigua for Ireland. The prize sloop was the Swan, laden with Indian corn, and
taken August 1, 1776.
3. The schooner prize was the Triton, from Kennebec River, taken July 20, 1776.
Commodore Marriot Arbuthnot to Captain Andrew Barkley,
H. M. S. Scarborough 1
Sir Halifax 13th August 1776.
Having just now receiv’d information that the Rebels of New England
are preparing to Invade this Province, & that for that purpose, they have
made a Road from St Johns River enlong the Coast as far as the River She-
pody toward the Head of the Bay of Fundy, and that they propose bringing
Cannon in Boats along Shore, for the purpose of attacking the Fort at Cum-
berland.
I therefore think it necessary for His Majestys Service to desire that you
do without loss of time, collect all the naval Force you can, 8c proceed
directly to St Johns River, 8c there receive what Intelligence you can as to
any such designs, or defeat any preparation’s within your reach that you may
find making; that from thence you proceed up to the River Shepody keeping
close in Shore, [ (] which I am inform’d may be done with safety) in order to
take up any of their Vessels which may be employ’d on this Occasion.
When you shall have arriv’d at Shepody, you will then do what you shall
think necessary for the King’s Service, and so proceed to Cumber-
land, and co-operate with Colonel Gorham, unless in your way you shall
have had an oppertunity of defeating any preparations or attemps for an
invasion. I am Sir. 8cc
(Signd) Ml Arbuthnot
1. Executive Council Letter Book, vol. 136, N.S. Arch.
John Langdon to Josiah Bartlett, Philadelphia 1
[Extract! Portsmouth 13th August 1776
. . . This will be handed you by Capt [John] Roche who has been the
last Season, an Officer on board one of the Continental Vessells and has been
of eminent Service to the States, Captain [John] Ayres who commands the
Vessell on board of which Captain Roche acted as first Lieut 2 gives him the
greatest Character not only of an Officer, but a Gentleman who has it in his
Power to do great good in our Navey — I’ve therefore taken the Liberty to
recommend him to you, and the Honble Members of Congress of my Ac-
quaintance as a Gentleman and an Excellent Officer. I think he would sup-
port both Characters with Eclat, I’ve been several Years acquainted with
162
AMERICAN THEATRE
this Gentleman in the West Indies, where he resided, and always wore the
Character given him here, he came to this Country last Year, and immedi-
ately Enterd the Service not minding in what Station, he served, as he was
determined, to serve the Country, which he tho’t grocely abused by the Sons
of Tyranny being likewise a great Friend to the Liberties of Mankind - I
shall thank you to mention this Gentleman to Mr Adams’s Mr [Richard
Henry] Lee, Mr Rutledge, Jay 8cc and if any good Opportunity offers, in the
Navey pray serve him -
1. John Langdon Letter Book, Captain J. G. M. Stone Private Collection, Annapolis.
2. Washington’s schooner Lynch.
Journal of H. M. Sloop Viper, Captain Samuel Graves 1
Augt 1776 Hand Grandmanon NNW 4 or 5 Leagues
Tuesday 13 At 10 A M Saw a sail to the Westwd gave Chase
Mode Breezes 8c Cloudy still in Chase at 4 P M Spoke the
Chase A Sloop from Halifax bound to Winsor at 10 in 2d
reefs topsls at 1 1 Saw a sail A head gave Chase out reefs 8c
set Steerg Sails Came up with the Chase 8c haild her to bring
too she not Answering fired several Shot at her we imag-
ined her to be a privater seeing her decks A light We fired a
broadside into her She hove too 8c proved to be the brig
Loasia from Machies 2 made sail in 2nd reefs
1. PRO, Admiralty 51/1039.
2. Louisa, J. Colston, master, and S. New, owner, from Machias for Tortola with lumber, shin-
gles, etc., Howe’s Prize List, March 31, 1777, PRO, Admiralty 1/487.
Journal of the Massachusetts Council 1
[Watertown] Tuesday August 13th 1776
Petition of John Lee in behalf of himself 8c [in] behalf of Messrs Jackson 8c
Tracy 8c Tracy Merchts in Newbury Port—
Humbly Sheweth, That they have at their Joint and proper Expence fitted
out and Manned and Armed a Schooner call’d the Hawke burthen about
Seventy Tons Navigated by Thirty Men, armed with Six Carriage Gun’s,
two 8c three Pounders, and ten Swivels, Twenty five bbls Pork 8c Beef, Flour
8c Rice, 8c two Hundred wt Powder, for the purpose of Cruising on the Ene-
mies of the United States of America - And that they have Appointed John
Lee to be the Comander of said Schooner, for whose faithfull Conduct in
that Capacity your Petitioners are ready to enter into Bonds Therefore,
they pray your Honors to grant the said John Lee a Comission or Letters of
Marque for the purpose Aforesaid Agreeable to the Resolves and under the
Conditions made by the Honble Congress - And your Petitioner for Himself
and the concern’d as in Duty bound shall ever Pray —
John Lee
Read and Ordered That the above Mention’d John Lee be Comissionated as
Commander of the Schooner Hawke — He Complying with the Resolves of
Congress -
AUGUST 1776
163
Bonds being given by John Lee 8c Jackson Tracey 8c Tracey a Comission was
Issued out to the said John Lee as Comander of said Schooner Hawke fitted
out by them for the purpose Aforesaid, and Instructions were delivered to
him Accordingly — 2
Ordered that Richard Derby Esqr be directed to forward the papers taken in
a Vessell sent into Dartmouth, by John Fisk Commander of the Tyrannicide
to the Honble Mr Seaver Agent for the Southern District —
1. Mass. Arch., vol. 19, 158.
2. Ibid., vol. 6, 80, a second bond added Martha Lee and Joseph Lee as owners in addition to
Jackson, Tracy & Tracy.
Henry Bromfield to George Washington 1
Sir Boston 13th Augt 1776
I am hond with your Excellencie’s Favor of 24th June, wch came to
Hand at a time that I was Absent on a Journey in the Country, This wth a
great uncertainty whether to undertake the Task assigned me therein has
been the Reason, that I have not returned an earlier Answer, at length
however, upon the Consideration of the Delay a Refusal must Occasion, 8c
that the Excuse I might Alledge in my favor might be pleaded by Others
who most probable must have been in the same Situation, vizt an Unac-
quaintedness with the Value of the Various Articles to be Apprized, has de-
termin’d me to Undertake the Trouble in Conjunction with Mr Willm
Davis Mercht of this Town on Behalf of Capt Manly 8c his Crew, We have
spared no Pains to Ascertain the Value of the different Articles; in Order to
wch we have Applied to All the Traders 8c Mechanicks most conversant
therein 8c have from the Information reed from them 8c Others most capable
of giving it, Endeavor’d to make an Estimation as Near to Truth as might
be, which however it may deviate I am conscious on my Own part cannot be
Attributed to Inattention or Neglect, 8c hope will be such as to meet the Ap-
probation of your Excellency & the Honbl Congress - 2 I have the Honour
to be with greatest Esteem 8c Respect [&c.]
Henry Bromfield
1. Washington Papers, LC.
2. Appraisal of arms and ammunition from the British ordnance transport Nancy, taken in No-
vember 1775, and which were immediately requisitioned by Washington for the use of the
Army. The appraisal was £.20,530.18.1. Records Armed Vessels 1775-1776, vol. 2,
Book 17, No. 5660, BHS.
Petition of James Kennedy to the Massachusetts Council 1
The Petition of James Kenneday Inhabitant of St Georges Parish in the
County of Middlesex London 8c late Master of the Ship Peggy -
Humbly Sheweth -
That your Petitioner left St Vincents in the Ship Hero of London for
Hallifax in March last for Lumber for that Island to which Island 8c Grenada
Your Petitioner has Traded this Eight Years as Master from London, But as
your Petitioner was taken very bad With the Rumatizim as that rendered
him unable to walk therefore he was oblidged to send away the Ship for St
164
AMERICAN THEATRE
Vincents 8c remain in Hallifax. Your Petitioner getting better of this Disor-
der purchased a small Schooner to proceed after his Ship but meeting with
Mr Reed who had purchased this Ship Rigged 8c bound for Antigua by way
of New York gave your Petitioner the Command of sd Ship with Promise
not to detain her in N. York but directly Dispatch her for the west Indies 8c
there to Load Sugars for London, but your Petitioner was taken by two
Armed Schooners in the Service of the united States 2 8c was brought in here
the 29th of July Last 8c Committed to Jail, but as your Petitioner was in a
very poor state of Health when Committed that he got the Liberty of Goal
Keepers House where he has remained since Your Petitioner Prays that
your Honors would take his Case into Consideration 8c grant him the same
Liberty as other Masters of Ships brought In here. As your Petitioner had
a Man on Board by the Name of [Benjamin] Davis whose Character he did
not know till he was brought into this Place, he beleives is the Occasion
of his receiving different punishment from other Masters of Vessells. Your
Petitioner likewise Prays that when your Honors shall think it fit for the
Masters of other Vessels brought in here to Depart for their own Country
that your Petitioner may have leave to accompany them at first for London
as your Petitioner has a Wife 8c Famaly there -Your Petitioner too is at
Present in so bad a state of Health as is unable to put off or on his
Cloaths- Your Petitioner is very happy that his Case is left with your Hon-
ors 8c rests assured that you will do every thing in your Power for him con-
sisting with your Duty 8c the good of the Publick. If your Petitioner should
have the Prayer of his Petition Granted he assures your Honors that he will
not abuse the Goodness of those to whom he will be much Indebted 8c as in
Duty bound will ever Pray 8cc
Jas Kennedy
Boston August 13th 1776 —
[Endorsed] In Council [Watertown] Augt 15[th] 1776 Read 8c Ordered -
That the Prayer [of] the Petitioner Jas Kenedy be granted and the Goal
Keeper at Boston in the County of Suffolk be and he hereby is directed
to releas[e] from his Custody the Sayd Kenedy - 3
Jn° Avery Dpy Secy 4
1. Mass. Arch., vol. 165, 59, 60.
2. The Peggy was taken by Washington’s schooners Hancock and Franklin.
3. Ibid., 292, Kennedy was still in Boston on September 25 when he again petitioned the Coun-
cil to depart on board the ship William.
4. Ibid., 61, 62, similar petitions resulted in the release of Thomas Pamp, mate, John Whittit,
servant of the captain, Patrick Reid and Thomas Fraser, passengers on board the Peggy.
Journal of the Massachusetts Sloop Tyrannicide , Captain John Fisk 1
4 [A. M.]
5
7
12
Remks on Tuesday 13th of August 1776
Small breaze tumbling sea
down all sails
Sat All sails small Airs of wind
Ends pleasant Weather
Lattd in 35d 37m Longd in 59d 35m
AUGUST 1776
165
1 [P. M.] Wore ship stood to the southward saw a sail to windward
down all sails found her to be a ship standing to the NE
made sail gave Chaise
8 spake with the Chaise a Spanish ship from Havannah bound to
Cadiz 18 days out tack ship stood to the west ward
1. John Fisk Journal, AAS.
John Brown to Governor Nicholas Cooke 1
Sir Providence August 13th 1776
I the Subscriber of Providence in the State of Rhode Island 8cc. Mer-
chant, request your Honor to grant a Commission or Letters of Marque and
Reprisal to Joseph Tillinghast Commander 2 of the Sloop Polly of which I
am Owner, She is burthened about Seventy Tons, carries Six Carriage Guns
Four Pounders and Swivel Guns, manned with Twenty Men, and fitted with
a suitable Quantity of Small Arms, Pistols Cutlasses, Powder Ball and other
Military Stores; She hath on board Ten Barrels Beef and Pork, Twelve
Tierces Bread 8cc. Israel Arnold is Lieutenant and Nathan Westcott Master
of said Sloop. I am with great Respect Sir [&c.]
John Brown
1. Maritime Papers, Letters of Marque, R. I. Arch.
2. Ibid., Tillinghast received his commission this date, as did Captain William Dennis of the pri-
vateer sloop America.
Governor Jonathan Trumbull to Major General Philip Schuyler 1
Sir Lebanon Augt 13th 1776
I wrote you yesterday since which Capt Seth Warner one of the Sea
Captains you mention came to me, and hath consented to undertake and
raise a Company of Seamen for the Lake Service — He informs me that he
can soon procure twenty Seamen here and as many more out of the Compa-
nies in Colo [Samuel] Mott’s Regiment which went from his neighbour-
hood, and are at or on their march to Skeensborough - I have conferred
with him, and on consideration offered the following encouragement to such
able bodied Seamen as shall enlist into this Service - to wit -
Bounty — 20 Dollars £6. .0. .0
Premium for Blanket 0.12..0
Gun 0 . . 6 . . 0
Cartouch Box Belt 1 0 ° 0
and Knapsack
Wages pr Month 2 . . 8 . . 0
They to be held in Service from the day of their enlistment untill the
25th day of December next, unless sooner discharged, and to have the same
allowance and marching money as the other Troops in Continental
Service - The Premium and first months wages to be paid before they begin
their march — 2
166
AMERICAN THEATRE
I shall pr next opportunity send you an account of the Cost of the fell-
ing Axes, and advance pay to the Carpenters, and an estimate of the Sums
necessary to be advanced for premium and first month’s wages for the Sea-
men now to be raised, which I shall hope to receive - The other Carpenters
I expect here soon, and trust they will undertake the Service - I am, Sir
[&cj
Jonth Trumbull
1. Trumbull Papers, XXVI, Letter Book 1, 81, ConnSL.
2. This date the Connecticut Council of Safety allowed Captain Warner £180 to carry out this
service. Hoadly, ed., Connecticut Records, XV, 500.
Captain John Smith to the New York Convention 1
Gentlemen- Esopus, August 13th, 1776.
When Captain Biddle, of the Congress armed vessel the Andrea Doria,
on the 29th May last took the Oxford transport, on board of which was a
company of His Britannic Majesty’s 42d regiment of foot, Capt. Biddle upon
taking the officers out of the Oxford , only allowed them to take their bed-
ding and a few shirts with them, and told them that by orders of the Conti-
nental Congress, all that was the private property of the prisoners that were
taken would be allowed them, and that he would return the officers their
swords upon coming on shore.
My reason for troubling you with this, gentlemen, is, as you mentioned,
that when any prisoners had any business of any kind they were to apply to
you. Now I and the rest of the officers of my company, who were taken on
board the Oxford , will be glad to be informed whether or not we will be al-
lowed our baggage, and what was our private property that was on board
when we were taken. All my clothes and other baggage, and about 60
guineas in cash were on board; as likewise Lieut. Franklin, who is prisoner
with me here, and Lieut. Morrow and Ensign Campbell, whom Captain
Biddle carried to Rhode-Island with him. Captain Biddle gave command
of the Oxford to one of his lieutenants, a Mr. [John] McDougal and a Mr.
Tribbet [John Trevett]. I should be very much obliged to you, gentlemen,
if you will be so kind as let me have an answer to this as soon as it is con-
venient. I am, with respect, gentlemen [8cc.]
John Smith,
Captain in His Britannic Majesty’s 42d Regt.
1. New York Provincial Congress, II, 283.
Journal of H.M.S. Phoenix , Captain Hyde Parker, Jr.1
August 1776. - At Single Anchor in Tapan Bay.
Tuesday 13th Light Breezes and fair Weather.
at i/4 past Noon Weigh’d & came to Sail in Company with
his Majesty’s Ship Rose, the Tryal Schooner & the Two
Tenders At 2 P M came too with the Small Bower in 6i/2
Fam abreast Col Philips. The Rose in coming too, let go
AUGUST 1776
167
her Anchor foul of ours Weigh’d the Small & let go the
Best Bower, Veer’d to 1/3 of a Cable
At Single Anchor, four Miles above the upper Fort
on York Island.
1. PRO, Admiralty 51/694.
Journal of H.M.S. Rose, Captain James Wallace 1
August 1776 In Hudsons River New York
Tuesday 13th AM at ]/2 pass 11 Weigh’d and came to sail as did the
Phenix Tryal and 2 Tenders, Steering down the River.
First and Mide part lights Airs and Clear, latter Do with
Rain P M at i/2 past 2 Anchd off Philliphs farm, 8 miles
from the Rebel Fort, Do Anch’d the Phenix, Tryal &
Tenders, saw several Vessels sunk in the Channel Abrest of
the Fort, with 4 Brig’s ready to sink.
1. PRO, Admiralty 51/805.
“Disposition of His Majesty’s Ships and Vessels employed in
North America under the Command of the Vice Admiral
the Viscount Howe” 1
Rate
Ships Names
Guns
Men
Commanders
Appointments.
Eagle
64
520
f V. Adi Lord Howe
3
| Capt Duncan.
►
44
Asia
500
Vandeput
Chatham
370
f V. A. Shuldham
4
50
| Capt Raynor
44
Preston
367
f Commo Hotham
[ Capt Uppleby
4 <
Centurion
350
Brathwaite
4 4
Renown
Banks
5
Rainbow
44
280
Sir Geo: Collier
44
Emerald
32
220
Caldwell
» 4
Repulse
Davis
Stationed off of Staten Island at-
4 4
Flora
Brisbane
tendant on the Operations of the
6
Greyhound
28
200
Dickson
Army.
4 4
Solebay
Symonds
Destined to convoy Transports
Sloop
Swan
14
125
Ayscough
■
to bring the 6th Regiment from
4 4
Tamer
16
Lieut Mason
St Vincents
F. Ship
Strombolo
Capt Phipps
Bomb
Thunder
with
their
Molloy
44
Carcass
Tenders
Dring
Schr
St. Lawrence
Lieutt Graves
Store Ship
Adventure
Hallum
Sloop Senegal
14
125
Curtis
Sandy Hook.
5 Brune 32
“ Niger
Sloop King’s fisher 14
Brig Halifax
220 Capt Ferguson
Talbot
125 Graeme
Lieutt Quarme
Under Orders to be stationed in
the West Entrance of the Sound
to prevent Supplies being sent
through that Channel to the
Town of New York.
5
6
Armed
Vessel
Phoenix
Rose
T ryal
44
20
280 Capt Parker
160 Wallace
Lieutt Brown
J
In the North
River.
5
Orpheus
32
220 Captain Hudson
To return off the Delaware
Draft of HMS Chatham.
AUGUST 1776
169
“Disposition of His Majesty’s Ships and Vessels employed in
North America under the Command of the Vice Admiral
the Viscount Howe'’ 1 — [Continued!
Rate Ships Names Guns Men Commanders Appointments.
6 Liverpool 28 200 Capt Bellew
Milford Burr
| Off of Boston
6 Cerberus 28 200 Symons
Sloop Merlin 16 125 Burnaby
J- Off of Block Island.
4 Bristol 50 367 {
Experiment 300 Williams
6 Syren 28 200 Furneaux
Daily expected from South Caro-
lina, as by Report from Sir Peter
Parker. Arrived at Sandy Hook
August 14th 1776
“ Active 28 200 Hunt
Sloop Falcon 14 125 Linzee
Scorpion Honble J. Tollemache
Cruizer 8 80 Parry
i Stationed off Cape Fear, by Re-
[ port from Sir P. Parker
l At Cape Fear.
6 Sphynx 20 160 Reid
Sloop Raven 14 125 Stanhope
A[rmed] Cherokee
Vessel Lieutt Ferguson
Stationed off of Savannah, as by
Report from Sir P. Parker
At Savannah, as by Do
Schr Hinchinbrook Ellis St. Augustine, as by Do
“ St. John Grant Do, as by Letter from Lieutt Grant
6 Mercury 20 160 Capt Montagu
Sloop Savage 8 80 Bromedge
Hope 8 50 Dawson
“ Albany Mowat
H[ospital] Jersey Halsted
Ship J
At Halifax, except the Hope,
which is off Sable Island as by
Account from Commissioner Ar-
buthnot of the 30th of June.
6 Scarborough 20 160 Barkley ]
Sloop Viper 10 110 Graves J
In the Bay of Fundy, by Order of
Vice Admiral Shuldham.
Brig Canceaux Lieutt Schank — Sent with Dispatches to Quebec
by Do
Schr Dispatch Goodridge — Sent by Commr Arbuthnot, to
come with the Renown to this
port — Not Arrived
5 Roebuck 44 280 Capt Hamond
6 Fowey 24 150 Montague
Sloop Otter 14 125 Squire
Supposed to be at Virginia, as by
Vice Admiral Shuldham’s Report
4 Isis 50 350 Douglas
5 Pearl 32 220 Wilkinson
“ Blonde Pownoll
Juno Dalrymple
6 Triton 28 200 Lutwidge
“ Carysfort Fanshaw
“ Tartar Ommanney
Armed
Ship Bute Parrey
“ Howe Pringle
Schr ' Magdalen Lieutt Nun[n]
In the River St Laurence
•
Brig Diligent Dodd — At the Island of St. Johns
Sloop Hunter 10 110 Capt McKenzie
V
Supposed to be sailed from Que-
bec for England as by V. Admiral
Shuldham’s Report.
6 Lively 20 160 Bishop j
Ordered to St Augustine by V. A.
Shuldham
Sloop Nautilus 16 125 Harvey Bermuda by Do
Eagle off of Staten Island August the 13th 1776
Howe
1. PRO. Admiralfv 1 /4R7
170
AMERICAN THEATRE
Captain Henry Davis, R.N., to Philip Stephens 1
Sir/
Repulse off Staten Island —
August the 13th 1776.
Please to acquaint my Lords Commissioners of the Admiralty, that His
Majestys Ship Repulse with Twenty five Sail of the Convoy under my Com-
mand, arrived here yesterday; I have also great pleasure in acquainting their
Lordships, that the Troops are in perfect health, having not lost a man dur-
ing the Voyage; Inclosed you will receive a Return of the Convoy, that
Saild from St Hellens with me, the 26th of May last, and believe me to
be - Most Respectfully Sir [8cc.]
Hen; Davis
[Endorsed] Reed 29 Sept
l. PRO, Admiralty 1/1706.
Captain Thomas Symonds, R.N., to Major General Henry Clinton 1
Sir,
I this morning waited on Adi Shuldham, 8c asked his opinion in regard
to the Freight, for the money brought from So Carolina, he desires me to in-
form you, that as a receipt was given for the money when rec’d on board the
Solebay, I stood charged with it, & must have been answerable for any loss, &
thinks the offer I have made fore one pr Cent, very reasonable, as it has ever
been a custom, for Kings money, as well as Contractors, to pay freight.
As you consented in referring it to Adi Shuldham, I hope, to have no occa-
sion to give you any further trouble about it. I have the Honor to be Sr
[&c.]
Tho8 Symonds;
Solebay [off Staten Island] 13th Augt 1776:
1. Sir Henry Clinton Papers, CL.
Diary of Dr. Thomas Moffat 1
[On board H.M. Sloop Swan]
Tuesday Agust 13th Thermometer 70 morning. Came up Yesterday
and anchored off of Staten Island 127 Transports with Troops 8cc. A.M.
Four Regiments embarked great motion in The fleet - Evening Ther-
mometer 8 1
1. Thomas Moffat’s Diary, LC.
Journal of the Continental Congress 1
[Philadelphia] Tuesday, August 13, 1776
The Marine Committee having recommended William Barnes for first
lieutenant on board one of the frigates built at Philadelphia; Thomas
Vaughan, (second mate of the ship Alfred ,) to be third lieutenant of the
AUGUST 1776
171
Washington frigate, commanded by Thomas Read, Esqr and Elisha Hin-
man, to the command of the Cabot,
Resolved, That they be accepted, and that commissions be granted to
them accordingly; and that Captain [Dudley] Saltonstal be ordered to dis-
charge Mr. Vaughan, that he may repair to the command to which he is now
appointed.
1. Ford, ed., JCC, V, 649.
John Adams to Colonel Henry Knox 1
[Extract] Philadelphia August 13. 1776
Dear Sir Yours of July 29, I duly received. - But had not the Pleasure of
seeing Mr Bogart, the Cannon Founder. - Mr [Robert Treat] Paine, who is
upon the Cannon Committee, I suppose has attended to him. - He informs
me that the Committee of which he is one are taking Measures to procure
Copper as well as Sulphur to be made in N. Jersey.
I have obtained from a Gentleman here, very particular Directions concern-
ing Fire Ships and Rafts and Receipt for all the Compositions. - it is long,
and will be some trouble to transcribe, - But if it lies within your Depart-
ment and you have any Curiosity to see it, I will send it you.
1. Adams Papers, MassHS.
Memorandum Book of the Pennsylvania Council of Safety 1
[Philadelphia] 13th. [August]
Frigate Guard, very hard upon the Associators. Major [Samuel] Nicho-
las to be requested to employ the Marines in that service.
1. Pennsylvania Archives, 2nd series, I, 488.
Pennsylvania Evening Post, Tuesday, August 13, 1776
Philadelphia, August 13.
Last Wednesday was launched the third Continental frigate built here,
called the Washington .
Robert Christie, Jr. to Daniel of St.Thomas Jenifer 1
Dear Sir Baltimore 13th August 1776
I wrote you sometime ago acquainting that I had two Schooners wc
were sunk at the entrance of this harbor by order of the Committee, for up-
wards of three months. An allowance has been made me, to put the Ves-
sells into as good order as when they were taken away, but I am told an ap-
plication must be made to the Council of Safety for payment of the
demurrage. I should be glad to know when it will be proper to apply, 8c
what vouchers the Council will require to ascertain the time the vessells
were out of my possession? If necessary I can make it appear, that I have
paid considerable sums for freight of other Vessells, during the time my own
were sunk - I hope you will excuse my being so troublesome to you; I do
172
AMERICAN THEATRE
not want to come down to Annapolis, untill I am prepared wt the necessary
vouchers to compleat the business - You will oblige me very much by giving
me an answer at your convenience. I am Dear Sir [&c.]
Rob1 Christie Junr
1. Red Book, XV, Md. Arch.
Jesse Hollingsworth to the Maryland Council of Safety 1
Sirs/
I have Reed your Letter Conserning Skow and Bots which I should an-
swerd Sum Time But Was in Pentapsco Neck Getting timber for the Gun-
delos which I must atend on I Dont No When it Would Bee Got, and the
frigat Busines as I have all to Prepare for her With My Own Busines and a
Thousand Other Peoples I am allmost Wore out Butt shall Try My Best to
Serve you there is Skows to Bee had I am Offerd Severall shall Purchase
One this Day I sopose, So that you May Speek to One of your Bots to call for
her I must have the Skow Trimd Before shee is Sent Down Pleas Give
the Lingth and Sises of the Bots and How many Will Bee Wanted and How
Soon - I Will Make the Best Bargin I Can for you Excuse My Not Writing
Sooner as I Was in your Servis and Not at Home - the Frigget Wee Lanst
yesterday a fine Lance and a fine Ship 2 from your [See.]
Jesse Hollingsworth
Baltimore August 13 - 1776
1. Red Book, XI, Md. Arch.
2. The Continental frigate Virginia.
Narrative of Captain Andrew Snape Hamond 1
[H.M.S. Roebuck , July 15 to August 13, 1776]
July [15] George’s Island is about 2i/£ miles long, has an excellent
Harbour on the East side of it, and a small Haven on the
North, sufficiently open at one end for small Vessels to turn in
to it, but at the other is not above 100 yards wide nor has above
3 or 4 feet water. Lord Dunmore Landed his Troops upon it
the day after our Arrival, and we searched every where for fresh
water, but on Account of the dryness of the season, very little
prospect appeared of being able to supply the Fleet with a suffi-
cient quantity for their Voyage from thence. I therefore or-
dered the different Vessels to send their empty Casks onboard
20th two of the Transports carrying the detachment of the 14th Regt
& a part of the Queens; and with them, accompanied by Lord
Dunmore in his own Ship, we sailed up the Potomack in order
to fill the empty Casks with fresh water; and at the same time
harass & annoy the Enemy by landing at different places. The
Fowey remained with the rest of the Fleet and the Otter was
sent to cruize in the Bay.
While the Fleet lay at Gwin’s Island the Carpenters had
AUGUST 1776
173
July 23d
25th
29th July
6th Augst
been employed in fitting up one of the Flats, which we found
there, to carry a Cannon, and to Row with 14 Oars: I put a Six
pounder into it, and kept it constantly employed in the little
creeks 8c Bays about George’s Id by being in a great measure
covered over, the People were quite sheltered, could go close to
the shore with safety, and by that means did great mischief
among the Enemy.
On our Expedition up the River we kept the shores on
both sides in continual alarms, but we saw no considerable
body of the Enemys Troops untill we arrived into Fresh water,
when a large Number assembled at the House of a Mr Brent on
the Virginia side, and seemed to bid us defiance; However we
landed about 100 Men at Noon day, under cover of a Tender 8c
the Row Galley, beat the Enemy off (which were double that
Number, and very advantageously posted) and set fire to the
House and all the buildings: when we returned to our Ships
without the loss of a single Man and only one officer 8c 5 Men
wounded
The water being filled, and the wind coming favorable
we moved the Ships a few leagues down the River, with an in-
tention of landing in the Morning at day break at a Mr
Mercer’s House on the Virginia shore, which is a guard
House for the Rebels, but as it came to blow hard, and the
wind down the River we rather chose to pursue our way to the
Fleet. After that time the Ships got so often a ground that the
People were too much fatigued to attempt any opperationfs] on
shore, and we joind the Fleet at St George’s Island on the 29th
July-
The Defence a Rebel Privatier of 20 Guns belonging to
Maryland, hearing of the Fleet’s being left at George’s Island
under the Protection of the Foivey only, came with 2 Tenders
up the River to attack them, and a Battery from St Mary’s was
to be opend as soon as she appeared in Sight. The Roebuck's
return frustrated their schemes, and the Rebel Vessels returned
to their rendezvous at Baltimore.
In about three days the Fleet had taken onboard their
water from the Transports, when after destroying about 20 Sail
of Vessels that could not be navigated we got under way, pro-
ceeded down the Chesepeak Bay, and arrived at the Capes the
4th Augst
The next day the Otter sailed and convoyed about 50
Sail of Vessels to St Augustine & Bermudas.
The Foivey Sailed with about 7 Sail of Vessels bound to
England, onboard one of which was Govr Eden, when after
seeing them 20 leags from the Coast, she was ordered to return
8c cruize off the Capes of Virginia.
174
AMERICAN THEATRE
A violent bilious intermitting fever, together with a
most inveterate scurvy had for these two months past raged
with g[reat] violence both in the men of war 8c Transports, and
was so mortal that the Roebuck had lost 30 of her best seamen,
and had 76 on the Surgeons sick list. The Fowey had 35 Men
sick, and Lord Dunmore’s Army was reduced to about 150
Rank 8c File, one third of which was incapable of duty. I
therefore thought it necessary to consult with his Lordship on
the measure the most proper to pursue in our weak situation,
the result of which was that we should make the best of our way
to New York for the folowing reasons.
1st The total impracticability of rendering his Majesty any
services by remaining, with the very few Men we had left capa-
ble of doing duty.
2d The impossibility of landing even to water the ships, (The
springs on the Islands being all dried up[) ].
3d The necessity of the Admiral 8c General’s being acquainted
with our situation as soon as possible, to prevent the disgrace
His Majestys Troops might suffer when their extream weakness
became known to the Enemy.
5th Augst Accordingly we set sail from the Capes the 5 day Augt
with the Dunmore, 5 Sail of Transports, two Vessels laden with
Rum sugars 8c dry goods, and 5 Small Tenders 8c Pilot boats,
13th and arrived off of Sandy Hook the 13th Augt where we joind
Sir Peter Parker from the So ward, and saild up to New York in
Compy
In our way we saw several Rebel Privatiers; two of
which we chaced, but to prevent losing Company with the Con-
voy was obligd to leave them.
Thus ended my Command to the Southward.
1. Hamond, No. 5, UVL.
Virginia Navy Board to Charles Thomas 1
Sir, Williamsburg August 13th 1776 —
You are desir’d to prepare the above Articles as soon as possible and
send them to James Town by the first opportunity, if no immediate oppor-
tunity offers You are to hire a Vessel as soon as possible, as these Articles are
immediately wanting. I am for the Board [8cc.]
Thomas Whiting 1st Commissioner
[To] Mr. Charles Thomas manager of
the Rope Walk at Warwick
A Memorandum for the Brigantine Northampton 2
Francis Bright Captain
one Cable 9 Inch about 100 Fathom
AUGUST 1776
175
one 8 do do
one small do about 6i/2 Inch 120
one Shroud Hasser 5 Inch 160 do
one do 3i/£ for Topmast Shrouds Sc backstays 190 Fathoms
do Topmast Stays and Top Sail Sheets
one Coil 3 Inch Rope for ties Topenlift &c of 90 or 100 Fathom
10 Coil of 2 Inch Cordage
5 do 2 1/9 Inch
6 or 8 Coil ra[t]lin line 9 Thread
5 or 6 do of 6 Thread for [kjnitting
4 Quire Worming
about 190 Fathom belt rope for finishing coarser Top Sails Sec
1 Cable 120 Fathom five Inches for three Galleys building at Portsmouth
4 Main Stays
1. Navy Board Letter Book, VSL.
2. List prefacing the letter.
Virginia Navy Board to Andrew Lush 1
Sir, Williamsburg August 13th 1776-
You are desir’d to provide the above things as early as possible when
ready acquaint us. I am for the Board [Sec.]
Thos Whiting 1st Commr
To Mr Andrew Lush Cabbin Point
a Memorandum for Mr Lush 2
Blocks for a Brig about 50 Feet Keel except dead Eyes, two Pumps
about 13 1/2 feet long together with Boxes &c -
1. Navy Board Letter Book, VSL.
2. List prefacing the letter.
Virginia Navy Board to Griffin Stith 1
Sir, Williamsburg August 13th 1776 —
Yours of 6th Inst we have receiv’d, the articles of Cordage Blocks
Sec. which you mention we have given Orders for and expect very shortly
to send you except the 5 Bolts of Duck and the suit of Colours which are not
to be had here, we are at a loss to know where to send them as you have
not mention’d what Harbour the Vessel 2 is fitting in, and therefore desire
you will write us by the first Opportunity to what Place and to whose care
you would have them directed. I am for the Board [8cc.]
Thos Whiting 1st Commr
To Griffin Stith Esqr Vice Chairman
of the Northampton Committee
1. Navy Board Letter Book, VSL.
2. The brig Northampton.
176
AMERICAN THEATRE
William Bull, Jr. to John Pringle, London 1
[Extract] Chas Town August 13th 1776.
We are making great Preparations here, in Case of a Visit in the
Winter. If Howe shou’d be beat at N. York, I suppose he 8c his Myrmidons
will either go to Virginia, or come here. I hope we [are] invincible to any
thing that will come agst us -
We have some Thoughts of Sending a Couple of Thousand Men, to
ravage E. Florida, 8c cut off the Communication between Augustine & the
Country.
You see how this Province has exerted itself, altho’ we have had some
inimical Villains amongst us, we have taken such Steps we keep them in
Good Order.
Independence is declared throughout the 13 united States of America.
I suppose it will not be long before you see the Declaration of the
Congress, as there are Vessells fitting out to trade with foreign Nations,
and I imagine before now Ambassaders are sent to treat of Foreign
alliances - All the Troops both foreign 8c domestic that Great Britain can
send will [not] be able to hurt America. She bids degenerate Britain Defi-
ance.
P.S. When Administration gets an Acct of the Action of Sullivan’s Island;
they will be devilishly at a Loss, how to dress it up for the Public. The
Day after it, the Rainbow Sloop of War was sent to Great Britain with the
Accts - 2 Be assured they had near 300 kill’d 8c wounded in the Action, we
took 50 highlanders, 8c have had abt 50 Deserters, from the Navy 8c Army,
who say that if the Army had been encamp’d on the Main One half at least
wou’d have deserted, but it was as difficult for them to make their Escape, as
it was for the Seamen. -
The Deserters from the Navy have brought us up several fine
Barges -And the whole Fleet 8c army have been gone ab[ou]t two or three
Weeks -With every Lye the Ministry 8c their Tools can invent upon this
Occasion, it must make greatly against them.
We have sent one of our arm’d Vessell’s of Eighteen Guns yesterday, to
cruise off Augustine, in Hopes of falling in wth two Ships expected from
London there, wth Military Stores and dry Goods . . .
1. PRO, Colonial Office, 5/40. Intercepted Letters.
2. Dispatches were sent by the Ranger, not the Rainbow.
14 Aug.
Condemnation in Vice Admiralty Court of the Prize Sloop Britannia 1
Nova Scotia
Court of Vice >
Admiralty
26 July 1776
29 ‘
Cause
John Burr Esqr Commander of his Majesty’s Ship the
Milford VS. a certain Sloop called the Britania and her
Cargo.
Libel filed and entered order made thereon as on file
Edward Shepherd mate of his Majesty’s Ship of War
AUGUST 1776
177
being duly Sworn deposeth that the Sloop Britania was
taken off of Cape Anne by Captain Burr Commander
of the Milford on or about the 16th. Instant, that she
was Bound to Boston loaded with wood, that he never
saw any Papers.
Edward Shepherd,
Sworne to the day and Year first above written.
Charles Morris junr Regr -
Wednesday 14th J Court opened by making Proclamation as usual.
August 1776 J Proclamation again made for all Claimers to appear &
Assert their Claims, & defend their rights to the Sloop
Britania and her Cargo, none appeared. The Advo-
cate General then moved for a decree, which was Pro-
nounced as on file, whereby the said Sloop and her
Cargo were Condemned as Lawful Prize to the Captors
thereof.
Court adjourned without day in this Cause. 2
1. Vice Admiralty Register, vol. 5, 1769-1777, N. S. Arch.
2. Ibid., this date the sloop Success was also condemned as a legal prize of H. M. Sloop Kings-
fisher.
Samuel Austin’s Claim for Goods Taken on Board the
Prize Brigantine Elizabeth 1
State of New-Hampshire
To the honble Joshua Brackett Esqr
Judge of the Maritime Court of the
state of New-hampshire
Be it remembered, that on the 14th day of August A D 1776 Samuel Austin
of Boston in the County of Suffolk Mercht comes into Court and claims the
Goods Wares and Merchandizes mentioned in the annexed Schedule 2
against which a Libel is filed, in said Court by Joshua Wentworth Esqr, in
behalf of the owners and others concerned in three continental armed ves-
sels, which Goods, wares and merchandizes, are said to be taken on board
the Brigt named the Elizabeth by said armed vessels and to be tried in said
Court at Portsmouth on the 20th day of August instant, and the said Samuel
says, The said Goods, wares and merchandizes are not forfeited, nor ought to
be condemned by said Court - Wherefore he prays the same may be restored
to him and for his Costs -
John Lowell Atty to the Claimant
A true copy Examind by Jona M Sewall Clerfk]
1. Revolutionary War Prize Cases, Court of Appeals, 1776-1787, NA. Similar claims with an-
nexed schedules were presented on August 14, in identical language by the following Bos-
ton merchants: John Leverett, Robert Ruggles, Samuel Dashwood, Cyrus Baldwin, Edward
Keighly, Thomas Drowne, Samuel Whitwell, Adam Rupp, Samuel Parkman, John &
Samuel Barrett, Jonathan Williams, John Rowe, William Breck, William and James Jack-
son, Francis Shaw, Samuel Ruggles, John Lowell, Nathan Frazer, Samuel Partridge and
178
AMERICAN THEATRE
Richard Hart. Claims were also presented in behalf of the Old North Meeting House,
and Mary Williams.
2. Austin’s schedule, of four closely written pages, concluded with “Boston 6 August, 1776, The
Goods contained in the foregoing Invoice, are my property and were taken from my store
by Crean Brush and others by virtue of a proclamation and a written order issued by
General How for that purpose, and are now found by me on board the Brigantine Eliza-
beth Peter Ramsay late master and taken by Capt Manly and others and brought
into Portsmouth in the Colony of New Hampshire.” Similar statements were included
by all the other claimants.
Journal of the Massachusetts Council 1
[Watertown] Wednesday August 14th 1776
Bond being given by Sami Waters, Joseph Sprague 8c Samuel Ward a Comis-
sion was Issued Out to the said Samuel Waters as Comander of said Schoo-
ner Dolphin fitted Out by them for the purpose of Cruising on the Enemies
of the United States, and Instructions were deliverd to him Accordingly-2
The Memorial of the Comittee of Correspondence 8cc of the Town of
Salem -
Humbly Sheweth, That a Brigantine now lays at Beverly, fit for Sea and des-
tined to some Port in France, as is supposed, or for some other Port in
Europe that she has been fixed 8c Laded by Order of Congress, and yr
Memorialist Imagine on a Secret, or at least a very Important Voyage; that
therefore it is highly Expedient that no Person shou’d go in her that might
Act the part of a Spy or Informer Nevertheless, Mr. Jonathan Dowse, (Son
to Joseph Dowse Esqr of Salem) who lately held a Petit Office in the Cus-
toms, has Engaged a Passage in said Brig. 8c sent His Stores on Board, being,
his intention as he says, to get to England to procure payment of his arrears,
and find an employment to which he thinks his past Services will recom-
mend Him. Your Memorialists are Also Informed by Capt [Stephen]
Cleveland, who goes Master of the Brig, that Mr John Lawless of Salem has
proposed to take Passage in his Brig, in his way to England or Ireland - the
latter being his Native Country! Now your Memorialists think the Charac-
ter of both those Gentlemen, (Messrs Dowse 8c Lawless) too liable to suspi-
cion as Unfriendly to America to be permitted to take Passage in said Brig,
if they shou’d be allowed to go in any Other way, in a word your Memorial-
ists fear it may be attended with Mischief if any Other than the Proper
Crew of the Brig or passengers of Known good Characters, well Affected to
these States, and Furnished with the Necessary Credentials, be Suffered to
go in her -
These hints the Comittee beg leave to lay before the Honble Council, and
Only add That the Brig was fitted under the care of Capt John Bradford of
Boston the Continental Agent - 3 By order of the Comittee -
Timo Pickering Junr Chairman
Read & Ordered, that John Winthrop, 8c Richard Derby Esqrs be a Comittee
to take the same Under Consideration 8c Report, who reported a Draft of a
Letter to sd Comittee that as they suppose the Characters these Gentlemen
sustain, make it very Improper for them to Embark for any part of Europe
at this time, the said Comittee therefore is directed to use their utmost En-
AUGUST 1776
179
deavours to prevent these Gentlemen from Sailing in the Vessel Aforesaid or
in any Other, Untill the further Order of the Council, — Which was read
and Accepted 8c signed by the Chairman -
Petition Jos Batchelder Junr
The Petition of the Subscriber, Humbly Sheweth that your Petitioner with
a Number of others are fitting Out a Brigantine, for a Privateer, That He
hath a fair Prospect of all the Materials for that purpose, except Powder,
that it is not in his Power to procure that Article, Otherwise he would not
have troubled your Honors with this Petition And Whereas the Privateering
business is the most Likely Means by which we can hope to Annoy Our Ene-
mies, supply Our selves with Foreign Necessarys of life, which we have been
Accustomed to, and discipline a Nursery of Seamen by which means we may
soon be a formidable Nation by Sea as well as by Land; Therefore your Peti-
tioner Humbly Prays your Honors that you would grant Him an Order on
Mr Samuel Phillips of Andover to deliver Him Five hundred pounds of
Powder, he sd Phillips takeing the Cash for the same at the rate of five Shill-
ings Pr. pound or Otherwise Releive your Petitioner as you in your great
Wisdom shall think fitt, and your Petitioner as in Duty bound shall ever
pray, in behalf of Himself and Company Owners of the Brig Retaliation
Josiah Batchelder Jur-
Read 8c Ordered, that the Comissary General be and he hereby is directed to
deliver the said Capt Josiah Batchelder, Five Hundred pounds of Powder
out of that in Salem, in the Care of Honble Richard Derby Esqr for the use
of a Brig fitted out for a Privateer he paying five shillings pr. pound for the
Same.
1. Mass. Arch., vol. 19, 159-61.
2. Ibid., vol. 165, 46, Dolphin was “burthen about eighteen Tons, to carry One hundred weight
of powder and ten barrels of provisions, to be mounted with Eight swivel Guns, and Nav-
igated by twenty five Men.”
3. The brig Dispatch, Stephen Cleveland, master. John Bradford to Robert Morris, July 14,
1776, see Volume 5, 1071.
Massachusetts Council to Governor Nicholas Cooke 1
No. 15. [Watertown] August 14th 1776.
Sir. This Court has receiv’d information that the Mail from Providence to
Newport, which contains Letters from the Post Office at Cambridge, was in-
tercepted last week by a Man of War’s boat in passing Conanicut ferry, and
several of the Letters taken out -Your Honor is sensible that it may be of
the most dangerous consequence to have Letters from these parts fall into
the hands of those who are seeking our destruction. - We therefore request
of your Honor that some order may be taken in your Government, that all
Letters to or from the Post Office at Cambridge may be convey’d by Land
through your Colony as far as it is practicable, and that none be allow’d to
be sent over Conanicut ferry.
[Endorsed] Read 8c Accepted and sent up to the Hon. Board for Concurrence.
1. Mass. Arch., vol. 57, 277-78.
180
AMERICAN THEATRE
Memorial of John Lowell to the Massachusetts Council 1
To the honble the Councill of the State of
the Massachusetts Bay Augt 14th 1776
Humbly Shews John Lowell of Newburyport Esqr in behalf of sundry
Persons who are Claimants of Goods taken on Board the Brigt Elizabeth 8c
carried into Portsmouth in the State of Newhampshire by three continental
armed Vessells, that on Board the same Brigt Crean Brush was taken as a
Prisoner 8c among his Papers are some which are material to support the
Claims of your Petitioner’s Clients & are now lodged in the Office of the
Secretary of this State, these Papers your Petitioner prays he may be ad-
mitted to the Loan of for the Purpose aforesd 8c the same shall be carefully
return[ed] & as in Duty bound will pray.
J Lowell
[Endorsed] In Council [Watertown] August 15th 1776.
upon the Memorial of John Lowell Esq - Read 8c Ordered that Seth Loring
Clerk in the Secretary’s Office be directed to accompany the within men-
tioned Papers 2 to Portsmouth and return them to this Office
Jn° Avery Dpy Secy
1. Mass. Arch., vol. 165, 53.
2. Ibid., 54, papers sent to Portsmouth by Seth Loring:
Thomas Gage’s Commission to Crean Brush, to take & receive into his
- Care sundry Goods &c belonging to the Inhabitants of the Town of
Boston dated 1st Octo 1775-
v_
f Genl Howes Order to said Brush to take into his Possession sund[r]y
[ Goods as above - dated Mar 10. 1776
f Crean Brush Rect for an Invo of Goods belonging to John Rowe Esq
{ amo to <£ 2266 . . 1 . . 0 stg
f Crean Brushs Letter & Memorial to Genl How advising him of the
| Names of the Persons he had employd in taking the above Goods
-J William Jackson’s Letter to Genl How
f Crean Brush’s Memorial to Genl Robertson
| 2 half Sheets
f Marks & Numbers of sundy packages sent onboard the
1 Brigt Elizabeth — mark’d on Cards
f Crean Brushs Directions to take the Goods
[ of sundry Persons
f Genl Howes printed Proclamation relating
| to Linnen & woolen Goods
f James Jacksons Acct of Goods taken by Crean Brush
1 out of Cyrus Baldwins Store March 10. 1776.
John Lowell to John Adams 1
Boston Augt 14th 1776
... A Committee was chosen to devise during the Recess of the [General]
Court, some successful Method of making Cannon, 8c I hope this Matter will
be p[u]t forward to Advantage; I have no Doubt that the Manufacture of
Small Arms, will at the first Meeting of the Assembly receive every possible
Encouragement; We have happily succeeded in the Manufacture of Salt
petre, 8c we have 3 Powder Mills at Work 8c a fourth erecting; Salt I have no
No i
No 2
No 3
No 4
No 5
No 6
No 7
No 8
No 9
No 10
[Extract]
AUGUST 1776
181
Doubt will be made as soon as we feel the Necessity of it; hitherto, tho’ it
has been at an high Price, we have not suffered for the Want of it. I am
more ignorant as to the Probability of our getting Sulphur, Sc Lead; the first
I believe we shall be able at some Seasons to import, if the Cruisers of the
Enemy are ever so vigilant; they are however both of them Objects that de-
serve Attention; the mention of the Enemies Cruisers, reminds me of our
own; It is an unlucky Circumstance that the continental Frigates are not yet
at Sea, had they been many more of the Enemies Vessells, Sc a Number of
their Troops would have fallen into our Hands, I suppose the Delay has
been inevitable; it surely is a Matter that will not be neglected; Is it not
worthy Consideration whether it will not be adviseable, to order those conti-
nental armed Vessells which are ready for Service, in Conjunction with the
Vessells of the particular States, Sc such private armed Vessells as will engage,
immediately to Newfoundland; much may be done against the British Fish-
ery, on Shore as well as at Sea, we shall be furnished with a Commodity to
exchange for such french Goods as may be bro’t us; the West India Islands
will be without their Supply of Fish, Sc the Poole Men, who meant us much
Harm, will be rewarded according to their Deeds. . . .
1. Adams Papers, MassHS.
New-England Chronicle, August 15, 1776.
Wanted Immediately.
A Doctor to go on a Cruize for three Months, on Board of a fine Schoo-
ner mounting 8 Carriage Guns and 60 Men. Any Person applying to the
Printers, will meet with good encouragement.
N.B. Said Schooner is private property.
Boston, August 14, 1776.
Journal of the Rhode Island Sloop Independence,
Captain Jabez Whipple 1
Remarks On Wensday August 14, 1776
att 6 Am all hands imploid a Dancing
Pleasent Middle Part Smuth sea
att 3 [sic 6] am made Sail at 7 saw a sail staning to Wards
Us at 11 am Came Up with her, she Being a ship from St
Vinsints Brought her two Capt Came on Bord of Us She
provd to Be a prise took her in Prosision 2 So Ends the Days
Work
Lattd 31:51 Londg in 57:45
first part pleasent smooth sea In Company with the prise
with the prise Master 3 and 10 men on Bord of her
1. Independence Journal, RIHS.
2. The ship Aurora, Gregor McGregor, master. Appended to the back of the journal is an en-
dorsement by Whipple. It reads:
Sunderys In Ship Aurora. This is a Invorise I have Reed from the Clarence To
Say Tow Hundered and Ninety Four Hogsheads Six Tarces and Twenty Three Bar-
rils the Contents Three Hundered and thirety Six Thouseand Three Hundered
182
AMERICAN THEATRE
Pounds Muscoe Shugar — also Twenty Three Bales Cotton Wool this is in the Clear-
ence and Sundrys not Known one Hundered and Twenty Five Hogsheads Cont
Elven Thousand Tow Hundred and Fifety Gallons Rum.
Whipple listed the crew and three passengers:
Patrick Welkey Esqr. Mathew Fizz Gentleman Duncan McFarland young man.
3. Ibid., the prize master sent on board Aurora was Edward Woodman.
“Extract of a letter from Capt. Henry Barnes, of the Eagle,
BELONGING TO WHITEHAVEN, TO HIS OWNERS, DATED RHODE ISLAND,
Aug. 14, 1776” 1
I sailed from Barbadoes the 21st of June. On the 12th of July made a
sail astern, she soon came up with us, though we little imagined her to be an
American privateer, being then in lat. 32.25. long. 52. At half past eight
in the night she fired a gun to leeward - from which we concluded she was
an English cruizer - but were too soon convinced to the contrary. When
we first made the sloop she appeared large, from the crowd of sail she car-
ried; but on a nearer survey we found her to be very small, painted black,
with 10 guns, 50 men, and every necessary for a cruize. She is called the
Montgomery, Capt. Buckling [Daniel Bucklin]. They took out all the Ea-
gle s people but myself, the boatswain, and a boy, and convoyed us to this
place.
My people are all well; we are supported at present at the expence of
the owner of the privateer, and indulged with the liberty of going about
where we please, and are in every respect treated with the greatest kindness
and civility. We are the seventh West-Indiaman taken by this privateer;
numbers of vessels have been taken coming from the West-India Islands.
1. Almon, ed., Remembrancer, IV, 160.
Orderly Book of Brigade Major Peter Scull 1
Head-Quarters [Ticonderoga],
14th Aug. 1776
The Commanding Officers of the Corps are desired to see that all the
Sails belonging to the Publick, which have been used as tents, be immedi-
ately delivered to Mr Lane Conductor of Naval Stores. -
1. MNHP.
Diary of Ensign Caleb Clap 1
[New York]
August 10th a Man Deserted from the Rose up the North River, he in-
forms that they did not [lose] one Man Aboard, and that he was not Certain
that their was any Killed in either of the Ships or Tenders two or three
wounded.
That when our Rowgalleys attackd them that they Lost A Man and two
wounded, that they are now much Concernd, for fear of our Row-galley
that they have not heard anything from the fleet since they Lay up there,
that 5 Tories have come aboard one Ship and Eight the other that
3 Tories Left the ship a Thursday Evening and was gone till the thursday
AUGUST 1776
183
Evening following, and that those Tories went into the City, and Round our
works any where that they was Amind,
August 13th at Evening 9 Rowgalleys have gone up the River supposed to
fort Washington, or up the River where the British Ships of war Lays -
August 14th in the morning two fire Ships went up the River, —
1. “Caleb Clap Diary,’’ The Historical Magazine, 3rd series, III, 249, 250.
Vice Admiral Richard Lord Howe to Philip Stephens 1
Number 4. Eagle off of Staten Island
August the 14th 1776.
Sir I have the Satisfaction of being able to inform their Lordships by the
Sandwich Packet, that Commodore [William] Hotham, whose distinguished
Abilities gave Room for every favorable Expectation, arrived on the 12th
with Eighty five Sail of his Convoy; completing with those few before ar-
rived, the whole of the Hessian Embarkation that sailed from England un-
der his Direction. He was joined off of this Port, by Captain [Henry]
David (whose Capacity and Diligence have been particularly exemplified
on this Occasion) with all the Transports in his Care, that were able to
accompany him out of the British Channel. The Reports delivered by
those Officers are herewith enclosed.
The Loss of the Hessian Troops by Sickness is most inconsiderable, Not
exceeding ten or twelve, as I have yet heard; tho’ for the last fourteen Days
of their Passage, the Scurvy began to prevail; But amongst the Crews of the
Ships of War in a greater Degree.
I am favored with your several Letters of the 27th of April and the 13th
and 22d of May, to the Contents of which I shall have due Regard.
I am also to acknowledge the Receipt of an Order from their Lordships
of the same Date with the last, respecting the supposed Situation of the Ba-
hama Islands, founded on the Intelligence transmitted by Governor Tonyn,
and Lieutenant [William] Grant Commander of the St. John Schooner.
As soon as the Capital Service impending, the permanent Establishment
of the Army in this Province, is effected; To which I conceive their Lord-
ships will approve that every Consideration of lesser Moment should give
place, And after a Port of Retreat is secured for the Winter-Use of the Fleet;
my earliest Attention will be given to provide more amply than my present
Means will admit, the other requisite Services comprehended in the Tenor
of their Instructions.
Whilst I was preparing to close this Dispatch, the Commodore Sir Peter
Parker in the Bristol, with the Experiment and Syren, Sibella Store-Ship and
two Transports having each three Companies Part of the 28th and 57th Reg-
iments on board arrived here from South Carolina. And soon after the
Roebuck with the Ships lately attending the Earl of Dunmore, and that in
which his Lordship was embarked, from Virginia.
The immediate Departure of the Packet not allowing Time to examine
so fully into the State of those Ships as to enable me to form a Judgment
thereon fit to be reported immediately, Their Lordships I flatter myself, will
184
AMERICAN THEATRE
have the Indulgence to dispense with the Receipt of any more particular Re-
turns than those before prepared of the State and Appointment of the
Squadron herewith enclosed, by the present Opportunity 2
I cannot however inform them too soon of the great Want of Ordnance
Stores of all Species, for the Ships of this Squadron: particularly Match,
Powder, and Ball of 6, 9, 12, 18 and 24 lb; Both to supply the past, and
probable future Expence of those Articles: as I have no Advice of any ade-
quate Provision having been made thereof. I am Sir [8cc.]
Howe
1. PRO, Admiralty 1 /487.
2. The Disposition of Howe’s Squadron is dated August 13; see under that date.
Journal of Ambrose Serle 1
[On board H.M.S. Eagle ]
Wednesday, the 14th [August].
This morning early, Sir Peter Parker in the Bristol, with the Experi-
ment Sc Roebuck, and several Transports, appeared in the offing; and a little
after Noon came up Sc saluted the Admiral [Howe]. The Bristol has lost her
main Sc mizen Masts in the affair at Charles Town, and is much shattered
about the Stern. We have now a gallant Fleet here, consisting of the follow-
Guns
Guns
Eagle
64
Phoenix
44
Asia
64
Orpheus
32
Chatham
50
Emerald
32
Centurion
50
Niger
32
Renown
50
Repulse
32
Preston
50
Brune
32
Bristol
50
Solebay
28
Experiment
50
Rose
28
Roebuck
44
Greyhound
28
Rainbow
44
Syren
28.
Besides Sloops, Bombs, Fireships, armed Vessels, See. The whole Fleet con-
sists of about 350 Sail. Such a Fleet was never seen together in America be-
fore; wch is allowed on all Hands.
We had a great formal Dinner on board this Day. Our Company
consisted of Genl. [Leopold von] Heister, two other Hessian Generals, with
their respective Suites, Lord [Hugh] Percy, Genl. [William] Howe, Ld.
[Charles] Cornwallis, Genl. [James] Grant, Admiral [Molyneux] Shuldham,
Sir Wm Erskine, Col. Sheriffe [William Sherriff], Sir Peter Parker, Lord
Wm. Campbell, Lord Dunmore, Commodore Hotham, and many other
officers of the Fleet Sc Army, to the number of 34 Persons. They all ex-
pressed great Satisfaction at their Entertainment, which indeed was worthy
of the truly noble Personage who gave it.
In the Evening, the Syren came in from the South, with several Trans-
ports under her Convoy.
1. Tatum, ed., Serle’s Journal, 63-64.
AUGUST 1776
185
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186
AMERICAN THEATRE
“Willing Morris & Co Account with the United States
[Continued]
1776
June
July
[Page 2]
Amount brot on
By Adventure to Martinico pr Sloop Peggy
Capt [Thomas] Patton for cost of her
Cargo pr Invoice £1139.8.4
Pennsylvania Currency equal
Commission thereon a 5 Pr Ct
By Adventure to Nantes pr Ship Olive
Branch Capt. Kennedy for cost of her
Cargo pr Invoice £2840.6 Pennsylvania
Curr[enc]y equal to
Commission thereon @ 5 prCt
By Adventure to Bourdeaux pr Brigt Dol-
phin Capt. Moore for cost of the Cargo
shipped on board her by John Dorsius
Carolina Currency £21.402.14,10 - Ex-
change 43314 prCt is Pennsylvania Curry
£4939.1.10 equal to
Commission thereon at 5 prCt
By Adventure to Martinico pr Brigt Cor-
nelia & Molly Capt. [John] Lockart for
cost of her Cargo, pr Invoice £1072.15.10.
Pennsyla Currency equal to
Commission thereon 5 prCt
By United States paid for 246 Bayonet Scab-
bards @ 24/90 ths Pr
Commission thereon at 5 prCt
4.5 -.
3.5 -.
By Contingent charges for the following
payments between May & July-Vizt —
paid freight of Powder in
May & June £
paid for a boat going down to
the Armed Vessels in June
Paid Jos. Gamble for the hire
of his Pilot Boat cruizing at
the Capes to give notice if
Vessels of War appeared on
the Coast 144 days @ 25/-
prDay 180.-.-
Paid for 40 reams Cartridge
paper 26.-.-
Pennsylvania Curry . . .
Commission thereon at 5 prCt
213.10 -
Dollars Hdths
62,754 88
3,038.40.
151.83. 3,190. 33
7,574.12
378.64 7,952 76
13,170.82
658.49 13,829 41
2,860.70
143.3 3,003. 73
65.54
3.25 68. 79
569.30
28.42 597. 72
1. Willing, Morris, Journal, NYHS.
Dollars- 91,398. 12
AUGUST 1776
187
John Adams to Lieutenant Colonel William Tudor 1
[Extract] Philadelphia August 14. 1776
We have nothing new, but the Arrival of a large Ship from Havre de Grace
with a very valuable Cargo of Duck, Powder, lead, and dry Goods. - This is
all which has happened here to distinguish, the anniversary of the 14 of Au-
gust the Birth day of American Independence.2
1. Adams Papers, MassHS.
2. In another letter of the same date, to his wife Abigail, Adams explains the foregoing thus:
“This is the Anniversary of a memorable day, in the History of America: a day when the
Principle of American Resistance and Independence, was first asserted, and carried into
Action. The Stamp Office fell before the rising Spirit of our Countrymen. - ” Butterfield,
ed., Adams Family Correspondence, II, 95-97.
Pennsylvania Gazette , Wednesday, August 14, 1776
Thirty Shillings Reward. Deserted from Capt. Samuel Shaw’s Com-
pany of Marines, belonging to one of the Continental Frigates,1 Angus
Cameron, born in Ireland, about 5 feet 8 or 9 inches high, dark complexion,
with short black hair, curled behind, a little pock marked, about 30 years
of age; it is said he listed in Capt. Craig’s company of Lancaster militia.
Whoever apprehends said deserter, and secures him in this city, shall have
the above reward, and all reasonable charges, paid by
Franklin Reid, 1st. Lieut.
[Philadelphia, August 14]
1. Frigate Randolph.
Maryland Council of Safety to the Northumberland County,
Virginia, Committee of Observation 1
No 133.
Centn You will be pleased to deliver to Captn Jas Nicholson or order, the
powder, arms & ozn[abrig]s imported in the Molly Captn [Thomas] Conway
8c which you were so obliging as to land in a place of Security. We shall be
happy in having it in our power to render you the like good Offices, 8c will
most cheerfully repay you every expence that you have been put to, on Acct
of this importation. We are [8cc.] 2
[Annapolis] 14th Augt 1776
1. Council of Safety Letter Book, No. 1, Md. Arch.
2. This date the Council ordered that Captain Nicholson be paid “one hundred Curr[enc]y to
defray the expences of Powder imported in Virginia.” Council of Safety Journal, 29 Au-
gust 1775 to 20 March 1777, Md. Arch.
Journal of the Virginia Navy Board 1
[Williamsburg] Wednesday the 14th August 1776
The Board having had under their Consideration the Order of Congress for
Building six Gallies for the protection of Troops in their Transportation
across the Bay and Rivers have this day agreed with Caleb Herbert to Build
one of the said Gallies on Mattapony River of the following Dimensions, to
188
AMERICAN THEATRE
wit, Eighty feet Keel, twenty feet Beam and six feet clear Hold between the
upper part of the Kelson and the lower part of the Beam. —
Ordered that Mr James Hunter deliver unto Mr William Frazier four Ton
Iron for the purpose of Building the Rowe Gallie on Mattapony River
lately undertaken by Caleb Herbert -
Ordered that a Warrant Issue to Lieut Benjamin Pollard for Two hundred
and twenty one pounds two shillings and two pence for Disbursments and
pay of his Company of Marines on Board the Hero Gallie Capt [George]
Muter from the Time of their Enlistment to the thirty first day of July last
as pr Account this day settled -
Ordered that Colo William Finnie deliver unto Lieutenant Benjamin Pol-
lard eight flannel Waistcoats and one Drum for the use of his Company of
Marines on Board the Hero Gallie Capt Muter.
Ordered that Colo William Aylett deliver unto Lieutenant Benjamin Pol-
lard four belt Hatts eight pair of Shoes, ten pair of Buckskin Breeches two
pieces of Oznabrigs and some thread for the use of the Marines on Board the
Hero Gallie Capt Muter. -
Ordered that a Warrant Issue to Mr William Frazier for One hundred
pounds upon Account, for the purpose of furnishing Necessaries and mate-
rials for Building the Rowe Gallie upon Mattapony River under the direc-
tion of Mr Caleb Herbert -
Ordered that a warrant Issue to Charles Herbert for four pounds seventeen
shillings and six Pence for sundry days Work done on the Hero Gallie Capt
Muter as pr Account this day rendered -
Ordered that a Warrant Issue to William Herbert for three pounds nineteen
shillings and six pence for sundry days Working on the Hero Gallie as pr
Account this day rendered -
A Letter wrote to Sampson Matthews Esqr desiring him to supply or engage
for this Board five hundred Gallons of Linseed Oil for the use of the Navy -
Ordered that Capt George Muter apply to James Anderson Blacksmith, for
such Iron Work as he may want done for the use of the Hero Gallie who is
desired to furnish him with the same. -
Ordered that a Warrant Issue to James Haney and Richard Horrocks for
four pounds ten shillings for Work done on the Brig Liberty Capt [Thomas]
Lilly -
1. Navy Board Journal, VSL.
Virginia Navy Board to Wells Cooper, Suffolk * 1
Sir Williamsburg August 14th 1776 —
The Commissioners of the Navy are in want to 220 B’rls Tar. 30 Bar-
rels of Pitch and 50 Brls of Turpentine, to be sent to the care of Messrs
Meriwether Smith and Roan, on Piscataway Creek near Hobbs Hole, Rap-
AUGUST 1776
189
pahannock River relying on your supplying them on the best terms and
procuring a Vessel for carrying it up, on the most reasonable freight in-
duced us to apply to you, therefore wish you to use all possible expedition in
dispatching it. I am by order of the Board [&c.]
Geo. Webb. 1st Commr Pro. Tempore
1. Navy Board Letter Book, VSL.
Master’s Log of H.M. Armed Vessel Cherokee 1
August 1776 Moored in Savannah river
Wednesday 14 AM Loosed sails to Dry Do the Governor Tonyn Priva-
teer Sailed into De Foskey Creek and fired several Guns at a
Number of rebels on the Shore who Discharged sev[era]l
Volleys of Musquetry at her
1. PRO, Admiralty 52/1662.
15 Aug.
Narrative of Colonel Ethan Allen 1
[Prison Sloop in Halifax Harbor, June 28 to August 15, 17761
I sent letter after letter to captain Montagu [James Montagu], who
still had the care of us, and also to his lieutenant, whose name I cannot call
to mind, but could obtain no answer, much less a redress of grievances; and
to add to the calamity, near a dozen of the prisoners were dangerously ill of
the scurvy. I wrote private letters to the doctors, to procure, if possible,
some remedy for the sick, but in vain. The chief physician came by in a
boat, so close that the oars touched the sloop that we were in, and I uttered
my complaint in the genteelest manner to him, but he never so much as
turned his head, or made me any answer, though I continued speaking till
he got out of hearing. Our case then became deplorable. Still I kept writ-
ing to the captain, till he ordered the guards, as they told me, not to bring
any more letters from me to him. In the meantime an event happened
worth relating. One of the men almost dead with the scurvy, lay by the
side of the sloop, and a canoe of Indians coming by, he purchased two quarts
of strawberries, and ate them at once, and it almost cured him. The money
he gave for them was all the money he had in the world. After that we
tried every way to procure more of that fruit, reasoning from analogy that
they might have the same effect on others infested with the same disease, but
could obtain none.
Meanwhile the doctor’s mate of the Mercury came privately on board
the prison sloop and presented me with a large vial of smart drops, which
proved to be good for the scurvy though vegetables and some other ingredi-
ent were requisite for a cure; but the drops gave at least a check to the
disease. This was a well-timed exertion of humanity, but the doctor’s name
has slipped my mind, and in my opinion, it was the means of saving the lives
of several men.
190
AMERICAN THEATRE
The guard, which was set over us, was by this time touched with the
feelings of compassion; and I finally trusted one of them with a letter of
complaint to governor Arbuthnot, of Halifax, which he found means to
communicate, and which had the desired effect; for the governor sent an of-
ficer and surgeon on board the prison sloop, to know the truth of the
complaint. The officer’s name was Russell who held the rank of lieutenant,
and treated me in a friendly and polite manner, and was really angry at the
cruel and unmanly usage the prisoners met with; and with the surgeon made
a true report of matters to governor Arbuthnot, who, either by his orders or
influence, took us next day from the prison sloop to Halifax jail, where I
first became acquainted with the now Hon. [James] Lovel[l], one of the
members of Congress for the state of Massachusetts. The sick were taken to
the hospital, and the Canadians, who were effective, were employed in the
King’s works; and when their countrymen were recovered from the scurvy
and joined them, they all deserted the King’s employ, and were not heard of
at Halifax, as long as the remainder of the prisoners continued there, which
was till the middle of October. We were on board the prison sloop about
six weeks, and were landed at Halifax near the middle of August.
1. A Narrative of the Captivity of Col. Ethan Allen . . . (Albany, 1814), 28-29. Hereafter cited
as Ethan Allen.
Journal of the Massachusetts Council 1
[Watertown] Thursday Augst 15th 1776-
The Memorial of Thomas Cushing Esqr - Humbly Sheweth, that One of the
Continental Frigates built to carry Twenty four Nine pound Cannon, may
Soon be got ready for Sailing, but is destitute of Guns, that your Memorial-
ist was to have been furnished with the Cannon for this Vessel from Phila-
delphia but by the last Accounts receiv’d from thence he has reason to fear
they will not be here seasonably, he has been Informed, that there are a
Number of Cannon Suitable for this Frigate, at Newbury Port, which the
Town are Willing to part with upon their being furnished with an equal
Number of the same weight of Metal by your Honors, or with such a Num-
ber of those of a larger Size, as shall be deemed Adequate to them. Your
Memorialist has Also been inform’d that there are a Number of Cannon, in
and About Boston, suitable for the same purpose. He would humbly re-
quest to your Honors that it is of great Importance & will much Conduce to
the Public Safety that this Frigate shou’d be sent Out upon a Cruise as
soon as Possible to Guard the Coast & protect the Navigation that may be
passing from One part of the Continent to the other, as well as to Annoy
the Enemies he therefore Humbly prays that your Honors (if you think
fitt) would lend these Cannon in and about Boston, to the Continent, till
the Frigate can be supplied from Philadelphia, & in Order that the Cannon
at Newbury Port may be Obtained for the Frigate beforemention’d that
your Honors would furnish the said Town of Newbury Port with a Num-
ber of Cannon from those in & About Boston in lieu those, they have at
said Town, Suitable for the Frigate abovesaid, by which Means she will be
AUGUST 1776
191
fully Supplied with all the large Cannon Necessary for such a Ship of War,
And your Memorialist as in Duty bound Shall every pray 8cc -
Thomas Cushing -
Read Sc Ordered, the Prayer of this Petition be granted, Sc the Comittee for
Fortifying the Harbour of Boston, be Sc hereby are directed: if they Judge
they can Possible be spared, to deliver to the Petitioner Thomas Cushing
Esqr for the use of the Continent, to be Improved in the Contin[en]tal
Frigate Call’d the Boston . . .
On Motion Ordered, that Richard Derby Sc Daniel Hopkins Esqrs be a Co-
mitee to prepare Orders & regulations for the Marines and Seamen on board
the Armed Vessels fitted Out by this State -
Bonds being given by Nathl Perley, Richard Derby Junr Sc Jona Peele Junr
a Comission was Issued out to the said Nathl Perley as Comander of the schr
Success fitted out by them, for the purpose of Cruising on the Enemies of
the United States, and Instructions were delivered Him Accordingly -
1. Mass. Arch., vol. 19, 161-63.
James Warren to Samuel Adams 1
[Extract] Boston, August 15, 1776
The Spirit of Privateering prevails here greatly, the Success of those
that have before Engaged in that Business has been sufficient to make a
whole Country privateering mad. many kinds of West india Goods that we
used to be told we should suffer for want of, are now plentier and cheaper
than I have known them for many Years.
1. Warren- Adams Letters, II, 438-39.
Minutes of the Boston Committee of Correspondence, Inspection
and Safety 1
1776. 6 O’Clock P.M: Met according to Adjournment at the Coun-
cil Chamber, [ Boston].
Aug. 15. Mr. Lesley Sc Family, Thomas Hayter, Lieutenant in the 14
Regiment, Robert Porter, Passenger, Thomas Collins a Drummer
in the 14 Regiment, William Jenkins the Master; Thomas Green a
Servant to Lt Hayter, all of whom were taken in a Brigt bound
from Augustine to London 2 Sc carryed into Marblehead, from
whence they are just arrived - attended and were examined. They
inform that they left Augustine the 24 of July last, at which place
there was about 700 British Troops, 150 of them belonging to the
14th Regiment, and that they were bound home in order to pro-
cure Recruits for their Regiment — they all pledged their honor to
the Committee, that they would not leave the Town without lib-
erty for so doing, and that in all respects they would behave as
Prisoners on Parole ought to do.
1. New England Historical a?id Genealogical Register (Boston, 1879), XXXIII, 23, 24.
2. The brigantine was the Perkins, 140 tons, taken by Washington’s schooners Franklin, Captain
John Skimmer, and Hancock, Captain Samuel Tucker.
192
AMERICAN THEATRE
Advertisement of Sale of the Cargo of Prize Ship Reynolds 1
Auction at Bedford, in Dartmouth. On Thursday, the 22d of August
Instant, At Ten o’Clock in the Morning, will begin the Sale of the Prize
Ship Reynolds, from Jamaica, now laying at Bedford, in Dartmouth,2 and
continued by Adjournment, until the Whole is sold; containing as follows,
viz. 302 Hogsheads of choice Sugars, 74 Puncheons of Rum; 52 Pipes, 10
half Pipes, 10 Butts and 4 Hogsheads of Wine; 42 Bags of Piemento, 40
Planks and 11 Logs of Mohogany, 16 Tons of Lignum Vitae, and 7 Tons of
Fustick. [August 15, 1776]
1. New-England Chronicle, August 15, 1776.
2. The Reynolds was taken by the Pennsylvania privateer sloops Congress, George McAroy, and
Chance, John Adams. She was condemned in Admiralty Court on August 7.
Advertisement of Libels against Six British Prizes 1
State of the Massachusetts-Bay, Middle District, ss.
To all whom it may concern.
Notice is hereby given, That the Maritime Court for the Middle Dis-
trict, will be held at Boston in the County of Suffolk, on Thursday the fifth
Day of September, 1776, at the Hour of Ten in the Forenoon, to try the Jus-
tice of the following Captures, to wit, - of the Sloop named the Isabella, of
about Seventy Tons Burthen, lately commanded by one Nathaniel Kirk, and
her Cargo and Appurtenances: of the Ship called the Peggy, of 240 Tons
Burthen, lately commanded by one James Kennedy, and her Cargo and
Appurtenances: of the armed Schooner called the Dispatch, of about
Ninety Tons Burthen, lately commanded by one John Goodridge, and her
Cargo and Appurtenances: of the Sloop called the Hannibal, of about
Sixty Tons burthen, lately commanded by one William Fitzpatrick, and
her Cargo and Appurtenances: of the Ship called the Earl of Errol, of two
hundred and seventy Tons burthen, lately commanded by one John Bart-
lett, and her Cargo and Appurtenances: and of the schooner called the
Patty , of about seventy Tons burthen, lately commanded by one John
Collins, and her Cargo and Appurtenances. Against which Vessels, their
Cargoes and Appurtenances, Libels are filed before me, they having been
bro’t into the Middle-District aforesaid; and the Owners of the same, or
any Persons concerned, may appear and shew cause, if any they have, why
the said Vessels or any of them, with their Cargoes and Appurtenances,
should not be condemned.2
Tim. Pickering, jun. Judge of said Court.
1. New-England Chronicle, August 15, 1776.
2. The sloop Isabella had been sent into Beverly July 4 by the Massachusetts privateer sloop
Revenge, Captain Joseph White; the ship Peggy had been carried into Marblehead by two
of Washington’s schooners, Hancock and Franklin, in late July; the ship Earl of Errol was
sent into Boston August 10 by two New York letters of marque; the Schooner Dis-
patch was a British vessel of war taken by the Massachusetts state sloop Tyrannicide, and
sent into Salem, July 18; the schooner Patty, another prize of the Tyrannicide, had also
been sent into Salem. The identity of the captor of Sloop Hannibal has not been deter-
mined.
AUGUST 1776
193
Continental Journal, Thursday, August 15, 1776
Boston, August 15.
Last Sunday was sent in here by the Brigt. Enterprize, and sloop Bever,
two Letter Marques, bound from New York to St. Eustatia, a ship from
Grenada, bound to London, laden with sugar, rum, cotton, &c. See. 1
Since our last the Tyrannicide privateer, Capt. Fisk, belonging to, and
in the service of this state, sent into Salem, the Brigt. St. John, with a cargo
of 120 Hhds. Molasses, 81 casks Rum, 52 casks Coffee, 14 Hhds. Sugar
and 8 casks Cacoa - And into Dartmouth, the Schooner Three Brothers,
Capt. Smith, from Dominica for Nova Scotia, with a cargo of 50 Hhds. of
Rum, 86 casks Molasses, 40 barrels Flour, 10 barrels Pork, and £420 Lawful
Money in cash. 2
1. The brigantine Enterprize , Captain Joseph Dwight, and sloop Beaver, Captain Stewart Deane,
were granted letters of marque and reprisal by the New York Provincial Congress, June
29, 1776. Their prize was the ship Earl of Errol.
2. Both prizes were taken on August 4, 1776, but the name of the brig, according to the libel
filed against her, does not agree with the name given in the newspaper account. She was
not the St. John, but the Betsey.
New-England Chronicle, Thursday, August 15, 1776
Boston, August 15.
Yesterday se’nnight was sent into Portsmouth by the Hancock Vessel of
War, belonging to the State of Pennsylvania, a large three-decked Ship,
named the Reward, of between 5 and 600 Tons, (She was a 20 gun Ship last
War, in the British Service,) now mounting 14 Guns; was from Tortola,
bound to London, and had on board between 10 and 1100 Hogsheads of
Sugar, 12 Bales of Cotton, and several Pieces of brass and iron
Cannon. 1 We hear she was taken by the following Stratagem, viz. Just
before dusk the Evening the Hancock came across her, the Captain of the
Prize taking the Hancock to be one of the Tyrant’s Pilferer’s was very much
rejoiced to fall in with her, and doubtless, vice versa, when the Hancock at
Night threw out a Light for a Signal as a Pilot. At Day-light the next
Morning, the Vessels being near together, the Captain of the Ship invited
the Captain of the Hancock to come on board and take a Breakfast; who re-
plied, his Hands were so few and sick, that he had not enough to man his
Boat and work his Vessel, and in his Turn, invited the Captain of the Ship
to come on board him, which he readily complied with by ordering his Boat
out, when he and about a dozen of his Hands went on board the Hancock,
and were taken as good Care of, as Men in such Circumstances could
allow The Hancock then sent an equal Number of her own Hands on
board the Ship, when, alas! she fell into the Hands of the United States of
America.
There were on board the above Ship, a Number of Turtle directed to
Lord North, with his Name cut in the Shell, the best of which, Capt. Win-
gate Newman, Master of the armed Vessel, is determined to send to the
Hon. John Hancock.
194
AMERICAN THEATRE
The Prize Master, Mr. [William] Barton, informs, that the Hancock
had taken a Brigantine from the West-Indies, just before this Ship, and sent
her to Egg-Harbour, and was in chase of a Ship, supposed to be a Jamaica-
man, and almost within gun-shot, when he left her.
1. The Hancock was not a Pennsylvania owned vessel, but a privateer, commissioned June 15,
1776. Libel was filed against the Reward on August 13, The Freeman’s Journal, August
24, 1776.
Journal of the Massachusetts Sloop Tyrannicide, Captain John Fisk 1
2 [A. M.]
4
6
10
12
1 [P. M.]
6
Remks on Thursday 15th of August 1776
heavy head sea
hald down all sails
Tack ship
Pleasant Weather I find the Current has Carried us 38 miles
south this 24 hours
Pleasant weather
Lattd in 35d 5m Longd in 60d 25m
Saw a sail barring west gave Chaise came up fast
Spake with the Chaise Capt Jno Warner in the Sloop Ranger
from Providance 12 Days out on a Cruze he stood to the S E
1. John Fisk Journal, AAS.
Journal of the Rhode Island Sloop Independence,
Captain Jabez Whipple 1
Remarks On Thusday August 15, 1776
att 6 am saw 2 Ships standing to the N E Gave them
Chase att 10 saw that one was a Ship of force the wind
Blowing frish Reaft the m sail gave them over Bore Up to
the Prise got one Dolphin -
Lattd 32:25 Londg in 57:40
first part Sqaly Sum Rain a Large Sea at 2 Came up the
prise all well on Bord the moderate weather [illegible]
Middle part
1. Independence Journal, RIHS.
William Denning to Abraham Yates, Jr. 1
Sir- [August 15].
The bearer of this is Capt. Exceen, the brig Friendship , loaded by
me in April last, by direction of a committee of Continental Congress, with
wheat and flour for Lisbon. He is returned with his bri^ to Fire island in-
let, with a load of salt. He had orders to apply to the Convention of what-
ever State he arrived at on his return to this Continent. He now waits your
directions. Your most hble. servt.
Wm. Denning.
P. S. He left Lisbon 7 weeks 4 days ago this day. Capt. Exceen says
AUGUST 1776
195
his cargo consists of 197 moys of salt, on board on account of the Continen-
tal Congress; that he had medicines on board (three or four hogsheads) be-
longing to Thos. Grant, shipped by Long, about or between 3 or <£400
sterling
To Abraham Yates, Junr. Esqr. Chairman
of the Convention of the State of New-York, at Harlem.
1. New York Provincial Congress, II, 282.
Journal of the Continental Congress 1
[Philadelphia] Thursday, August 15, 1776
The Congress resumed the consideration of the instructions given to
Commodore Hopkins, his examination and answers, &c. and, thereupon,
came to the following resolution:
Resolved, That the said Commodore Hopkins, during his cruize to the
southward, did not pay due regard to the tenor of his instructions, whereby
he was expressly directed to annoy the enemy’s ships upon the coasts of the
southern states; and, that his reasons for not going from Providence immedi-
ately to the Carolinas, are by no means satisfactory.
At the request of [the delegates of] Pennsylvania, the farther considera-
tion of the report was postponed till to morrow.
Resolved , That the Secret Committee be directed to deliver to the or-
der of the Marine Committee, such stores by them imported as are necessary
for the fleet.
1. Ford, Ed., JCC, V, 657, 658-59.
Minutes of the Secret Committee of the Continental Congress 1
[Philadelphia] 15th August 1776
The Committee considering the favorable opportunity that now
presents for shipping off Produce from this Port and other places to the
Southward, the Enemies Men of War having gone.
Agreed That the sum of eighty thousand Dollars be advanced Mr [Robert]
Morris to be by him laid out in produce and exported on the Continental
Account. Accordingly an order was drawn on the Treasurer in his favor
for that sum.
1. Henry Laurens Collection, SCHS.
Thomas Jefferson’s Notes on Commodore Esek Hopkins’
Defense 1
Aug. 12. 1783 [sic 1776]. 2 [Philadelphia]
The Commodorejs] excuse for not going to Southerfn] colonies agreeable
to orders.
[Be]fore he left capes of Delaware, he heard the Liverpool was joined to Ld
Dunmore, wch made enemy an overmatch. & many of his men sea sick,
he did not go to N. Carolina bee. [he] reed intelligce the enemy’s force hd
196
AMERICAN THEATRE
gone from there 8c from S. Cara to Georgia, (his men recovd as he got to
the Southward)
he did not go to S. Carola for same reason 8c because [he] had no pilots.
he did not go to Georg[ia] bee. enemy’s ships as he heard were all there 8c too
strong.
he app[ointe]d Abaco as a rendezvous, 8c to wait there 15 days for each oth-
er; he chose that place because nearer to Georga than to S. Carolina,
he got there with all his fleet except the Fly 8c Hornet , 8c as he was to wait 15
days for [them] he thought he might as well form [an] expedn somewhere,
he heard from (a whaler I believe) that there was 200 barrels of powder
cannon 8cc at [New] Providce belonging to king, he therefore went there,
but the night he arrived the govr removed the powder, he took the cannon,
he dd nt go to Savanna bees while at Providce he heard all the enemy’s fleet
had assembled there 8c that [illegible] were too strong for him
on his return North[ward] he took a bomb brig for which [he] reed thanks
of Congress.
he carrd [the] cannon to Rhode isld rather than to the Carolinas because
[they were] not wanting in the Carolinas 8c he thot he cd ^et more safely into
Rhode isld
he dd nt delivr them to Govr of Connecticut as ordd by Congress bee. he hd
them as ballast, 8c found he cd nt get ballast at N. Lond[on] witht sendg to
N. York, a delay wch he cd not admit as Gen. Washton wrote him he appre-
hendd the enemy wd attempt to block him up in N. London,
he delivd them to Govr Cook of Rh. isld bee. he offered him pig iron as bal-
last in lieu of them, 8c Govr Cook undertook to delivr them to ordr of Con-
gress
after he [returned] from Providce he was not at liberty to go to the
Carolinas bee. hs instrns directed him to go to Rh. isld
had nt pilots to carry him into inlets of N. Carolina or over Charles town
bar.
Commodore dd nt sent vessel for intelligce into South, col. bee. both Fly 8c
Hornet parted with him within 2 days after [they] sailed, in bad
weather the Hornet nevr joined him, the Fly not till he got to Providce
a clause in his instrns authorized him to depart from his instrns if in his dis-
cretn he thought [it] for the public good, if he was mistaken then it was no
[crime.]
instrns are never given positively 8c it is right they should not be, because of
change of circumstances
The Commodore had a premedetated design not to go to the Southern colo-
nies but to Providence
bee. he dd nt send into Chesapk for certain intelligence.
bee. he dd nt send hs vessel of intelligce into N. Carolina but only sais he
heard enemy hd left that place whereas in truth the Cruiser remd there
alone 8c had above 50 prizes with her.
bee. he dd nt send in to So Carolina for intelligce
AUGUST 1776
197
he hd better [have] gone there for rendesvous than to Abaco bee. Gadsden
hd promd him on seeing signals to sent out Pilot boats.
bee. he might have crossed the bar
bee. it was nearer to Georgia than Abaco was.
bee. 2 days before he got to Abaco he told major Nicholas he was to go to
Providence, whereas he ss in his defence he did not intend to go there till he
reached Abaco, (the rendezvous appointed) & then finding the Fly 8c H[or-
net ] separated he thought he might as well employ th[e] time of 15 days
which was agreed on to wait there, in some expedn
The not meeting the Fly & Hornet cd not prevent him from going to Savan-
nah bee. they were mere vessels of intelligce not of force, they only car-
ried, one of them swivels, [the other] 3. or 4 lbrs
There was no cannon in N. Carola, so wre mch wantg there,
he was furnished wth 2 vessels on purpose to procure sure intelligce to direct
his motions, particularly the Fly a very swift vessel was [bought] 8c fitted out
on purpose.
after the expedn to Providce why did not he then go to Carolinas or South-
ern colonies, that being not only the main object of his expedn, but in truth
the object of equipping the Navy.
his managemt of engagemt with Glasgoic shews he wanted skill 8c activity.
Cannon nt wanting for ballast bee. two of his officers say she had still the
ballast with which she had gone to Providce 8c returned.
He ot to have obeyed Congress in delivg cannon, tho’ he was come out of
the harbor of New London with the cannon on board; he ot to have retd
wth them
objection that he had no pilots to carry him into inlets of N. Carolina 8c bar
of Charles town not good, because he knew that [before] when he set
out why did not he inform [illegible] Comme before he went that it [might
have] been provided for, or delegates [have] taken proper [measures] be-
sides as to Charles town Gadsden hd agreed wth him
fort Johnston had more king’s cannon than Providce; if cannon hd bn his
object [he] mt have gone 8c taken them
at the time he retd from Providce there was the Cruiser 8c a tender wth Govr
Martin waiting to join highlandrs 8c 16 mi. below them were a number of
transports [with Clinton’s army.]
he had the Wasp with him a small vessel proper to send in for intelligce
from Ch[arles] to[wn] bar to Savanna bar 70. miles, from Abaco is 3 times
as far.
besides it was in Winter season when Northerly winds prevail wch prevent
his coming from Abaco to Savanna 8c facilitate it from Charles town
the objn is [not] that he did not exercise an honest discretion in departing
from his instrns but that he never did intend to obey them.
true all instrns have [a] discretionary clause, which proves they have some
positive intention, otherwise there was never a positive instruction 8c never a
disobediance of orders, which is not true
198
AMERICAN THEATRE
since return from Providce the fleet has merely act[ed in] defence of trade of
Eastrn colonies.
1. Papers of Thomas Jefferson, vol. 9, 1525-26, LC.
2. This document was erroneously dated Aug. 12, 1783 by Jefferson. For explanation see Julian
P. Boyd, ed., The Papers vf Thomas Jefferson (Princeton, 1950), VI, 274. Hereafter cited
as Boyd, ed., Jefferson Papers.
Jesse Hollingsworth to the Maryland Council of Safety 1
Sirs
I am Going On a Bout the timber and other thing[s] for the Gundeloes
Which I shall Purchase and Bring into the yard as fast as Posible But have
made No Bargin With you a Bout it - 1 shall Charge the Same for My Time
as When I Superidentended the Frigat Busines Which Was 22 /6d P Day and
I had the Liberty of Furnishing her With all the Bar Iron Deliver’d at the
Place at <£26 pr Toon I Mean Mr Wells Shop, and the Pich Tar 8c Tur-
pintine at the Market Prise in Baltimore, and Payd all My bill for Mony ad-
vanst for all kind of Nesary[es] Such as shee Wants Sirs you May at first
Look On this to Much But I have a Good Deall Of My Own Busines to Doe
and a Great Number of Other Peoples I have My Self and 2 as Good
Clarks as any in Baltimore and We are Early and Late at Our Busines I am
On Horsback from Morning till Night Driving amongst the People have
another hand Riding after Teems Geting Nesaryes and 2 horses is Not anuf
Sumtimes Nor 2 Clarks With My Sellf att the Hed of them, I shall Be
from Home in Pertapsco Neck this 2 Weeks Geting Timber With 20 hands
from Home Day and Night 8c 2 or 3 teems, up to My Middell Or Neck in
Water Rafting and Freting My Sellf, 8c a thousand Disapointm[ents] that
you No Nothing of -I shall Be as Puntuall as Posible in My Charges and
Doe your Busines as Well as I Posibly Can, and Make the Best Bargins I Can
for you But I Declare if any Person Will Doe it On Better Terms I should be
Pleasd the Timber is purchasd Redy and Most of it Down and I Will Hire
them My Garages (as th[e]re is No Other) at a Moderate Rate - if any Per-
son Will Now Bring it into the yard On Better Terms - than the Proposalls
I Make Wee shall Lay One of the keel Is this Day and the Other Next Week
I hope - But Expect a Line from you On the Before Menshond Matters I
have furnisht the Yard With her Rum at Market Prises and My Charges of
Every Kind has Been thought Reasonable and a Lowd and th[ey] Beg of Me
to Be Redy for them again With all My Teems, carag[e]s and hands - So
Pleas Gentellemen to Write Me and if the Rum is to Be furnisht for the
yard 2 Drinks a Day of Grog and No More the Carters and People Rafting
and Geting Timber Must have Rum, in short I Want Neither More Nor
Les then I had With the Frigget But thought it My Duty to Explain My
Bargin to you that you Mout No the Matter I have Bought a Skow that
Will Carry 600 Bushells for £28 pounds a Very Good One - Pleas Send for
her I have Sent sum Coffy Tee 8c Naills to Anopolis Sum Pots to Capt
Vezey at Newtown I have Never heard if the[y] Ware Recvd Please Let
AUGUST 1776
199
Me Nowd a Bout the Botes I Wrote By Mr Huckings Excuse this Long
letter Pleas answer it from [&c.]
Baltimore August 15 - 1776 Jesse Hollings[wor]th 2
1. Red Book, XV, Md. Arch.
2. The Council replied to Hollingsworth on August 16, “you may depend on being handsomely
paid according to the trouble you have . . . Whisky and Continental Rum may be fur-
nished to the Workmen at Markett Price.” Council of Safety Letter Book, No. 1, Md.
Arch.
Journal of the Virginia Navy Board * 1
[Williamsburg] Thursday August 15th 1776 —
Ordered that a Warrant Issue to John Mayo Esqr for two pounds thirteen
shillings and five pence half penny for Flour furnished Capt [Isaac] Young-
husband of Musketo Cruizer —
Ordered that a Warrant Issue to John Rogers for One hundred pounds
upon Account for furnishing Necessaries and paying of Carpenters at Work
on six Boats now Building at Portsmouth under the Direction of Colo Adam
Stephens and the said Rogers -
Ordered that a Warrant Issue to Mr William Russell for Thirteen Pounds
ten shillings for four pair Pistols furnished Capt Lilly for the use of the Brig
Liberty -
Ordered that a Warrant Issue to James Davis for five pounds twelve shillings
and six pence for Blacksmiths Work done for the use of the Schooner Re-
venge Capt Deane. -
Ordered that a Warrant Issue Mr William Fauntleroy for Twenty eight
pounds for seven Swivels furnished, Captn [Richard] Taylor for the use of
the Schooner Hornet. -
James Davis personally appeared before this Board and agreed for the Sum
of six pounds p Ton to Build a Row Galley of the following Dimensions to
wit, Eighty one feet Keel, twenty feet Beam & seventeen feet mould Hold
which said Gallie is to be finished by the twenty fifth of December next -
1. Navy Board Journal, 37-38, VSL.
“Extract of a Letter from Cape Nicola Mole, August 15, 1776“ 1
From the best authority, I am informed, that four French frigates are
ordered to cruize about this island to protect the American trade, and two
Spanish ships are to do the same about Porto Rico for the like
purpose. There are about 8 or 10,000 troops in this Island. - Twenty-nine
ships of the line are getting ready at Brest, and 14 at Toulon, & 20,000 land
forces, to put to sea, but where bound is not known. - Twelve Spanish ships
of the line and 6 frigates, with many land forces, went by here some weeks
past for the Havannah, but for what end is a secret.
1. Pennsylvania Journal, October 2, 1776.
200
AMERICAN THEATRE
Van Bebber Sc Harrison to the Virginia Committee of Safety 1
Saint Pierre Martinique Augt 15. 1776
Gentlemen We did ourselves the Honour of writing you from St Eustatia
on the 14th of June, acquainting you of our Connection, Sc making a tender
of our Services, wch we hope got to hand, being accompanied with a consid-
erable Quantity of Powder shippd you by our AVB in the Brigt Friendship
Capt [John] Martin. -
The present serves to cover Invoices of two Parcells of Gun Powder Sc
Arms Shipped you the 25th ulto in the Boats Molly Capt John Pasture, Sc
Pluto, Cap Thomas Davis, in consequence of what you wrote our
AVB. - We hope it will all be safely landed before you see this. -
These Goods are part of a large purchase made by us in June for which
we are to pay by the middle of the ensuing Month, or be accountable for an
Interest of 8 PCt from that period. Should your remittances therefore not
get to hand within the limited time, we think proper to mention that you, as
well as our other Friends, will be liable for your proportion of this addition-
al charge. - The Publick Good alone induces us into the Engagement -
had our Views been otherwise, abundant Opportunities have offered by
which we could have benefitted ourselves 50 P Ct - The Article of Powder
has got up again to near 4/ in Statia and 3/ at this place; we do not how-
ever imagine these prices can be supported long - Dry Goods, particularly
Linnens, are plenty Sc may be purchased tolerably cheap. -
There are certain times when very good Bargains may be had. If you
should therefore think proper to entrust us with the purchase of any thing
further, we would advise you to transmit your Orders by the first Opportu-
nity, that we may have it in our power to execute them as those favourable
Junctures occur, and if at any time, by the miscarriage of your Vessells or
otherwise, our credit can be of use to you; you may depend, Gent, we will
most chearfully strain it to the extent. -
Capt Calender sailed from this Port about the 18th of May Sc took with
him the proceeds of his own, the two Capt. Saunders’ Sc Capt Markums Car-
goes, consisting of Powder Sc Arms, in the pilot Boat sent out for the
Purpose. We should be very sorry to hear of his miscarrying with so valua-
ble a Vessell. -
Wishing Virginia all the prosperity Sc Happiness to which her noble,
spirited Sc exemplary Conduct so justly entitles her, we are and shall remain,
with much respect Sirs [8cc.]
VanBibber Sc Harrison
Prices Currt at this place
Superfine Flour 78 a 80/. 1
Common Do 66 a 70/. J P arr
Tobacco 50 a 60/. P Ct
Corn 8/. p busl
Pork 100/.
Beef 90/.
Lumber, none -
AUGUST 1776
201
[Endorsed] Copy - the original by Capt Wickes of the Continental ship
Reprisal -
1. State Agents, 1775-1782, VSL.
16 Aug.
Captain Charles Douglas, R.N., to Philip Stephens 1
[Extract]
(Copy) Isis Quebec 16 August 1776
. . . our business of building, and reconstructing are going on as fast as
our paucity of proper hands, will admit of. After a very long passage the
Twenty Glasgow Shipwrights, and ten house Carpenters, from Portsmouth,
are at last arrived, and are to be hurried up to Chambly from Transport to
Transport, Relays whereof are placed, with proper rowing Boats to ensure
the Conveyance upwards of the provisions which are hourly and impatiently
expected for the army from Ireland against an opposing Current, and the
prevailing light Westerly Winds of the Season ....
His Excellency having applied to me for four Transports to carry away
the Rebel Prisoners (as well those who were caught in the lower Town of
Quebec on the 1st of January, as those since taken) with a view of their re-
turning in peace to their respective homes. The Pearl is sailed with them
under her Convoy for New York to join Lord Howe. Some Rebels taken
very lately at Lake Champlain are to their very great surprise included in
the number.
The Canceaux Armed Ship is stationed at the Sorel The Blonde con-
tinues at Champlain The Triton and Lord Howe at the foot of the rapids
of Richlieu The Isis and Juno in this Bason (the latter with a Defective
Fore Yard) The Bute with Pilots is at the Isle of Bic, and the Tartar to
cruize between Cape North and Cape Ray, until the 25th of September. . . .
L PRO, Colonial Office, 5/125, 53b.
Essex Journal and New Hampshire Packet , Friday, August 16, 1776
Newbury-Port, August 16.
Yesterday Capt. Wingate Newman, arrived in the Privateer nam’d the
Hancock , from Philadelphia, she brought in as a prize, (which is now
safely anchored before this town) the ship Nancy from Antigua, Capt
Keys, bound to London, having on board about 400 hogsheads of sugar,
90 of rum, and a few casks of Madeira wine. Three or four gentleman pas-
sengers, and a lady came in the above ship. — He likewise brought in with
him the Sloop Industry , Capt William Hazen, bound to St. John’s, in Nova-
Scotia, in ballast.
A few days before the taking the above ship, Capt. Newman had a
smart engagement with a sloop of war, of much superior force, for three
glasses, but night coming on, they parted, both having received much dam-
age, but on board of Capt. Newman no lives lost, nor none much hurt.
202
AMERICAN THEATRE
Memorial of Captain John Manley to the Massachusetts Council 1
The State of J To the Honble Council now
Massachusetts Bay J sitting at Watertown -
The Memorial of John Manley of Boston
Humbly Sheweth
That he is informed by his Councill that the Presence of Peter Ramsey
who is now a Prisoner at Concord is necessary at the Trial of the Briga Eli-
zabeth] which was taken & carried into Portsmouth last March — The Said
Manley therefore prays that the said Peter Ramsey may be permitted to at-
tend said Trial under such Restrictions as to your Honors may think fit and
as in Duty Bound shall ever pray -
John Manley
Boston Augt 16[th] 1776
[Endorsed] Read & Ordered that the Prayer of the Memorial be granted and
that Peter Ramsay have Liberty to Attend the Tryal mentioned in the Mem-
orial to be under the Care of Capt Manley in going and returning and that
said Manley see that he the Said Ramsay returns to Concord as soon as he
has finished the Buisness he goes upon -
Jn° Avery Dpy Secy
1. Mass. Arch., vol. 165, 99.
Deposition Prepared for the Signature of Crean Brush 1
[Boston, August 16]
I Crean Brush do Testify and say that on or about 3d day of January
1776 John Ireland deliverd to me a large quantity of English Goods to take
care of for Robert Ruggles, and than on or about 13th day March by virtue
of an Order from General How, I went up to the stores of the following per-
sons
John Barret & Sons
(vizt)
14
Samuel Dashwood
6
John Rowe
16
John Scollay
Samuel Austin
3
Cyrus Baldwin
72
Samuel Partridge
28
and took from them a large Quantity of Goods which together, with Ru-
gles’s were shipt on board the Brigt Eliza[b eth ] Capt Peter Ramsay master
except part of Mr Baldwins, which were shipt on board another vessel and
that said Brigt on her passage to Halifax was taken by Como Manly and oth-
ers, and carried into Portsmouth New-Hampshire, and that said Goods were
on board when taken -
[Endorsed] Suffolk ss, Augst 16, 1776. at the request of Robert Rugles
above-named, I went to the house of Jos: Otis keeper of the Gaol in Boston,
to swear Crean Brush above named to the truth of the aforegoing deposi-
tion, that the said Crean Brush refused to sign the above or swear to the
tiuth of it, that on being told by the said Ruggles that his Testimony would
be a benefit to him but no disadvantage to him the said Brush he the said
AUGUST 1776
203
Brush replyed and said that for that reason he would not swear to it, but in
general acknowledged it was true
Jos Greenleaf Justice peace
1. Revolutionary War Prize Cases, Court of Appeals, 1776-1787, NA.
2. The numerals represent the numbers of the claims entered by these individuals for goods
found on board the brigantine Elizabeth.
Nicholas Brown to Thomas Cushing 1
Sir/ Providence Augt 16. 1776 —
Yours of the 5th Inst is before us, Mr [John] Langdon Claims the
Preference to you of the Cannon as his Vessel is now ready as he says for
them and yours is not, as to price we say the last Guns we have sold was at
£80 Lawful money P Ton since which they have been sold here at Double
That At Vendue, a Gentleman from this Town has Engagd a sett to be
Made at one of the Furnaces in Your Province for a Privateer at 90 P Ton,
and Mr Hubbart Owner of the air Furnace at Abbington holds his at
about this price 8c we Coud make several setts at the same price and they are
Dayly riseing and as we understand you have no orders from Congress to
Contract We Chose not to fix a Price, till you are ready to Finish a Bargain,
and have refusd Contracting with any Body unless we were Concernd in the
Vessel they were for, only one sett of nine pounders at which Time we did
not advert to your Ships Carrying 9 Pounders -If you have Liberty from
Congress to Contract for the Cannon we advise (as its a Matter of Conse-
quence) your Comeing up and Finishing the matter and as we find the
Expence in Carrying on the Business is very heavy We shall Chuse to have
one half the Amot paid us on
finishing the Bargain -
I am Sir with Due
Respect [8cc.]
[lb]
NichR Brown
12 pounders will Weigh abot
24-
For the Furnace Co
9 - Ditto Do.
18-
6 - Ditto Do.
12-
4 - Ditto Do.
8-
P S We shall wait 14 Days from this before we Contract that each may be
here or some body for them, if not agreed who has the first sett of
Guns after that Time Shall Contract with the first that appears - One of
our Furnace Owners is to be Concernd in the Guns purchasd in yr Province
for a Privateer at £ 90 p Ton, 8c have no Doubt but Coud now fill several
setts at £ 100 Per Ton
A Copy 2
1. Captain J. G. M. Stone Private Collection, Annapolis.
2. The copy was enclosed in letter of the same date to John Langdon.
Governor Jonathan Trumbull to George Washington 1
Sir Lebanon Augt 16th 1776
Major General Schuyler has requested that two hundred Seamen may
be raised in this State to mann the Vessels on the Lake. As most of our Sea-
204
AMERICAN THEATRE
men have marched with our Militia to join your Army I have to ask the fa-
vor of Your Excellency to permit Capt David Hawley and Capt Frederick
Chappel to enlist such number of Seaman out of our Militia as may be nec-
essary for that Servic - I am Sir with great Respect [Sec.]
JT 1
1. Trumbull Papers, XXIX, Letter Book IV, 331, ConnSL.
Journal of the Connecticut Council of Safety 1
[Lebanon] August 16th, 1776.
Voted to draw an order in favour of Capt. David Hawley for £180, to
enable him [to] raise a crew of seamen for the naval service of the United
States of America on the Lakes to the northward, to which service he is ap-
pointed a Captain. Said money to be disposed of by him in the same ways
and manner as was directed to Capt. [Seth] Warner in this book Order
drawn August 16th, 1776, delivered to Capt. David Hawley.
1. Hoadly, ed., Connecticut Records , XV, 503, 504. The same was voted for Captain Frederick
Chapel, New Haven.
Order for Purchase of the New Providence Sloop Endeavor 1
Gentlemen Lebanon, August 16th 1776
Draw on the Treasuror of this State for the Sum of two Thousand one
Hundred and sixty Eight Pounds Twelve Shillings and five Pence L[awfu]l
Money in Favour of Capt Charles Walker of New Providence it being for
the Purchase of a Large Bermudian Built Sloop for the Purpose of an
Armed Vessell 2
By Order the Governor Sc Council of Safety
Benj Huntington Clerk P.T.
To the Committee of Pay Table
£2168.12.5
1. Conn. Arch., 1st Series, VI, 352a, ConnSL.
2. The Endeavour , which Cdmmodore Hopkins had commandeered to carry some of the cannon
seized at New Providence. Walker’s receipt for the purchase money was dated the next
day, ibid., 352b.
Order for Payment to Captain James Rice 1
Gentlemen Lebanon August 16th 1776
Draw on the Treasurer of this State for the Sum of Six Hundred Seven-
ty two Pounds six Shillings and five Pence in Favour of Capt James Rice it
being in Ballance of his Account of Expences of Brig Defence Sc Row Gaily
as Pr his Account Appears at this Time
By Order of the Govr Sc Council of Safety
Benj Huntington Clerk P.T.
To the Committee of Pay Table
£672.6.5
L Conn. Arch., 1st Series, IX, 74a, ConnSL.
AUGUST 1776
205
Brigadier General Benedict Arnold to Major General Horatio Gates1
Dear Sir/ Crown Point August 16th 1776
I arriv’d here at 10 oClock last night much as I left Tyconderoga a little
feverish but no ague Yet, a dose Phisick this afternoon I hope will set mat-
ters in order. I have applied to Doctr Sparham who (I believe) Cannot be
persuaded to go with the Fleet - I dont think it prudent to go without a Sur-
geon, Lieut [Isaac Budd] Dunn acquaints me, that the Surgeons Mate of
Coin [Arthur] St Clair’s Regt has a good Box Medicines 8c will Incline to go
with the Fleet, I wish he would be sent here, or some one who will
answer to kill a man Secundum Artem. , I can procure a Case of Capital In-
struments for him here, - nothing but the Surgeon & some few articles I
have sent a Boat for, prevents our proceeding, - I hope the Carpenters will
not be retarded for want of Smith’s work they made Several Complaints be-
fore I came away - 1 am with Compliments to the Gentlemen of your
Famaly Dear Sir Your affectionate [8cc.]
B Arnold
PS I could wish the proceedings of the Court Marshall, Letters See might
pass thro Genl. Schuylers hands that his Sentiments might be known - B A
1. Gates Papers, NYHS.
Orderly Book of Brigade Ma jor Peter Scull 1
Head-Quarters [Ticonderoga],
Aug. 16. 1776
All the Brass-Blunderbusses in Camp, belonging to the Publick, or tak-
en from the enemy, are to be delivered in immediately to Mr Lane Conduc-
tor of Naval Stores. -
1. MNHP.
“Extract of a letter from Skeenesborough, August 16, 1776’’ 1
Our strength by sea is as follows, — two schooners, one sloop, two row-
gallies and six gondolas, all fit for action. — At this place we have one
gondola launched, and another just finished. — We have also three row-gal-
lies in great forwardness, from 60 to 70 feet in keel and 16 feet beam, which
will mount each 6 cannon and 20 swivels, and are to go with 36 oars besides
sails - They will be fit for action in about three weeks - As soon as they are
launched General Watterbury, with the regiment to which I belong, are or-
dered on board them, and when rigged, Sec. are to proceed up the Lake to
join the fleet.
By the last accounts from St. John’s we learn, that the enemy had not
more than 40 batteaus built, and two gallies or gondolas - If this is true, I
hardly think they will venture down the Lake this fall — We are determined,
however, to be prepared for them — Five other gallies are to be built here, as
soon as those which are on the stocks are launched.
1. Pennsylvania Gazette, August 28, 1776.
206
AMERICAN THEATRE
Journal of H.M.S. Rose , Captain James Wallace 1
August 1776 In Hudsons River New York
Friday 16th AM [light breezes] and Cloudy, dry’d Sails, to all Appearance
the Channell abrest of the Fort quite Block’d up.
First part light breezes and Cloudy, Mide light airs and
hazy with Calms latter little Wind & Cloudy PM at past
1 1 saw some Vessels close on board of us, took them to be
Rebel Gallys two of which prov’d to be fire vessels, our
Tender being on our Larbd Quarter l/? a Cable distance, one
of them fell Athwart her on fire, which set the Tender In-
stantly in a Blaze, & hindred her from faling on board the
Ship, we veer’d away but Ending we could not get clear of
her cut the Cable at the V2 she driving clear of us fell Ath-
wart the Phenix’ s Bow; which had near set her on fire, they
got Clear by Cutting their Cable and Towing her Off, let go
our small Bow’r Do came too the Phenix & Tryal, Our
People from the Tender all got safe on board.
1. PRO, Admiralty 51/805.
Journal of H.M.S. Phoenix , Captain Hyde Parker, Jr. 1
August 1776. At Single Anchor, four Miles above the upper Fort on
York Island.
Friday 16th Cut up for Match Tubs Six Puncheons, several Gallies in
sight down the River.
Light Airs and Cloudy at 1 1 P M discover’d a Vessel Stand-
ing up the River, she being near the Rose’s Tender hail’d her
and gave order’s for her to Fire into the Vessel; In Five Sec-
onds the Rebel Vessel Boarded the Tender and was set fire
to. By the light of this Vessel we discover’d another stand-
ing towards us at a Cables length distance - Immediately Or-
der’d the Cable to be Cut & Commenced Firing upon the
Fire Ship; in Ten Minutes afterwards she Boarded us on
the Starboard Bow at which time the Rebels set fire to the
Train and left her, Set the Fore Topsail and Head Sails
which fortunately cast the Ship and disengaged her from the
Fire Ship, after having been Twenty Minutes with her J ibb
Boom over our Gunwhale. The Rose’s Tender was Totally
consumed; the same fate must have Attended the Phoenix
had not the Steadiness of the Officers & Ship’s Company saved
her.
1. PRO, Admiralty 51/694.
Memoirs of Major General William Heath 1
[New York, August] 16th. - Our General was again requested to be a specta-
tor on the bank of the river the approaching night, with the most positive
208
AMERICAN THEATRE
assurances that he should not be again disappointed: he accordingly went,
attended as on the preceding time, and took a proper position on the
bank. The night was pretty dark; they soon found that the galleys and fire-
vessels were silently moving up with the tide. After some time, and almost
immediately after the sentinels on board the British ships has passed the
word, “all is well,” two of the fire-vessels flashed into a blaze; the one close
on the side of the Phenix , the other grappling one of the tenders. To ap-
pearance, the flames were against the side of the Phenix ; and there was
much confusion on board. A number of cannon were discharged into the
fire-vessel in order to sink her. A number of seamen ascended, and got out
on the yard-arm, supposed to clear away some grapplings. The fire-vessel
was alongside, as was judged near ten minutes, when the Phenix either cut,
or slipt her cable, let fall her fore-topsail, wore round, and stood up the riv-
er, being immediately veiled from the spectators, by the darkness of the
night. The tender burnt down to the water’s edge, and was towed to the
shore by the Americans, out of which was taken, one iron six-pounder, two
three-pounders, one two pounder, ten swivels, a caboose, some gun-barrels,
cutlasses, grapplings, chains, &c. The Rose, and the other two tenders, re-
mained at their moorings; but it was said that one of the tenders was desert-
ed by her crew, for a time. Several of our galleys were said to have been in-
active; otherwise, a very considerable advantage would have been reaped.
The Americans sustained no loss or injury, saving one man, who, in com-
municating fire to one of the vessels, got considerably burnt in the face,
hands, &c.2
1. Abbatt, ed.. Heath Memoirs, 45-46.
2. “Serjeant Smith of Connecticut after applying his match to the train -jumbed pic] overboard
to one of our boats, but was so severely burnt that he died of his wounds.’’ Diary of
Samuel Richards, Captain of Connecticut Line War of the Revolution 1775-1786, pub-
lished by his great grandson (Philadelphia, 1909), 32. Hereafter cited as Captain Richards’
Diary.
Journal of the New York Provincial Convention 1
[Harlem] Die Veneris, 9 HO. A.M. August 16th, 1776.
Whereas a secret committee appointed by this Convention to devise
means for annoying the enemy’s ships and obstructing the navigation of
Hudson’s river, having by their letter received this day, informed the Con-
vention of their fitting out two armed vessels at Poughkeepsie, and giving
the command of one of them to Capt. Henry Benson, who they have sent
down to New-York to procure and purchase sundry articles, necessarily re-
quired in fitting out said vessels, and request the Convention to supply Capt.
Benson with money for that purpose.
Ordered, That Peter V. B. Livingston, Esqr. as Treasurer of this Con-
vention, advance to Capt. Henry Benson the sum of <£500 for the purpose
aforesaid, and take his receipt for the same.
1. New York Provincial Congress, I, 575, 576.
AUGUST 1776
209
Journal of the Continental Congress 1
[Philadelphia] Friday, August 16, 1776
The Congress resumed the consideration of the instructions given to
Commodore Hopkins, his examination and answers, Sec. and, thereupon
came to the following resolution:
Resolved , That the said conduct of Commodore Hopkins deserves the
censure of this house, and the house does accordingly censure him.
Ordered , That a copy of the resolutions passed against Commodore
Hopkins be transmitted to him.2
1. Ford, ed., JCC, V, 660-62.
2. “Although this Resolution of Censure was not, in my Opinion demanded by Justice and con-
sequently was inconsistent with good Policy, as it tended to discourage an Officer and dim-
minish his Authority by tarnishing his reputation; Yet as it went not so far as to cashier
him, which had been the Object intended by the Spirit that dictated the Prosecution, I
had the Satisfaction to think that I had not laboured wholly in vain, in his
defence.” Butterfield, ed., Diary and Autobiography of John Adams , III, 408.
Continental Marine Committee to Captains John Paul Jones and
William Hallock 1
Sir Philada Augt 16th 1776
You will find inclosed herein a Paper sent us by the Captn of a French
Sloop that is now daily expected from Martinico with Arms and Ammuni-
tion Which we are very Anxious should be got safe in 2 - therefore we desire
you to keep a good look out for her and if you fall in with her; make Such
Signals as will make you known for a Friend - She Mounts twelve Guns with
Sixty Men. -You’l Please to deliver this letter and it’s enclosure to Captn
Hallock who must hire a Pilot Boat and man her with an Officer & four or
five men to Cruize about the Capes for this Sloop, Observing to make the
Signal desired and give them the needful information to get Safe in here.
When the Wasp goes down She will Convey further Orders respecting
this Matter Unless the Sloop Arrives Safe in the meantime - We are Sir [8cc.]
To Jno Paul Jones Esqr John Hancock
of Sloop Providence Rob1 Morris
Sc Wm Hallock Esqr Fran3 Hopkinson
of Sloop Hornet Frs Lewis
Joseph Hewes
(Copy)
1. Papers CC (Letters of John Hancock, and Miscellaneous Papers) , 58, 165, 169, NA.
2. Ibid., the paper contained the drawing of a flag, with these notations:
Flagg of the Queen of Hungary Six Black carrs [bars] 8c Six Yellow Carrs pic]
The Capt of the Pilot Boat will put his Flagg in the Foremost head of a Pilot
Boat - Carefully Recommended to the Care of Mr Paul Siemen.
Journal of John Paul Jones 1
[May 10 to August 16, 1776]
The next day, the 10th of May, 1776, Mr. Jones was ordered by the com-
mander in chief to take command “as captain of the Providence.” This
210
AMERICAN THEATRE
proves that Mr. Jones did his duty on the [New] Providence expedition. As
the commander in chief, had in his hand no blank-commission, this appoint-
ment was written and signed on the back of the commission that Mr. Jones
had received at Philadelphia the 7th of December, 1775. Captain Jones
had orders to receive on board the Providence the soldiers that had been
borrowed from General Washington, and to carry them to New York, there
enlist as many seamen as he could, and then return to New London, to take
in from the hospital all the seamen that had been left there by the squadron,
and were recovered, and carry them to Providence. Captain Jones soon
performed these services; and having hove down the sloop and partly fitted
her for war at Providence, he received orders from the commander in chief,
dated Rhode Island, June 10th, 1776, to come immediately down to take a
sloop then in sight, armed for war, belonging to the enemy’s navy. Captain
Jones obeyed orders with alacrity; but the enemy had disappeared before he
reached Newport. On the 13th of June, 1776, Captain Jones received or-
ders, dated that day at Newport, Rhode Island, from the commander in
chief, to proceed to Newburyport to take under convoy some vessels bound
for Philadelphia; but first to convoy Lieutenant Hacker in the Fly , with a
cargo of cannon, into the sound for New York, and to convoy some vessels
back from Stonington to the entrance of Newport. In performing these last
services, Captain Jones found great difficulty from the enemy’s frigates, then
cruising round Block Island, with which he had several rencontres; in one of
which he saved a brigantine that was a stranger, from Hispaniola, closely
pursued by the Cerberus, and laden with public military stores. That bri-
gantine was afterwards purchased by the Continent, and called the
Hampden. Captain Jones received orders from the commander in chief to
proceed for Boston instead of Newburyport. At Boston he was detained a
considerable time by the backwardness of the agent. He arrived with his
convoy from Boston, safe in the Delaware, the 1st of August, 1776. This
service was performed while the enemy were arriving daily at Sandy Hook
from Halifax and England, [under the escort and protection of Lord Howe ,]
and Captain Jones saw several of their ships of war [ which he had the ad-
dress to avoid.] Captain Jones received a captain’s commission [under the
United States of A merica,] from the president of Congress the 8th of August.
It was proposed to Captain Jones by the Marine Committee of Congress
to go to Connecticut, to command the brigantine Ha?npden ; but he choos-
ing rather to remain in the sloop Providence, had orders to go out on a
cruise against the enemy “for six weeks, [or] two or three months.’’ He was
not limited to any particular station or service.
1. [Robert C. Sands], Life and Correspondence of John Paul Jones including his Narrative of
the Campaign of the Liman (New York, 1830), 37-39. Hereafter cited as Sands, Life and
Correspondence of John Paul Jones. Jones wrote this journal or memoir for Louis XVI
of France. French translations are in the Archives Nationales and the Library of Congress.
AUGUST 1776
211
Journal of the Pennsylvania Council of Safety 1
In Council of Safety,
[Philadelphia] Aug’t. 16th, 1776.
Capt. [Richard] Ayres of the Armed Boat Campden , was directed to pay
Hugh Whiteford the wages due to his Slave, Jacob Kelly, and discharge said
Kelly from the Service of this State.
1. Pennsylvania Colonial Records , X, 689.
Journal of the Virginia Navy Board 1
[Williamsburg] Friday August 16-1776
Ordered that the keeper of the Public Magazine deliver unto Capt George
Muter five hundred pounds of Cannon Powder, One hundred pounds of
Musquett Powder, 70 eighteen Pound Shott, fifty Pounds of Sheet Lead thir-
ty six Grape Shott, a Rheme of Cartridge Paper, One hundred & fifty Gun-
flints & sixty Cartridge Boxes and Balls for the use of the Hero Galley. -
1. Navy Board Journal, 39, VSL.
Virginia Navy Board to Charles Thomas 1
Sir Williamsburg Augst 16th 1776 —
The inclos’d Memorandum for Rope you’ll please to get ready as soon
as possible and charge it to the Schooner Speedwell Capt Cook on the East-
ern Shore I am by order 8cc.
Geo. Webb. 1st Commr Pro Tempore
1 Coil — 31/2 Inch do
2 do — 2 1/2 do
2 do — 2 do
1 do — 12 thread rat line
Cable — 90 fathom 7 Inch
1. Navy Board Letter Book, VSL.
Virginia Navy Board to Andrew Lush, Cabin Point 1
Sir, Wmsburg August 16th 1776
You are desired to provide Blocks agreeable to the within List and send
them by the first safe opportunity to the Col ledge landing addressed to
us By order [8cc.]
Geo. Webb. 1st Comr Pro. Tempore
84
4
6
6
4
6
7 Inch blocks
12 do . double
10 do . single
6 do . do
6 do . double
8 do . single -
1. Navy Board Letter Book, VSL.
212
AMERICAN THEATRE
Commission of Captain Robert Cochran as Commander of the
South Carolina Brigantine Notre Dame 1
By his Excellency John Rutledge Esquire President and Commander in
Chief of South Carolina one of the united States of America -
To all whom these presents shall come greeting
Know ye that I do hereby appoint Robert Cockran to be Captain and Com-
mander of the Brigantine of war calld the Notre Dame of the burthen of
about Seventy Tons belonging to this State hereby granting License, Com-
mission and authority to him therewith by force of arms to apprehend, seize
and take all ships Vessells & Goods which are liable to seizure and Confisca-
tion pursuant to the resolves of the representatives of the said States in Gen-
eral Congress assembled And to bring the same to the most convenient
port in order to be legally adjudged in some court of Admiralty or some
other court then having jurisdiction in Cases of Capture.
Given under my hand and seal at Chs Town
in the said State of South Carolina this 16th day
of August in the year of Our Lord 1776 —
to take rank as captain from the 31st December 1775, the date of Captain
Cockrans Commission from the Council of Safety — 2
1. Miscellaneous Records A 1776-1801, S. C. Arch.
2. Ibid., commissions were issued on August 17 to Charles Morgan of the sloop Swift and An-
drew Groundwater, sloop Peggy.
17 Aug.
Petition of Passengers on Board the Prize Ship Earl of
Errol to the Massachusetts Council 1
The Petition of Hugh Munro for himself, his Wife, Daughter, Neice,
and Two Servants, Geo. Campbell & Servant, John Barfslet], Child and
two Servants and John Grant and his Servant,
Humbly Sheweth -
That your Petitioners left the Granadines the ninth day of July last in
the Earl of Errol in order to proceed to London, to which Port they were
bound, that in the Latitude of 3 3 1/2° on the Twenty fourth of the said
Month they were taken by Two ships belonging to Gentlemen of New York
and bought into the Harbour of Boston 2
That notwithstanding the Indulgence and good Usuage they have re-
ceived since their Capture and the great Lenity shewn to them on their ar-
rival here, They Beg Leave to request of the Honle Council to take into
consideration, That being Passengers only on their way home, some for
Health and others going to their Families, they Cannot but Labour under
many Inconveniences unavoidable to the Situation they are in —
That sensible how ready the Gentlemen of the Council of this State have
always been, to aleviate as much as possible Distresses of this Kind, They
hope that the same favour that has been so obligingly Granted to Others,
will not be withheld from them —
AUGUST 1776
213
They therefore take the Liberty to inform the Honle Council that in
consequence of the permission given to Mr [William] Ross (a Gentleman
in Similar Circumstances with themselves) He has now purchased a Ship to
proceed to Europe on the Terms allowed him, That this would be an oppor-
tunity to your Petitioners of the utmost importance to them, as it is hard to
Say when another of the Kind might happen, should they be so unfortunate
as to be refused this
On that account they presume to Solicit your Leave to be included on
this occasion, which, if Granted, will do as much Honour to your Humanity
as it will be doing favour to them
And your Petitioners as in Duty bound will ever Pray, Sec Sec.
Hugh Munro John Barslet
Geo: Campbell John Grant
[Endorsed] In Council [Watertown] Augt 1 7 [th] 1776 Read Sc Ordered -
That Thos Cushing Sc Moses Gill Esqrs be a Committee to inquire into the
Facts of Said Petition Sc Report
Jn° Avery Dpy Secy
[Second endorsement] in Council Augt 21st 1776. Hugh Munro Sc his serv-
ants a Black Woman and a Boy, George Campbell Sc a black boy, John
Barslet a White boy and Girl Sc John Grant and a White servant [b]e Sc
hereby [are] permitted to depart from this State to any part of Great Britain
in the same Vessell with William Ross, who was permitted to depart from
this State the 7th Instant.
Jn° Avery Dpy Secy
1. Mass. Arch., vol. 165, 123-25.
2. New York letters of marque Beaver and Enterprize.
Abigail Adams to John Adams 1
[Extract] Boston, August 17 1776
As to news we go on Briskly taking prizes. We have a plenty of
Sugars. Within these ten days Sugars have fallen from 4 pounds to 3 and
2.8 by the hundred. A Brigg was carried into Newburry this Week, from
Antigue laiden with Indigo and hides, and a Jamaca Man carried into Mar-
ble Head.2 . . .
1. Butterfield, ed., Adams Family Correspondence, II, 98.
2. The vessel carried into Newburyport was the ship Nancy, George Keys, master; her cargo
was sugar and rum. The vessel carried into Marblehead was not a “Jamaca Man,” but
the brig Perkins, William Jenkins, master, with indigo and hides. Mrs. Adams had her
vessels and cargoes reversed.
Journal of the Massachusetts Sloop Tyrannicide, Captain John Fisk 1
Remks on Satterday the 17 of August 1776
4 [A.M.] freash breaze and Heasey
7 Exercizd our Cannon and small Arms
10 Put our people to Allowance of 2 Quarts of water P[er] day Sc
1 pound bread they Grumble very much say they have
but 3 meals in 24 hours.
388-825 0-73-16
214
AMERICAN THEATRE
12 I find the Current setts us to the southward
Lattd in 35d 2m Longd in 60d 6m
1 [P.M.] Heasey weather wind from WNW
5 Exersizd our Cannon and small Arms
1. John Fisk Journal, AAS.
Providence Gazette , Saturday, August 17, 1776
Providence, August 17.
Wednesday last arrived here from a short Cruize of one Month the Pri-
vateer Sloop Diamond , Capt. William Chace, of this Port, and brought in a
Prize Ship, from Dominica bound to Bristol. The following Passengers
were on board, viz. a Youth about 7 years of Age, Son to the Governor of
Dominica; Mr. Hutchinson, a Member of the Council of that Island; and
Mr. Charles Hobby Hubbart, of Boston. This Gentleman arrived at An-
tigua from England in December last, in a Transport Ship, where on
Account of his Attachment to the American Cause, he was apprehended
and confined in Gaol upwards of six Months, great part of the Time in a
Dungeon.
Another prize ship taken by the Diamond, arrived here on Sunday last.
The following is a list of the Prizes taken by the Diamond, with their
Cargoes, viz.
Brig Mary, Capt. Hammond, 1 from Tortola for Liverpool, 195 Hogs-
heads and 7 Barrels of Sugar, 13000 Weight of Cotton, and 25 Tons of Fus-
tick; Ship Jane, Capt. [William] Rome, from Dominica for Bristol, 308
Hogsheads of Sugar, and 3800 Gallons of Oil; Snow Portland, Capt. Brom-
well, from Grenada for Lancaster, 71 Hogsheads, 1 Tierce and 10 Barrels
of Sugar, 7000 Weight of Cocoa, 60100 Weight of Coffee, 3110 Gallons of
Rum, 130 Weight of Indico, and 1950 Weight of Cotton; Ship Star and
Garter, Capt. [Thomas] Hanson, from St. Kitts for London, 166 Hogsheads,
10 Tierces and 16 Barrels of Sugar, and 4500 Gallons of Rum. Ship
Friendship, Capt. [Joseph] Jones, from Grenada for London, 283 Hogsheads
of Sugar, 2600 Weight of Cocoa, 1800 Weight of Coffee, 4770 Gallons of
Rum, 55 Weight of Indico, and 2800 Weight of Cotton. - Total of the Car-
goes, 1023 Hogsheads, 11 Tierces and 33 Barrels of Sugar, 15600 Weight of
Cocoa, 61900 Weight of Coffee, 12380 Gallons of Rum, 185 Weight of Indi-
co, 17750 Weight of Cotton, 25 Tons of Fustick, and 3800 Gallons of Oil.
Capt. Chace informs, that a Privateer from Bedford has taken a Vessel
from the West-Indies, bound to Newfoundland, having on board, besides a
good Cargo, 500 Johanneses. 2
1. The libel of the brig Mary gives the captain’s name as Isaac Marvill.
2. Libels against the several prizes are found in this issue of the Providence Gazette.
Journal of the Connecticut Council of Safety 1
[Lebanon] August 17th, 1776.
Voted to allow the captains and recruiting officers now ordered to raise
crews of seamen for service on the Lakes to the northward the sum of 8s.,
AUGUST 1776
215
L. money, for each man they shall so inlist, for their expence in attending
said business.
1. Hoadly, ed., Connecticut Records , XV, 505.
Brigadier General Benedict Arnold to Captains Seamon and Premier 1
Sir Crown Point Augst 17th 1776
You will Immediately get your Vessells under sail 8c Proceed down the
lake 7 or 8 Miles, if you make any discovery of the Enemy you will Imme-
diately give me notice if none return as Soon as Possible.
B Arnold B. Genl
1. Gates Papers, NYHS.
Captain Jacobus Wynkoop to Brigadier General Benedict Arnold 1
On Board the Royal Savage Augst 17th
Sir I find by an Order you have given out that the Schooners are to go
down the lakes. I know no Orders but what shall be given out by me ex-
cept sailing Orders from the Commander in chief if an Enemy is Ap-
proaching I am to be acquainted with it and know how to Act in my
station. I am Sir Yours
Jacobus Wynkoop
Commander of Lake Champlain
1. Gates Papers, NYHS.
Brigadier General Benedict Arnold to Commodore Jacobus Wynkoop 1
Sir [Crown Point August 17]
I am surpris’d you should pretend to Contradict my Orders to the Cap-
tains of the Schooners at this time when we are alarm’d by a Signal of the
Approach of the Enemy, and much more so, as I acquainted you some time
since that the Commander in chief had Appointed me to take command of
the Navy on the Lakes, had I not receiv’d this Appointment from my rank
in the Army and as commander in chief of this Post, it is your duty to obey
my Orders, which you have receiv’d and executed for some time past, you
surely must be out of your senses to say no Orders shal be obey’d but yours,
do you Imagine that Congress have given you a Superiour Command over
the Commander in chief; or that you are not to be under his direction, if
you do, give me leave to say you are much mistaken and if you do not suffer
my Orders to be Immediately complied with by sending to the Captains of
the Schooners to obey them I shall be under the disagreeable necessity, of
Convincing you of your Error by Immediately Arresting you.
B Arnold B Genl 8c Commr in Chief
of the [lake] Elect on Lake Champlain
1. Gates Papers, NYHS.
216
AMERICAN THEATRE
Brigadier General Benedict Arnold to Major General Horatio Gates1
Dear General Crown Point Augst 17th 1776
About two OClock this Afternoon Colonel [Thomas] Hartly acquainted
me, that a Party of his men who were posted Seven miles down the lake, as a
Covering party to the Oar makers, had made a large hre as a Signal that the
enemy were approaching I sent Colonel Hartly with one hundred men to
secure the retreat of the Party if Attack’d and Order’d the two light Schoo-
ners down the lake to cover them, they were no sooner under way than
Commadore Wynkoop fir’d a Shot & brought them too, and soon after sent
me a note (Copy of which I Inclose with my Order to the Captains of the
Schooners, and Answer to the Commadores note) I waited some time ex-
pecting the Vessells to sail but finding they did not I went on board the
Commadore when lie Order’d them under sail, he refuses to be commanded
by any one and Imagines his Appointment, (which is by General Schuyler)
cannot be superceded. I have shewn him such parts of your Instructions as
I thought necessary, which has brought him so far to reason, he says if you
think proper to turn him out he will quit the Vessell. I have given him to
Understand that I shall at all events pursue your Orders, Sc that if he did
not Incline to remain in the Service he would not be Compell’d to it. Colo-
nel Hartly is not yet return’d. I am with Sentiments of Respect and
Esteem [&c.]
Saturday Night 8 OClock B Arnold
(Copy)
]. Gates Papers, NYHS.
Captain Jacobus Wynkoop to Major General Horatio Gates 1
Sir, Crown-Point August 17th 1776
I have understood that General Arnold is to have the Comand of the
Navey and if that Be So he ought to have Shown me his Power to It, but in-
stead of that he sent an Order for two of the Schooners to get under way and
go Down the Lake upon Some Information he Says he had of the Aproach of
the Enemy was It not his Duty to have Comunicated It to me and my Or-
ders to have bin Given to the Vessels I have Contradi[c]ted them till he
Acquainted me of with Some Accounts of the Enemy And then I Emediately
Isued out my Orders for them to go Down Sr If that be the Case I would
be Glad of my Dismission from the Service for I Excepted of this Comand
upon these Conditions Major General Schuyler has a Letter which I
Brought up to him from Congress that no man was to take the Comand
from me and when he had Read Letter he told me that I need not to fear
that no one Should have It but me and the Congress of New York Prom-
issed me that If any one Should arrive here Authorised to take the Com-
and by the Honourable Contenental Congress I was to be Dismissed the
Service and have the Comand of one of the Frigates Building up the North
River for I am Resolved to go under Comand of no man I will Receive
General Orders to Sail and how far And will Obey the Comander In Chiefs
AUGUST 1776
217
Orders but If I have the Comand I Expect to Give Orders to the Captn of
the Fleet when I Receive them from the Comander In Chief. I Refer your
Honour to a Copy of my Warant a Copy of Major Generals Schuylers Let-
ter and his Orders here Inclosed, Sr If you find my Grievance well founded
I hope your Honour will be pleased to Redress It I am Sr with all Due Re-
spect Your Honours [&c.]
1. Gates Papers, NYHS.
Jacobus Wynkoop Comd
Orderly Book of Brigade Major Peter Scull 1
Head-Quarters [Ticondero^al
17. Aug. 1776
One Cap. 3 Subs. [Subalterns] 3 Ser. [Sergeants] 3 Cor. [Corporals] 2
Dm & 100 Privates from the Brigade commanded by Gen. [James] Brickett
to parade at Head Qurs at 12 oClock to take 20 Batteaus to Skeensborough -
Cap: Williams will deliver the Batteaus to the Commanding Officer of the
party.
Forty Seamen from the same Brigade commanded by Gen. Brickett to
be draughted & parade at Head Qrs tomorrow morning at 7 oclock to go on
board the fleet at Crown Point. - They will go down in two Batteaus, the
Officer Commandg. them will apply to Gen. Arnold for his Orders.
Col. [John] Greaton is to take the command of the first Brigade during
the Absence of Gen. Arnold.
1. MNHP.
Brigadier General David Waterbury to Major General Horatio
Gates 1
Skeensborough Augt 17th 1776
At the time that Genl. Arnold was here he informed me that there was
Some Quarter Deck Plank Sasoned which if they are to [be] had I wish you
may send them to the saw soon as possible which I take a Great favour Am
with the Greatest Esteem [R:c.]
David Waterbury Jr
P.S. I am Informed the[re] was no Deck Nails at Ticanteroga Therfor I
am going to Send this moment an Express to Albany to have them forwared
with all speed
1. Gates Papers, NYHS.
Major General William Heath to George Washington 1
[Extract] King’s Bridge, 17 August, 1776
Dear General, The last night the fire-ships and row-galleys made an at-
tempt upon the enemy’s ships, which lay at anchor up the river. The fire-
ships were well conducted; the armed schooner was grappled and burnt; the
Phoenix was grappled for about ten minutes, but got herself clear. The
By IIis EXCELLENCY
AUGUST 1776
219
Lady Washington galley and Independence were conducted with great judg-
ment and bravery. I wish I could say that the other galleys did any thing at
all.2 The Phoenix either slipt or cut her cable; the Rose was left alone,
and it is thought might have been taken. I was an eye-witness to the whole;
and from the confusion which was apparent, I am confident that if an at-
tempt should be made on the fleet below, and but one or two ships set on
fire, their confusion would be beyond description.
1. Washington Papers, LC.
2. This date Washington replied requesting Heath to “inquire into the cause of the inactivity of
the other Gallies,’’ Heath Papers, MassHS.
George Washington to Vice Admiral Richard Lord Howe 1
Head Quarters New York Augt 17th 1776.
My Lord, Being authorized by Congress, as their Commanders in every De-
partment are, to Negotiate an Exchange of Prisoners; and presuming, as well
from the nature of your Lordship’s command, as the Information that Gen-
eral Howe has been pleased to honor me with, that the exchange in the Na-
val Line will be subject to your Lordship’s Directions, I beg leave to
propose the following mode of Exchange for your Lordship’s consideration,
vizt “Officers for those of equal Rank and Sailors for Sailors.”
If the above proposal should be agreeable to your Lordship, I am
charged in a particular manner to exchange any Officer belonging to the
British Navy in our hands Sc of equal Rank, for Lieut [James] Josiah, who
was lately made prisoner in a ship retaken by the Cerberus frigate.
The reason, my Lord, of my being charged to propose the exchange of
Lieut Josiah, in preference to that of any other officer, is that authentic
Intelligence has been received, that regardless of his Rank, as an Officer, he
has not only been subjected to the duties of a common Seaman, but has
experienced many other Marks of Indignity.
As a different Line of conduct, my Lord, has been ever observed to-
wards the Officers of your navy, who have fallen into our Hands, It becomes
not only a matter of Right, but of Duty, to mention this to your Lordship,
to the end that an Inquiry may be made into the case above referred to.
From your Lordship’s character for Humanity, I am led to presume, the
Hardships imposed on Lieut Josiah, are without either your Knowledge or
concurrence, and therefore most readily hope that upon this representation,
your Lordship will enjoin all Officers under your command, to pay such re-
gard to the Treatment of those that may fall into their Hands, as their dif-
ferent ranks and Situations require, and such as your Lordship would wish
to see continued by us to those, who are already in our power, or who may
hereafter, by the chance of War, be subjected to it. I have the honor to be
My Lord with great respect Your Lordships’s [8cc.]
G. Washington
1. Washington Papers, LC.
220
AMERICAN THEATRE
Journal of the Continental Congress 1
[Philadelphia] Saturday, August 17, 1776
The Board of Treasury reported, that there is due,
To William M’Carroll, for the passage of prisoners taken by Captain
Barry from Egg Harbour to this city, with their maintenance on the road, 4
56/90 dollars:
Ordered , That the said accounts be paid.
1. Ford, ed., JCC , V, 662, 663, 664.
Commodore Esek Hopkins to John Hancock 1
Sir Philada August 17th 1776
I receiv’d yours of the 16th this day, together with the Resolve of
Congress - Should be extremely oblig’d to you if you would communicate
the inclosed Letter to that honorable Body, and shall wait till I know if they
have any further Commands for Sr [8cc.]
Esek Hopkins 2
1. Papers CC (Letters addressed to Congress), 78, XI, 79, NA. A signed draft is in the Hopkins
Papers, RIHS.
2. On August 19 Congress resolved that, “Commodore Hopkins be directed to repair to Rhode
Island, and take the command of the fleet formerly put under his care.” Ford, ed., JCC,
V, 667.
John Adams to James Warren 1
[Extract] Philadelphia, August 17. 1776
Another Subject of great Importance, We ought to have been informed of, I
mean your Navy, or We ought to have known the Number of your armed
Vessells, their Tonnage, their Number of Guns, Weight of Metal, Number
of Men, Officers Names Ranks and Characters, in short, you should have
given Us your compleat Army and Navy Lists - besides this one would have
thought We should have been informed, by Some Means or other of the Pri-
vateers fitted out in your State - their Size, Tonnage, Guns, Men, Officers’
Names and Characters. But in all these Respects I declare myself as igno-
rant, as the Duke De Choiseul, and I Suspect much more So. -
our People have a curious Way of telling a Story. “The Continental Cruiz-
ers Hancock and Franklin took a Noble Prize.” Ay! but who knows any
Thing about the Said Cruizers. - How large are they? how many Guns?
6. 9. 12. 18 or 24 Pounders? how many Men? who was the Commander?
These Questions are asked me So often, that I am ashamed to repeat my
Answer, I don’t know. I can’t tell. I have not heard, our Province have
never informed me. — 2 The Reputation of the Province, the Character of
your officers, and the real Interests of both Suffer inexpressibly by this
Inaccuracy and Negligence - look into Coll [Archibald] Campbells Letter,
with what Precision he States every particular of his own force, of the Force
of his Adversary, and how exact is his Narration of Facts and Circumstances,
Step by Step? - When shall We acquire equal Wisdom? We must take more
AUGUST 1776
221
Pains to get Men of thorough Education and Accomplishment into every
Department, civil military and naval. . . .
1. Adams Papers, MassHS.
2. Ibid., Adams wrote to Major Joseph Ward on August 20 asking for answers to his questions.
Journal of the Pennsylvania Council of Safety 1
In Council of Safety,
[Philadelphia] August 17th, 1776.
An order was drawn on Mr. [John M.] Nesbitt, in favor of Wm. Ken-
nard, for £500, on acco’t of sails he is making for one of the Gallies, to be
Charged to his acco’t.
1. Pennsylvania Colonial Records, X, 690.
Virginia Navy Board to Colonel William Curle 1
Sir, Williamsburg August 17th 1776
The Commissioners of the Navy having information of some six poun-
der on River, will be oblig’d if you’ll make proper inquiry, and acquaint us
whither the owner will dispose of them, and the price, if they belong to
the Public, be so good as to let us know the safest and most expeditious way
of getting them up the Country. We understand they belong to a Mr
[Henry] Howard, near the half way House between Hampton and York,
who no doubt will spare them as we cannot fitt out our Vessels for want of
Cannon. Be pleas’d to acquaint us with the result of your inquiry as soon
as possible. I am by order of the Naval Board [8cc.]
Geo. Webb. 1st Com. P.T.
1. Navy Board Letter Book, VSL. The name of the recipient of the letter is omitted in the letter
book, but he is identified in the minutes of the Navy Board, Navy Board Journal, 39,
VSL.
18 Aug. (Sunday)
Journal of H.M. Sloop Viper , Captain Samuel Graves 1
Augt 1776 Mount Desert NWBN 8 or 9 Leags
Saturdy 17 at 4 AM Made sail at 5 out 2d reefs at 11, 2 sail in Sight
Mode 8c Cloudy at 2 PM saw 2 sail gave chase at 7 in 1st
reefs 8 hoisted the boats out 8c gave Chace to the Strange
Sails at 8 brought too Mntopsl to the Mast
Sunday 18 at 4 AM Made sail saw the 2 Sloops Seizd them 2 at 7 De-
parted this life Alexr Miller Carpentr at 10 Saw a Sail in
Shore Light Airs 8c Cloudy at 2 P M Joseph Durant was Ap-
pointed Acting Carpenter pr Order at 4 took 2 Sloops in Tow
1. PRO, Admiralty 51/1039.
2. The prizes were the sloop Unity, J. Lord, master, — Jones, owner, and the sloop Nancy, R.
Adams, “belonging to the Congress,” both from Machias for Newburyport with lumber,
shingles, etc., Howe’s Prize List, March 31, 1777, PRO, Admiralty 1/487.
222
AMERICAN THEATRE
John Bradford to John Hancock 1
Dear Sir Boston 18th Augst 1776-
I have the pleasure to Acquaint You that yesterday a Small Brig was
sent in here taken by the Hancock 8c Franklin, she was going from St.
Augustine to Bristol, her Cargo Consists only of 8600 Ran deer Skins, and
6840. lb Indigo 2 — two other of the Schooners are Abroad, the Lynch will
sail to morrow, she came in two days ago After a Months Cruise without
Success, having Nothing material to inform you with. I salute You and
have the Honor to be with All due Respect [8cc.]
J. Bradford
I am Just Setting out for Salem to attend the trial of the pork Ship 3
1. Charles Roberts Autograph Collection, 720, Box 1, HCL.
2. The brig Perkins, William Jenkins, master, 140 tons.
3. The ship Queen of England, James Arnout, master, which was decoyed into Boston harbor
July 21, and whose cargo included 1600 barrels of pork, New-England Chronicle, July 25,
1776.
Ma jor Joseph Ward to Joshua Davis 1
Sir Boston 18 August 1776
You are hereby directed to proceed immediately to Sandwich 8c there
procure teams sufficient to convey two Sea Mortars with their appertenances
across the land from Sandwich to Buzzards Bay; you will then procure Ves-
sels proper for transporting the mortars from said Bay to N. York to which
place you are to convey them with all possible safety 8c expedition, and de-
liver them to the order of his Excellency Genl Washington.
If you should need assistance on the way, all the true friends to the
United States of America are requested to give you all necessary assistance in
forwarding said Mortars.
By order of General Ward
J. Ward, ADC.
1. ChHS, Typescript.
Brigadier General Benedict Arnold to Dr. Thomas Potts,
Fort George 1
Dear Sir Crown Point Augt 18. 1776
You have, one Robert Aitkinson In your Hospital, who is an exceeding
good Pilot for this Lake. If his health will posibly admit of his comeing
here I beg you will let him have such necessaries as he may want, 8c dispatch
him as soon as posible, He belongs to Major [John] Bigelow of the
train. - lam Dr Sir [&c.]
B Arnold
PS I hope no time will be lost in sending a Surgeon, the fleet will be de-
tained untill one arrives — BA
1. FTML.
AUGUST 1776
223
Major General Horatio Gates to Brigadier General Benedict Arnold1
Sir Tyonderoga 18th August 1776 —
I have this moment received your letter from Crown Point of yesterday
evening. It is my Orders you Instantly put Commodore Wynkoop in Ar-
rest and send him prisoner to Head Quarters at Tyonderoga. You will at
the same time acquaint the Officers of the Fleet that such of them as do not
pay an Implicit Obedience to your Commands, are instantly to be confined
& sent to me for Trial; I am Sir [&c.]
H G
1. Gates Papers, NYHS.
Major General Horatio Gates to Major General Philip Schuyler 1
Dear General Ticonderoga, 18th August 1776
Thursday, General Arnold went to Crown Point to take the command
of the Fleet, collected there, Inclosed is a Copy of my Orders to him, which
he read and much approved, before his departure from hence, - Late, last
night, I received the within Letter from the General, with an Extract of
what passed between him and Mr [Jacobus] Wynkoop, which you will also
find in the Packet, together with my Letter at Day-Light this Morning, in
consequence of General Arnold’s Letter to me I shall send Mr Wynkoop to
Albany immediately on his arrival here, and I dare say you will without
Scruple, forthwith dismiss him the Service - He ought, upon no account, to
be again employed. Many Officers of rank in this department say, he is to-
tally unfit to command a single vessel, at this important hour of business - 1
would not submit this Affair, to a General Court martial here, least they
should have doubts how to decide upon it, as the Continental Articles of
war make no Provision for so extraordinary a circumstance - The Times
will not admit of trifling - Decision alone must govern these Occasions -
I expect Genl [David] Waterbury by Saturday Night, with the Row
Gallies. As he is an able Seaman and a brave Officer, I intend he shall join
Genl Arnold with the rest of the Squadron the Instant they can be armed &
equipped - As Genl Arnold and he are upon the best terms, I am satisfied
no Dispute about command, or want of Confidence in each other, will re-
tard the public service - I am Dr Genl [&c.]
Horatio Gates
1. Papers CC (Letters of Major General Philip Schuyler), 153, II, 283-84, NA.
224
AMERICAN THEATRE
“List of Continental Armed Vessels on Lake Champlain
August 18th 1776” 1
No
No of
Size of
No of
Names of Vessels and Commanders
of
Guns
Swivels
Men
Guns
Sloop Enter prize
Dickson
12
4 lbrs
10
50 '
Schooner Royal Savage
Wynkoop
12
4.6 lbrs 8.4 lbs
10
50
Do
Revenge
Seamon
8
4.4 lbrs 4.2 lbs
10
35
Do
Liberty
Premier
8
2.4 lbrs 6.2 lbs
8
35
C/5
Gondola N: Haven
Mansfield
3
1.12 lbr 2.9 lbs
8
45
P
Do
Providence
Simmons
3
Do.
.8
45
a
Do
Boston
Sumner
3
Do.
8
45
Do
Spitfire
Ulmer
3
Do.
8
45
Do
Philadelphia
Rice
3
Do.
8
45
Do
Connecticut
Grant
3
Do.
8
45
L. o
Do
Graham
3
Do.
8
45
*l!a
Row Galley Lee
Davis
6
1.12 lbr 1 9 lbr
1
& 4.4 lbr
12
Totals 67
94
485
Copy John Lansing Junr AJcting] Secy Horatio Gates
N B: The First Nine are fit for Action, and now under the Command of
Brigadier General Arnold at Crown point. The Last three will sail
in a few days and the Row Galleys and one more Gondola will be
down from Skeanesborough in a Week -
1. Washington Papers, LC.
Captain Richard Varick to Lieutenant 1
Sir Head Quarters Albany Augt 18. 1776.
You with the Party of Men under Your Command, will immediately
embark on Board of two large 8c one small Batteau, to be delivered You by
Mr [illegible] the Waggon master at the Provision store & will proceed from
hence with all possible Dispatch to Poughkeepsie 8c there deliver the Letter
addressed to Messrs [Augustin] Lawrence 8c Tudor [Samuel Tuder].
You will there take on Board All such Blocks, slow Match, Cordage 8c
Rigging as these Gentlemen shall be pleased to deliver to You, with Which
You will immediately reembark 8c return to this Place, without the least
Delay. -
In Case Your Boats shall not be sufficient to bring up all the Articles to
be delivered You, You will embark some of them on Board of some Sloop,
coming to this Place 8c take the Skippers receipt promissing to deliver the
same to Mr Ph: Van Rensselaer, storekeeper at this Place. -
You will take Eight Days Provisions for Yourself 8c Party. - By Order
of the Genl R.V. Secy. -
1. Schuyler Papers, Letters & Orders, 18 April, 1776 -28 June, 1777, NYPL.
Memoirs of William Smith 1
[Haverstraw] 18 Do [August]
The Phoenix and Rose shot by all the Forts 8c got down to Staten Island
thro’ the Delays in obstructing the Channel. They have created some Ex-
AUGUST 1776
225
pence to the Continent in the Land Carriage of Provisions from Philadel-
phia to New York — Had they brought up a 1000 spare Hands, they might
have spread Fire all along the Shores up to the Highland Forts. It is difficult
to say who is most to blame the British General for sending them up so
weak or the American one for suffering them to escape when the Feet of the
neighbouring Cliffs on the West Side of Hudson’s River furnished moveable
Stone & the River Sloops for shutting them in - A Deserter who had assisted
in sinking the Vessels was their Pilot thro’ the Gut left unfinished.
1. Sabine, ed., Memoirs of William Smith, II, 3.
Journal of H.M.S. Rose, Captain James Wallace 1
[August 1776] In Hudsons River New York
Saturdy 17th AM at \/2 past 4 saw 4 Rebel Galleys about 3 Miles below
us, they Row’d off and kept close to the Fort on the Eastern
Shore, which we suppos’d to be the Channell.
First part light breezes and Clear, Middle little Wind with
Rain
Sunday 18th AM at 5 weigh’d and came to Sail as did the Phenix Tryal
Schooner, and Shuldham Tender, steering down the River,
at 3/4 past 5 past the Chiverd’friezes, within a Musquet
Shot of the Rebel Battery on the Eastern Shore, they began
firing upon us from High Hills on the Eastern and Western
Shores, and a heavy fire of Musquetry from a Breastwork
under the Battery, Returned the fire when we came
Abrest of New York we Reev’d a heavy fire from 11 Bat-
tery’s, Do return’d a Constant fire, had 2 Men Wounded,
at 8 came too off Staten Island in 6 fm the Watering place
WBS and Wt point of the Narrows So Do Anchor’d the
Phenix, Tryal and Shuldham Tender; found Riding here
Lord Howe Vice of the White in the Eagle, Adml Shuld-
ham, Vice of the Blue in the Chatham, Commodore Sir
Peter Parker in the Bristol, and Commo Hotham in the
Preston with several Men of War and a large Fleet of
Transports.
1. PRO, Admiralty 51/805.
Journal of H.M.S. Phoenix, Captain Hyde Parker, Jr. 1
August 1776. At Single Anchor Off Staten Island.
Sunday 18th at 5 AM Weigh’d and came to Sail in Co his Majestys Ship
Rose, Tryal Schooner and the Shuldham , at 20 Minutes past
5 the Rebels Fir’d at us from a Battery on the Eastern Side of
the River which we return’d, at l/2 past [51 passed through
the Channell on the East side of the Vessels 8cca Sunk by the
Rebels to block up the Channel! between Geffery’s Hook and
226
AMERICAN THEATRE
Berdetts Mountain; several Shot was Fir’d [at] us from a
Battery upon the Top of the Mountain, after we got through
the Channel); At i/2 past 6 Fir’d several Broad sides at some
Gallies laying close into the Western Shore at 3/4 past 6
Commenced Firing at the Batteries upon York Island 8cca at
1/2 past 7 Anchor’d off Staten Island with the Best Bower in
61/2 Earn found riding here his Majesty’s Ship Eagle Vice
Adml Lord Howe, Chatham, Vice Adml Shuldham, Bristol ,
Comodore Sir Peter Parker and Preston Commodore Hoth-
am wth a very large Fleet of Men of War & Transports.
In passing the Batteries Reed a Shot through the Longboat
which sunk her, lost out of her the Stream Cable, a Hawser
Oars 8cca &ca
1. PRO, Admiralty 51/694.
Major General William Heath to George Washington 1
[Extract] Kings Bridge Augst 18th 1776
Dear General Early this morning The Phenix man of war, Rose Frigate,
and the Two Tenders Came to Sail and stood Down the River, Keeping
Close under the East shore, in Order to avoid the Fire of our Cannon, But
notwithstanding this Precaution the Phenix was Thrice Hull’d by our Shot
from mount Washington, and One of the Tenders Once, - The Rose was
Hull’d once by a shot from Burdits Ferry - They Kept their men Close, oth-
erwise Some of them would have been picked Down by a Party of Riflemen
who were Posted on the Bank, - They fired Grape shot as they Passed, But
did no Damage save to one Tent we hope to hear that your Batteries have
Done the work for some of them, -We shall recover Some Swivel Guns,
Gun Barrels, shot 8cc Out of the Wreck of the Tender which was Burnt the
Other night, the Particulars of which shall be Transmitted to your Excel-
lency as soon as I can obtain them . . . The ships have now tryed the Practi-
cability of Passing our works They have Explored every part of the shore as
far as they have gone up the River, and Sounded the River in almost every
Place, should the ships rejoyn the Fleet with out Receiving much Damage, I
think How[e] will be Emboldened to Attempt an Attack some where above
this Place, thinking that there may be a greater probability of succeeding
here, than in the Face of so many, and Strong works, as have been Erected in
and around the City, - However should his Inclination lead him this way,
nature has Done much for us, and we shall as fast as Possable add the
Strength of art, . . .
I have Just now received your Excellencys Command, to Enquire into the
Cause of the Inactivity of some of the Row Gallies in the late attack on the
Enemys’ ships but as the Gallies have all Left this Post and fallen Down to
the City I must beg your Excellency to Excuse me from that Service -
1. Heath Papers, MassHS.
AUGUST 1776
227
George Washington to Governor Jonathan Trumbull 1
[Extract] New York Augt 18th- 1776
I am happy Capt Van Buren has succeeded so well in the business he
was upon, it being of great consequence for us to fit out and maintain our
vessels on the Lake —
On the night of the 16th two of our Fire Vessels attempted to burn the
Ships of War up the River. One of them boarded the Phoenix of 44 Guns
and was grappled with her for some minutes, but unluckily she cleared
herself -The only damage the Enemy sustained was the destruction of one
Tender. It is agreed on all hands that our people engaged on this affair be-
haved with great resolution and intrepedity. One of the Captains
Thomas - it is to be feared perished in the attempt, or in making his
escape by swimming, as he has not been heard of — His bravery entitled him
to a better fate — Though this enterprise did not succeed to our wishes, I
incline to think it alarmed the Enemy greatly — For this morning the Phoe-
nix and Rose with their two remaining Tenders taking the advantage of a
brisk and prosperous gale with a favorable tide, quitted their stations and
have returned and joined the rest of the Fleet -As they passed our several
Batteries they were fired upon, but without any damage that I could per-
ceive -
The whole of the British Force in America, except those employed in
Canada, are now here; [Henry] Clinton’s arrival being followed the last
week by that of Lord Dunmore who now form a part of the Army we are to
oppose. His coming has not added but little to their strength- I have the
honor to be with great respect Sir [&c.]
Ge Washington
1. Trumbull Papers, XXIX, Letter Book IV, 332, 333, ConnSL.
Lieutenant Colonel William Tudor to John Adams 1
[Extract] New York 18th Augst 1776
Dear Sir It was with no small Degree of Pleasure, on my Return here, I ob-
served the Cheerfulness which brightened the Countenance of every Soldier
I met. The whole Army are in most excellent Spirits & shew an Impa-
tience for Action And the Spade & Pick Ax have been so well employ’d, that
there is scarce a Spot upon the whole Island, where a Redoubt or Breast
Work could be of service, but what has either one or other. From the Ad-
vantages we now possess, I think General Howe must be repulsed whenever
he attacks, but should he be able to carry the Island, it must be with so pro-
digious a Loss that Victory will be Ruin. He must get Winter Quarters for
his Troops somewhere, & I am afraid if he can’t get them in York, he will
once more attempt it in Boston. Their Command of the Sea gives them
vast Advantages.
1. Adams Papers, MassHS.
228
AMERICAN THEATRE
George Ross to Benjamin Franklin 1
Dr Sir
The Phenix 8c Rose have Just now passed our Batterys 8c I fear without
much damage - I was in one of the Batterys during the whole time they
were within gun shot - The visit they had two nights agoe from our fire
ships made them sick of their Station 8c they have now Joind the fleet at the
Narrows - Every countenance here is chearfull and if our Enemies dare at-
tack they will undoubtedly procure themselves a severe drubbing - My com-
plymts to friends I am Sr [8cc.]
Geo: Ross 2
New York 18th Augt 1776
1. Franklin Papers, IV, 106, APS.
2. Adjutant of the Second Pennsylvania Battalion.
Journal of Ambrose Serle 1
[On board H. M. S. Eagle ]
Sunday, 18th. August.
This Morning, the Wind being strong at N E and the Weather hazy, the
Phoenix and the Rose, with two Tenders, came down the River, in Defiance
of all the Efforts of the Rebels from Batteries, Cheveaux de Frize, 8cc. Not
one of all their Shots struck the Phoenix, and but one or two the Rose, and
those did but little Damage. One man only was wounded by a Splinter in
the Leg. The Rebels kept up an incessant Fire from all their Guns, many
of the Shot from which we saw falling very short of their objects. The
Ships, on the other hand, returned a smart Fire, and came down, with Sails
set and Colours flying, till they joined the Fleet. A young Man came off
from the Shore in a Canoe, and got on board the Ships, by whom we find,
that the former Accounts of the Situation of the Rebels were true, and that
many among them wd. be glad to leave their Service. A Captain Hornneck,
an Engineer, who came off with him, was drowned by the Canoes striking
against the Rose. They tried to save the poor Gentleman, but in vain, as
they could not stay for him, being in the midst of the Rebels’ Fire. This
was regretted as a capital Loss. Capt. [James] Wallace explained the Rea-
son of the great Fire we saw two Nights ago. The Rebels had fitted up a
large Brig as a Fire-ship, which came very close to the Phoenix, but did no
Sort of Damage. It was well constructed for its purpose, which the activity
of our People defeated.
1. Tatum, ed., Serle’s Journal, 67-68.
Journal of Captain Henry Duncan, R.N.1
[On board H.M.S. Eagle off Staten Island]
18th [August] Sunday — This night and morning blowing and raining
very hard. At five o’clock in the morning or a little after, heard a heavy
cannonade up the North River; it continued to increase, and came nearer to
us. About seven o’clock all the batteries in and near the town and opposite
AUGUST 1776
229
shore were firing away very fast; at this time very thick, raining and
blowing. A little before eight the Phoenix, Rose, Trial schooner, and
Shuldham sloop, appeared in sight close to Bedloe’s Island. The two ships
fired away on both sides, and soon after anchored here at Staten
Island. The ships received no damage whatever, and not one shot struck
the Phoenix ; the Rose had two men slightly wounded.
1. Duncan’s Journals, XX, 121-22.
19 Aug.
Master's Log of H. M. Armed Vessel Canceaux 1
August 1776 [In the St. Lawrence River above Sorel]
Monday 19 at 4 AM weigh’d and run 4 Miles higher up and came to an
Anchor, Empd loading flatt Bottomd Boats with stores Sec for
St Johns. -Set out in above Boats, The Master, Boatsn and
Gunner, with most of the People. - 2
1. PRO, Admiralty 52/1638.
2. Bound to St. John’s to be assigned to vessels of the British fleet outfitting there for service on
Lake Champlain.
John Langdon to Josiah Bartlett 1
[Extract] Portsmo August 19th 1776
My Friends Your favours of the 5th instant I’ve reed and most heartily re-
joice with you at the Success of our Arms, in taking so many Prizes, they are
continually coming in here - Capt Brown in a small Sloop has just arriv’d
here from Holland, belonging to Colonel [Isaac] Sears of New York and
others, she is Loaden with Medicines Linnens Sec valuable Cargo. -
If the Committee had let me have the Guns for this Ship, when they
have been laying at Providence near two Months, and the Ships there not
ready to receive them we should no doubt have taken more Prizes, then
would have paid for our whole Fleet, however by some fatelity or false infor-
mation we have been kep’t from them -
Our people are Entring on board Privateers very fast, so that we shall
have few hands left for the Continent, all this for want of Guns for our
Ship, the people do not like to Enter, without Guns, as they want to be out
after Prize Money -
1. John Langdon Letter Book, Captain J. G. M. Stone Private Collection, Annapolis.
Richard Derby, Jr. to Jeremiah Powell ]
Sir Salem 19th Augt 1776
As my Health will not permit me to attend my Duty at the Board at
Present, I take the freedom to Inform You that the Brigg Massachusetts is
nearly fixed Sc has onbord 97 Men, 2/3 of which having Entered within this
4 Days.
Nothing seems now to be wanting but 4 or six Guns, Sc three Small
230
AMERICAN THEATRE
sails, 8c both Guns & sails I find to be totally out of my Power to Procure,
without the Aid of the Councill or [General] Court, - there is a Ship at Dan-
vers which I Suppose is owned in London, she has been Launched I be-
li[ev]e 18 months 8c has a Compleat Suit of Sails, the Value of the three
Sails I Want, in Common times would not be more than £15-, I have
offered the Capt of this ship twice that money for them, 8c tho’ there is not
the least Probability of his Getting away, he will not Part with them, I
have Endeavoured to Borrow them, 8c to oblige my Self to Replace them
when, he should want them, but all to no Purpose, I Do not Love to use
force, but, Circumstances Considerd, is it not Reasonable that the Board
should furnish me with an Order to take them? if they Do I could wish to
have it on the Morrow.
And if the Board will furnish me with an Order on the Commissary, or
which will be better Direct Collo [Thomas] Crafts to Dehver Capt [Daniel]
Souther four or six Suitable Guns from any Place from wherever they Can
be most Conveniently Spared, I Can soon have them. Collo Crafts Informs
me that there are two Ship Six pounders onboard the Rowe Gaily, I think
they Call it, and Certainly they are of no sort of use there, no[r] Do I think
they ever Can be while they Remain Onbord her, & therefore I hope the
Board will have no Objection, to those Guns being Orderd onbord the
Massachusetts . there are two others, Capt [Caleb] Hopkins informs me,
now on Long Wharfe which he Landed out of the George Guard ship, these
may, I think, be Spared & Collo Crafts has some others as the Guns now
wanted for this Vessell, are not Large Enough to be used to any Great Ad-
vantage in Batterys, I know of no Place where they Can at Present be so use-
fully Employed as onbord this Brigg, but if the Board are of a Different op-
pinion, the Vessell must Lay by. I have taken, Almost, Infinite Trouble to
Get as many as I have, and more ’tis not Posable for me to procure at any
Rate, - May I ask the favour of your Honor to urge this matter 8c Let me
know the Result of your Endeavours as soon as Possable? I am Sir [8cc.]
Richd Derby Junr
[Endorsed] In Council Chamber [Watertown] Augt 23d 1776
Ordered that the Honble Richard Derby Junr Esqr be and he hereby is
empowered and directed to take for the use of this State such sails belonging
to the Ship now lying at Danvers mentioned in his letter to this board of the
19th inst: as he may want for the Brig Massachusetts now lying at Salem he
causing the same to be first appraised by some disinterested suitable Persons,
under Oath and that he be desired to pay for the same sails according to
such appraised value -And further that he be directed to take for the use of
the said Brig Massachusetts Two Cannon Six pounders out of the Row Gal-
ley in Boston Harbour and also two other Cannon, four or six pounders be-
longing to this State which were lately landed in Boston from the Ship
George lately impressd as a Decoy Ship in the same Harbour -And the
Commissary General of this State is hereby ordered to deliver the said Can-
non to the said Richard Derby upon his Application therefor -
1. Mass. Arch., vol. 165, 146-47. Powell was president of the Massachusetts Council.
AUGUST 1776
231
Stores Ordered for the Massachusetts State Sloop Freedom 1
In Council [Watertown] Augt 19th 1776
Ordered, That the Commissary General be & he hereby is directed to
deliver Cap[t] Jno Clouston or Order out of the Colony Store for the Use
of the armed Sloop Freedom the following Articles - Vizt -
one Doctors Box
forty eight lb Powder to try his Cannon
Thirty Cartouch Boxes -
four hundred Flints -
Jn° Avery Dpy Secy
1. Mass. Arch., vol. 165, 112.
Boston Gazette , Monday, August 19, 1776
Watertown, August 19.
Yesterday se’nnight the Tyranny cide Privateer in the Service of this
State, commanded by Capt. Fisk sent into Salem a Prize Brig called the St.
John. Her Cargo consists of 120 Hogsheads of Molasses, 81 Casks of Rum,
52 Casks Coffee, 14 Hogsheads of Sugar, and 8 Casks of Cocoa.
The same day also arrived at Dartmouth, taken by the above Privateer,
the Prize Schooner Three Brothers , Capt. Smith from Dominica for Nova
Scotia. Her Cargo consists of 50 Hhds of Rum, 86 Casks of Molasses, 40
Barrels of Flour, 10 Barrels of Pork, and <£420, L M. in Cash.
Thursday last a fine Prize Ship, from St. Augustine for London, laden
with dry’d skins and Indigo, was sent into Salem by a Privateer commanded
by Capt. [John] Skimmer. 1
The same Day arrived at Newbury Port, a Prize schooner, laden with
rum, &c. We have not heard by whom she was taken. 2
Last Week the Warren Privateer of Dartmouth carried in there a ship
from the West-Indies for Newfoundland, laden with sugar and melasses; she
was commanded by Capt. Cockran [William Cochran] of this Town, and
owned by Thos. Boylstone of Boston.3
1. The prize was the brig Perkins ; not a ship. She was taken by Captains Skimmer and Tucker,
in Washington’s schooners Franklin and Hancock.
2. Probably the sloop Two Friends, rather than a schooner, taken by Wingate Newman in the
Pennsylvania privateer brig Hancock.
3. The ship Argo of 170 tons.
President of the Massachusetts Council to Aaron Hubbard 1
In Council Watertown Aug. 19. 1776
The Board are greatly concerned that the Cannon which they contracted
for with you several months ago, are not yet ready. - They have several
Vessels now manned & fitted for the sea, with every article except
cannon. By this, a very great expence is daily incurred by the Government,
and not the least advantage derived from it; nor can be, till the Vessels are
furnished with the cannon which are expected from you. The Board there-
232
AMERICAN THEATRE
fore most earnestly urge you to make all possible dispatch in this affair, and
to postpone every other business till this is finished.
In the name Sc by order of the Board
Jer. Powell Presidt-
1. Mass. Arch., vol. 165, 113.
Thomas Cushing to John Hancock 1
[Extract] Boston Augt. 19. 1776
. . . The Committee for Fortifying the Harbour of Boston are examin-
ing the Cannon in and About Boston to see if they Can possibly Spare me
sufficient for the Twenty four Gun Frigate,2 Agreable to the order of
Council. I am in great hopes shall be able to get the loan of a Sufficient
Number for that Ship untill they can be obtained from Philadelphia Let
me intreat you to hurry the Cannon along as fast as possible, let me have
the Commissions for the Captains Blank Warrants for the Warrant officers,
and particular Orders what Cruise the 24 Gun Frigate shall proceed
Upon . . .
You have not Informed me [whether] Congress has as yet appointed any
Agent to take Care Sc [supply the] Continental Ships with such things as they
from time [to time shall st]and in need of — This is a different department
from an Agen[t for prize]s - 3
1. Emmet Autograph Collection, NYPL.
2. The frigate Boston.
3. Cushing wrote in a similar vein this date to Robert Treat Paine. Robert Treat Paine Pa-
pers, MassHS.
Dr. David Cobb to Robert Treat Paine 1
My Dear Sir Boston Augt 19th 1776
My necessary absence, last Monday, at my Island Hospital, prevented
your having the weekly Journal as usual. - I shall now send you the whole.
Monday 5th
Tuesday. 6th iNo public occurrance of any kind in these day’s.
Wednesday 7th
Thursday 8. Receiv’d your letter of the 30th ulto
Fryday. 9th This afternoon arriv’d here a large prize Ship from Granada,
laiden with Rum Sugar Sc a 130000 lb of Cotton; she was taken by two Let-
ters of Mart from New York.2 - Likewise arriv’d this week, at Portsmouth a
large Ship (she formerly mounted 20 Guns) from Tortola having on board
790 hhds of Sugar, a large quantity of Cotton, Rum Sec. with 12-9 pounders,
Iron Sc 6-6 pounders, brass, most of ’em mounted, she never fir’d a Gun, sup-
posing that an American privateer was invincible - she was right - she was
taken by the Hancock privateer.— 3
Saturday. 10th Receiv’d sundry articles of Intelligence, pr post, together
with your Letter of the 3d instt. - nothing new here.
Sunday 11th Nothing remarkable.
Monday 1 2th Two Briggs were sent into Salem Sc Dartmouth by one of the
AUGUST 1776
233
Colony Arm’d Vessells, both belonging to people of this Colony Sc have been
traiding from the West India’s to N. Scotia. -
I hope they’ll be condem’d - Villains. 4
Tuesday. 13th Jamaica Cargoes have been selling off this week past; Sugar
is reduc’d to 32/. pr C Sc the best Jamaica Rum to 5/1 pr Gal - grand effects
of arm’d Vessells - Their is now more Sugar in the New England States,
than they can consume in three years.
Wednesday. 14th -This Day was celebrated here with the usual Ceremo-
nies, firing of Cannon Sec - in the afternoon arriv’d a Schooner from His-
paniola in 2 1 days - she brings no particular news. -
Thursday. 15th - Yesterday arriv’d at Newbury port a prize Ship from
Antigua, having 400 hhds Sugar Sc 100 hhds Rum, She was taken by the
Hancock privateer from Philadelphia. 5
Fryday 16th -A Brigg from St Augustine with Indigo, Furrs, Deerskins See.
was sent into Marblehead yesterday by two of the Continental Cruizers; she
has on board a Recruiting party of the 14th Rigemt that was going home
commanded by a Lieutt. - the Brigg came up to this port this afternoon.6 -
likewise arriv’d this week at Portsmouth a Schooner from Hispaniola with
dry Goods Sc West India produce. -
Saturday 17th - A Schooner arriv’d here to day from Martinico, with Molas-
ses &c. she sail’d some time since from Salem.
Sunday 18th -Last Fryday was carried into Bedford, Dartmo. a prize Ship
with 300 hhds Sugar Sc 300 hhds Molasses, she is said to be owned by Thos
Boylstone of this Town; but is now cover’d under the Name of Lane Sc Fra-
zier, London.- 7
Do send me what ever is new Sc curious- Your Family are well. - Your
Friend &c
David Cobb
1. Robert Treat Paine Papers, MassHS.
2. The ship Earl of Errol.
3. The ship Renown, taken by the Pennsylvania privateer Hancock.
4. These vessels were prizes of the Massachusetts state sloop Tyrannicide.
5. The ship Nancy.
6. The brig Perkins, taken by Washington’s schooners Hancock and Franklin.
7. The ship Isaac, taken by the Massachusetts privateer sloop Warren.
Letter of Agency from the Crew of Washington’s Schooner Lynch
to John Bradford 1
We the Subscribers Captain Officers Sc Seamen belonging to the arm’d
Schooner Lynch in the service of the United States of America, Do by these
presents appoint ordain Sc Constitute John Bradford Esqr of the Town of
Boston to be our Sc Each our Agent for all prizes allready in his care Sc such
as we shall hereafter Send Wherin we Sc Each of us are Intitled to a
share -Hereby Impowering him the said John Bradford Esqr to retain in
his hands for our use, Our Sc Each of our shares of prize money as aforesaid
or for Each of our Heirs Executors or Assignes - And in Consideration for
his trouble WE agree to allow, Sc Agree He shall receive Sc Deduct from the
234
AMERICAN THEATRE
neet proceeds of all such prize Money Two & one half pcent-In witness
Whereof WE have Hereunto sett our Hands Respectively - Boston August
the Nineteenth 1776 —
John Ayres Commander
his
Samuel Harris first Lieut
Will X Cook
do
Nehemiah Story 2d Lieut
Mark
John Stone Master
Will X Crouder
do paid
Caleb Stone Gunner
Robert Nutting
do
James Brown Boswen
Joshua X Hanson
do
Jas Woodard Carpenter
Robert Weston
do
Jonathan Harris Carps Mate
Peletiah Warren
do
John Dailey Boats. Mate
Robert Devereux
do
pd William Atkins Gun Mate
Samuel Gorretson
do
his
John Johnson
do
John X Pousland
his
mark
Will X Orchard
do
pd Samuel Nocks Seaman
mark
pd James Delap Do
Prince Gilbert
do
his
Ceaser Lee
Do
Peter X Melsett Do
Jeremiah Farnham
Mark
Eben Mountford
pd John Cumber Do
W Warren
Arthur Lloyd Do
Joseph Harris
William Patterson Do
James Delap
his
Stepn Hastings
John X Ayres Do
Elias Hastings
mark
John X Hammond
Andrew Woodbery Do
James Bayard Mate
Thomas Tracey Mate 8c Pilot
Er Freeman (Steward)
Jonathan Nickerson, pd. his name not in the within List
Robert Hislip pd him Ap 2nd [17771 his name not in the List 2
1. U. S. Navy, Miscellaneous Mss. (1775-1804), LC.
2. The last two names were added later by Bradford.
Brigadier General Benedict Arnold to Major General Horatio Gates1
Dear General Crown Point Augst. 19. 1776
I received yours of yesterday 8c have Ordered Commadore Wynkoop to
Head Quarters, no other person in the fleet has disputed my orders. - I be-
lieve the Commadore was really of opinion that neither of us had, authority
to command him, He now seems convinced to the Contrary, 8c sorry for his
disobedience of orders. - If it can be done with propriety, I wish He may be
permitted to return home without being Cashierd I am very respectfully
Dr General [8cc.]
B Arnold
1. Gates Papers, NYHS.
AUGUST 1776
235
Major General Horatio Gates to Brigadier General Benedict Arnold1
Dear Sir Tyonderoga 19th August 1776
Inclosed is an Exact Copy of the Orders & Letter I sent you yesterday
morning at Six O Clock, which I am surprized not to find complyed with by
the Arrival of Mr. Wynkoop at this Post. I desire that the matter may be
no longer delayed, 8c that he be sent, as I have already ordered, immediately
under Arrest to me at Tyonderoga. I am Sir
1. Gates Papers, NYHS.
Neiv-York Gazette , Monday, August 19, 1776
New York, August 19.
A Brig belonging to this Port, arrived last Sunday safe in a Harbour on
Long Island, with a valuable Cargo from Lisbon, chiefly consisting of Pow-
der and Salt. The Captain informs us, that a large French Fleet lay off
Cape St. Vincent’s, and that two British Frigates were cruizing about to
watch their Motions. Another brig, also belonging to this Port, in Com-
pany with him, was taken by one of the British Pirates, off Bermuda.
Every Tide we expect an Attack will be made on this City from the
piratical Fleet at Staten-Island.
Vice Admiral Richard Lord Howe to George Washington 1
Sir, Eagle off Staten Island, 19th August 1776.
Concurring with the proposition you have been pleased to make in
your favor of the seventeenth for an exchange of prisoners in my depart-
ment, viz. “Officers for those of equal rank, and sailors for sailors,’’ I will
take the liberty to propose an officer of the same rank with Lieut. [James]
Josiah, when he arrives.
The Cerberus being absent, I have no other information respecting the
situation of Mr. Josiah, than what is communicated in your letter. But the
matter, you may be assured, shall be inquired into, and every attention paid
to the rules of propriety, as well as the dictates of humanity, on all such oc-
casions.
Principles and conduct form the true distinction of rank among men;
yet, without a competent habit in the manners of the world, they are too lia-
ble to meet with unmerited disregard. But insult and indignities, to per-
sons of whatever rank, who are become parties in these unhappy disputes,
cannot be justified, and are, I persuade myself, as much disapproved of by
every officer under my command, as they can never cease to be by me. I
am, with great personal respect, Sir [&c.]
Howe.
1. Washington Papers, LC. This letter, and one from George Washington of August 17, 1776,
were printed in the Pennsylvania Evening Post , August 24, 1776.
236
AMERICAN THEATRE
Daniel & Samuel Hughes to Robert Treat Paine 1
Honble Sir Antietam Furnace. 19[th] August 1776
We shod be glad you wod furnish us (by the bearer) with an exact list
of the different sized Guns Sc the number of each, we are to Cast, in order
that we may make the earliest preparations - the length of each size will be
sufficient as to the dimensions, as we have got an approved list of the other
proportions - the length of our 18 Pounders is 8i/2 feet, and thefy] are much
esteem’d for land service. 24 Pounders are 9 feet, & 32 Pounders 9i/2 feet
according to our dimensions - We are with due respect [&c.]
Dan1 & Sam1 Hughes
1. Robert Treat Paine Papers, MassHS.
Journal of the Maryland Convention 1
[Annapolis] Monday August 19, 1776.
The Council of Safety laid before the Convention an inventory of sun-
dry articles taken out of a small sloop drifted ashore in this state from the
British fleet under the command of lord Dunmore, and now stored by order
of major [Thomas] Price, which was read.
Resolved, That a committee be appointed to take the subject matter
into consideration, and report in what manner articles and prizes of the like
nature are to be disposed of; and Mr. [William] Paca, Mr Gustavus Scott,
and Mr. [Robert] Hooe, were elected by ballot a committee for that pur-
pose.
1. Proceedings of the Convention of the Province of Maryland held at the City of Annapolis, on
Wednesday the 14th of August 1776 (Annapolis, 1776), 9. Hereafter cited as Maryland
Convention.
Journal of the Virginia Navy Board 1
[Williamsburg] Monday 19th August 1776. —
Ordered that the keeper of the Public Store deliver unto Capt John Calvert
for the use of the Norfolk Revenge Galley One thousand twenty penny
nails -
Ordered that the keeper of the Public Magazine deliver unto Capt John Cal-
vert for the use of the Norfolk Revenge Galley three Quire of Cartridge Pa-
per.
Ordered that a Warrant Issue to Lieut Richard Hogg for Forty seven
pounds for Disbursements and pay of his Company of Marines from the sev-
enteenth day of April last to the seventeenth Inst as pr Acct this day
settled. -
Daniel Roles Hall is recommended to his Excellency the Governour and the
honble the Council as a proper person to be appointed first Lieutenant of
the Schooner Speedwell Capt. [Robert] Cooke. -
Ordered that a Warrant Issue to Colo Henry King for Eleven pounds eight-
een shillings and six pence for Rum furnished Capt [Edward] Travis for use
of the Manley Galley. -Also for seventeen pounds four shillings and three
George Washington
238
AMERICAN THEATRE
pence for Rum furnished Capt John Calvert for the use of the Norfolk Re-
venge Galley, and also for seventeen pounds ten shillings for Swivels for the
use of the Navy. -
Capt John Calvert inform’d the Board that there was due unto Benjamin
Randel a Sailor that belonged to the Norfolk Revenge Galley who was lately
Drowned the Sum of three pounds eighteen shillings and eight pence for his
Wages on Board the said Galley from the fourth of May last to the eighth of
July following. It is therefore Ordered that the said Calvert pay the said
Sum of Money unto the Legal representative of the said Randel.
1. Navy Board Journal, 40-41, VSL.
Journal of the Virginia Council of Safety 1
[Williamsburg] Monday August the 19th 1776.
Captain George Muter of the Hero Galley, and Lieutenant Philip
Chamberlayne appeared in Council, took the Oath prescribed by Ordinance,
and subscribed the articles of war, whereupon Commissions were issued 8c
delivered the said Officers.
It being represented to this Board that it will be greatly beneficial to
the Trade of this Country, and of others of the United States to have the
harbours of Gingoteague [.sffi] and Cherristones on the Eastern Shore of this
Commonwealth fortified and that there are some Cannon there for the Pur-
pose, Ordered therefore that Colonel [Thomas] Fleming be desired to fortify
the said two Harbours, with all possible expedition, a Letter was accordingly
written Colo Fleming a Copy filed 8c ord. to be recorded.
Ordered that Lieutenant Benjamin Pollard of the Marines, with his
Quota of Captain Company, repair on board the Hero Galley to per-
form duty and a Commission was delivered him dated this day to continue
inforce during the present Cruize, or until the General review of the Com-
pany and no longer.
A Warrant [issued] in behalf of this Board [Navy] to William Mariner
for Eleven pounds ten Shillings for three months Wages as a Skipper of a
Vessel pressed to convey the 9th Battalion to the Eastern Shore, and taken
on his return by Lord Dunmore and detained a prisoner the above time.
1. Mcllwaine, eels., Journals of the Virginia Council , I, 118, 119, 120, 121.
Virginia Navy Board to Captain Eleazer Callender 1
Sir Williamsburg August 19th 1776-
Yours of the 1 1th Instant we receiv’d, you must make up y[our] Comple-
ment of Men as soon as possible 2 taking on Board the Guns that [are] ready
and proceed down the River 3 as far as Hobbs hole letting us know when
there that we may give you the proper instructions; apply to Col. [Fielding]
Lewis and he will let you have the Articles of War and other Papers relating
to your Men, the Guns we shall endeavour to procure as soon as
possible. I am by or[der] of the Board of Commissioners [8cc.]
G. Webb 1 Comr. P.T.
AUGUST 1776
239
NB. We mean that you shou’d wait and take those Guns Comg from
Philadelphia.
To Capt Eleazer Calender of the Sloop Defiance
1. Navy Board Letter Book, VSL.
2. Ibid., this date the Board also urged Captain Robert Conway of the galley Protector to ready
his command “to proceed on a Cruise.”
3. Rappahannock River.
Virginia Navy Board to Captain William Saunders 1
Sir Williamsburg August 19th 1776 —
We receiv’d yours P Mr [William] Richardson whom we detain’d untill
the Council met. for their concurrence. You must proceed on a cruise to
the Capes annoying the Enemy as much as lies in your power: being at the
same time careful of your own Vessel and when She is foul come to
York. When you arrive there make a full return to this Board of the size of
your Vessel, number and size of your Guns, quantity of Ammunition, state
of your Rigging, Sails and other Materials. By order of the Board I am
[&c.]
Thomas Whiting 1st Commr
To Capt William Saunders on board
the Schooner Adventure Hobbs Hole
1. Navy Board Letter Book, VSL.
Virginia Navy Board to Captain Christopher Calvert 1
Sir, Williamsburg August 19th 1776
Yours P Mr Nathaniel Boush we have receiv’d and by him have sent
you three hundred & fifty pounds, which we presume will suffice for the
present, if you are in want of Iron of any kind you are to send to Mr
Nicholas Tauleon at Cobham; with whom we have lodg’d a considerable
quantity for the supply of the Navy. I am by order of the Board [8cc.]
Thos Whiting [1st Commr]
1. Navy Board Letter Book, VSL. Calvert was building the Washington galley at South Quay.
“Extract of a letter from Newbern, August 19.’’ 1
A few days ago we received an account in town, that very lately, on the
banks, not far from Roanoke inlet, about 25 men were landed from some
vessel of war, for the purpose (it is supposed) of making free with a few of
the cattle. Captain Dennis Dauge, who commands an independent com-
pany between Currituck and Roanoke, attacked them, killed some, and
took the rest prisoners.
1. Dixon 8c Hunter’s Virginia Gazette , September 7, 1776.
Journal of H. M. S. Seaford , Captain John Colpoys 1
August 1776 Off Martinico
Sunday 18th At 6 A M Spoke an English Sloop from St Luica
240
AMERICAN THEATRE
1st Pt fresh Breezs 8c Hazey, Middle 8c Latter Pts Do
Breezs 8c rain, at 2[P]M Saw a Sail to the Wt ward. Gave
Chace At 9 Do bro’t too under Martinico at 12 Do
bro’t too a Schooner. Sent the Lieut on board bro’t on
board the Master & Exchanged the People.
Monday 19th at 10 AM Made the Signal for the schooner to bear down
to us. LJpon which the french fort fired Several Shott at us
Fresh breezs 8c Cloudy Wr At 8 P M Rosoa Dominica
EbN 5 or 6 Miles.
1 . PRO, Admiralty 51/ 880.
20 Aug.
Deposition of Peter Ramsay 1
Deposition of Peter Ramsey Mariner, Late Master of the Brigantine
Elizabeth Testiheth and Saith on or about the 21st of March A D 1776 in
Boston in the Colony of the Massachusetts Bay your Deponent then and
there received verbal orders from Admiral Shuldham to go On Board said
Brigantine Elizabeth and take the Charge of her and Navigate her to Hali-
fax, and on Friday the 29th of said March Between the Hours of three 8c
four oClock P M I came to Sail with said Brigantine under Convoy of His
Majestys Ship Niger , and Sabbath Evening about six or seven oClock I
parted from said Convoy, and proceeded on my Voyage to Halifax, and
about Four or Five oClock P M on the next Tuesday following Commodore
John Manly in the Continental Arm’d Schooner Hancock, Came up, and
Gave me a Broadside, and I Returned the Fire with Small Arms, Capt Danl
Waters in the Continental Arm’d Schooner and Capt John Ayres in the
Continental Arm’d Schooner 2 Came up when I struck to the Commodore,
and your Deponent then saw no other vessel besides the before mentioned,
and your Deponent in said Brigantine was Brot by the Commodore and
Capt Waters into the River of Piscataqua, and further saith not -
Portsmo August 20th 1776
Peter Ramsay 3
1. Revolutionary War Prize Cases, Court of Appeals, 1776 -1787, NA.
2. Waters commanded the Lee, and Ayres, the Lynch.
3. On August 23, at the request of Continental agent Joshua Wentworth, who intended to ap-
peal the verdict of the New Hampshire Maritime Court, Ramsay swore to the truth of
the deposition of August 20, ibid.
Master’s Log of H. M. S. Milford 1
August 1776 Cape Cod So20Wt 8 Leags
Monday 19 saw 2 Sail to the Wtward Sounded 1 10 fathoms soft Mud
Light Airs inclinable to Calm, latter Fresh Breezs 8c Cloudy,
gave Chace got the Oars out, at 5 Hoisted out the Pinnace
and Cutter Mann’d and Arm’d and sent them after the
Chace, Shorten’d sail and carried a Light to the Bowsprit
AUGUST 1776
241
and as a Signal to the Chace, at 8 the Pinnace boarded the
Grace prov’d to be a Fishing Schooner belonging to
Boston at 12 hoisted the Pinnace in,
Tuesday 20 at 6 Brot too Maintopsl to the Mast and got the Prize along-
side and got every thing out of her and scuttled her, at
Noon made sail and stood to the Wtward.
Fresh Breezs Sc Cloudy latter little Wind at 3 saw three
Sail to the Wtwd gave Chace at 6 Shorten’d sail and left
of[f] Chace in 2d Reef T. Sails
1. PRO, Admiralty 52/1865.
Advertisement of Sale of Prize Brigantine Harlequin and Cargo 1
Notice is hereby given that on Wednesday the 28th of August inst, at Ten
o’Clock in the Forenoon, at Messieurs Clarke and Nightingale’s Wharff, in
Providence, will be sold at public Vendue, to the highest Bidder, the Brigan-
tine called the Harlequin , 2 Burthen about 130 Tons, with her Appurte-
nances; also her Cargo, consisting of 219 Hogsheads, 137 Tierces and 20 Bar-
rels of excellent brown Sugar, 62 Hogsheads of West-Indies Rum, and 2
Boxes of curious Shell-Work: Pursuant to a Decree of a Court erected in the
State of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations, for maritime Affairs, by
the Hon. John Foster, Esq; Judge of said Court.
Paul Tew, Sheriff
N.B. At the same Time and Place will be sold two Four Pound Cannon.
Providence, August 20, 1776
1. Providence Gazette, August 24, 1776.
2. Taken by Daniel Bucklin in the Rhode Island privateer Montgomery, and Joseph White in
the Massachusetts privateer Revenge.
Journal of the Connecticut Council of Safety 1
Voted, That Henry Billings of Norwich be and he is appointed Third
Lieutenant of the armed brig Defence belonging to this State and First
Prize-Master for the cruise on which said brig is now ordered. His wages to
cease on condemnation of the first prize, or at the end of said cruise.
[Lebanon] Aug. 20th, 1776.
1. Hoadly, ed., Connecticut Records, XV, 505.
Major General William Heath to George Washington 1
Kingsbridge Augst 20th 1776
May it Please your Excellency -
I have the Pleasure to Inform you, that we have taken out of the wreck
of the Tender lately burnt up the north River, The following Cannon Vizt
one Six Pounder, Two Three Do one Two Do and Ten Swivels, One
Caboose and apron, Two Cutlasses, Two Gun Barrels, One Crow bar and
4 Grappins [Grapplings] and Chains, Lieut Landon of Colo Nicolls Regi-
ment with Two of the Company to which he belongs went off and Towed
242
AMERICAN THEATRE
the wreck on Shore Under the Fire of the Cannon of the Ships, a Cannon
Ball Passing within a few Inches of his Head, — He is an Undaunted officer,
and with great Fatigue Has Taken these Cannon out of the water, I there-
fore beg leave to recommend this Service in Particular to your Excellency
notice and if you should think Some Reward Proper to be Given, it will be
gratefully received by the adventurers, and Perhaps Prompt others to dar-
ing Actions - I have the Honor to be [&c.]
W Heath
1. Washington Papers, LC.
Journal of Ambrose Serle 1
[On board H. M. S. Eagle']
Tuesday, 20th. [August]
Lord H[owe]. sent up a Flag of Truce this Morning, relative to an Ex-
change of Prisoners, which Washington had desired, Sc to wch his Lordship
agreed. I mentioned to Lord H[owe]. the Case of Mr. Henry Stanhope, Son
of my Friend Edwin Francis Stanhope Esq. and late acting Lieutenant in the
Glasgow, but his Lordship could do nothing in the matter, as Mr. Henry
Stanhope had unfortunately broke his Parole. A Letter, which his Father
caused to be sent to me from Mr. David Barclay addressed to John Dickin-
son Esq. of Philadelphia, soliciting his Release, I obtained Leave to send by
the Flag of Truce; and I hope it will have a favorable Issue.
1. Tatum, ed., Serle’s Journal, 70.
Master’s Log of H. M. S. Roebuck 1
August 1776 Staten Isld NNE 2 miles
Tuesday 20th A. M. Receiv’d Danl Macartney a Deserter from the Or-
pheus & lent Jones Pilot for the Delaware to her when she
proceed’d to Sea Open’d a Cask of Beef N67 Conts 200
Short 5 Pieces
1. PRO, Admiralty 52/1965.
Journal of the Continental Congress 1
[Philadelphia] Tuesday, August 20, 1776
Information being given to Congress that the Crews of some of the
American vessels have risen against their captains, and piratically seized the
vessels, and that one of them being carried into England, the pirates have
been publickly countenanced, and the vessel and cargo taken by administra-
tion, and sent to victual their fleet and army in America:
Resolved, That a committee of three be appointed to enquire into the
circumstances of the captures, and report thereon:
The members chosen, Mr. [Benjamin] Franklin, Mr. [Robert] Morris,
and Mr. [ I homas] Jefferson.
1. Ford, ed., JCC, 672, 692.
AUGUST 1776
243
Secret Committee of the Continental Congress to Count
D’Ennery, Governor of Santo Domingo 1
[Copy] Philadelphia August 20th 1776
Sir, It is impossible that at this date you can be a stranger to the important
contest subsisting Between Great Britain and her (late) colonies, Neither
can it be necessary for us to enter into any detail of the Origin, or history of
the progress of the dispute, sufficient it is for our present purpose to inform
your Excellency, that the good people of America grown quite impatient un-
der the yoke of tyranny, and sore with the cruelty’s Daily practised against
them, have at length determined to shake of[f] the yoke and oppose at the
revoque of every thing that is sacred and dear to mankind the future oppera-
tions of that government w[h]ich had determined to seize with a strong hand
their property, and in violation of all natural, moral 8c Civil obligations to
annihilate their liberty
These being the avowed purposes of the court of great Britain, pursued
with the utmost violence, notwithstanding the many and frequent represen-
tations, and supplications of this people, their delegates in General Congress
did resolve in July last to shake of [f] their dependence on such oppressors
and to set up for free and independant States, as you will see by the printed
declaration wich we have the honor to inclose
we depend principaly on the Virtue and Strength of our people to sup-
port this state of independancy, wich was loudly called for by them and re-
ceived with universal marks of joy and approbation, but that we might not
be wanting in any part of that duty we owe to ourselves, and posterity, we
have sent a person to the Court of fiance to represent our present situation,
and to sollicit a favourable disposition toward [us] as we are well assure[d] of
the mutual and important advantages that will arise to both Country’s from
an alliance founded on just principles and supported by commercial inter-
course.
The Court of france Cannot be insensible to her Own interest, and we
have (uncertain) information that our resident is arrived and has meet a
most favourable reception, but from himself we have not yet received any
advice
we have also sent a young Gentleman to reside for some time at Martin-
ico for commercial purposes, he has been favourably received, and informs
us by authority of the general, that our Commerce will meet with Encour-
agement and protection in that island
as we Know well that the island of hispagnolia has Constant occasion
for the produce of these states, and Vice Versa, these states will require large
supplies of the produce of that island, we have been led by the consideration
of mutual benefits to intrude upon your Excellency[’s] time and to solicit
your protection, and Encouragement of the Commerce Carried on between
our inhabitants and yours, we do not Mean by this to Express a Wish that
your Excellency should depart from the line of your duty, or that our people
should interfere with the municipal laws and regulations of your Country:
244
AMERICAN THEATRE
but we are well assured that the favorable Countenance of a Governor will
greatly Encourage an infant commerce, and will paliate and Excuse such er-
rors, neglects or crimes against the rules or laws as arise from ignorance of
them
the great painstaking and the vigilance used by our Enemies to deprive
us of the necessary supplies of arms and ammunition, has made it necessary
for the Congress to institute a trading Committee, stiled the Secret Commit-
tee with full powers to pursue such commerce as may be most likely to pro-
cure the articles wanted for the public Service, we the undersigned are
members of that committee and members of the general Congress as will ap-
pear by the Certificate from our president 8c Secretary, in consequence of
the power we are Vested With, and of advice we have lately received of arms
and ammunitions being now very plenty in your island, we have sent a
young italian Gentleman that had resided here a Considerable time and is
warmly attached to our Cause, to Cape francois, where We propose he
sfhjould remain for the purpose of receiving the Cargoes we send him, and
shipping in return the articles we may order, his name is Mr Stephen Cer-
onio a Gent’n of good family at Genoa, and of exceeding good character and
we beg to recommend him to your Excellencyf’s] Patronage, and protection
during his Stay on the island, not doubting but his Own Merit will recom-
mend himself to your frendship and Civilities, Should he at any time have
opportunitys of purchassing Such goods as we Want, and not have sufficient
effects in hand we beg your Excellency would in such Cases assure the Own-
ers of them, that we shall Constantly remit him sufficient to discharge all
Contracts he makes for our Account
We hope a fovourable acceptance of this application and have the
honor to be your Excellency [8cc.]
Robt Morris Josiah Bartlett
Joseph hews Phil Livinstong [Livingston]
fras lewis
[Endorsed] Pour copie conforme a l’original
Thiery
1. AN, Marine B?, 458, LC Photocopy.
Robert Morris, for the Secret Committee of the Continental
Congress, to Thomas Mumford, Groton 1
In Secret Committee
Philada August 20th 1776
Be pleased to deliver unto Colonel William Whipple Four Tons of
Gun powder (Cannon powder if you have it) for the Use of the Continental
Frigate Raleigh built in New Hampshire - if he should apply for the same.
By order of the Commee We are sir [8cc.]
Rob1 Morris chairman
1. John Langdon Papers, HSP.
AUGUST 1776
245
Journal of the Virginia Navy Board 1
[Williamsburg] Tuesday 20th August 1776.
Ordered that the keeper of the Public Store deliver unto Capt George Mu-
ter for the use of the Hero Galley twenty nine Yards Checks, two pieces of
Oznabrigs, forty pair of Shoes two pounds of Course thread three ps of Can-
vas and five Pounds of sewing Twine. -
Ordered that Colo William Finnie deliver unto Capt George Muter twenty
Flannell Jacketts one Barrl of Peas, and one Barrell of Oatmeal for the use
of the Hero Galley. -
Ordered that a Warrant Issue to John Gillam for six pounds five shillings
for ten day’s Boat hire for the use of the Hero Galley. —
Ordered that a Warrant Issue to John Clarkson for the use of Cornelius De-
forrest for Forty five Pounds, fifteen shillings and two pence for Bread fur-
nished Capt Thomas Lilly for the use of the Brig Liberty. -
Ordered that a Warrant Issue to John Hatley Norton for forty three pounds
seventeen shillings & six pence for Rum furnished Capt William Mitchell
for the use of his Company of Marines. -
Ordered that a Warrant Issue to John Hatley Norton for One hundred and
twenty pounds nine shillings and nine pence for Rum and Whiskey fur-
nished Capt [Thomas] Lilly for the use of the Brig Liberty. - Also for Nine-
teen pounds eleven shillings and six pence for Whiskey furnished Capt
[John] Calvert for the use of the Norfolk Revenge Galley.
Ordered that the keeper of the Public Store deliver unto Doctor Pell four
pounds of Bark for the use of the Norfolk Revenge Galley.
1. Navy Board Journal, 41-43, VSL.
Journal of the Virginia Council of Safety 1
[Williamsburg] Tuesday, August the 20th 1776.
Mr William Armistead having signified to this Board in writing his res-
ignation of the appointment as one of the Judges of the Court of Admiralty,
Resolved that Bernard Moore Esquire be appointed a Judge of the said
Court in the room of Mr Armistead. Mr Moore appeared, and qualified ac-
cordingly, by taking the Oath of Office.
A Permit was issued for the Schooner Patsey Captain James Gorton, of
the Burthen of thirty Tons having on Board eight hogsheads of Tobacco,
seventy five Barrels of Flour, and twenty thousand Shingles to trade at the
Island of Hispaniola or other port allowed of by Congress, the master having
entered into Bond with approved Security, according to Law, which is or-
dered to be recorded.
On the recommendation of the Naval Board Resolved that Mr Daniel
Rotes Hall be appointed first Lieutenant of the Schooner Spe echo ell, com-
manded by Captain Cooke, and a Commission was issued accordingly dated
this day.
1. Mcllwaine, ed., Journals of the Virginia Council, I, 122, 124, 125.
246
AMERICAN THEATRE
Virginia Navy Board to Thoroughgood Smith 1
Sir Williamsburg August 20th 1776 —
Yours of 14th Inst, we have receiv’d and have referr’d to your Contract
[wi]th the Committee of Safety, where we find you are particularly entered
as [hajving contracted to furnish the Marine department on the Eastern
Shore with Provisions at seven pence half penny P Ration and as pay Master
to the Seamen and Marines in the same department for which you are also
to receive after the rate of <£25. P Annum P this Contract we con-
sider ourselves as having no Power to alter (untill the Vessels proceed on
a cruize) and from time to time shall readily furnish you with such sums of
Money as [may] be necessary for carrying it into execution, we have by Ma-
jor [James] Innis sent you two hundred Pounds which we hope may suffice
for the present, and in future when you find it necessary to apply to us for
Money, be pleas’d to mention the Sum and the service its for. We have also
sent you by the same hands Three hundred pounds which we desire you’ll
take the first opportunity to lay out to the best advantage in the purchase of
Salt for the use of the Navy it being an Article that will probably be pro-
cured much cheaper on your Shore than on this. For this trouble we shall
think you intitled to some reasonable advance. I am By order of the Board
[8cc.]
Thos Whiting 1st Comr
To Mr Thoroughgood Smith [
on the Eastern Shore
1. Navy Board Letter Book, VSL.
Virginia Navy Board to Captain George Muter, Virginia Galley Hero 1
Sir Williamsburg August 20th 1776 —
You are to proceed to Portsmouth and fitt your Vessel in a proper Man-
ner for cruising, when ready go to the Capes and cruize there abouts using
your best endeavours to annoy the Enemy and to protect any friendly Vessel
coming in conveying them to some place of safety within the Capes observ-
ing to keep your Vessel clean and in good order informing us of any oc-
currence that may happen worth communicating.
By order of the Naval Board
Thomas Whiting 1st Commr
1. Navy Board Letter Book, VSL.
21 Aug.
Verdict and Decree in the Case of the Prize Brigantine
Elizabeth 1
Colony of New 1 At a Court Maritime held before the Honble Joshua
Hampshire Brackett Esqr at Portsmouth in the County of Rocking-
Rockingham ss ham for the Colony of New Hampshire on the twenty
first Day of August Anno Domini 1776 -
AUGUST 1776
247
The Information and Libel of Joshua Wentworth of Portsmouth in the
County of Rockingham in the Colony aforesaid Esqr for and in behalf of the
united American Colonies and also in behalf of the Officers Marines and
Mariners of the three continental armed Vessels named Hancock, Lee and
Lynch against the Brigantine named the Elizabeth her Cargo and Appurte-
nances being of the Burthen of about one hundred and forty tons com-
manded by Peter Ramsey - the Libellant in behalf of said Colonies and of
the Officers Marines and Mariners of said three armed Vessels Sheweth that
John Manly Commander of the said continental armed Vessel named Han-
cock, Daniel Waters Commander of the said Continental armed Vessel
named Lee 8c John Ayres Commander of the said Continental armed Vessel
named Lynch with the Officers Marines and Mariners of said three armed
Vessels did on or about the third Day of April A.D. 1776 (said three armed
Vessels being then in the Service of the united Colonies) seize 8c retake,
upon the high Seas and bring into the port of Piscataqua in said County the
said Brigantine of about one hundred and forty tons Burthen then com-
manded by Peter Ramsey -which Brigantine at the time of the Recapture
thereof, was in the Possession of the Enemy 8c had been taken from Richard
Hart of said Portsmouth Mercht late Owner thereof by some armed Vessel
belonging to the fleet employed against the united Colonies and detained in
their possession more than ninety six hours then next preceeding the time of
her being retaken as aforesaid, Which same Brigantine at the time of the
recapture thereof had on board a Cargo consisting of divers Good Wares 8c
Merchandizes together with four Negroes - which Cargo She was then carry-
ing to the fleet and Army employd against the united Colonies - By means
whereof by the Law of said Colony in such case made and provided the said
Brigantine her Cargo and Appurtenances ought to be condemned - Where-
for the Libellant in manner aforesaid prays Process against the Premises
and that the same may be condemned and disposed of as the Law directs -
William Jackson Wm and Jas Jackson, Samuel Austin, John Leverett, Rob-
ert Ruggles Samuel Dashwood, Cyrus Baldwin, Edward Keighly, Thomas
Drowne, Samuel Whitwell, Adam Rupp, Richard Newton, Samuel Park-
man, John Barrett and sons, Jona Williams, John Rowe, William Breck,
Abigail Berry, William Burke, Francis Shaw -Sami Ruggles, John Lowell
Warden of old North, Benja Austin Mary Williams Nathan Frazier, Sam-
uel Patridge James Jackson 8c Richard Hart also at the same time, put in
their several Claims to said Brigt and part of her Cargo (as on hie [)].
Whereupon after a full hearing of the parties by their Counsel learned in
the Law, together with their respective evidences, the case was committed to
a Jury duly sworn to try the same according to Law and Evidence — who re-
turn their verdict and say — “That the said Brigantine at the time of her
being so taken had not before been made a Lawful prize of by the enemy,
neither was she at that time carrying her cargo to and for the use of the fleet
and Army employed against the united Colonies, 8c that the several claim-
ants that have filed their claims in this Court for part of her Cargo, ought
to have the same restored to them and that Capt Burk properly belonged to
248
AMERICAN THEATRE
the fleet at the time of her being taken and that the Jury had no evidence
respecting the Goods that were not claimed.”
All which, being seen and understood by the Court it is considered and
decreed by the Court that the said Brigt and so much of her Cargo, claimed
by the several claimants as is mentioned in their claims on file be restored to
them according to their respective claims, and that the claimants recover
their legal Costs of Court from which decree and sentence of the Court the
said Joshua Wentworth Esqr in behalf of the united Colonies and Captors
pray’d an appeal to the American Congress - which is granted Him — he giv-
ing security to prosecute the same with Effect according to Law. 2
Joshua Brackett Judge
1. Revolutionary War Prize Cases, Court of Appeals, 1776-1787, NA.
2. See Wentworth to Charles Thompson, Secretary of the Continental Congress, August 31, 1776.
Bill of Costs for the Trial of Prize Brigantine Elizabeth 1
Colony of
N: Hampshire
Rockingham ss
at a Court Maritime held at Portsmo[uth]
the 21st day of August 1776 -
Joshua Wentworth Esqr Agent for the Continent 8c Captors against the
Brigantine Elizabeth her Cargo Sec
Libel 8c Advocates fee
£ .12. .0
Allowing Libel Judge 4/ Register 2/
. . 6 . .0
Town Clerk
. .7. .3
Constable warning Meeting Jurors ring[in]g
.12. .0
Bell 2 Days Sec
Writing Advertizt
. .4. .0
Printing ditto in freemans Journal
.10 -
Cryer 1/ Marshal 3/ Venires 3/
. .7 -
Register for 3 Adjourmts
. .3 -
Register for filing 30 Claims a 2/
3. .0 -
Judge for Allowing ditto a 3/
4.10 -
Sumon[in]g 3 Witnesses
. .6 -
12 Witnesses 2 Days attendance
1.16 -
Jurys fee
.16. .9
Decree 10/ Register 6/
.16 -
filing Papers Se Taxing Costs
. .2. .0
Appeal to Judge 8/ Clerk 4/
.12. .0
Alowd
£ 15. .0. .
Joshua Brackett Judge
1. Revolutionary War Prize Cases, Court of Appeals, 1776-1787, NA.
Journal of the Massachusetts Council 1
[Watertown] Wednesday Augst 21st 1776
Petition of Henry Bass in behalf of Himself Capt John Bradford, Thomas 8c
Jonathan Harris, Nathl Waterman 8c Others, living in Boston, Owners of the
AUGUST 1776
249
Privateer Schooner Call’d the Boston, of Fifty Tons burthen, Mounting four
double Fortified three Pounders, four Two pounders and twelve Swivels,
Three Hundred Se Fifty pounds of Powder, Se Fifty Men, Victualed with
Twenty five Barrels Pork & Beef, Bread Rice Sec Sec —
That your Honors would be pleased to grant Commissions for said schoonr
Se Capt Silas Atkins Junr as Commander, John Atwood Esqr as [sic of] East-
ham first Lieutent Se Reuben Higgens, as Second Lieutt to Cruize against
the Enemies of the States of America your Petitioner in Duty bound Shall
ever pray -
Henry Bass
Read Se Ordered that the above Named Silas Atkins be Comissionated as
Commander of Said Schooner Boston, he Complying with the Orders of
Congress - 2
Petition of Hugh Munro, George Campbell 8cc Sec in behalf of Themselves
and Wives &c Humbly Sheweth —
That your Petitioners left the Granada on the Ninth day of July last in
the Earl of Errol in Order to proceed to London, to which Port they were
bound, that in the Lattde of 33i/£> on the Twenty fourth of said Month they
were taken by Two Ships belonging to Gentlemen in New York and
brought into the Harbour of Boston - That Notwithstanding the Indul-
gence and good Usage they have received since their Capture and the great
Lenity shewn to them on their arrival here, They Beg leave to request of the
Honble Council to take into Consideration, that being Passengers only on
their way Home, some for Health, and Others going to their Families they
cannot but Labour under many Inconveniences - unavoidably to the Situa-
tion they are in -
That sensible how ready the Gentlemen of the Council of this State have
Allways been, to Alleviate as much as Possible Distress of this kin[d] They
hope that the same Favour that has been so Obligingly Granted to Others,
will not be withheld from them -
They therefore take the Liberty to Inform the Honble Council that in Con-
sequence of the permission given to Mr Ross (a Gentleman in Similar Cir-
cumstanses with themselves) He has now purchased a Ship to proceed to Eu-
rope on the Terms allowed him, that this would be an Opportunity to your
Petitioners of the Utmost Importance to them, as it is hard to Say when an-
other of the Kind might happen, Shou’d they be so unfortunate as to be re-
fused this —
On that account they presume, to Solicit your leave to be Included on
this Occasion, Which if Granted, will do as much Honor, to your Humanity
as it will be doing favour to them -
And Your Petitioners as in Duty bound will ever pray Sec —
Read Se Ordered, That Thomas Cushing Sc Moses Gill Esqrs be a Comittee
to enquire into the Facts of said Petition Se Report — Who reported Accord-
ingly as follows, That the said Hugh Monro, Se his Servant a black Woman Se
a Boy, George Campbell and a Boy - John Bartlett Se a White Boy and Girl,
Se John Grant and White Servant be and they hereby are permitted to de-
250
AMERICAN THEATRE
part from this State to any part of Great Britain in the Same Vessel with
William Ross who was permitted to depart from this State the seventh Instt
Ordered that Mr William Ross Sc Nathaniel Morgan who were permitted by
an Order of this Board Seventh Instt to depart from this State, to any part of
Great Britain, any time after the first of September next, be not permitted
to depart untill the further Order of this Board, the foregoing Order Not-
withstanding, Sc that the Secretary be and hereby is directed to serve them
with a Copy of this Order also the Committee of Correspondence, Inspec-
tion & Safety of the Town of Boston
This Board having been Informed that an Expedition is Intended Against
Newfound Land Sc that a few Privateers are fitting out for that purpose to
Annoy Our Enemies on that Coast and Judging it May prove Abortive Un-
less a larger Force, then are Intended, be sent —
Thereupon Ordered, That James Bowdoin, Thomas Cushing, Moses Gill Sc
Benja Austin Esqrs be a Comitee to confer with those who are fitting out
Armed Vessels for the purpose aforesaid, and Inform them that imediate Or-
ders will be given to all the Commanders of Armed Vessels belonging to this
State to Join them in this Expedition, and that they tarry till such a Force
can be Collected together, as thereby may more effectually answer the Pur-
pose of Harrassing Our Enemies and Destroying their Fishery —
1. Mass. Arch., vol. 19, 180, 183.
2. Ibid., also on this date Wyatt Barlow was commissioned to command the privateer sloop War-
ren owned by Lemuel Williams and Leonard Jarvis of Dartmouth.
Journal of the Massachusetts Sloop Tyrannicide, Captain John Fisk 1
2 [A. M.]
7
11
12
1 [P. M.]
10
Remarks on Wedensday 21st of August 1776
This day our people Complaind that they Could not live on
the Allowance I Give them as the rice and molases is gone I
Orderd the Steward to give 1/4 th more beaf or pofrk]
Saw a sail barring south gave Chaise
Come up with the Chaise very little she is a great distance
off we take her to be a small vesel a Cruzer by her sailing
Cloudy weather
Lattd in 34d 14m Longd in 60d 56m
The Chaise a great way ahead we take her to be a schooner
we come up with her a very little at 2 P M gave over Chaise
it Carried us so far to the southward
Calm
1. John Fisk journal, AAS.
Journal of the Rhode Island Sloop Independence,
Captain Jabez Whipple 1
Remarks On Wensday August 21, 1776
Saw a Brigg to Winderd Runing Down Sat Closte on Board
Before Desecoverd Brought hir Tew Came undere Our
AUGUST 1776
251
Starne halve From Antego Bound to London Took hir in
Persheshon Capt John Lightbourn Came on Bord Brought
hire Papers Brigg Name Fanny
Good observation
Lattd Ob 33.48 Londgin60.1
The First Part Pleasant Large Sea
at 6 putt Capt Edwmon on Bord the Prise Brigg as prise
master and Took Persheson of hir 2
1. Independence Journal, RIHS.
2. Whipple placed a copy of his commission in the hands of the prize master, and endorsed it:
“the a Bove and foregoing is a true Coppy of my Commission Sined Over to Charles Ed-
mondson who is to take the Command of the Brig fanny Sined Over this 21st Day of
August 1776 By Jabez Whipple Captain of the sloop Called the Independence,” Admiralty
Papers, vol 9, 1776, R. I. Arch. Appended to the end of the Independence journal was a
sheet endorsed by Whipple, “Sunderys Things on Bord Brigtine Fanney John Lightbourn
Master.” It continued: “Clered out from Antegua Bound for London To Say one
Hundered and Twenty one Hogsheads and Three Terces Brown Sugar Containing] one
Hundered and Twentey Tow Thousand Five hundered Pounds Reced on Bord for Stores
Tow Hogsheads Rum also Five Barrils Train oil InPorted in Said Vessel and never Lan-
dead heire as Pr Clereance.”
Owners of the Rhode Island Sloop America to Captain
Nathaniel Packard 1
Sr Providence Augst 21,1776
You being Master of Our Sloop America bound for St aCroix with a
Letter of Mark - Our Orders are that you Imbrace every favourable Wind
to gain your Passage and when You Arrive to Dispose of your Cargo to the
best Advantage for our Interest, and layout all the neet proceeds, in the fol-
lowing Articles viz in Good rum, Ten or Twelve Good 4 lb Cannon, (if 4
lb Cannon cannot be got, get 6 lb ones) Gun Powder some Swivels Stuff for
light sails, Duffells, Blankets or indeed, Any Such Other Articles as You
think the most Condusive to our Advantage - And then proceed Home with
all Dispach in the Most safest Manner You Can, Provided Nevertheless, In-
case you Should fall in with Any Valuable Vessel belonging to Any place un-
der the Protection & Or Goverment of the King of Grait Britain, or that
May be going to supply the Army of the sd King now Acting Agst these
American States well You May Judge to be a Clear prize According to the
Resolves of Congress, You have Liberty if you Cant get her into this port or
some Other safe place with out to give up your Own Vessel to the Officers Sc
people of sd Prize, taking Special Care not to Make Such A swap for any but
would Certainly be a prize Sc of much more Value to us your owners than
your Present Vessel Sc Cargo
You May Also if Oppoty Serves at St Croix Swap away your Vessel for a
Prime sailing Bardmuean [Bermudian] Vessel well Maybe Suteable for a
Priveteer provided you Can Make the Value of your Sloop a Good Bargain,
and that the Overplus, or Difference in the Value of the Vessels Can be paid
by your Draft on Us to be pd on as long Sight as you Can get for wch you
have our Letter of Credit, As we would not have the Cargo Apply’d that
252
AMERICAN THEATRE
way, but to be laid out as aforesd Sc in Case such a Swap Can be Affected, the
Neet proceeds of your Cargo laid out in Rum Sec as aforesd is to be ship’d on
bord, the Vessel Swaped for, with what fiting & Men you Can get without
Much Expense, to proceed home takeing all the Prizes you Can Coming
Your Shears, or right of Interest in Any Prizes taken, as Also Your people is
to be Settled According to Other Letters of Mark Sent out from this
Place - Your Commisn for Selg the Cargo is to be 5 pCt & 2i/£ for Returns -
N B. It is our [illegible] Meaning and Intentions That in Case You should
have an Oppoty to take Any Prize That you should think of Giving up Your
Sloop for to the Prisoners You Are to have the Value of your Sloop Sc Cargo,
or what ever you del[ive]r up to be first deducted out of the Prize before Di-
vision for the Benefeit of yr Owners, Sc the remdr to be Divided between
Your self Sc Co, Sc Owners According to Custom of Leters of Mark as afore
said -
[Endorsed] Providence 21 Augt 1776 I acknowledge the afore written to be
the true Copy of Orders given me by the Owners of the Sloop America , my-
self Master Nath1 Packard
1. Nicholas Brown Papers, JCBL. Owners of the America were Joseph and William Russell, Am-
brose Page, and Nicholas Brown, all of Providence.
Owners of the Rhode Island Privateer Sloop Diamond to Captain
Thomas Stacy 1
Sir Providence August 21: 1776
your being Commander of the priveteer Sloop Diamond our orders and
Instructions are that you proceed on a Crews a gainst all Vessels and prop-
erty belon[g]ing to any and all persons living at aney place under the do-
minions of the king of Grait Britton or any Vessells and Cargos What.
Ever Which you may find bound to or from the Aiding or in Aney manner
supplying the Fleet or army Imployed against the United States and that
you Send all prizes you may take to this place Linder good Commander
according to the Value of Such prizes and that the prize Masters Be Verbly
orderd to fall in on the Back of Nantucket or the Vinyards and their go on
Shore with his boat if in Want of a pilote and to Come in Between Nantuc-
ket Sc the Vinyard as Being much the savest way and then to proceed to
Boazards Bay by Going Through Wood hole or holes Sc proceed to Bedford
or directly hear If he Should have Good Intilleigence of our Coast being
Clear or otherwise to send Express as soon as possable advising us of every
Circumstance of Said prizes You are first to Crews on the Bermudos Sta-
tions till you may have Reasons [to] think the West India Vessels air Gone
by then to proceed of[f] Sc about Newfoundland [after] Fishing Vissels and
not to Return home till you have disposed of all the men you Can Spair
on Board of prizes or not till your Crews is Exspired paying - dew attention
to Recrute your provissions and stores by every Opporty out of all the
Prizes you may take or Other wise by purchase Sc Drawing on us for the
same and you have Liberty in Case you should not finish your Crews sooner
to go of [f] Cannedy River about the Strats of Bellile or of [f] hallifax we
AUGUST 1776
253
advise you Declining to Consort with aney if it Can be Conveneuetly
Avoyded — But if Cannot be well avoyded to a gree to Sheer according to
Wright of your Thot We Rucomend your utermost Indeavaur to keep
Good orders harmony and Unemeinty [mc] on board During your Whole
Crews - If it Should so happen that you Should be So fortunait as to fall in
with some Valuable Vessell 8c Cargo after a Clear prize you have Sent of [f]
all the Hands you Can Spair You have Liberty to take out your guns and
from your Sloop 8c Deliver her to the priseners And Come home on the
prize.
Owners John Brown - William Chase - Lemuel 1 Wyatt -
1. Nicholas Brown Papers, JCBL.
Journal of the Connecticut Council of Safety 1
[Lebanon] August 21st, 1776.
Voted to appoint Mr. Bela Elderkin of Windham, and he is hereby ap-
pointed, Second Lieutenant of Marines on board the ship of war belonging
to this State.2
1. Hoadly, ed., Connecticut Records , XV, 508.
2. The Connecticut ship Oliver Cromwell.
“Extract of a Letter from an Officer on board the Royal Savage,
in Lake Champlain, dated August 21, 1776.” 1
To-morrow (wind and weather permitting) we sail towards St. John’s,
where we must soon expect to come to action. Our fleet consists of 1 sloop,
3 schooners, 4 galleys, and 7 gondaloes, the whole well officered and
manned, and under command of General Arnold. If we meet the enemy,
doubt not but we shall support our charge.
1. Pennsylvania Gazette, September 4, 1776.
Colonel Joseph Reed to Major General William Heath 1
Head Quarters New York
Sir Aug. 21 1776
The Captains of the Row Gallies having much resented the Suspicions
formed of them for their Behaviour up the River as well as when the Men
of War passed this Place intimated to the General that they supposed the
Situation of the Times would not admit of a Trial or they should call for
one. The General has thought proper to take them at their Offer 8c ordered
a Court of Inquiry to sit next Friday - As you seemed to be of Opinion
there was a Failure of Duty when they went up last Week, the General
desires you would collect such Evidence of their Behaviour as you think will
put the Matter in the proper Light 8c send the Witnesses down here by
that Day at 10 oClock.-As Genl [Thomas] Mifflin seems to have been par-
ticularly attentive to their Behaviour the General thinks his Testimony
may be of Service 8c would have him attend if he can be spared-
254
AMERICAN THEATRE
We have nothing new -the Troops continue embarking - but have not
yet landed - I am Sir [8cc.]
Jos: Reed
1. Heath Papers, MassHS.
Diary of Ensign Caleb Clap 1
[New York, August 21]
A flag of truce come from the Enemy the 20 Instant the 21 General
Washington sent A flag in, and at Evening the General sent the Brigadds to
prepare themselvs for an Attack for undoubtedly the Enemy was Embark’d,
that we may depend on their coming out this evening or tomorrow Morning
We Learn by authority that the enemy only wait for wind and tide,
that they are in readiness for an attack have Embarkd suppose to attack
Long Island Powls Hook and the Jerseys, their number imputed to 35 thou-
sand, although it seems incredible, the information we suppose comes from a
Spie that we have among them, this information came from the Island the
21st Instant, the manner I cannot describe but no doubt very Privatly some
way or other
we learn that the Enemy are very sickly and no doubt it may Prove
true, as they have very Little but salt Provisions
1. “Caleb Clap Diary,’’ The Historical Magazine , 3rd series, III, 250.
Constitutional Gazette, Wednesday, August 21, 1776
New- York, August 21.
For some days past, the British army on Staten Island, have been em-
barking on board the transports; so that we expect their whole force before
this city every tide. We hope to give them a reception, worthy the free
born sons of America, and may every freemen of America make this his
Toast, That New York is now an assylum for American Liberty.
Yesterday a number of the ministerial fleet left their station at Staten-Is-
land, and went through the Narrows; it is supposed they mean to land part
of their troops on Long-Island.
Lieutenant Elias Baldwin to Solomon Porter, Danbury Merchant 1
[Extract] New York Augt. 21, 1776
We are in great Expectation of an Attack this Day. A Spy went over I
hear from Amboy some days since Returned Yesterday - says they were to
make the attack this day, in 3 places, on long Island - at Amboy - & North of
the City from the North River Perhaps their sails being very wet from the
Shower last Evening & the wind a head this morning may prevent the Attack
this Day. The Army Numerous, tho’ how numerous I cant learn & In high
spirits. That I doubt whether we shall ever be better prepared for them
than now. The Connecticut Militia are mostly arrived. Some Troops
have come in from the Southward how many cant learn. - Sickness I believe
AUGUST 1776
255
abates in the Army since the Rains - of which there hath been great Plenty
this way. But I can’t tell with much Certainty. -
3 oClock afternoon.
About one all the Militia from Connecticut paraded together 12 or 13 Regi-
ments amounting probably to between 5 Sc 6000 Men - the greatest Num-
ber [of] Men under Arms that ever I saw were vie[wed ] by General Wash-
ington Sc most of the other General Officers. The Colonels are to wait
upon the Generals at 5 to receive more particular ord[ers |. Tis Reported
the Enemy have landed at the sout[h]ern Extremity of long Island. I saw
several fires In that part of the Island - w[hich] tis conjectured are the
Inhabitants burning their hay — Grain Sec to prevent th[e] Enemy’s receiving
benefit therefrom. Tis not Improbable some attack may be made on the
Morrow - The Critical Moment probably is not far of[f]. - May God pre-
serve us Sc give such sucess as shall effectually secure our dear previleges-
that we may be a free people as long as the sun Sc moon shall endure — All
seem to be in high spirits . . .
1. Baldwin Family Papers, YUL.
Journal of the Continental Congress 1
[Philadelphia] Wednesday, August 21, 1776
A letter to the Committee of Secret Correspondence was laid before
Congress and read.
Resolved , That a committee of three be appointed to revise the resolu-
tions of Congress, respecting the place where prizes are to be carried into,
and to bring in such farther resolutions as to them shall seem proper:
The members chosen, Mr. [Thomas] Jefferson, Mr. [Robert] Morris,
and Mr. J[ohn] Adams.
1. Ford, ed., /CC, V, 692, 694.
John Adams to James Warren 1
[Extract] Philadelphia, August 21, 1776
The success of your Privateers is incouraging. I lament with you the
Languor and Inattention to the Fleet. I wish I could explain to you my
Sentiments upon this Subject, but I will not. I am determined you shall
come here, and see, and hear, and feel for yourself, and that Major [Joseph]
Hawley and Some others shall do the same. I must not write Strictures
upon Characters. I set all Mankind a Swearing if I do. I must not point
out to you, not even to you, the Causes of the Losses, Disgraces, and Misfor-
tunes, that befall you. I make the Faces of my best Friends a mile long if I
do. What then shall 1 do? Just what I have long Since determined, go
home, and let two or three of you come here and fret yourselves, as long as I
have done, untill you shall acknowledge that I had Reason.
There is a Marine Committee, who have the Care of every Thing relat-
ing to the Navy. Hopkins and his Captains, Saltonstall, and Whipple, have
been summoned here, and here they have lingered and their ships laid
256
AMERICAN THEATRE
idle. I cannot, I will not explain this Business to you; because if I should,
it would get into a News Paper, I suppose. You must come and see.
We suffer inexpressibly for Want of Men of Business. - Men acquainted
with War by Sea and I, and, Men who have no Pleasure but in Business.
You have them, send them along.
Have you got Boston Harbour sufficiently fortified? If not take no Rest
until it is done. [William] Howe must have Winter Quarters, somewhere.
If he can’t obtain them at New York, he must attempt them at the South-
ward or Northward, it will be your Fault, if you are not prepared for him
in the North. . . .
1. Warren- A dams Letters , I 270—72.
Caesar Rodney to Thomas Rodney 1
[Extract] Philadelphia, August 21, 1776.
P.S. One [William] Woodcock, at Wilmington, has been speaking to
me about a privateer he was applied to to build by Captain [Charles]
Pope. He says he has a parcel of carpenters sent to him and cannot go on
for want of the iron-work, rum, &c. Some person among you ought to go
immediately and enter into a contract with him and find the means of
supplying him.
1. Ryden, ed., Letters to and from Caesar Rodney, 104-05.
“Extract of a letter from Philadelphia, dated 21st of August/' 1
I have a letter from Statia, dated August 3d, which says, a French frig-
ate arrived at Martinico last Sunday, from old France, with dispatches as late
as the 22d of June, to the Governors and Commanders in Chief of all the
French Islands, to put themselves in the best state of defence, and to aid, as-
sist and protect, all American vessels that might put into their ports, as far as
possible.
1. New-York Journal, August 29, 1776.
Journal of the Pennsylvania Council of Safety 1
In Council of Safety,
[Philadelphia] August 21, 1776.
A Petition from Joseph Greenway, third Lieut, of the Ship Montgom-
ery, in the service of this State, was laid before the Board, praying that he
may have leave to resign his Commission, as he has an opportunity of serv-
ing his Country in a more essential manner than he is now able to do, which
request was granted, and he is discharged from the Service aforesaid.
1. Pennsylvania Colonial Records, X, 694.
Thomas Jones to the Maryland Council of Safety 1
Virginia Northumberld County August 21st 1776
Gentlemen I have delivered to Mr Thos Walker at the request of Captn
AUGUST 1776
257
Nicholson, four hundred Sc thirty two half barrels of Gun-Powder, Eighteen
Chests of Arms, four loose Muskets, and Twenty peices of Oznabrigs, Mr
Walker tells me he received only 431 half barrels of Powder, the Persons I
entrusted to deliver it, are certain they delivered the whole quantity. I
hope it will be found right. - Assoon as I was informed by Captn [Thomas]
Conway of his arrival,2 and that the Powder Sec was landed. Sc stored not
more than two Miles from navigation in the lower end of the County, I
thought it by no means a safe place for so valuable Cargoe, especially as
Lord Dunmores Fleet was lying at no great distance from it, therefore I di-
rected it to be carted about 12 or 14 Miles higher up the County, where it
might be more immediately under my own inspection, this, together with
the necessity of keeping a constant guard, has occasioned a considerable ex-
pence, but not more I hope than will be thought requisite. The several ac-
counts were lay’d before the Committie, who regulated them as they
thought proper, except some few, which I made a particular agreement
for. — You may be assured Gent, that I have acted as if it had been upon my
own account, and the trouble I have been at, you are exceedingly welcome
to. I think myself happy in having had it in my power to serve the Prov-
ince of Maryland, particularly on so interesting an occasion.
Thos Jones
P. S. There is a ballance still due to the Colony of Virga of <£3.. 18. .2
which Captn Walker has promised to pay. I am with regard Gent: [&c.]
1. Red Book, XV, Md. Arch.
2. With the powder and arms in the brig Molly.
Journal of the Virginia Navy Board 1
[Williamsburg] Wednesday 21st August 1776. -
Ordered that a Warrant Issue to John Draper for Eight pounds ten shillings
for nails furnished for the use of the Brig Liberty Capt [Thomas]
Lilly. -Also for Five Pounds twelve shillings and nine pence for Reparing
Pistols and for Langrage and Shott furnished for the use of the Norfolk Re-
venge Galley: -
1. Navy Board Journal, 43-44, VSL.
Journal of the Virginia Council of Safety 1
[Williamsburg] Wednesday August 21st 1776
Captain William Deane of the Schooner Revenge and Aron Jeffrys first
Lieutenant of the said Schooner appeared were sworne, and received Com-
missions dated this day.
Ordered that a Warrant issue to Captain William Deane for sixty six
pounds five shillings for eighty days service to the 23d of July as an Engi-
neer also for rations and Forage the above time and for sundrys furnished
the schooner revenge.
It appearing that James Mahony a Seaman taken on board the Vessell
of Bartlett Goodrich, hath during the time of his imprisonment always pro-
258
AMERICAN THEATRE
fessed himself a friend to this Commonwealth, expressing a Willingness to
serve the same, and his behaviour appearing to be such as corresponds with
his professions and very sufficient to remove all suspicions from his being on
board the said Vessel 1, and in the opinion of the Board he may be servicea-
ble to this Commonwealth as a Seaman Resolved that the said Mahony be
discharged from his Confinement and permitted to pass where he thinks
proper to look for employment, Whereupon the said Mahony voluntarily
offered to take the Oath prescribed by the Convention to be taken by sus-
pected persons, which was accordingly administered to him. 2
1. Mcllwaine, ed., Journals of the Virginia Council , I, 127, 128.
2. See Journal of Council of Safety, July 23, 24, 1776. Volume 5, 1208, 1221.
Trial and Condemnation in Virginia Admiralty Court of the
Prize Sloop Vulcan 1
At a Court of Admiralty held at the Capitol in the City of William[s]burg
the 19th Day of August 1776
Present
William Holt and George Seaton Esquires two of
the Judges of the said Court
The Court was opened, and the Libillant Joyne having giving Bond for
Costs. The Marshall returned the Citation issued out of this Court against
the Sloop Vulcan and Cargo Executed. Whereupon Bartlet Williams Es-
quire Advocate exhibited a Libel in the following Words — Before you Wil-
liam Holt and George Seaton Esquires Judges of the Court of Admiralty of
the Commonwealth of Virginia. Come Leven Joyne who Prosecuted as
well for himself as for Thomas Teackle and the Company under his Com-
mand and gives the Court here[with] to understand and be informed that
on the Twelfth Day of July last past on the high Seas and within the juris-
diction of this Court. He seized and made Prize of the Sloop Vulcan near
the Shore of this Commonwealth then in Possession of James Parker and
James Ingram with her Guns Rigging Apparel Tackle and furniture to-
gether with two Negro Slaves named Glasgois and Fanny Sparrow the prop-
erty of James Ingram, and a Considerable Cargo of Goods Wares and
Merchandize to the Value of two Thousand Pounds Sterling of the Growth
Produce and Manufacture of Great Britain, Ireland and the West Indies,
and imported contrary to the terms of the Continental Assocition And the
said Libillant on behalf of himself, Thomas Teackle, and his Company
aforesaid gives the Court to know and be informed that the Vessel Cargo &
Slaves aforesaid belonged to and were the Property of the Enemies of the
United Colonies of America and that the said Sloop was at that time em-
ployed and carrying the said Goods and Supplies to the Enemies of Amer-
ica then carrying on a Piratical War against this Commonwealth, whereby
and by force of the several Resolutions of the General Congress and Or-
dinances and Resolutions of the Convention of this Commonwealth the said
Vessell together with her Rigging, Guns, Tackle and Apparel together with
the Slaves and Cargo aforesaid are become forfeited to the Libellant and
AUGUST 1776
259
his said Company to be divided among them pursuant to the Resolutions of
the said General Congress and the Libellant prays the Judgment of this
Court in the Premises. Proclamation being made as the manner is and no
Person appearing to Claim the said Sloop Vulcan and Cargo or the Slaves
aforesaid, The Court adjourned till Tomorrow Twelve O’Clock
W Russell Cle[rk]
Tuesday the 20th August 1776
Present
William Holt, George Seaton, & Bernard Moore Esquires Judges
The Court was opened and Proclamation again made against the Sloop
Vulcan and Cargo, and no Person appearing to claim the same or the Slaves
aforesaid. The Court adjourned till Tomorrow Morning ten O’Clock
W Russell Cl
Wednesday the 21st August 1776
Present
The same Judges as Yesterday
The Court was opened and Proclamation being made a third time against
the Sloop Vulcan and no Person appearing to Claim the same or the Cargo
and Slaves aforesaid, the Libel was by Order of the Court taken for Con-
fessed and a Jury impanneled to try the Charge to wit. James Geddy, John
Mayo Henry Field, Joseph Hawkins, Robert Anderson, Robert Nicolson,
Edward Charleton, John Carter, John Halley Norton, James Craig, Hum-
phry Harwood and William Pearson who being duly sworn on hearing the
Testimony of Sundry Witnesses went out of Court and after deliberating on
the matter - returned with their Verdict in these Words. “We of the Jury
find the within Vessel, Cargo, Slaves, Appurtenances 8cc a Lawful
PrizeJ’’] Whereupon it is Decreed and Adjudged by the Court that the
said Sloop Vulcan with her Rigging, Tackle Apparel Furniture and Cargo
and the Slaves aforesaid be Condemned and forfeited - And all Charges
which may attend the Capture and Trial of the said Vessel being first paid
out of the Money arising from the sale thereof, that the remainder be
equally divided among all those who have been actually engaged in takeing
said Prize according to the Proportions - settled by order of General Con-
gress Ordered, That Isaac Smith, Thoroughgood Smith, George Hack,
William Seymour and Abraham Outten, or any three of them being first
Sworn before a Justice of the Peace for that purpose do Appraise in Cur-
rent Money the Sloop Vulcan with all her appurtenances and the Cargo and
Slaves aforesaid and make a return of the Appraisement to this Court.
That the Marshall make Sale thereof (after notice duly given) at Publick
Auction and return the appraisement together with the Account of Sales to
the Court on the twenty fifth day of September next. —
Ordered That Thomas Teackle, John Darby and Henry Lewis be allowed
each for three days attendance on this Court Travelling eighty Miles with
Ferriages across the Bay as Witnesses for Leven Joyne and others against the
Sloop Vulcan
260
AMERICAN THEATRE
Ordered That the Court be adjourned till the Twenty fifth Day of Septem-
ber next 2
W Russell Cle
1. Revolutionary War Prize Cases, Court of Appeals, 1776-1787, NA.
2. The case of the Vulcan generated lengthy litigation. John Lyon and John Kellum claimed
to be the real captors. James Ingram of Norfolk, owner of the Vulcan , claimed that ne-
cessity forced him to join Dunmore. He contended that the sloop never carried “Supplies
to the Ministerial Army,” and could not be taken as a legal prize. The Virginia Admi-
ralty Court denied Ingram’s claim, and he appealed to the Continental Congress. On
January 24, 1777 Congress reversed the decision of the Virginia court, ibid.
Governor Patrick Tonyn to Lord George Germain 1
No 21
My Lord;
The unlucky turn the naval operations took at Charlestown makes a
very considerable change in the situation of affairs in this Province.
It was thought expedient for the benefit of this Province to summon the
Inhabitants to meet me at the Statehouse yesterday morning.
After mentioning a few outlines of the present situation of public Af-
fairs, and recommending a manly spirit to be exerted in defence of the Prov-
ince, and that it was the duty of every man in these bad times to shew his
loyalty and allegiance to the best of Kings, and his duty and affection to the
british Constitution; I proposed to them to be embodied into a Battalion of
Militia. I have the satisfaction to inform your Lordship, that the whole
joyfully consented without a dissenting voice, they testified their readiness to
comply with whatever I thought fi test for them, and would go wherever I
should lead them in defence of the Province.
I then declared Lieutenant Governor [John] Moultrie to be their Colo-
nel, Robert Bisset Esqr Lieutenant Colonel, and Benjamin Dodd Esqr Ma-
jor, which gave general satisfaction.
The Companies are to be composed of a Captain, a Lieutenant, two Ser-
jeants, two Corporals, and twenty five private Sentrys.
Two Companies of the Battalion will be raised at Saint John River. I
expect four here. I fear by what Colonel Bisset mentions, we cannot ven-
ture to raise at Doctor Turnbull’s Settlement more than one Company, but
in the other Settlements in these parts, we shall be able to raise four black
Companies, to which must be given double or treble white Officers, in pro-
portion to the Officers of the white Companies.
If these measures meet your Lordships approbation, I shall be happy.
I have the honour to be with the greatest respect [&c.]
Pat. Tonyn
St. Augustine 21. August 76
[Endorsed] St. Augustine 21 Augt 1776 Govr Tonyn R. 19th Deer 1776.
(No 21)
1. PRO, Colonial Office, 5/556, 743-46.
AUGUST 1776
261
22 Aug.
Order of the Massachusetts Council 1
State of Massachusetts Bay
In Council [Watertown] Augt 22d 1776.
Ordered, that the Resolve of the Honble Congress of the 3d of April
last, Respecting persons Applying for Commissions or Letters or Marque &
reprisal be published in the Several News papers in this State, that all per-
sons fating out Such vessells may know how to make Application for their
Commissions.
by the Order of Councill
John Avery Dpy Secy
1. Mass. Arch., vol. 165, 142.
Massachusetts Council to Captain John Foster Williams 1
The Sloop Republick under Your Command being in all respects
Equiptd in Warlike manner Sc being also well and properly maned So as to
proceed on a Cruize, You therefore are Directed immediately to proceed on
a Cruize not only against our unnatural 1 Enemys but also for the protec-
tion of the trade of the United States, and you are Directed to Range the
Coast Laying between Cape Sables Sc Block Island and not farther South
than Lattd 34 north, -at the same time using all necessary precaution to
prevent your vessel from falling into the hands of the Enemy
and whereas you have received a Commission by force of Armes to at-
tack subdue and take all ships and other Vessels belonging to the inhabitants
of Great Britain on the high Seas, under certain restrictions, you must punc-
tually follow the instructions herewith delivered you for your Conduct re-
specting this matter. And you are further Ordered not to fire your Powder
away unnecessarily and only when in Action and firing Alarm or Signal
Guns. 2
In Council [Watertown] Augt 22d 1776
1. Mass. Arch., vol. 165, 137.
2. Under the same date is an order, apparently supplementing the above, which reads: “To
Commander of the in the service of this State. You are hereby directed and com-
manded to return from your cruise with the Vessel under your command to the Harbor
of Boston by the tenth day of September next, and there to wait for the farther Orders of
the Council,” ibid., 139.
N ew-England Chronicle , Thursday, August 22, 1776
Boston, Thursday August 22.
A Jamaica Guinea Ship, with 7 Hogsheads of Sugar, 8 or 9 of Rum, and
Seven Thousand Dollars, is taken by a Privateer from Maryland, and safe ar-
rived in Port. Also, a New England brig from Martinico.
By the Eastern Post we are informed, that on Monday last arrived at
Portsmouth, New-Hampshire, a Vessel from Holland, with dry Goods,
Drugs, Spices, Sec.
262
AMERICAN THEATRE
Last Thursday, was sent into Marblehead, by the Franklin Vessel of
War, Capt. [John] Skimmer, and on Saturday last was conveyed round to
this Harbour, a Brig from St. Augustine, bound for Bristol, with 3000 raw
and half dressed Deer-Skins, and about two Tons Indigo. There were on
board said Brig, a Lieutenant, Sergeant and a Drummer, of the 14th Regi-
ment, going on the recruiting Service. 1
Capt. Skimmer was in Chase of another Vessel at the Time he took the
above Brig; but having carried away his Mainmast, was obliged to leave her.
Last Week the Warren Privateer of Dartmouth, carried in there a ship
from the West-Indies for Newfoundland, laden with sugar and molasses; she
was commanded by Capt. Cockran of Watertown, and owned by Thomas
Boylstone, Esq; of this Town. 2
1. Brigantine Perkins, William Jennings, master.
2. Ship Argo , 170 tons, William Cochran, master, taken by the Massachusetts privateer Warren,
Captain John Phillips.
Libels Filed against the Prizes taken by Jeremiah O’Brien
AND OTHER RESIDENTS OF MACHIAS 1
State of the Massachusetts-Bay. |
Eastern-District, ss.
To all whom it may concern.
Notice is hereby given, that Libels are hied before me, against the armed
Schooner Margaritta , burthen about 50 Tons, James Moore late Com-
mander, against the Sloop Unity, Ichabod Jones, late Master, burthen about
80 Tons, against the Sloop Polly, burthen about 90 Tons, Nathaniel Hor-
ton, late Master, against the armed Schooner Diligent,2 burthen about 100
Tons, Lieut. John Knight late Master, and his armed Cutter, the Talma-
gush ; against the Schooner Susannah, burthen about 25 Tons, Phillips
late Master, all which Vessels, their Appurtenances and Cargoes were taken
(for carrying Supplies to the Enemies of the United States of America, and
infesting the Sea Coast) and brought into the Eastern District aforesaid, and
the Maritime Court for said District will be held at the Meeting House in
the East Precinct of Pownalborough, on Monday the Ninth Day of Septem-
ber, 1776, at the hour of Ten in the forenoon, to try the Justice of the said
Captures; and all Persons claiming Property in said Vessels or Cargoes, or
are any ways concerned therein, may appear and shew cause, if any they
have, why the same Vessels, or either of them with their Appurtenances and
Cargoes should not be condemned.
Timothy Langdon, Judge of said Court.
1. New -England Chronicle, August 22, 1776.
2. For details of capture of the Margaretta and Diligent of the Royal Navy, and of Ichabod
Jones’ sloop Un it y, see Volume 1.
AUGUST 1776
263
3 [A. M.]
Journal of the Massachusetts Sloop Tyrannicide, Captain John Fisk 1
Remks on Thursday 22th of August 1776
Hoisted sails split our mainsail
Saw a sail barring SE one League distance] out boat sent
the first Leiutenant and 8 men on board s[h]e was a snow
from St Vincents 24 days out bound to London Jonath Dud-
field Master in ballast 2
12 small breaze of wind & fair weather
Lattd in 34d 26m Longd in 61d 10m
1 [P. M.] Pleasant weather smooth water got the men out of the
prize put ours on board Orderd the prize Master to make
the best of his way to salem
1. John Fisk Journal, AAS.
2. The snow Anna.
Journal of the Rhode Island Sloop Independence,
Captain Jabez Whipple 1
wold not Bring
Bore Down to
Remarks on Thusday August 22, 1776
at 6 Saw a Sale to E ward at 8 Fired 4 Shot at hir
Tow Saw hir to Bee a Brigg of 12 Guns Left Chase
the Priseses-
Lattd 34.15 Londg in 60.14
The First Part Pleasent Small Sea
2 Passingers Belonging To the Brigg Came on Board -
Spent the afternoon 2 at 6 hand’ Sqe Sail
1. Independence Journal, RIHS.
2. The passengers on board the brig Fanny were not named, but a sheet in the back of the jour-
nal lists the crew as John Lightbourn, master; Thomas Hargsdon, mate; Ben, Jacob,
Robin, Cupid, negro boy Sam, and Thomas Artelea, white boy.
Distribution of Dead Shares in Prizes Taken by the Rhode Island
Privateer Sloop Diamond 1
Newpot Augst 22 Day 1776
Theas aer To Certifye that wee the Subcribrs aer a Commitey For Setling
and a Justing the dead Shairs of the Sloope Dimond Prisses and we do
a Gree to dispos of them in the Foiling manner
To Cpt Thomas Stashey it Being a gread on By all the offiisors Befoer Sal-
ing that he Recvs of the agonts oen ded Shier —
and that Thomas Carlies Recvs a half shier out of the
dead Shiers & only two out of the Common Shiers
Capt Benjamin Almey as he is Carred a Way in oen of
the Priesses to his disadvanteg oen shear -
1
y*
i
2i/2
264
AMERICAN THEATRE
Richard Wedon
George Babock
John Dosom
Robert Palmor
Ealeaxandor Tindol
John Williams
Benjaman Bates
John Morgan
Wee agree to give Doctor Paul Hometon
a half Shier he given up Capt. Chaces
obligators
John Johnston
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[Page 2]
N B the Reson Whi Capt Stasy acted Whith me as a Commite is Be caus
Benjaman Almy is absant & Not to Be Expecd Timely Sc Isaac Freeborn De-
sierd Capt Stasy to Set in his Ruem this was agreed to By John Brown Sc
Calemuel Wiett -
and What is Conetend on the other Sid is the Determination of
Comitey men William Chace Thomas Stacy
1. Nicholas Brown Papers, JCBL.
Governor Jonathan Trumbull to John Hancock 1
[Extract] Lebanon August 22d 1776
Sir Since my last I have not been honored with any of your favors, yet as it
is proper Congress should be acquainted what is doing in each of the United
States for Common Defence, especially what is doing on Continental Ac-
count, I take the liberty of giving you the following detail of what is done, Sc
doing in this State -
Upon the Request of General Washington, our three Row-Galleys were
sent to New York; and are there in Continental Service -
Colol [Samuel] Elmore’s Regiment, agreeable to a resolve of Congress
communicated by General Washington, is ordered to join the Army at New
York -Upon the General’s request, Twenty Cannon, ten 12 and ten 6
pounders cast at our Foundery at Salisbury, are lent, to be used for the de-
fence of the North River, and to prevent the Ships from destroying the
Continental Frigates building there, and making depredations on the
Country -
AUGUST 1776
265
Upon General Schuyler’s request, three Sea Captains are appointed
here, to raise Crews of Seamen, and proceed to Lake Champlain, and take
command of some of the armed vessels on the Lake - To enable them to en-
list their men, we have advanced the necessary sums out of our Treasury, to
be reimbursed from the Chest at Albany -
A quantity of Cordage and Rigging, upon General Schuylers applica-
tion, have been purchased in this State and at his request, Two Hundred
Swivels will be cast with all expedition for the use of the armed vessels on
Lake Champlain. 2
Last Saturday Capt Hinman of your armed Brig Cabot presented me a
letter from Colo [Gurdon] Saltonstall, directing the former to ask my opin-
ion relative to his sailing on a Cruise - Considering that he had been long
waiting in readiness; that the multiplicity of business in Congress is the
probable reason of his not receiving orders for it; that the expence is great;
that his Sailing may prove beneficial; that the season and opportunity of
going out with Captains [Seth] Harding and [William] Packwood in armed
vessels afford a prospect of distressing our Enemies and of helping these
States - I gave him my opinion that it is advisable for him to embrace the
first fair wind, and good opportunity to proceed on a Cruise: To use his
best discretion as to the manner of his proceeding, and to the time for his
return - I apprehend he will govern himself by this, and hope the measure
may meet your approbation -
1. Trumbull Papers, XXIX, Letter Book IV, 76-79, ConnSL.
2. Trumbull also wrote to Schuyler on this date about the seamen and guns for Lake
Champlain. Ibid., XXVI, Letter Book I, 85-86.
266
AMERICAN THEATRE
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AUGUST 1776
267
Journal of H.M.S. Rose, Captain James Wallace 1
Anchor’d off Staten Island
AM the Adml made the Sigl for all Lieutenants.
First part modrt and Cloudy, Midi fresh Gales with Thun-
der Lightning and Rain, latter light breezes 8c Cloudy. PM
at 1 Unmoor’d and hove short, Reev’d sundry Gunner’s
Stores, at 5 Squally with Rain, weigh’d and came to Sail as
did the Phenix, Steering down the River, at 6 came too off
Gravesend Bay in 10 fm soft bottom, the Church ENE and
the Et Point of the Narrows NBW Do Anchor’d the Phe-
nix.
AM at 4 hove short, at y2 past 6 weigh’d and stood into
Gravesend Bay, Do Anchor’d abrest of the Church 16 feet
low water, carried out the stream Anchor and Cable for a
Spring hove broad side to the Shore; Off Shore y2 a Mile,
came in Shore and Anchor’d, the Phenix and Greyhound
with a Number of Transports with Troops on board; at i/2
past 7 Adml Howe Hoist’d his Flag on board the Phenix,
the Adml Fir’d a Gun and hoisted a Blew and White strip’d
Flag at the Mizon Topmast Flagstaff, the Troops in the
Boats at 9 began to land, at Noon all Landed.
Light Breezes and Clear Wr came in HM Ships Mercury
and Lively, at 1 took up the Stream Anchor Weigh’d and
run further out in the Bay Do Anchor’d in 5 fm the
Church NEBE the E point of the Narrows NBWi/2W PM
Commodore Hotham Hoisted his broad Pendant on board
the Phenix and Adml Howe hauld down his Flag and
hoist’d it on board the Eagle. Moor’d NNW and SSE.
1. PRO, Admiralty 51/805.
Journal of H.M.S. Phoenix, Captain Hyde Parker, Jr. 1
August 1776 Moor’d Head & Stern in Graves-End Bay -
Thursday 22d At 5 AM Carried the Stream Anchor out Weigh’d the Best
Bowr & hove the Ship close in Shore, Clap’d Spring on the
Small Bower, let it go and hove the Ship Broad side to the
Shore to cover the Troops Landing at 8 Vice Admiral
Lord Howe came onbd and hoisted his Flag Fir’d a Gun
and hoisted a Signal Flag at the Mizen Topmast and at 46
past 8 Struck Lord Howe’s Flag 8c the Signal. At \/2 past 9
Commodore Hotham made the Signal from his Barge for
the Troops to Land. At 3/4 past 10 Lord Howe return’d
onboard and hoisted his Flag. -
Modr and Cloudy Wr at 3/4 past 2PM Struck Lord
Howe’s Flag Weigh’d and ran without the Transports 8c
came too with the Best Bower in 6i/2 fm Veer’d and
[August 1776]
Wedsday 21st
Thursdy 2 2d
268
AMERICAN THEATRE
Moor’d a Cable on the Best and 2/3 on the Small
Bower at 50 past 8 Comodore Hotham came onbd and
hoisted his Pendant. Fir’d the Evening and Morning
Guns.
1. PRO, Admiralty 51/694.
Journal of H.M.S. Preston, Captain Samuel Uppleby 1
August [1776] [Off Staten Island]
Thursday 22 Squally weather, and rain received 8c Manned 8 flat boats,
together with our own Boats and sent them to Land Troops
on Long Island
Light airs and fair weather the Men of War having placed
themselves in Gravesend Bay to cover the Debarkation of
the Troops a number of Transports with Troops onboard
anchored there also, when the Flat boats proceeded and
Landed without opposition on Long Island, the debarka-
tion continued til the whole amounting to 15,000 men was
Landed Struck Commodore Hothams broad Pendant which
was hoisted onboard the Phoenix.
1. PRO, Admiralty 51/720.
Journal of H.M.S. Asia, Captain George Vandeput 1
August 1776 Moor’d off Staten Island
Thursday 22 A M at 6 sent 6 Flat Boats & one Batteau at 10 the Troops
Landed on Long Island without opposition
Moderate 8c Cloudy, Rowed Guard,
1. PRO, Admiralty 51/67.
Journal of H.M.S. Eagle , Captain Henry Duncan 1
August 1776 Moored off Staten Island
Thursday 22d At 2 AM Sent all the Boats to land the Troops at 3 the
Phoenix 8c Rose Warped into Gravesend Bay . . . the Thun-
der 8c Carcass Bombs with a Number of Transports with
Troops At 10 the Signal was made for the Boats with
Troops to advance which they did 8c landed them without
the least Opposition; At Noon Empd landing the Troops
The first part light Breezes 8c fair, Middle Cloudy latter
fresh Breezes & fair At 1 P M the Boats returned from land-
ing the Troops
1. NMM, Admiralty L/E/ll.
Journal of H. M. Sloop Senegal , Captain Roger Curtis 1
Augt 76 Moor’d with the stream Anchr off Staten Island
Thursday 22d At 2 A M the Flat boats No 23.24.25.26.27.28.29.30
with the Capt 8c Lieut to the Narrows of Staten Island to
British Landing at Gravesend Bay, Long Island, August 22, 1776
270
AMERICAN THEATRE
Imbark the Troops at 10 landed without opposition in
Gravesend bay 5 thousd the 1st landing 8c 2 fives the next
at 5 [P.M.] dropt down Transports and Rainbow return’d
the Captn
1. PRO, Admiralty 51/885.
Journal of H. M. Bomb Vessel Thunder , Captain Anthony
Pye Molloy1
August [1776] [Anchored off Staten Island]
Thursdy 22 at 4 AM hove Shor[t] on the small Br at 5 got under way,
soon after which fell on Bd of a Ship which Obliged us to
cut away the small Br Anchor, to get clear. Do bent the
Remainder of the Cable to the Sheet Anchor At 8 An-
chor’d with the Best br in Gravesend Bay, in 4 Fths Water
and With a Spring on the Cable brought our Broad Side
to bear on the shore to cover the Landing of the
Troops found riding her[e] his Majesty’s Bomb Vessel
Carcass with the Grey Hound and Rose and Phoenix with
Ld How’s Flag on board at \/% past 9 the troops began to
Land to the Amount of about 5000 Men, the Boats imme-
diately returned to the transports, and bringing the remain-
der to Land with the Greatest Expedition at noon the
Landing was compleated without the least resistance.
1. PRO, Admiralty 51/987.
Journal of H.M.S. Galatea , Captain Thomas Jordan 1
August 1776 Sandy Hook N 35.32W 160 Leagues
Thursday 22nd at 6 A M fired a Gun brought too a french ship from St
Domingo bound to Hav[r]e de Grace at 9 Hauld the
wind 8c Chased a Schooner the Chace bore NE about 15
Miles.
Fresh Breezes 8c Cloudy, fired a Shot at the Chace at 3
fired another on which she bore down being a Schooner
from Dartmouth in New England Named the Molly Thos
Toby master bound to Hispaniola out 9 Days Laden wth
Flour Lumber 8c fish at 7 Brought the Master 8c 3 of their
people on board [sent in her] Masters Mate, Midn 8c five
Seamen.
1. PRO, Admiralty 51/380.
Journal of the Continental Congress 1
[Philadelphia] Thursday, August 22, 1776
The Marine Committee having recommended Dudley Saltonstal to the
command of the frigate Trumbull; Jonathan Maltbay, first lieutenant, and
David Phipps second lieutenant of the said frigate; [Robert] Wilson to be
AUGUST 1776
271
first lieutenant of the Washington , John Nicholson second lieutenant of
ditto; John Hodge to command the Montgomery frigate, at New York.
Resolved , That they be accepted, and that commissions be granted to
them accordingly.
Resolved , That the Secret Committee be directed to deliver to Major
[Samuel] Nichols, a number of musquets, sufficient to arm the marines rais-
ing under his command in this city.
1. Ford, ed., /CC, V, 695, 696-97.
Continental Marine Committee to Commodore Esek Hopkins 1
The Marine Committee
Sir Philadelphia August 22nd 1776.
As you are now about to return to Rhode Island where we Understand
the Alfred and Cabbot remain inactive.
We think proper you should exert your Utmost endeavours in Conjunc-
tion with the Commanders of those Vessels to get them equipped and
Manned with all possible expedition, for A six Months Cruize. -
We think A Most important Service may be performed by the Alfred ,
Columbus, Cabbot and Hampden by dispatching them for Newfoundland
with orders to destroy the British Fishery there; they must make Prize of
every British ship or Vessel they meet with - they must seize and destroy
their Fishing Boats and stages and make Prisoners of their fisher Men, or
such of them, as will not freely enter into our service, and as it is highly
probable they may take more Prizes than they can conveniently spare Men
to bring into Port, it may be proper in such case to destroy them. The sea-
son is now come when the NewfoundLand Men begin to load their Fish
Cargoes, consequently no time must be lost, and if the Columbus is not in
Port when you reach Rhode Island, you’l dispatch the Alfred, Cabbot and
Hampden immediately appointing Such place of Rendevouz and such Sig-
nals as will enable them to Meet again in case of Seperation, and also enable
the Columbus to follow and join them, and whenever she returns from her
present Cruize, you Must order her on this service giving the Commander of
her A Copy of the instructions, Signals &c. We doubt not there are Some
British ships of War on the NewfoundLand station to protect their Fishery
and of course our commanders must act with Such caution as to avoid being
taken themselves, but we hope this will not prevent a Spirited and resolute
conduct in the execution of their expidition, which we flatter ourselves will
in the event prove highly detrimental to our enemies - honourable and ben-
eficial to the United States of America. - These being the Objects we have in
View we desire that your Orders to the Commanders May be adapted in the
best manner your knowledge and experience can devise to obtain the end
proposed.
When this small Squadron have done the enemy as Much Mischief as
they can in that quarter they Must proceed into the Gulph of St Lawrence
and there take Cruizing ground as may be Most likely to intercept the sup-
272
AMERICAN THEATRE
plies of Indian Goods and other stores that we suppose will be sent from
England for Canada when they know that our Troops have evacuated that
Country. There is another object well worthy of their Attention but we
fear the acquisition of it is too uncertain to found A Cruize upon, we Mean
the Capture of the Hudsons Bay Ships which in their return must be very
Valueable; if the Captains should be of oppinion that by dividing their
force they can accomplish both these services, we would submit that Point
to your and their determination. We have no doubt but they will take
valuable prizes in the Gulph of St. Lawrence if the Cruising ground is well
chosen, and they Must Send their Prizes for Such of our Ports as they will be
Most likely to reach with safety. We deliver you herewith Some of the
Marine Books, List of Continental Agents in every state, and Several of the
Printed declarations of Independence, they May do well to notify the in-
habitants of the French Islands of St Pierrs 8c Miquelon of this declaration
and sound how the inhabitents stand affected toward us, assuring them the
French Government favour Our Cause and will probably become our Alley
by treaty. Perhaps our Ships may find shelter and protection in these Is-
lands if the enemy have Ships in that quarter too Strong for us. Should
this Fleet take any prizes whose Cargoes might be particularly usefull to the
inhabitents of these States, they may do well to convoy Such into Port, and
if they gain any intelligence that the Commanders think important they
Must dispatch one of the small Vessells with the Account to us — putting
into the first Port and Sending an express with it to the General or to us.
You will instruct the commander of each Vessel to write us by all Oppor-
tunities, of their proceedings and of the Occurrences they Meet with, they
Must make us Monthly Returns of their Crews, of the Supplies made to
them, of the provisions, and make Copies of their Log Books and Journals
to be transmitted to us at their Return.
They Must be carefull of their Ships, stores and materials, use their Of-
ficers and Men in Such a Manner as will recommend the service and at the
same time preserve strict discipline. They will no doubt from principles of
humanity and generosity treat their Prisoners with all the kindness and At-
tention their Respective Situations and circumstances will admit of and we
hope their conduct will in all things be such as to Merit the continuance of
our Confidence. -
You will direct the commanders of each Vessel to be very exact in keep-
ing a List of all Persons on board that are intitled to Prize Money Mention-
ing their Names, stations, 8c Shares, Copys of which they Must furnish the
Agent or Agents that receive the Prizes in Order that just 8c equitable distri-
bution of Prize Money May in due time be Made. -
We also wish to have a full and just valuation of all the Cannon, stores
8cc which you brought from Providence that have been appropriated to pub-
lic Use or that remain for that Purpose, and we desire you would have the
vessels you took and the property in them Libelled and tryed in order that
AUGUST 1776
273
Such part as is condemned may be sold - the Accounts Settled and distribu-
tion of the Prize Money made. We are sir [&c.]
Geo Walton John Hancock
Samel Huntington Rob1 Morris
Fra: Lewis Step Hopkins
Geo: Read Joseph Hewes
P.S. We deliver you herewith A Letter to Nathaniel Shaw junr Esqr of
New London directing him to purchase the Armed Schooner You took in
Your late Cruize 2 This Schooner Must be called the Hopkins and immedi-
ately fitted out as A Continental Cruizer and You are to add her to the Fleet
destined against Newfound Land Fishery sending her Away in Company
with the Alfred &c-We deliver you here with a blank Commission for the
Captain and we choose the Offer of it should be Made to Captain [Samuel]
Chew of New Haven he being Strongly recommended by the Committee of
that place but if he refuses this appointment we hereby authorize you to
put in a proper commander and fill this Commission with his Name. We
also deliver you Some blank Warrants which you will fill up with Proper
Persons for the Master and other inferior Officers for that Schooner.
Let it be an article of your instructions to all the Captains to be partic-
ularly carefull to Send all salt they May take to Some of these States as we
expect it will be very Much Wanted. Should you think it adviseable to go
upon the expedition to Newfound Land See Yourself You May do therein
as you judge will be Most Serviceable to the continent and hoist your Broad
Pendant on board any of the Vessels you choose. -
John Hancock.
1. The body of the letter is from the Harbeck Collection, HUL, and the postscript from the
Hopkins Papers, RIHS.
2. The Marine Committee letter dated August 22 requested Shaw to “purchase said Schooner
[Hawke] on the best terms in your power and assist the commodore to fit equipp and
man her with all possible expedition as a Continental Cruizer . . . supply this Vessel with
all necessary Provisions and Stores for a Six Months Cruize,” Marine Committee Letter
Book, 17, NA, and printed in Charles Oscar Paullin, ed., Out-Letters of the Continental
Marine Committee and Board of Admiralty, August, 1776 - September, 1780 (New York,
1914), I, 1. Hereafter cited as Paullin, ed., Out-Letters of the Continental Marine Com-
mittee.
Continental Marine Committee to Captain Hoysteed Hacker 1
Sir [Philadelphia] August 22d 1776
Since the dates of those orders we have already addressed to John Paul
Jones and you as Commanders of the Brigt Hampden we have in consulta-
tion with Commodore Hopkins altered your destination as you will learn
from him.'2 You are therefore to receive fresh Orders from the Commodore
and Obey them as if from Sir [&c.]
1. Marine Committee Letter Book, 17, NA.
2. See previous entry.
Continental Marine Committee to Nathaniel Shaw, Jr.1
Sir [Philadelphia] August 22nd 1776
The Secret Committee have directed Mr Barnabas Deane of Whethers-
feild Connecticut to deliver you sundry articles he has imported On Conti-
274
AMERICAN THEATRE
nental account which you are to receive for the use of the American Navy,
granting Mr Deane a receipt for the whole in order to answer the accounts
of said Secret Committee, but as Mr Deane is in want of some of those very
articles as well as others for the Frigate built under his direction,2 you are to
supply any of these and assist him in procuring any other articles wanted for
that Ship charging the same to his account or to the Ships as you shall judge
most proper. You are hereafter to render us an account of the expenditure
of all Stores you receive or buy on account of the Continent. The Salt you
will keep for the purpose of putting up Pork the ensuing Season for the use
of the Navy. We are sir [&c.]
1. Marine Committee Letter Book, 19, NA.
2. The Continental frigate Trumbull.
Francis Lewis to Captain Thomas Grinnell 1
Dear Sir Philadelphia, August 22, 1776.
I some time ago advised you that Congress had appointed you to the
command of the largest of the frigates, called the Congress now at Pough-
keepsie, and desired you would furnish me with a list of such persons as you
would recommend for your commission and warrant officers, but am as yet
without your answer, so conclude my letter miscarried. Pray let me hear
from you as soon as possible.
(Signed,) Fras. Lewis.
1. New York Provincial Congress, II, 504.
Advertisement for Deserters from the Virginia Sloop of War Scorpion1
Ran away from on board the Scorpion sloop of war,2 the following sea-
men, viz. George Patterson, boatswain, a well set man, about 5 feet 8 inches
high, brown complexion, short black hair curl’d round, and snub nose: had
on a small round hat bound, a blue jacket and narrow trousers. James
Parks, a likely well made man, about 5 feet 7 inches high, brown complex-
ion and black hair, with a cock’d hat: had on a long blue jacket and short
wide trousers. John Lowry, a stout well made man, with a red face, light
hair, about 5 feet 6 inches high: had on an old blue jacket and an old pair
of narrow duck trousers. Thomas Davis, a slender made man, about 5 feet
10 inches high, dark complexion, and much pitted with the small-pox, and
long black hair: had on, a new felt hat, blue jacket, and new osnabrig
trousers. David Rees, a short slender man, about 5 feet 5 inches high, dark
complexion, short strait black hair, and has a great impediment in his
speech: had on an old hat, blue jacket, and very dirty shirt and
trousers. Whoever takes up the said seamen, and secures them in any gaol
so that I can get them, shall receive eight dollars reward for each.
Wright Wescott.
1. Maryland Gazette, Annapolis, August 22, 1776.
2. The Scorpion was a vessel of the Virginia Potomac River fleet which accounts for the above
advertisement in a Maryland newspaper.
AUGUST 1776
275
Journal of the Virginia Navy Board 1
[Williamsburg] Thursday 22d August 1776. —
Ordered that the keeper of the Public Magazine deliver unto Capt
[William] Deane One hundred Gun Flints five hundred pounds of Gunpow-
der one Rhemm of Cartridge Paper 240 four pounds Shott, fifty two pound
Shott, fifty three pound Shott and seventy five pounds of Musquett Ball for
the use of the Schooner Revenge. -
1. Navy Board Journal, 44, VSL.
Virginia Navy Board to Smith & Roane, Essex 1
Gent Williamsburg August 22d 1776 —
We receiv’d a Letter of the 20th Instant from Mr Roan desiring to be
furnish’d with Money to purchase provisions and necessaries for the Naval
department herewith we send you three hundred pounds which we judge
will be sufficient at this time, if Salt provisions are not to be had on your
River 2 let us know & We will furnish you with that Article. Capt Wills
Cooper has orders to send two hundred and thirty Barrels for Pitch and
Turpentine to your care, half of which is to be detain’d for the use of your
River and the remainder forwarded to Mr James Hunter for the Potowmack
department. The Salt we shall inform you of by next Post.
By order of the Board I am [&c.]
Thomas Whiting 1st Commissioner
NB we shou’d be glad to know how the Salt came in Mr Bunks’s
Possession -
1. Navy Board Letter Book, VSL.
2. Rappahannock River.
Journal of H. M. Sloop Cruizer, Captain Francis Parry 1
August [1776]
Tuesday 20
Wedy 21st
Thursday 22d
[Cape Fear River] Snows point West
Modr and Cloudy wear P M saw a great Number of the
rebels on Shore
AM at 1 1 Came up and anchord here the Scorpion Un-
moord and hove short on the small bower
Little winds and Cloudy at 3 weighd and Came to
sail Empd working down the river at 7 anchord to stop
tide
at 5 weighd and Came to sail, at 7 anchord abrest of Fort
Johnston — Moord in 4 fathom Water.
1. PRO, Admiralty 51/218.
William Ogilvy to John Simpson, London 1
[Extract]
Dear Sir Pensacola 22 August 1776.
By some Vessells lately from Jamaica we learn that an Embargo was laid
on the Exportation of Provisional from that Island they being in great want
276
AMERICAN THEATRE
Sc that an Insurrection was begun among the Negroes. Mr John Graham
who is no doubt with you long ago will be able to inform you fully respect-
ing the fate of my Goods in Georgia. As soon as I understood that a Part
were retaken by the Kings ships, I wrote Admiral Howe requesting his In-
terposition for the recovery of the Value after the Salvag[e] is deducted
agreeable to law. I also wrote Capt Barkley [of] the Scarborough who car-
ried them Off. there were 6 Bales Duffils, 6 Hhds Sugar 1 Case very large Sc
2 Trunks about £600 Stg worth. I expect a full account of the Circum-
stances Soon & that at all Events I may not be charged with 72 dozen shirts
Shipped by Mr Graham not ordered by me. I have remitted [illegiblejham
Johnston Sc Co £3200 stg p this Opportunity Sc I begg you’ll remember
what you promised about the Commission to be Charged me on Goods
shipped as I have been made very Poor (to use the Indian term) by the
Georgians.
1. Red Book, XI, Md. Arch.
Journal of H. M. Sloop Nautilus, Captain John Collins 1
Moord of [f] Saint Georges Town Bermuda
AM Reed fresh beef People Empd Variously
Squally With Rain PM Came in & Anchd two Sloops from
Virginia, Reed 5 Prisoners from a Snow in Castle Harbour, 2
Anchd here a Prize Sloop taken by an Tender from Rhode
Island, receivd Information of two Rebel Privateers being off
the Island.
1. PRO, Admiralty 51/629.
2. The prisoners were the prize master and four crewmen from the Maryland privateer schooner
Enterprize. They had been overpowered on board the prize snow James, whose crew had
retaken the snow, Public Advertiser, London, October 1, 1776.
August 1776
Thursday 22
Journal of H. M. S. Boreas , Captain Charles Thompson 1
August 1776 Remarks &ca B ore as
Thursday 22 at 3 AM Saw a Sail in the S W. Quarter made Sail Sc gave
chace at 7 fir’d two Shot to bring too the Chace at 8 Saw a
Sail in the S E Quarter In 1st Reefs of the Topsls Ex-
[aminejd the Chace a Schooner from Nantucket 2 took pos-
session of Her & brought her People on Board Gave Chace
to the ESE
First part Mod Sc cloudy at 1 PM fir’d one Swivel Sc one
Nine Pounder Shotted to bring too the Chace at 3 Brot too
Sc Exd a Schooner from Dominica Bound to Newfound-
land at 5 Made Sail
1. PRO, Admiralty 51/125. The Boreas had sailed from Sandy Hook August 8 for Jamaica. She
first convoyed, 150 miles to the eastward, two victualers en route to Cork for provisions
for the Army. See Howe to Stephens, August 8, 1776.
2. Schooner Adventure, with provisions and lumber, Gayton’s Prize List, February 26, 1778, PRO,
Admiralty 1 /240.
AUGUST 1776
277
Richard Harrison to Willing, Morris 8c Co. 1
Gent. Martinique Aug. 22. 1776
I wrote you the 1st Inst Copy of which goes by this Opportunity.—
Mr. [James] Le Maitre has at length arrived here, but as I apprehended,
by way of Hallifax 8c without the Sloop. - On the Night of the 5th of June
near the Island of Bermuda, the Crew, instigated 8c headed by the Mate
(who it seems was a Caledonian) fell upon Capt [William] Britton 8c him
whilst in their Beds and threatning the least resistance with immediate
Death, made them both prisoners, at the same Instant Breaking open their
Chests 8c seizing upon all their papers, which the Hurry 8c unexpectedness of
the Assault gave them no time to destroy. Having thus far accomplished
their villainous design, they took the Management of the Vessell upon them-
selves 8c shaped a course to the N Eastward, intending as the mate has since
acknowledged, for some port of Great Britain, with hopes, no doubt, of
being generously rewarded for their Treachery. But falling in with an
armed Transport, a little to the Eastward of the Banks they were taken 8c
conducted back to Hallifax, 8c there delivered with the papers 8cca. to the
Governor 2 Le Maitre says he is ignorant of the Contents of the Letters but
supposes they contained some matters of Consequence as the Governor ap-
peared much vexed when he read them 8c treated him in a very scurvy man-
ner, suffering him to be despoiled of all he had, even his wearing Apparel,
Shoe Buckles, 8cca.
This is the third Instance of the kind that has come within my Knowl-
edge, and I am really afraid they will happen more frequently unless you are
exceedingly cautious at least in the Appointment of your Officers. - The
Congress I think could scarce devise a punishment adequate to such perfidy.
Mr Le Maitre informs that Admiral Howe arrived with his Squadron
at Hallifax about the 26th of June, but as the General his Brother had left
that place with his Army a few days before, he without making any stay, pro-
ceeded to Long Island, which it seems is now the place of rendezvous. -
According to the best Accounts he could obtain, the Ministerial Army there
consist’d of 20,000 Men, 12,000 of whom are, or I would rather say, were
Hessians, 8c 3000 Highlanders, the residue being the Remains of the Boston
Army. He adds that [John] Burgoyne was at the Head of 9000 Troops in
Canada, 8c that they were daily looking out at Hallifax for 6000 Hanover-
ians 8c a further reinforcement of Highlanders - And it is reported here
that there is a Negociation on foot between England 8c Russia for 13,000
Russians, wch are to be sent also to America. — They are formidable Stories,
8c by no means incredible, for you must be convinced long before this that
no Expence, no Means, no Art will be unessayed to crush 8c utterly ruin you.
These things I doubt not you’le have heard long ago, at least such of
them as are passing in your Neighbourhood, and you must ascribe my trou-
bling you with a repetition of them to the Anxiety where with I am contin-
ually agitated for the Success 8c prosperity of the Cause. I am Sir [8cc.]
R Harrison
278
AMERICAN THEATRE
I hope I shant have so bad an Acct to render of Capt [Thomas] Patton - but
I really begin to suspect some thing extraordinary has happened to him - He
got out safe and is no where in the West Indies, I believe. 3
1. Papers of Robert Morris, Accession 1805, LC.
1. The sloop Fanny, condemned in Nova Scotia Vice Admiralty Court, July 18. See Volume 5.
3. Harrison’s fears for Captain Patton and his vessel, the sloop Peggy, were well founded. She
was taken by H. M. S. Orpheus shortly after leaving the Delaware. Howe’s Prize List,
March 31, 1777, PRO, Admiralty 1 /487.
23 Aug.
John Langdon’s Memorandum of Supplies to the Continental
Frigate Raleigh 1
[Portsmouth, August 23, 1776]
Memorandum of Sundries supply’d Continental Ship Raleigh by John
Langdon Esqr - Vizt - on his own Account —
1776
Feby
Mar
16
8
13
14
y4 hundred lOd Nails i/2 ditto 6d ditto did Daniel Hart - <£ 1 . . 6
3 hundred 6d ditto did Stephen Potts - 2 . . 9
1/2 hundred 2d ditto \/2 ditto lOd ditto did Sami Burk - 1
1 hundred 6d ditto did Sami March -
9
9
Apr
May
11
7
24
June 16
July 20
Aug 19
21
23
11 m - lOd Nails - a 14/ -
7.12. .0
6y2 2d ditto a 20/ -
6.10. .0
382 6d ditto a 9/ -
17. .6. .6
52 4d ditto a 5/ -
13. .-. .-
44y2 pound deck Nails a 7/
1 . . 5 . 1 1 i/2
45.14. .51/2
1 . . 2 . .10 Cordage - a 70/ -
5.11. .3
128 Scanes houseline & Marline a
1/6-
9.12. .-
1 Brass Compass & 1 hanging do. did
William Hunt to repair —
3 m 3d Brads did at sundry times for Boat Builders
—
1 1 Barrells Beef a £ 3 pr Barrell
33 . . 0 . .0
2 Leads for Fishing w 714 lb did Mr. Libby-
1 2 Bushels Basket
1 Caulking Mallett -
0. .4. .0
2 ditto Irons — a 4/-
8. .-
1 Marling Spike
6. .-
1 pair Grains
7. .-
1 Cod hook 3d 1 Scraper 5/
5. .3
1. .10. .3
>odbury Langdon Papers, NHHS.
Master’s Log of H. M. S. Milford 1
August 1776 Cape Ann No 79W. 12 Leagues
Wednesdy 21 at 5 AM saw a Sail to the SE made sail and gave Chace out
2d Reef Topsails and set Steering sails.
Fresh Breezs and Clear at 5 Fired a Shot at the Chace 8c
AUGUST 1776
279
brought her too proved to be a Schooner from Nantucket for
Wood Island in 2d reef Topsails sent the Schooner away,
Thursday 22 at 7 AM saw a Sail to the gave Chace at 10 Came up
with the Chace which proved to be a Fishing Schooner, burnt
her.
Friday 23 Little Wind and Hazey
at 12 saw two Vessels Lights to the No ward, gave Chace fir’d
five Shot at the Chace and brought them too they proved to
be from Salem for Wood, at 6 made Sail and gave Chace to
a Privateer Schooner.
1. PRO, Admiralty 52/1865.
Petition of Owners of Massachusetts Privateer Schooner
Fair Lady to Enlist Three British Prisoners 1
(Massachusetts To the Honble the Council of the State of Massachusetts
State) Bay -
Nathaniel Farley 8c Jacob Martin of Ipswich in said State
Humbly Shew
That Joseph Richardson Joseph Weeks and John Thomas 2 Prisoners in
the Goal in said Ipswich who were taken by Capt Fisk Commander of an
Armed Vessel! are desirous by your honors Leave to Enlist on board the Pri-
vateer Fair Lady Jacob Martin Commander 8c as your Petitioners 8c other
owners of said Privateer are in Want of men to Man said Privateer -
Your petitioners therefore humbly pray your honors to give orders to
the Keeper of said Goal to Liberate said Prisoners for the said purpose or
give such Leave whereby your petrs may Enlist said Men as in your great
wisdom your honors shall think proper
And your Petrs as in Duty bound 8cc.
Nath1 Farley Jacob Martin
[Endorsed] In Council [Watertown] Augt 23d 1776 Read 8c Ordered that
the Prayer of the Petition be so far granted, that Said Petitioners give their
Obligations to the Sheriff of Said County, that they shall see the Men forth-
with coming whenever called for -
Jn° Avery Dpy Secy
1. Mass. Arch. vol. 165, 144-45.
2. Members of the crew of H. M. Schooner Dispatch, taken in July by the Massachusetts state
sloop Tyrannicide.
Journal of the Massachusetts Council 1
[Watertown] Friday Augst 23d 1776
Letter from Richard Derby Junr Esqr Informing the Board that the Brigan-
tine Massachstts fitted out by this State is nearly fixed 8c Only Wanting
four or six Guns 8c the thre Small Sails and desiring that Orders might be
given relative to those Articles. -
Read & Ordered that the Commissary General, be directed to deliver Two
Six Pounders out of the Row Gaily to the Said Richard Derby Esqr 8c also
280
AMERICAN THEATRE
two Other Cannon lately landed out of the Decoy Ship, and the sd Derby is
directed to take such Sails as He may want out of the Ship lying at Danvers
Mention’d in His Letter, After Appraising the same & paying for them -
1. Mass. Arch., vol. 19, 190, 193.
Journal of the Massachusetts Sloop Tyrannicide, Captain John Fisk 1
Remks on Friday 23th of August 1776
1 [A. M.] Saw a Brigt Close on board wore ship After her she wore at
the same time and in wareing we fell on board one
another Carried away our Gibboom
at 6 made sail spoke with the Brigt that run on board of
us Capt Joseph Wipple [Jabez Whipple] from Road Island on
a Cruze 2
11 we saw a sail to the S E we gave chaise in Company we Car-
ried away our topmast And ringtale boom Come up with the
Chaise Sum
Lattd in 36d 38m Longd in 6 Id 30m
At 2 P M saw a Learge ship to the southward I gave Chaise
to her left the Briggt in Chaise of the other sail at 4 spake
with the Chaise a spannish ship from Havannah bound to
Cadiz gave Chaise after the other vesel Employd Gitting up
topmast at night saw the Briggt but did not see the Other
Vesel
1. John Fisk Journal, AAS.
2. See next entry. The sloop Independence’s journal makes no mention of running afoul the
Tyrannicide.
Journal of the Rhode Island Sloop Independence ,
Captain Jabez Whipple 1
Remaks On Fryday August 23, 1776
a 4 am Cam On a harde Squrle a 6 D[ol Saw 2 Sail to S W
hove about Stood to The S. Ward a 8 hove a bout to Gitt
the Vessell In hir wake -
Lattd 35.44 Londg in 61.00
The first Part Sqwaley Large Sea
At P M out, Reefs at Sot F Jibb Saw a Large Ship to
Windard Runing Down heavy Sea Saw a Brigg Strin Stand-
ing to the No Ward
1. Independence Journal, RIHS.
Journal of the Committee Appointed to Build Two Continental
Frigates in Rhode Island 1
[Providence] August 23d
Voted that Mr John Smith be desir’d to go to Cumber[illegible] and
contract with Jeremiah Wilkinson for the Che[c]ks for the Masts and that he
AUGUST 1776
281
procure them Cut and Carted as soon as possible, and that Mr Benja Tal-
man go with him to formand the Work.
Voted That six Shillings pr Day be paid to John Lindsey and the
other persons that Work on the Gun Carriages with Mr Sumner.
Voted that Tanner be appointed a Midshipman and Benja-
min Dunham second Mate on Board the Providence
Voted That Mr Barron Lieut of the Providence desir’d to go to
Newbury and Portsmouth and Examin the Ships of War building their, and
that he Report what improvement he finds in them, that his Expences be
paid him
Voted That Mr John Brown be requested to write New York, and pur-
chase Ten Tons of Cordage [illegible] the Ships, and that it be Shipped hear
as so[on] as maybe.
Voted That the Commanding Officer of the Providence order thirty
Tons of pigg Iron on Board the said Ship and that a suitable number of
Cask be filled with water and put on Board, and that all dispatch be made to
get her below as soon as possible.
1. Journal R. I. Frigates, RIHS.
Connecticut Gazette, Friday, August 23, 1776
New-London, August 23.
Last Lord’s Day, the new Ship of War belonging to the State of
Connecticut, 1 built at Say Brook, and commanded by William Coit, Esq;
came out of the River, and arrived here on Tuesday: She is the largest Ves-
sel that has ever come over Say Brook Bar, and was piloted by Capt. James
Harris.
Last Saturday a French Sloop arrived here from the West Indies, loaded
with Sugar, Molasses and Coffee, and a few Articles of European Goods.
Since our last, three Vessels have arrived here from New-York, with To-
ries collected from that City and Long Island; who are sent into the Country
Towns.
By Means of the great Number of Prizes carried into different Ports at
the Eastward, Jamaica Rum is sold at 43 4d per Gallon by the Hogshead,
and Sugar at five Dollars per 100 Wt. in Boston.
1. Ship Oliver Cromwell.
1776 A List of the Dead & Desertd: from Capt [Seth] Harding in [Connecticut] brigg
Defence Colony Service" 1
282
AMERICAN THEATRE
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Conn. Arch., 1st Series, IX (Defence), 78, ConnSL.
AUGUST 1776
283
Major General Horatio Gates to Brigadier General Benedict Arnold1
Dear General Ty[c]onderoga 23d August 1776: -
This will be deliver’d to you by Doctor [Stephen] McCrea, whom at the
Recommendation of Doctor [Jonathan] Potts, I have appointed First Sur-
geon to the Fleet under your Command, he has Instruments, & Medicines,
two things much in request with you. Mr Francis Hagan accompanys
Mr M’Crea, as his Assistant Surgeon. I cannot procure any Instru-
ments for him here, but wish you could hire Doctor Speram’s for the
Voyage. You are I am told acquainted with Doctor M’Crea. I am assured
his Abillities are their Own Recommendation. — Another Gondola sails
from hence this morning, & the Row Galley will Sail tomorrow. Yesterday
Mr Titcomb, Mas[te]r Carpenter from Skeensborough return’d thither from
hence he got a good Recruit of Ship Carpenters Twelve of his Gang being
now Sick: he is a fine looking Fellow and seems desirous to Command The
Row Galley he has just finish’d, he professes himself a Seaman, from the
Sense, & Manly appearance of Mr Titcomb, I think you would do well to
appoint him, but I shall not interfere further than to recommend him - 1
wrote yesterday to General [David] Waterbury, to Spur him up to reinforce
you with all Speed with the Row Galleys. I am confident he will exert him-
self to Join you as expeditiously as possible. - The Rumour we heard of an
Action at New York, proves premature, the Enemy had Embarqu’d from
Staten Island, but not Landed again when the last Accounts came from
thence - it is positively asserted that The Hessian General had sent to Genl
Washington, to know what Treatment the Prisoners of that Principality
were to Expect, 8c was Answerd that they must Expect to be treated as
Hirelings - may Health Honour 8c Success attend You - 1 am Dear General
[&cj
Horatio Gates
Capt [John] Thatcher of Col: [Heman] Swifts Regt is Just come from Govr
Trumbulls where I sent him Express he says You had consented to his Com-
manding a Row Galley, he seems very fit to do it -
1. Rosenbach Collection, USNAM.
Brigadier General Benedict Arnold to Major General Horatio Gates1
[Extract] Crown Point Augt 23d 1776
Dear General I have this minute received yours by Doer [Stephen] Mc-
Crea, & am very happy at his arival as I was determined to have Sailed the
first fair wind even without a Surgeon, I believe him to be a very good,
One. I have borrowed Dr Sparhams Instrum[en]ts. I am glad to hear the
Gondalo, 8c Gaily is like to Join me so soon. - I have not the least objection
to Captain Titcomb’s commanding One of the Gallies I think he had bet-
ter take the Second he is building as takeing him from his gang before she is
finished will retard the business. - I believe Capt. Theatcher a very good Of-
ficer & could wish he might take the Command of one of the Gallies which
is done . . .
1. Gates Papers, NYHS.
284
AMERICAN THEATRE
George Washington to John Hancock 1
[Extract] New York, August 23, 1776.
Sir: I beg leave to inform Congress that Yesterday Morning and in the
course of the preceding night, a considerable body of the Enemy, amounting
by report to eight or nine thousand, and these all British, Landed from the
Transport Ships mentioned in my last at Gravesend Bay on Long Island,
and have approached within three miles of our Lines, having marched across
the Low, cleared Grounds, near the Woods at Flat Bush where they are
halted, from my last Intelligence. . . .
By Wednesday Evening’s Post I received a Letter from General Ward,
inclosing a Copy of the Invoice of Ordinance Stores taken by Captain Manly
with the Appraisement of the same, made in pursuance of my direction
founded on the Order of Congress, which I do myself the honor of
transmitting. 2
1. Fitzpatrick, ed., Writings of Washington, V, 476, 477.
2. The stores appraised were those from the ordnance brig Nancy, taken by Manley in Wash-
ington’s schooner Lee. See Volume 2.
Journal of H.M.S. Galatea , Captain Thomas Jordan 1
August 1776 Sandy Hook N 50° . 38W 163 Leagues
Friday 23rd 7 AM Saw a Sail to the Eastwd brought her too, a Schooner
from Barbadoes bound to Hallifax, out 22 Days Clear’d by
the Governer. at 11 Saw a Sail to the westwd Gave
Chace brought too a french Brigg from C. Francois Bound
to Dunkirk.
Fresh Breezes & fair Wr at 3 PM TKd to the No wd Saw a
Sail, bore away Gave Chace, at 5 Fired a shot brought
too a Schooner from Boston bound to Hispaniola, Laden
with fish Oil Lumber &ca named the Three friends , Benj
Eldridge mas[te]r, belongg [to] Cape Cod
1. PRO, Admiralty 51/380.
Captain Thomas Cregier to Thomas Randall1
Sir Cranberry Inlet, August 23d, 1776.
I received your favour about four weeks since by the hand of Doctor
Boyd, wherein I found you advised me to join Capt. [William] Rogers, but
understanding Rogers was gone to the Sound in order to refit, and what
more induced me to keep to the southward, was my having expectation of
meeting with some of the fleets, who I much expected this way, but have
been deprived of that satisfaction. There appeared six sail one day, and
seven sail the other day, but they are all large ships under strong convoys, so
there was no doing any thing with them, and every day frigates cruising
along this coast. Three days ago, fell in with a ship and sloop tender, about
ten guns, the Irigate being about a mile and a half from the sloop, and was
determined to give the sloop battle, but could not bring her to battle. I
B . Mod rik . <;,u(
Dutch Conception of the British Landing on Long Island, August 22, 1776
286
AMERICAN THEATRE
have been assisting in bringing in this and Egg Harbour Inlet, 2 prizes taken
from the West Indies by 2 different privateers; one of those prizes I had
much trouble with, and, in short, was three days at work getting the other
into port, which lay aground on the bar of Egg Harbour, a ship of three
hundred tons, laden with sugar, rum and molasses, bound to Bristol.
I am too well informed that your city is invaded by pirates and ruffians,
which I hope in God to hear a good account of them, and that very
shortly. My provisions grow short, and in a little time shall want a new
supply, unless I fall in with some of the enemy’s store vessels; but as for that
I can not promise myself, but will discharge my duty in the search of them;
and as for being supplied by the way of Long island, I believe there is no
prospect, as I do imagine the troops intend landing on the said island. My
bread is but very indifferent, and does not keep good, although it is aired
every fortnight, yet it moulds fast, and believe it never was made of sound
flour. You know I laid in only four months’ provisions, and you may judge
how long what remains will serve me; my people begin to want many arti-
cles, and I would be glad if you will send me some cash, as I may furnish
them with a little. I have advanced of my own cash to the officers and men,
thirty-nine pounds. The custom out of Philadelphia, is to advance half of
their wages monthly, and beg you will send me whatever you think proper,
and charge the same to me. I beg your advice in every respect, and any in-
struction given me, shall gladly comply with it. Myself, officers and men,
are willing at any time to march to your assistance, on the shortest notice,
and am willing to sacrifice both life and every thing to serve my
country. Whatever instruction you may have, let me have it by the bearer,
my chief lieutenant. I remain with due respect, &c
Thomas Cregier.
To Thomas Randle, Esqr. Member of the
Provincial Congress in New-York, or any
of the Marine Committee.
1. New York Provincial Congress, II, 279. Cregier commanded the armed schooner General Put-
nam.
Journal of the Continental Congress 1
[Philadelphia] Friday, August 23, 1776
Resolved , That the Marine Committee be authorized and empowered
to purchase materials, in all such parts of America as they may think proper,
for building more ships of war, and that the said committee report to Con-
gress a plan of the ships that should be built in addition to the present navy.
1. Ford, ed., JCC, V, 700.
Continental Marine Committee to Lieutenant John Baldwin 1
Sir [Philadelphia] August 23d 1776
The Continental Schooner Wasp under your command being now thor-
oughly repaired, well fitted equipped and manned you are immediately to
AUGUST 1776
287
proceed in said Schooner on a Cruize against the enemies of these
States. We deliver you herewith a Marine Book by which you will know
who are our enemies and also how to conduct yourself in conformity to the
Continental Rules and Regulations you have likewise a List of the Agents
in the several States to some of whom you must address the Prizes you take.
We deliver you herewith a Letter for a Gentleman in Bermuda which is
of much consequence to America. You are therefore to proceed with the
utmost expedition to Port Ellis at the Eastend of that Island and deliver the
said Letter as quickly as possible, receive from him any others he may send
in return, and as you will then be near the best Cruizing ground for West
India Ships you may make a Cruize about that Lattitude for such length of
Time as your Provisions will enable you to keep the Sea, unless success
should tempt you to return much sooner with a good Prize. You must be
careful of the schooner her Stores and Materials. Use your people well but
preserve strict discipline, treat prisoners if any you make, with humanity
and in all things be duely attentive to the honor and interest of
America, if you can get any Seamen at Bermuda Ship as many as you can
accommodate and bring us the best account you can obtain of the State and
condition of that Island, with respect to Provisions, Numbers of
Inhabitants what Canon arms 8cc they have there and enquire particularly
after any british men of war, that have been there, that are there, or that are
expected.
Should you be unfortunately taken either going to or after you leave
Bermuda be sure to destroy all Letters you may have for or from that
Island Should you gain any intelligence you may think important you
must quit all other pursuits to inform us thereof soon as possible. Wishing
you success We are Sir [8cc.]
1. Marine Committee Letter Book, 17-18, NA.
Lieutenant John Hennessy to the Pennsylvania Council of Safety1
Gentlemen: - Philadelphia, 23d August, 1776.
I am really sorry I lye under the disagreeable necessity of Resigning,
thro’ the means of my taking a reasonable part (as becoming an officer) w’th
Commodore [Samuel] Davison. I am sertain, was I to Continue in the fleet
(w’ch I make, no doubt, your Hon’ble board w’d appoint me to some Com-
mand,) it w’d be disagreeable to some of the Gentlemen, and for the sake
of any more disturbance, I beg leave of your Hon’ble body to request of
my Resignation. 2 I am not, upon no acco’t whatever, going to Sea in any
Private property, but in the service of the Continent, w’ch I think is respect-
fuller for a man that follow’d the sea, and more service to my Country, than
to Continue in River Service. I remain, Gentlemen, wishing the service all
the success Providence can bless ’em w’th, Your Hon’rs Most [&c.]
Jos. [John] Hennessy.
1. Pennsylvania Archives, 2nd series, I, 385.
2. Ibid., 261, 304, Hennessy had been commissioned as First Lieutenant of the gondola Effiing-
ham October 4, 1775, and transferred to the Arnold floating battery March 15, 1776.
288
AMERICAN THEATRE
Journal of the Maryland Convention 1
[Annapolis] Friday, August 23, 1776
On Motion, Resolved, That the appointment of commanders for the
vessels and armed boats ordered to be fitted out by the last convention, be
made by the Council of Safety.
1. Maryland Convention, 11.
24 Aug.
Journal of H. M. S. Scarborough , Captain Andrew Barkley 1
Augst 76
Tuesday 20th
Wednesy 21st
Thursy 22d
At a single Anchor in Annapolis [Royal] Har-
bour
Lights airs 8c Varble, empd Occasionally.
First part Modte 8c Clear, Middle & Latter light airs
6 Varble with a thick Fogg, at 4 PM weigh’d 8c
made sail, at 6 turning down into the Bason, at
7 came too in the Bason with the Best Br in 6 fathms
water and veer’d to 1/9 a Cable, the Gutts Mouth
WNW, Goat Island East,
at ten AM came in H: Majys Sloop Viper with 2
Sloops; supply ’d the Viper with Bread, 2464 pounds,
Beef 283 Ps Pork 316 pieces, Rice 510 pds. Butter
310 pounds, 8c Rum 129 Gallons; Fir’d a Gun 8c
made the Signal to weigh, Do weigh’d 8c made sail
with the Viper in Co.
First 8c Middle parts Modte 8c Cloudy, Latter Modte
with a thick Fogg, at 4 PM working through the
Gutt in Co with the Viper at 7 single Reef’d the
TSs 8c Handed Top Gallt sails at 8 Annopolis Gutt
SbE 5 or 6 Leagues at 11 brot too Main TS to the
Mast
at 2 AM lost sight of the Viper , sounded from 38 to
32 fms at 6 wore Ship 8c lay too as before, at 8 put
the Ships Company to 2/s allowance at 1 1 made sail,
let the 1st reef out of the TSs 8c set Top Gallant
sails at noon set the Fore Topmast studding
sail the Viper in sight.
First part Modte wr with a thick fogg, Middle 8c
latter Modte 8c Cloudy, at 1 P. M lost sight of
the Viper at 5 wore ship, at y2 past 7 came too
with the Best Bower in 10 fathms water in the
mouth of St Johns River, Cape Respect SEbEi/^E
2 Leagues, Mushquash Cover head SWbWi/2W 3
Leagues, 8c Partridge Island NNE distant 1 mile,
found here H: Majy’s Sloop Viper.
AUGUST 1776
289
Friday 23d at 5 AM weigh’d and Run further up St John’s Riv-
er, Mush Quash Cove head SEbE 3 Leags Cape
Respect SE 4 or 5 miles, Sc St Johns No b W 3 or 4
miles
First part Modte Sc Cloudy, Middle Modte Sc fair lat-
ter fresh Breezes Sc Cloudy at 4 P. M made the Vi-
pers Signal for the Captain at 6 fired a Gun Sc made
the Signal to weigh at i/2 past weigh’d Sc made sail
the Viper in Co at 10 brot too Main TS to the
Mast at 1 1 made sail,
Satury 24th at 4 A M set the Driver Sc studding sails the Viper
in Co at 8 the Isle of Holt ESE distant 4 or 5
Leagues.
First part fresh Breezes Sc Cloudy with Rain at times.
Middle Modte Sc Cloudy, Latter fresh Breezes Sc
Clear, at 2 P. M Hawled down the steering sails,
at 3 came too off Fort Cumberland with the Best
Br in 7 fathms water Sc moor’d with a Cable each
way, the fort EbN Sc the Fogin head SW, Anchored
here the Viper Sc Gage Sloop:
1. PRO, Admiralty 51 /867.
“At Windsor, 40 Miles from Halifax, Nova Scotia,
Aug. 24, 1776” 1
Declaration of James Young, First Mate, and John M’Kurdy, Second
Mate of the Anne Transport, on board of which were 100 Men of the 72d
Regiment
That on the 8th of June, they were taken near Cape Ann by
four privateers, and carried into Marblehead; that they privately
bought a boat and made their escape to Annapolis Royal about a
fortnight ago.
That the rebels have four forts, at or near Marblehead, but
keep a guard only in one of them, where there are thirty pieces of
cannon, two of which are forty-two pounders, which they brought
from Boston; the trunions being broke off, they have fixed them in
wooden stocks, and mounted them on carriages.
That there are two large ships at Newburyport, rigged, but no
guns or men: 2 A brig of fourteen guns at Salem, and one at Ports-
mouth, ready for sea.
That the Dispatch Schooner, of five guns, was carried into
Salem the latter end of last month, by a sloop of 14 guns. The Cap-
tain, [John] Goodridge, and his brother, the mate, killed. The
master lost his arm, and five out of eight seamen killed. 3 That
the surgeon, a Mr. Charley, is at Marblehead.
That eight ships from the West Indies have been taken.
290
AMERICAN THEATRE
That they are fitting out one of them, which was a Spanish frigate,
to carry 20 guns.
That a ship belonging to one Reid, [James] Kennedy, master,
that sailed from Halifax with Gen. Howe, is taken. That Mr.
Benjamin Davis, and several others were passengers, and that they
treated Mr. Davis very ill. 4 That they do not give the prisoners
sufficient provisions, but offer them good wages to enter on board
their privateers, and that many do enter.
That the rebels had, for some time, a flag flying in Nantasket-
road, to decoy vessels in, and that as their men were coming out of
Marblehead, they saw a large ship going in, which they took to be a
transport.
That the congress have promised the masters of the prizes, that
they shall have leave to go away the 1 1th of September.
That the people in the country were in great distress for want
of provisions, much discontented, and say, they do not like this sort
of liberty.
That there are very few in arms at Boston, and only a few ar-
tillery at Castle William.
1. London Chronicle, October 10 to October 12, 1776.
2. The Continental frigates Hancock and Boston.
3. The Dispatch was taken by the Massachusetts state sloop Tyrannicide.
4. The ship Peggy.
The Freeman's Journal, Saturday, August 24, 1776
Portsmouth, Aug. 24, 1776
Capt. Francis Brown, who arrived here last Sunday, in 9 weeks from
Amsterdam, laden with drugs, dry goods, spices, 8cc. &c. informs us he saw a
fleet of about 30 sail (which he took to be Howe’s) the 31st of May, in the
English Channel - He could procure no public papers on any terms.
Last Tue[s]day the Nelly Frigate, of London, Capt. Lyonel Bradstreet,
commander, last from the Bay of Honduras, with 126,000 feet Mahogany, 40
tons Logwood, and a number [of] fine Turtle, was sent into this Port, by the
Hancock and Franklin Cruizers - She was taken in Latt. 38 00 N. Long. 65
06 W. out 10 Weeks.1
We are desired to Inform the Public, the Account in last Week’s Boston
Papers concerning the taking the Ship Reward (bro’t into this Port) by
S[t]ratagem is a mistake; as she was chased from one o’Clock P.M. till 12
next Morning, when she struck to the Hancock privateer. 2
1. The Nelly Frigate was captured by Washington’s schooners Franklin, Captain John Skimmer,
and Hancock, Captain Samuel Tucker, on August 6, 1776. She was libeled against on Au-
gust 23, The Freeman’s Journal, August 31.
2. See New-England Chronicle, August 15, 1776.
Journal of the Massachusetts Sloop Tyrannicide, Captain John Fisk 1
Remks on Satterday 24th of August 1776
5 [A. M.] Pleasant weather
AUGUST 1776
291
6 Down all sails saw nothing of our Chaise
12 Hasey weather
Lattd in 36d 21m Longd in 61d 21m
At 1 P M saw a sail to the S E gave Chaise
At 5 spake with the Chaise a french snow from Porteprince
bound to Burdox 30 days out tack ship stood to the northward
squally
1. John Fisk Journal, AAS.
Journal of the Rhode Island Sloop Independence ,
Captain Jabez Whipple 1
Remarks On Saturday August 24 1776
Last part Wethear as Pr Logg
Good Observation
The First Part heavea Sqales Thunder and Lighting
Lasted one our Then Pleseant
Saw a Stran[ge Ship] Wee out Reef Sot F Jibb thick
Wethear to the Southward Reft M Saile Took Bunnitt of[f] the
head Sales
1. Independence Journal, RIHS.
“A Journal Kept By Ephraim Briggs On Board of the Good Sloop
Warren A Bold Privateer From Dartmouth to the Lattd of 33:” 1
Saterday August the 24 Day A D 1776
First Part 3 A Clock Hald From the Wharfe the Wind at SW.
A Fine Brease Run Down A Brest with Clarks Pint Ancord
1. RIHS. The Warren, Wyatt Barlow, master, was a Massachusetts privateer of six guns and
fifty men.
Owners' Request for a Privateering Commission for the Rhode Island
Sloop Lady Washington 1
Sir, Newport August 24th 1776
We the Subscribers all of the County of Newport in the State of Rhode
Island 8cc. request your Honor to grant a Commission or Letters of Marque
and Reprisal to James Godfrey — Commander of the Sloop call’d the Lady
Washington of which we are Owners. She is burthened about Seventy-
Tons carries Eight Carriage Guns Three Pounders and Ten Swivel
Guns manned with Seventy Men, and fitted with a suitable Quantity of Mus-
kets, Blunderbusses, Cutlasses, Pistols, Powder Ball and other Military
Stores. She hath on board Thirty barrels of Beef and Pork Two Tons -of
Bread with some Flour, Rice, Beans, Pottatoes 8cc. Henry Weedon is First
292
AMERICAN THEATRE
Lieutenant and Daniel Sewat is Second Lieutenant and Thomas Cotterel is
Master. We are with great Respect Sir [Sec.]
Lemuel Wyatt Bill Coggeshalle
Thomas Earl August Newmen
Sam1 Browne Nathaniel Gyles
Sam1 Vernon Jr. Henry Weeden
John Cog. Almy John Cook
Jas Godfrey
1. Maritime Papers, Letters of Marque, 1776-1780, R. I. Arch. Commission and Instructions were
issued by Governor Cooke the same day.
Colonel Joseph Reed to Governor Jonathan Trumbull1
Sir There can be no doubt that before this reaches you you will have heard
that the Enemy have landed a considerable body of men on Long Island
within 7 miles of our Lines. We cannot yet determine whether the main
body of the Army is landed with a view to make a general attack on that
side, or whether it is a large detachment sent to draw off our attention from
this place while they proceed up with their Fleet and principal Force - The
success has been various in the little skirmishes we have had, but our Troops
have generally drove them back.
Before his Excellency rode out this morning he directed me to acquaint
you with our Situation, and to submit to your consideration, whether it
would be possible to transport a body of men (say 1000) to Long Island
below the Enemy with a view to divide their Force and make a di-
version - His Excellency is not insensible that a great part of the
Western Militia are now in this Camp, but he supposes it might be possi-
ble that the Eastern Militia might be employed in such a service. I should
illy express the General’s intention, if what I have said should be construed
into an order or even a request, unless in your own judgement Sc those with
whom you think proper to consult, it should stand fully approved: nor will
our operations be governed in the least by a dependence on such a
measure. But at the same time the great advantages arising from it are so
extremely obvious that I need not enlarge upon them.
I have the honor to present you with the Genls respect and to assure
you that I am [8cc.]
Head Quarters N. York Augt 24th 1776
1. Trumbull Papers, XXIX, Letter Book IV, 334, ConnSL.
Journal of H.M.S. Galatea, Captain Thomas Jordan 1
August 1776 Sandy Hook No 30°: 38W 163 Leagues
Saturdy 24th Saw a Sail to the wd 5 Brought too the Chace a sloop from
St Crist[ophe]r for Hallifax Named the Patsey.
Fresh Breezes Sc Cloudy at 1 PM TKd at 4 Brought too
the T wo Brothers Schooner from Chingotaigue bound to the
AUGUST 1776
293
West Indies Benj Chew mastr Laden with Tobacco & Indian
Corn. These 24 hours the Prize in tow.
1. PRO, Admiralty 51/380.
Journal of H.M.S. Orpheus , Captain Charles Hudson 1
Augt [17]76 Cape Henlopen WBN 14 Leagues
Saturday 24 at 5 AM saw the Land at 7 Henlopen Light house West 2
Leagues.
Mod: & fair at 2 P M came too with the Best Br in 10 fm in
old kil road, Light house on Cape Henlopen SBEt sent a
Flag of truce on shore wth 41 Prisoners 2 at 6 weighed &
came to sail Close Reef’d Topsails
1. PRO, Admiralty 51/4279.
2. The journal of Bartholomew James reads: “On the 13th of August the Orpheus arrived from
her cruise with seven prizes, and on the 14th I joined my ship, having been absent from
her ten weeks. On the 16th we weighed and made sail towards Philadelphia, having this
morning buried Mr. Lee, surgeon’s second mate, and on the 24th we arrived at Cape Hen-
lopen, where I was sent on shore with a flag of truce, to land forty masters of vessels, that
had been taken by the different ships of war. I was received by a body of militia, who
cut a most despicable figure, and who, in return for our civil treatment of their friends,
gave me three cheers.’’ John Knox Laughton, ed., Journal of Rear-Admiral Bartholomeiu
James 1752-1828 (London, 1896), 29. Hereafter cited as Laughton, ed., James’ Journal.
Maryland Council of Safety to Gerrard Hopkins 1
No 164.
Sir, We send you up by Captain [Thomas] Walker who commands the
small Tender belonging to the Defence some Powder he has brought up
from Virginia, the quantity you will be pleased to take a particular Ac-
count of and give Captain Walker a Receipt for; - The powder is to be
Stored in Some convenient place in or near Baltimore Town, until the Mag-
azine can be compleated - you are to send down Forty half Barrels of Mus-
quet Powder by the Schooner Resolution , also send by her whatever has
been heretofore ordered to be sent and not already complyed with. -
We desire you would apply to Captain Nathaniel Smith and enquire
whether there be any Cannon at Whetstone Point not mounted that can be
spared if there should be; send them down here by the Schooner
Resolution. - also the Skow purchased by Jesse Hollingsworth - we are in-
formed there are some, Nine and Eighteen Pounders not mounted lately
brought down We are Sec:
P.S. Send also any Shott that may be ready -
[Annapolis] 24 August 1776.
1. Council of Safety Letter Book, No. 1, Md. Arch. Hopkins was Commissary of Stores at Balti-
more.
Journal of the Virginia Navy Board 1
[Williamsburg] Saturday 24 August 1776. —
Ordered that a Warrant Issue to Messrs Dixon & Hunter for the use of Neil
294
AMERICAN THEATRE
McCoul for Three hundred and fifty Pounds it being for the purchase of the
Schooner Hornett. -
1. Navy Board Journal, 46, VSL.
Journal of the Virginia Council of Safety 1
[Williamsburg] Saturday. August 24th 1776.
A Permit was issued to Captain John Southcomb of the Lugger Ram-
bler a Square Stern Vessell burthen forty Tons, built in Gloucester, the
property of John Dixon & William Patterson & laden with Tobacco and
Flour Per manifest filed to proceed to Saint Eustatia, or other ports allowed
of by Congress, the said Captain having entered into and acknowledged
Bond with Security for the purpose, which is ordered to be registered.
Ordered that Captain Richard Johns of the Schooner Pilot Boat, Grey-
hound be desired to receive the Chevalier D. Harincourt as a Passenger to
Martinico, and provide for him as a Gentleman at the expence of this
Commonwealth. 2
A Permit was issued to Captain Thomas Roberts of the Schooner Boat
fifth Regiment Burthen twenty five Tons, the property of Josiah Parker and
Company of Virginia laden with Tobacco and Corn as Per manifest filed to
go to Curracoa or other port or place allowed by Congress, he having
executed Bond with Security which is Ordered to be recorded.
1. Mcllwaine, ed., Journals of the Virginia Council, I, 132, 134.
2. See Journal of the Council of Safety, July 19, 1776. Volume 5, 1146.
Virginia Navy Board to Colonel Fielding Lewis, Fredericksburg 1
Sir, Williamsburg August 24th 1776
Your Letter of 21st Instant we have receiv’d and according to your De-
sire have sent you one thousand Pounds by Capt Richard Taylor We de-
sire the Galleys may be sent round to Queens Creek on York River as soon
as they have every thing else on Board fit for a cruise where we will endea-
vour to provide the Cannon wanting for one of them the four threepoun-
ders you mention we will procure for you as soon as possible. I am for the
Board [&c.]
Thomas Whiting 1st Commr
1. Navy Board Letter Book, VSL.
Dixon and Hunter’s Virginia Gazette, Saturday, August 24, 1776
Williamsburg, August, 24.
Master Alex. Silver, a little Gentleman who was taken at Norfolk gath-
ering strawberries in a garden, and discharged, and again taken at Gwyn’s is-
land, in the sloop Lady Charlotte tender, and who is said to be a relation of
Capt. Squire’s, 1 was put to school in this city by order of the Council, and is
now very happily situated.
1. Captain of H. M. Sloop Otter.
AUGUST 1776
295
Journal of H.M. Sloop Otter , Captain Matthew Squire 1
August [1776] [Off the North Carolina Coast]
Saturday 24 At 2 A M clewed up Topsails & up Courses, in 2 Reefs. At
6AM out reefs, at 10 saw a Sail in the SW 8c gave chace.
Light Breezes & cloudy.
At 2 P M fired several Shot at the Chace. At past 3PM
sent the Pinnace manned 8c armed after her. Found her a
Brig from Lisbon for Philadelphia, load with Salt. Took
the Master & Men onboard 8c sent a Petty Officer 8c Men on
board to navigate her.
1. PRO, Admiralty 51/663.
Protest of John Bynoe, Master of the British Brigantine Betsey 1
Bermuda, als
Somer Islands
By His Excellency George James Bruere
Esqr Governor, Commander in Chief
and Vice Admiral of these Islands -.
To all to whom This Present Writing or Instrument of Protest shall
come or may concern Greeting.
Know Ye that this twenty fourth day of August in the year of our Lord one
Thousand seven hundred and Seventy Six, before me personally appeared
John Bynoe Master of a Certain Brigantine called the Betsey who Solemnly
made Oath on the Holy Evangelists of Almighty God that he arrived in Vir-
ginia from the Grenadoes in His Brigantine on, or about the Twenty Sec-
ond day of October last past, that he landed some part of his Cargo, and
kept some Rum 8c Sugar on board belonging to the owner; that soon after he
was directed by His owner to get the Vessel in Order to proceed to Bermuda
to carry him there 8c that she might be repaired in that Island, that he ac-
cordingly took on Board, some Plank and other Necessary Articles for the
use of the Vessel, and was ready to proceed when the Provincial Troops
came to Norfolk, that he understood his Owner Doctor Archibald Campbel
was gone to Williamsburgh by Order of Colonel [William] Woodford, that
in his absence David Anderson his Clerk, sent Sundry Articles, chiefly
Household Furniture on board, belonging to said Campbell; who told him,
he apprehended them unsafe in Town, as they expected it would be de-
stroyed, that Lord Dunmore and the Capt of the Kings Ships put all the Ves-
sels in the Harbour under their Directions, that after the Arrival of his
Owner from Williamsburgh he understood he had applyed for Leave to get
his Vessel and Effects out of the Fleet, but without Success, that soon after
an Order was Issued out by Lord Dunmore forbiding all Species of Goods to
be landed under the Penalty of Confiscation of Vessel and Cargo, that he
remained with the Fleet during the diferent movements] in Virginia untill
the thirtieth Ulto when Lord Dunmore sent for the Captainfs] of the Vessels
in the Fleet on board him and told them that they were at Liberty to pro-
ceed where they pleased, accept [sic except] to the Continent And that he
would furnish them with a Clearance to prevent them from being taken by
296
AMERICAN THEATRE
the Kings Cruisers, that he obtained a Clearance from him, and gave the
same to all the other Vessels, that he Sail’d for these Islands of Bermuda on
the Sixth Instant in Company with the Otter Sloop of War 8c many other
Vessels in Order to meet his owner; that on the Twenty second of the same
Month (August) in sight of the said Island, he was brought too by the An-
drew Dorear an Armed Vessel belonging as he understood to the Continent
of America Commanded by Capt Bidle, that he was ordered on board 8c
that some Officers 8c part of the Crew belonging to the said Armed Vessel
went on board of his Brigantine, 8c carried away Sundry Articles the Proper-
ty of said Campbell to wit, one Hogshead of Rum, one Sixty Gallon Cask of
old Rum, two Quarter Cask of Wine, one hogshead 8c part of a Hogshead of
Sugar sundry Articles of Household Furniture such as Beds Picktures, look-
ing Glasses, a Clock, Pewter, one Table, some Glass, 8c Stone Were
8c many other Articles together with a Box of Books 8c Papers, also five Ne-
gro Men Slaves, three of which, to wit Ben Jack 8c Phil belonging to the Es-
tate of John Gilchrist, and [blotted] Luke belonging to sd Archibald
Campbell, which were all the Men he had to Navigate his Vessel, that he
was then ordered on board his Brigt 8c allowed to proceed 8c by the Assist-
ance of John Marshead a Passenger he Carried the Brigt to Bermuda, that
he knows Many of the owners of Vessels 8c Goods in that Fleet, who now live
in Virginia but could not get their Property out of the Fleet, Wherefore
the said John Bynoe for himself his Mariners, Owners 8c Freighters 8c all oth-
ers whom it doth or may Concern does hereby Protest against the Matters
aforesaid 8c all damages occasioned or Sustained thereby as also against all
Costs, delays disappointments, Expences and other Matters & things wch can
or may lawfully be protested against in as Large & Ample Manner as the
same can or may be done by Law or form. And Persevering in the said
Protest the said Appearer hath hereunto set his hand the day and Year first
within written - .
John Bynoe
This done and Protested before me the Governor 8c Vice Admiral aforesd.
In Testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand 8c Caused the Great Seal
of these Islands to be affixed the day 8c year aforesaid.
George Jas Bruere
By His Excellency’s Command.
Jn° Randle D: Secy
1. Book of Bonds, Deeds and Grants, No. 14, 395-96, Bda. Arch.
Intelligence from Antigua 1
St. John’s, (in Antigua) August 24.
This morning arrived in this harbour, the sloop Elizabeth, Robert Bur-
chall commander, from Tortola, bound for Newfoundland, which vessel
with those undermentioned were taken by a Pirate schooner fitted out in
Maryland, called the Enterprize, of 12 guns and [30] men, commanded by a
James Campbell, the sloop was returned in order to convey those who were
not wanted to assist in the navigation of the vessels so taken, viz.
AUGUST 1776
297
Ship Lancaster [Vc Lancashire ], Capt. Jones, for Liverpool, — brig,
, from Grenada for Ireland, — ship Black River, Capt. Currie,
from Dominica for Bristol, - brig from St. Croix for Dun-
kirk, belonging to Guernsey — snow James, Isaac Higgins, from this Island
for Lancaster — the brig Marriot, Capt. Hammond from Barbadoes for
Cork was spoke with by Capt Higgins in lat. 28, and when the pirate took
possession of his vessel a brig was in sight, to which they gave chase.2 The
Captain of the pirate informed the prisoners that the American Rebels had
declared themselves independent before he sailed.
The following receipt was taken on board the pirate.
I Do hereby acknowledge to have received of Capt. James
Campbell of the Enterprise privateer of Maryland, the sloop
Elizabeth taken by him some days ago, on the following condi-
tions, viz.
That I shall land Mr. Thomas Willock 3 and such other
people as said Campbell shall send on board, at Antigua, and
there deliver to the said Mr. Thomas Willock, all the cargo I
now have on board, to be by him divided among[st] the mates
and crew of the snow James, also taken by said Campbell, in
such proportion as the said Mr. Thomas Willock shall find upon
enquiry, the said cargo may be as to the loss of every individual
of said [illegible] crew, and the vessel to be delivered to the
former owner, which conditions I promise to fulfill; and do
now hereby voluntarily subscribe the same this 13th of August
1776.
Robert Burchall
Witness. James Hankinson.
1. Pennsylvania Journal , October 9, 1776. Reprinted from an Antigua newspaper.
2. The snow James was retaken by some of the prisoners on board her, and the prize master and
four of the men of the prize crew were placed on board a tender from H. M. Sloop Nau-
tilus at Bermuda, Public Advertiser, London, October 1, 1776. See also journal of the
Nautilus, August 22, 1776.
3. Willock was a passenger on board the James.
25 Aug. (Sunday)
“Extract of a Letter from Halifax, Aug. 25.” 1
The Yankee Hero Privateer, was sold here for 850 1. Sterling, to the Hon.
John Butler, Esq; who has fitted her out to cruize against the Provincials.
The Liverpool Man of War has been very successful in taking and re-
taking of Vessels, one of the latter, called the Nevis, from the Island of
Nevis, and said to be worth 20,000 1. Sterling, he retook just as she was
entering Boston Harbour; t’was in the Night, but Moonlight, when the
Prize-master being asked by one of the Nevis s People how far it was to Bos-
ton Harbour, told him he was only going down to make a Cann of Grog,
and he would see it perhaps before he came up again; in five Minutes after
this the Liverpool hove in Sight, and fired a Shot into her, and on her not
bringing to, a second, and a third, when she thought proper to strike to the
298
AMERICAN THEATRE
Liverpool, who conducted her safely into this Port; where have been
brought upwards of thirty Vessels taken from the Rebels, including the re-
taken ones.
1. Public Advertiser, London, October 25, 1776.
Master’s Log of H.M.S. Milford 1
August 1776
Saturdy 24
Sundy 25
Thatchers Island North 2 or 3 Leags
At 5 AM saw a large Ship in the NW Quarter standg to the
So ward, made Sail and gave Chace, at 8 Tack’d Ship and
stood to the No ward as did the Chace
Fresh Breezs and Cloudy between 2 PM 8c 4 fir’d 20 Shot
at the Chace run her close in under Marble Head Forts
the Forts fired several Shot at us, fired 15 Shot more
at the Chace at 5 Tkd and stood out the Chace working up
the Harbour 2
at 1/2 past 12 saw a sail close under the Land, gave Chace, the
Chace ran into Braces Cove, hoisted out the Cutter 8c Pinnace
manned and Armed, the Provincials quitted her and went on
shore, where they gather’d together to fire at our Boats as
they boarded the Vessel on which the Attack began with
small Arms, cut the Brig from her Anchors and towed her
out the Rebels continually firing on our Boats, the Ship con-
tinually firing on them, she proved to be the Diana Wt In-
diamn, for Cork had been taken by the Rebels,3
at Noon gave Chace to the Et ward.
Little wind and Clear at 2 Fired a Shot and brought too the
Chace sent a boat onboard 8c took possession proved to be
an American Wood Sloop for Boston, made Sail and stood to
the Et ward at 10 parted Company with the Sloop and sent
her to Hallifax
1. PRO, Admiralty 52 / 1865.
2. Ship Isaac, 400 tons, prize of Massachusetts privateer sloop Warren, Captain John Phillips.
3. The Diana had been taken early in August by the Massachusetts privateer sloop Rover, Cap-
tain Simon Forrester of Salem. She was libeled against in the Halifax Vice Admiralty
Court on September 14, Vice Admiralty Register, vol. 5, 1769-1777, N.S. Arch.
William Knox to Colonel Henry Knox 1
[Extract] Boston August 25th 1776.
. . . The Milford Frigate of 28 Guns came to our Bay yesterday, the last
evening a Ship tis said very narrowly escap’d falling into her hands, she
(the ship) put into Marblehead with all sail, had she had two miles further
to have gone, she must have been inevitably lost as the Milford was just at
her Stern; this morng. we heard a very heavy firing of[f] in the Bay since
which we have an accot of the Frigate’s having takeng a Schooner from
which she took all the hands 8c then Burnt her - ’tis said the Council has
sent an expresses to Newbury 8c to the other seaports where there are Con-
AUGUST 1776
299
tinental Frigates with orders that such of them as are only waiting for Guns,
shall have them from the Forts for the purpose of coming round to attack
the Milford immediately; if so we shall have some sport here soon, but I
dont think its true. Capt Hector McNeal Commands one of the Newbury
Frigates of 32 Guns call’d the Boston, Capt Manley the other. . . .
1. Henry Knox Papers, MassHS.
Abigail Adams to John Adams 1
[Extract] Boston August 25 1776
The privateer Independance which saild from Plymouth about 3 weeks
ago has taken a jamaca man laiden with Sugars and sent her into Marble-
head last Saturday. I hear the Defence has taken an other.
I think we make a fine hand at prizes.
1. Butterfield, ed., Adams Family Correspondence, II, 106-08.
Journal of the Rhode Island Sloop Independence,
Captain Jabez Whipple 1
Remarks On Sunday August 25, 1776
Betweene Ten & 1 1 Spoke with our Prise Brigg the man at
Mast head Caled out Sales Brigg & a Sloop hire Cost N.E 2
Lattd 38.00 Londg in 62.10
The First heavy Squales Large Sea Compeny with our Prise
1. Independence Journal, RIHS.
2. Ibid., the rough log explains this jumble of words thus: “Between 10. & 11. Spake Our Prize
Brigg Who Informd us She saw a Sloop Chase the Ship Our Prize.”
Nathaniel Shaw, Jr.’s Account of Fresh Meat Supplied the
Continental Brig Cabot while in New London Harbor1
1776 The Brig Cabot
Dr
To
pd
for
Fresh Meet from
June 26th to 16th July
£23.
16.
. —
To
17th 212 lb Mutton (a)
3d
2.
13.
. —
To
pd
for
do
from
19th to
the
24th July
7.
17.
.6
To
pd
for
do
from
25th to
the
28th July
5.
19.
.9
To
pd
for
do
from
Augt 1st to
the 5th
5.
.8.
.3
To
pd
for
do.
from
the 7th
to
the 8th
2.
.2.
.9
To
pd
for
do
from
the 9th
to
14th Augt
6.
12.
.5
To
pd
for
do
the 6th Augt
0.
16.
.9
To
pd
for
do
from
the 15th to
22d
9.
.7.
. 6
To
pd
for
do
from
the 23d
to
25th
4.
.3.
io%
Charged to the Cabots Accot £68. 17. .9^4
2
1. Shaw Papers, Book 9, 10, YUL.
2. Ibid., Shaw also prepared an account on August 24 for meat supplied the Connecticut brig
Defence.
Journal of H.M.S. Asia , Captain George Vandeput 1
August 1776 Moor’d off Staten Island
Sunday 25 AM the Signal for a Lieut sent the Flat Boats to carry the
300
AMERICAN THEATRE
Hessians from Staten Island to Long Island - dried Sails
Fresh Breezes with Rain at times
1 . PRO, Admiralty 51/67.
John Adams to Abigail Adams 1
[Extract] Philadelphia August 25. 1776
We are now approaching rapidly to the autumnal ALquinox, and no
great Blow has yet been struck, in the martial Way, by our Enemies nor by
Us. If We should be blessed this Year, with a few Storms as happy as those
which fell out last Year, in the Beginning of September, they will do much
for Us. The British Fleet, where they now lie, have not an Harbour, so
convenient, or safe, as they had last Year. Another Winter will do much
for Us too. We shall have more and better Soldiers. We shall be better
armed. We shall have a greater Force at Sea. We shall have more
Trade. Our Artillery will be greatly increased, our Officers will have more
Experience, and our Soldiers more Discipline - our Politicians more Cour-
age and Confidence, and our Enemies less Hopes. Our American Common-
wealths will be all compleatly form’d and organized, and every Thing, I
hope, will go on, with greater Vigour.
1. Butterfield, ed., Adams Family Correspondence , II, 108-10.
Master’s Log of H. M. Armed Vessel Cherokee 1
Moored in Savannah River
at 1 1 AM sent five Seamen wth small Arms on board the Rav-
ens Tender Do she sailed in Chace of a Vessel in the Of-
fing which we took to be a Sloop Standing to the ENE Do
Loosed sails to Dry
Fresh breezes and fair Wear at 11 PM the Ravens Tender
returned having Lost sight of the Chace
at 8 AM mann’d and Armed our boats and sent them In
Compy wth the Ravens boats in Chace of a boat in the No
Channel of the river at 1 1 the boats returned wth the Chace
two white Carpenters in her
1. PRO, Admiralty 52/1662.
August 1776
Saturday 24
Sunday 25
Journal of H. M. Sloop Nautilus, Captain John Collins 1
August 1776 Moor’d of [f] Saint Georges Town Bermuda
at 3 A M Unmoor’d ship sett up Lower & Topm RiggingFriday 23d
Squally with Thunder 8cc. Reed fresh Beef
Saturday 24th i/£ p 5 A M Weigh’d & Came to Sail out of St Georges
Harbor Passed by In the Entrance of the Harbor an Eng-
lish Brig & Spanish Snow.
Strong Gales & Squally with Rain Saw a sail to the south-
ward and Chaced Do fired 2 Shot and Brot Too a Spanish
AUGUST 1776
301
Polackta [polacre] l/2 p 7 in 2d Rf TSails Lost the Log
and one line y^ past 9 Handed the Topsails y^ p 1 1 Saw
the Land bearing NWbW.
Sunday 25 Sett Close Rft TSs
Fresh breezes and Squally, at 3 P M Came too in Castle
Harbr wt the B B in 5 fm Veered & Steadyed the Ship
with a Kedge Anchor.
1. PRO, Admiralty 51/629.
Vice Admiral Clark Gayton to Captain Stair Douglas,
H.M.S. Squirrel 1
(Copy)
Whereas I have receiv’d Intelligence that there are several Arm’d Amer-
ican Privateers Cruizing in the Windward Passage particularly about the
Caicos’s where they are Supplied with great quantities of Gun Powder &
Ammunition by Vessels under French Colours.
You are therefore hereby requir’d & directed to proceed with his Majes-
tys Ship under your Command together with his Majestys Schooner Porcu-
pine (whose Commander is directed to follow your orders) into the Wind-
ward Passage & Cruize to intercept those Vessels, which if you find
Impracticable you are in that case to Cruize where you may think most like-
ly to intercept them; avoiding as much as possible coming within Sight of
the Island of Hispaniola, useing every means in your Power to Distress the
Rebellious North Americans
If during your Cruize you should be in want of Water, and cannot com-
pleat without puting into the Island of Hispaniola you are to make the best
of your way for Jamaica
You are to return and Join me in this Harbour by the Middle of Octo-
ber, or sooner if any unforseen Accident should require it such as springing
a Mast &c &c, or by gaining any Intelligence which you may judge Necessary
for my immediate Knowledge, or should you Seize a Number of Vessels, &
think proper to come into Port to take onboard your own People again, in
either of those Cases; you are to return with the utmost expedition for
which this shall be your order.
Given under my Hand onboard His Majs Ship
Antelope in Port Royal Harbour Jamaica this 25th
August 1776
Clark Gayton
1. PRO, Admiralty 1/240.
26 Aug.
Joshua Wentworth to George Washington 1
Sir, Portsmouth Augst. 26, 1776
I have the pleasure to advise the arrival at this Port a Prize Ship named
the Nelly Frigate (Lyonel Bradstreet Mastr) from the Bay of Honduras for
302
AMERICAN THEATRE
London, Lading with a Cargo of 120,000 feet Mahogany Logs, and Thirty
Tons ship’t & un[illegible] Logwood, sent in by the Hancock Capt Tucker &
the Franklyn Capt Skimmer, in the service of the United Colonies. The
Vessel 8c Cargo the property of Inhabitants of Great Brittian, I have Libled
her 8c shall persue to Trial 8cca
The Trial on the recapture of the Brig. Elizabeth, taken by Comr Man-
ly 8c others in the service of the Continent 8c bound for Halifax, ended the
22d Inst The Jury acquited her 8c Cargo, which appearing so directly Con-
tarary to the Resolves of Congress 8c the Law of this Colony; That I con-
ceiv’d it my Duty to appeal; in Justice to the Continent 8c Captors, which I
hope Your Excellency will approbate. Part of the Claimants (notwith-
standing the verdict is in their favor) are desireous of compromiseing with
the Captors, and offer them their full Quota, of Salvage Which is, the one
third of half the Value of Vessel 8c Cargo, we havg establish’d that the
Enemy were [in] Possession more than ninty six hours, but the flagrant
error in the Jury, forbid my conceedg to any compromise, for the Captors,
as in that Case I must have surrender’d the Just Claim of the Continents,
added to which there was taken with said Brigt a Mr [William] Jackson, a
Mr [Edward] Keighley 8c Mr [Richard] Newton passengers with their Effects,
8c those Effects are Intended, as the resolves of Congress express to supply
the enemy, 8c become forfited yet th[ey] were releas’d with the rest of the
Cargo - Each claim is seperate, shou’d Your Excellency recommend my
compromisg with those Claimants who are Esteem’d friendly, I shall Com-
port with it, but as your last favor desired my persuing the line of Duty
pointed out by the Laws of the Continent I shall steedily attend toe them,
until otherways directed — From a Principle of Humanity I cou’d wish the
suffering Claimants cou’d be releived, but I think it out of the line of my
Duty to help them - In a few days I shall forward the appeal to the Secre-
tary of Congress and fully advise him thereon, and shou’d he think it neces-
sary Shall attend the Trial at Philadelphia or elswhere that may be ap-
pointed
The Nelly Frigate is a Ship of 305 Tons mounts 2 three pounders 8c 4
Two pounders.
This Eastern Country are anxiously concern’d for Your Excellencys
Success in the Important Battle, expected to have taken place ’ere this;
whi’h God Grant has terminated in favor of this Distress’d Country. — re-
maing with due Respect [8cc.]
Josh. Wentworth
shd not have troubled your Excellency w[it]h this business cou’d I devine
where my friend Mr [Stephen] Moylans residence is until well Yr Excel-
lency will excuse me
1. Washington Papers, LC.
AUGUST 1776
303
Petition of William Pringle to the Massachusetts Council 1
The Petition of William Pringle late Commander of Ship Anna Maria. —
Humbly Sheweth
That on the 5th July last, your Petitioner, in the Ship Anna Maria , of
which he was Master, bound from Barbadoes to London, was taken by the
Private Sloop of War, called the Revenge, Commanded by Capt Joseph
White, and about the 18th of said Month brought into Salem. —
That your Petitioner, having a Family in England, must make it very
distressing, both to him and them to be destained in this Country. —
That your Petitioner before he left Barbadoes, had bought and for-
warded home, Bills of Exchange to a very considerable amount; which Bills
were drawn on the strength and Credit of the Sugars on board the said Ship
Anna Maria ; which Bills will now of course be protested, and if your Peti-
tioner should not get home soon, so as to obtain Security for the payment of
them, he may probably entirely lose the Money.
That your Petitioner being detained here, will be very detrimental to
his affairs on many other Accounts: and his extream anxiety of mind, which
he must necessarily be under, arising from his being separated from his Fam-
ily and Friends, and in a Country where he is an entire Stranger (tho’ treat-
ed with great kindness and humanity) he apprehends will greatly injure and
impair his health. —
Your Petitioner’s humble Prayer therefore is that the Honorable Board
would be pleased to permit him to take passage for England in the Ship
Creighton, lately purchased at Boston 2 by Capt William Ross, who was Pas-
senger on board and taken in the Ship Zachary Bayley. —
your Petitioner further prays that Mr George Delano, a young Gentle-
men who is a near Relation to the principal Owner of the said Ship Anna
Maria, and took the Voyage for his health, together with his Servant, may
also have leave to take passage with your Petitioner, in the said Ship
Creighton. —
And your Petitioner as in duty bound shall ever pray
Willm Pringle
Salem August 26th 1776
1. Mass. Arch., vol. 165, 159-60.
2. The Creighton was advertised for sale at public vendue at the American Coffee House in
King Street, Boston on August 16, New-England Chronicle, August 15, 1776.
Journal of H.M.S. Liverpool, Captain Henry Bellew 1
Augt 1776 Do [Cape Sambro] No56Et 82 Lgs
Sunday 25 at 7 AM brot too i/2 past made Sail soundd several times,
various sorts of gr[oun]d.
Modr Breezes, latter squally, gave chace to a sail Et wd
Monday 26 at 9 AM split the Jibb, bent a nother, Set Studdingsails, fird
several Shot to bring too the chace which proved to be a Con-
304
AMERICAN THEATRE
tinental Congress Privateer, belonging to the Rebels of 8 Guns
and 42 men, empd shifting the Prisoners 2
first part fresh Gales, with shours of rain, midle and latter
fresh Breezes, and Cloudy- at P M split main Topsl close
reef’d and handd Topsls brot too under the mizn staysl at
3 down Topgallt Yds bent another Mn Topsl at 5 hauld the
mizn out and hoisted the Fore Topmast staysls
1. PRO, Admiralty 51/548.
2. Washington’s schooner Warren, Captain William Burke.
Muster Roll of Washington’s Schooner Warren 1
August 26, 1776 Taken the Warren Armed Privateer
Names D., DD., or R. Whither
Willm. Burke
D.
8
Octr
Lark
Thos. Lewis
d:
James Dennis
D.
TO
4 4
Bologne
John Lewis
D.
Wm. Newman
D.
Ebenezr. Hogg
D.
Dens O’Brien
D.
10
4 4
S.B. (328)
George Ashby
d:
Jacob Oaks
D.
Pickerin Collins
D.
TO
Oct
Bologne
Sami Legroe
D.
Henry Goard
D.
Amos Dennis (1)
D/
Isaac Wadden
D.
James Dennis
D.
TO
Oct
Bologne
Sami. Brown
D.
Petr. Bernard
D.
Christr Slowman
R.
10
Oct
Halifax
John Hartley
d:
Rd. Moncrief
D.
Geo. Stanley
D.
TO
4 4
Bologne
Lazr. Ragun
D.
Thos. Drew
D.
Jos. Carvill
R.
10
4 4
Halifax
Jos. Charlo
D.'
Jno Miles
D.
Ebenezr. Marble
D.
TO
Oct
Bologne
Sami. Felton
D.
Ebenezr. Meddocks
D.
Nichs. Coward
D.
AUGUST 1776
305
James Clarke
d:
Sami. Roff
d.
Wm. Follett
R.
Fras. Saunders
D.
Andw. Peltrow
D.
Edwd. Jeboe
D.
Thos. Wooldridge
►
D.
Eteano Reeo
D.
Amos Dennis (2)
D.
Jas. Fitzgerald
D.
Willm Bean
D.
John Laskey
D.
10 Oct
Halifax
10 Oct
Bologne
Liverpool’s Monthly Muster Book for September 8c October
1. PRO, Admiralty 36/7736.
“A Journal Kept by Ephraim Briggs On board of the Good Sloop
Warren A Bold Privateer From Dartmouth to the Lattd of 33:” 1
Munday August the 26 Day A D 1776
Latter Part squalley Munday Morning 8c Rainey Up with Nantucket the
Pint Bore SE from Us Put our Helm Up Run for the Bar Blows Quick
Put our Helm Up from the Bar Run for Homes is Hole Anchord in the
Hole the [wind] at SW.
First Part these 24 hours Hove Up in Homeses Hole the Wind at SW A
small Brease Bound to Sea over the sd hole Stearing E S E. spoke with A
From Nantucket John Barnet Master Looks something squal-
ley to Westward the starts to the southard Eight A Clock Ancor’d Un-
der Nantucket Pint
l. RIHS.
Journal of the Massachusetts Sloop Tyrannicide, Captain John Fisk 1
Remks on Munday 26th of August 1776
6 [A. M.] Saw a sail to the S E gave Chaise
at 9 Fired 3 shotts at her she did not bring too I rangd A
long side Ordered him to Strike which he did out boat
sent the 1 Leiutt and 7 men on board she is the ship Rachel
from Granada for London Moses Henery Master
Lattd in 35d 16 m Longd in 59d 10 m
1 [P. M.] Freash breaze and Cloudey weather
learge sea we got the ships people on board of us Sc put a prize
master and 1 1 men on board of the ship freash gale had like
to lost our boat twice stove her very much before we got her
in which hinderd out gitting sum sail duck and other things
out of the ship
1. John Fisk Journal, AAS.
306
AMERICAN THEATRE
Owners’ Request for a Privateering Commission for the Rhode Island
Sloop United States 1
Sir Providence August 26th. 1776
We the Subscribers all of Warren in the State of Rhode Island Sec.
Merchts. request your Honor to grant a Commission or Letters of Marque
and Reprisal to Benjamin Pierce Commander of the Sloop United States of
which we are Owners. She is burthened about Fifty six Tons carries
Eight Carriage Guns Three Pounders and Eight Swivel Guns, manned with
Fifty-five Men and fitted with a suitable Quantity of Muskets Blunderbusses,
Pistols Cutlasses, Powder, Ball and other Military Stores. She hath on board
Twenty four barrels Beef and Pork - Three Thousand Pounds weight of
Bread, with some Flour, Rice, Beans, Pottatoes, &c John Johnson is First
Lieutenant, Peleg Heath Second Lieutenant, and Wing Master.
We are with great Respect Sir [8cc.]
Joseph Belcher
1. Maritime Papers, Letters of Marque, 1776-1780, R. I. Arch. Commission and Instructions
were issued the same day: “Providence, August 26th 1776. I acknowledge the foregoing
to be a true Copy of the Instructions delivered me this Day by his Honor the Governor,
with my Commission, or Letters of Marque and Reprisal as Commander of the Private
Sloop of War United States. Benjn Peirce.”
Journal of H.M.S. Brune, Captain James Ferguson 1
August 1776 At Single Anchor in Long Island Sound.
26 4 AM Fresh Breezes Sc Squally with Rain i/4 past Weighed
Sc Came to Sail, at 10 Modte i/2 past came too with the Bt
Br in 15 fathom Muddy Ground Sc Veer’d to % of a Cable
P. M. Fresh Breezes set fire to a Small Prize Sloop bound
from New York for Provisions for the Rebel Army. . . . Niger
& Halifax in Comp
1. PRO, Admiralty 51/117.
Master’s Log of H.M. Brig Halifax 1
Remarks in Long Island Sound on Monday Augt 26th
1776
1 [A. M.] Fresh Breezes wt Rain
3 The Brune Made the Signal to Weigh Weighd and came to
sail In Co as before 2
4 at i/2 Past saw a sloop fird a 4 Pr Brt Her too found her to
be from Gu[i]lford belonging to the Rebels wt 6 on
Board Sent a Midd and 3 Men on Board and took the Pris-
oners out at 5 the Niger took the Sloop in tow at i/0 past 9
Came too wt the Small Br New Haven NNE.
0 saw a Sloop In shore Sent the Boat Mand and Armd they
1 run the sloop on Long Island but the Rebels coming down
could not destroy her
AUGUST 1776
307
1 [P. M.] Little wind and Fair Weather the Brune sett the Sloop Prize
on Fier. Lost out of the Yawl in Attempting to burn the
sloop on the Long Island shore two Oars 8c Boat Hook
1. PRO, Admiralty 52/1775.
2. H. M. S. Brune, H. M. S. Niger and a sloop.
Journal of H.M.S. Niger, Captain George Talbot 1
August 1776 [Long Island Sound] The Town of Killing Ni/£W 3
Leagues
Monday 26 at 3 (AM) Weigh’d 8c came to sail took the Halifax in
Tow sent the Barge in shore Man’d 8c Arm’d after a
Sloop at 4 Brot too a sloop 1/2 past 9 came too wth the Bt
Br in 15 Fas Veer’d to y9 a Cable Brune Halifax, 8c 2 sloops
in Compy Barge Return’d the Rebles having run the sloop
on shore 8c Fir’d upon them from the shore
at 2 PM Weigh’d 8c came to sail at 12 the Brune [gave] the
Sigl to Anchor Came too wt the Bt Br in 12 faths Veer’d
to I/2 a Cable.
1. PRO, Admiralty 51/637.
Christopher Tappen and Gilbert Livingston to Abraham Yates, Jr. 1
Sir— Poughkeepsie, Aug. 26th, 1776.
Capt. Hazlewood [Hazelwood], who came up to us by request of Con-
vention, has fitted a fine vessel, as we conceive in a masterly manner, and
given such instructions to some persons we have here employed, with respect
to mixing fire combustibles, 8cc. that we think we can now carry on our
works without further assistance. He has in general been very assiduous,
and of very much use to us. We are unhappy at this time not to have a
quorum of our committee present, therefore must beg leave to submit to
your Honourable House, the consideration of any reward this gentleman
may have reason to expect from this State, for his extraordinary expense and
trouble in this business. We are, with respect [Sec.]
Christ. Tappen, Gilbert Livingston.
Abraham Yates, Jun.. Esqr. President
of the Convention of the State of New-York 2
1. New York Provincial Congress, II, 293.
2. Ibid., I, 600, on August 28 the Convention extended thanks to Hazelwood and voted him $300
for “his expense and trouble.”
George Washington to Major General Artemas Ward 1
Head Quarters, New York, August 26, 1776.
Sir: I am now to Acknowledge the Receipt of your’s of the 15th. and 19th.
Instant and am much obliged for your care and dispatch in forwarding the
Two Sea Morters which I wish may come safe to hand. The number and
strength of the Enemy and the many different posts we have to occupy to-
308
AMERICAN THEATRE
gether with the late Manouevres of General Howe render it utterly impossi-
ble for me to relieve you by sending a General Officer from this to take
Command in Boston, Congress seeing the Situation pass’d the enclosed
Resolve, 2 and I cannot but hope you will conclude to keep the Command
till something decisive is done with our formidable Enemy in this Quarter,
who have landed most of their Army on Long Island and advanced part of
them as far as Flatt Bush within three Miles of our Works; between them
and the Works is a Ridge of Hills covered wt. Woods in which I have posted
a large Body of the Army, which have once repulsed an advanced party of
them in an attempt to get through and I cannot but hope will prevent or at
least weaken them much should they effect their purpose of passing. I am,
etc.
1. Fitzpatrick, ed., Writings of Washington, V. 492, 493.
2. On August 21, Congress had resolved that Ward be requested, if his health permitted, to con-
tinue in command in the eastern department, Ford, ed., JCC, V, 694.
Diary of Ensign Caleb Clap 1
[New York]
August 24th a deserter came from the Enemy which informs that de-
sign of the Enemy is to storm Long Island Works and at the same time come
up against the City with their Shiping, that a Signal is to be hoisted at
Long when they are ready to Storm the, as they are making all Prepara-
tions Possible we may Expect it soon
August 25th A man deserted after the Enemy Landed he inform by
the best Account he can give there was about 8 or 9 thousand Men Landed
and they consisted of the British troop only that the Hessians ware all Ar-
rivd but remaind on the Island
we are informed that the Enemy are advanced 3 or 4 Mile from the Landing
and are fortifying and Draging their Cannon up to their works that other
Inhabitant from Queens County are thronging in great Numbers to the
Enemy -
August 26th A brisk wind at N. W fair for the Shipping to come
against the Town if they so inclined but when they will attempt is Yet held
in suspence -
1. “Caleb Clap Diary,” The Historical Magazine, 3rd series, 111, 250-51.
Neiv-York Gazette, Monday, August 26, 1776
New-York, August 26.
We hear Orders are already arrived in the West Indies from England,
from Admiral [James] Young to seize and cut out all the American Vessels
that may be found in any foreign Ports.
The Pomona Frigate has taken and carried into St. Kitts, a Dutch
ship going from St. Eustatia, ’tis said, to Amsterdam, loaded with Sugars,
but we hear she had Powder on board, and was bound to America. The
Vessel is said to be the Property of Mr. D’Graff, of St. Eustatia.
AUGUST 1776
309
We hear that for the future English Men of War will not be permitted
to enter the Road of St. Eustatia.
Vice Admiral Richard Lord Howe to Commodore William Hotham 1
Dr Sir [ Eagle off Staten Island, August 26]
I have just received a letter from the General which will make it neces-
sary for me to appoint some movements with the ships here towards the
Town, to countenance the intended operations of the Army this night Sc to
morrow morning. Your ship will be useful on that occasion, and your pres-
ence always desirable. If therefore your stay is not immediately necessary
where you are, the service in Gravesend Bay will be very consistently left
with Capt Parker, who may order all assistance he has need of from Cap.
[William] Williams in the Experiment during your absence. Sr Geo: Col-
lier if his ship is not necessary, in her present station maybe advanced as
high as we lye, but on the Eastern shore to cover the march of the troops
along this Coast. He will be then in the way to receive occasional
orders. I am obliged to go immediately to Gen [James] Grant’s head Quar-
ters at DeNuseys House 2 to clear up a passage in Gen: Howe’s letter, if
this arrives in time for you to meet me there we can talk upon the intended
Movement of the Ships Sec But time pressing, my Way there will be
short. I am [Sec.]
Howe
1. Collection of Lord Hotham, Yorkshire (East Riding) County Record Office, England.
2. At Gravesend Point on Long Island.
Journal of the Continental Congress 1
[Philadelphia] Monday, August 26, 1776
Whereas, in the course of the present war, some commissioned and
non-commissioned officers of the army and navy, as also private soldiers, ma-
rines, and seamen, may lose a limb, or be otherwise so disabled as to prevent
their serving in the army or navy, or getting their livelihood, and may stand
in need of relief:
Resolved , That every commissioned officer, non-commissioned officer,
officer, and private soldier, who shall lose a limb in any engagement, or be so
disabled in the service of the United States of America as to render him in-
capable afterwards of getting a livelihood, shall receive, during his life, or
the continuance of such disability, the one half of his monthly pay from and
after the time that his pay as an officer or soldier ceases; to be paid by the
committee as hereafter mentioned:
That every commander of any ship of war or armed vessel, commis-
sioned officer, warrant officer, marine or seaman, belonging to the United
States of America, who shall lose a limb in any engagement in which no
prize shall be taken, or be therein otherwise so disabled as to be rendered in-
capable of getting a livelihood, shall receive, during his life, or the continu-
ance of such disability, the one half of his monthly pay, from and after the
310
AMERICAN THEATRE
time that his pay as an officer or marine or seaman ceases; to be paid as here-
after mentioned. But, in case a prize shall be taken at the time such loss of
limb or other disability shall happen, then such sum as he may receive out
of the net profits of such prize, before a dividend is made of the same, agree-
able to former orders of Congress, shall be considered as part of his half pay,
and computed accordingly:
That every commissioned officer, non-commissioned officer, and private
soldier, in the army, and every commander, commission officer, warrant
officer, marine, or seaman of any of the ships of war, or armed vessels belong-
ing to the United States of America, who shall be wounded in any engage-
ment, so as to be rendered incapable of serving in the army or navy, though
not totally disabled from getting a livelihood, shall receive such monthly
sum towards his subsistence as shall be judged adequate by the assembly or
other representative body of the state where he belongs or resides, upon ap-
plication to them for that purpose, provided the same doth not exceed his
half pay.
Provided, that no commission officer, non-commissioned officer, and pri-
vate soldier, in the army, commander, commission officer, warrant officer,
marine or seaman of any of the ships of war, or armed vessels, belonging to
the United States of America, who shall be wounded or disabled as afore-
said, shall be entitled to his half pay or other allowance, unless he produce
to the committee or officer appointed to receive the same, in the state where
he resides or belongs, or to the assembly or legislative body of such state, a
certificate from the commanding officer, who was in the same engagement in
which he was so wounded, or, in case of his death, from some other officer of
the same corps, and the surgeon that attended him, or a certificate from the
commander of the ship of war or armed vessel engaged in the action, in
which any officer, marine, or seaman, received his wound, and from the sur-
geon who attended him, of the name of the person so wounded, his office,
rank, department, regiment, company, ship of war, or armed vessel, to which
he belonged, his office or rank therein, the nature of his wound, and in what
action or engagement he received it.
That it be recommended to the several assemblies or legislative bodies
of the United States of America, to appoint some person or persons in their
respective states, who shall receive and examine all such certificates, as may
be presented to them, and register the same in a book, and also what support
is adjudged by the assembly or legislative body of their state, to those, whose
case requires but a partial support, and also of the payment from time to
time of every half pay and other allowance, and of the death of such disa-
bled person, or ceasing of such allowance, and shall make a fair and regular
report of the same quarterly to the secretary of Congress or Board of War,
where a separate record shall be kept of the same:
That it be recommended to the assemblies or legislative bodies of the
several states, to cause payment to be made of all such half pay or other al-
Richard Lord Howe
312
AMERICAN THEATRE
lowances as shall be adjudged due to the persons aforenamed, on account of
the United States.
Provided, that all such officers and soldiers that may be entitled to the
aforesaid pension, and are found to be capable of doing guard or garrison
duty, shall be formed in a corps of invalids, and subject to the said duty;
and all officers, marines, and seamen of the navy who shall be entitled to
the pension aforesaid, and shall be found capable of doing any duty on
board the navy, or any department thereof, shall be liable to be so
employed:
Ordered , That the above be published.
1. Ford, ed., JCC, V, 700-05.
Journal of the Pennsylvania Council of Safety 1
In Council of Safety
[Philadelphia] August 26th, 1776.
An order was drawn, on Mr. Nesbitt, in favour of Robert Smith, for
£500, for the Purpose of Building Chevaux de Frize, & other works at Bill-
ingsport, to be Charged to his acco’t.
An order was drawn on Jno M. Nesbitt, Esq’r, Treasurer, in fav’r of
Sam’l Morris, Esq’r. for £500 for the Purpose of Purchasing Logs, &ca., for
Building Chevaux de Frize at Billingsport, to be charged to his account.
1. Pennsylvania Colonial Records, X, 699, 700.
Maryland Council of Safety to Captain James Nicholson 1
No 166.
Sir, It will be uncertain whether we can meet with a Vessell here to go to
James River for the Coal, we shall be glad therefore if you will procure for
us three, that will bring from fifteen hundred to two Thousand each, and
dispatch them down to us with the greatest Expedition, the Resolution
must go with them for their protection she must call here in her way as we
shall send a Person in her with Cash to contract for the Coal 2 We are &c:
[Annapolis] August 26th 1776.
1. Council of Safety Letter Book, No. 1, Md. Arch.
2. Ibid., the Resolution, Captain Richard Berry, was at Annapolis on August 28 and ordered “to
proceed from hence to the Coal Mine in Virginia and there endeavour to purchase five or
Six thousand Bushells of Coal.”
Rigging Needed for Virginia Sloop Defiance and Two Galleys 1
Invoice of what riging is wanted on board the Defiance armed
Sloop
Three Coils of 2l/2 inch rope
Three Coils of 2 Do
One Coil of 2y2 white rope
One Coil of Bolt rope 2V2 inch
AUGUST 1776
313
16 Coil of nine thread Ratling
1 Coil of 2Yz In: for Takle Falls
1 Six In: Cable 50 fathom
<D
a
o
2 Coil of 2l/2, for takle falls
4 Do of nine thread Ratling
1 Six In: Cable 50 fathom
Fielding Lewis
[Fredericksburg] August the 26th 1776.
1. Ropewalk Papers, VSL.
<L>
• f-H
o
Journal of the North Carolina Council of Safety 1
[Wake County] Monday August 26th 1776
Resolved that a Copy of the Valuation and Appraisement of sundry
Vessells sometime since Sunk to obstruct the Navigation of Cape Fear River
be Transmitted to Nicholas Long Esquire, That he apply to the Committee
of Wilmington for the Inventories therein mentioned and take into his pos-
session the Masts, Yards, Sails, Rigging, Cables, Anchors, and other Apparel
to the said Vessels belonging, and deposit them in the Care of one or more
trusty person or persons there to remain subject to the further Orders of
the Council or Congress and that he transmit an Account of his doing herein
and an Inventory of the Various Articles, and with whom Lodged to this
Board.
And Whereas the Council are informed That a certain William Camp-
bell late owner of the Ship Alexander a Vessel sunk for the purpose above-
mentioned refuses to deliver up the Sails &rca to her belonging, detaining
them until he shall be allowed for sundry Materials prepared for the repair
of the said Ship Alexander ; Resolved that Nicholas Long, call on said Wil-
liam Campbell for delivery of the Sails and other Articles aforesaid, and on
his refusal to deliver them summon sufficient Aid and take them by force,
and proceed to take care of them as above directed.
Resolved also, That the Committee of Wilmington, be and they are
hereby directed to appoint five indifferent persons, to value and appraise the
Materials prepared for the repairs of the Ship Alexander y lately belonging to
William Campbell, the said Campbell first deposing on Oath that they were
actually prepared for that purpose and render an Inventory and Appraise-
ment thereof to next Congress that they determine of said Campbell’s Claim
for the said Materials
1. Secretary of State Papers (Provincial Conventions and Congresses/ Councils 1774-1776), NCDAH.
Governor Patrick Tonyn to Lord George Germain 1
[Extract]
No 3. Private
My Lord I have on every occasion represented to the Generals and Admi-
rals, the Situation of the Province, repecting military and maritime Affairs.
314
AMERICAN THEATRE
I requested, My Lord, a naval assistance from every Admiral.
As yet we have not had any permanent.
Captain [Thomas] Bishop of the Lively Frigate, did not go into Saint
Maries, as I desired.
I am informed by people from Amelia if he had entered the River with
the Sloop letter of Mark — Osbourn, he would have destroyed all the rebel
Craft: but. my Lord, he sailed for New York, and sent Osbourn with my
dispatches to the Commanding Officer at Cockspur, a Copy of which; I beg
leave to enclose to your Lordship. No 1. & 2. 2
The retreat from Saint Maries I am in hourly apprehensions, may be at-
tended with very bad effects on Saint John River.
These reasons, my Lord, have determined me to take the Sloop Captain
Mowbray, into the Government service on the best terms I can make, and
shall order her for the Service in Saint John River. . . .
St Augustine 26. August 1776
1. PRO, Colonial Office, 5/556, 747-50.
2. The enclosures were Bishop to Tonyn, August 9, and Tonyn to the Commanding Officer in
Savannah River, August 5, 1776.
John McNeal to Captain John Paul Jones 1
26 Augt 1776
Having hitherto in many Instances Transgress’d the Rules of the Navy
8c have not done my duty as I ought I am heartily sorry therefor 8c ask par-
don of Capt Jones as well as the rest of the Officers on board the Sloop 8c
would be very thankful if I might be permitted to be taken out of Irons 8c
return to my former duty 2 8c all such Favours shall be gratefully Acknowl-
edged by [8cc.]
John McNeal
[Endorsed by Jones] on board the Providence at Sea 26th Augt 1776 Note
from Mr. McNeill when under Confinement. 3
1. Papers of John Paul Jones, LC.
2. McNeal had entered on board Providence January 9, 1776 as 3d Master’s Mate. Sloop Provi-
dence Muster Roll, R. I. Arch. Transcript. He was restored to duty, for on September 20
he was a member of the prize crew in British Ship Alexander , List of Officers and Seamen
Entitled to Shares in the Ship Alexander, MassArch.
3. Another penitent, Able Seaman Robert Brown, appealed to Jones on August 27. Papers
of John Paul Jones, LC.
“Extract of a Letter from an Officer on Board the Pomona
Sloop of War, dated Barbadoes, August 26, 1776.” 1
Our Admiral has ordered our station off the Virgin Isles, where we have
been very lucky, taking one or more prizes every week. Yesterday we ar-
rived here with one, she was laden with cotton, silks, See. and had on board
besides 20 tons of saltpetre; we saw her about four A.M. and about two P.M.
was along-side of her. We hailed her, but she gave us no answer, but laying
her topsails aback, hawled up her ports, and gave us a broadside, when she
filled her sails, and would have stood from us; but we gave her a handsome
AUGUST 1776
315
peppering before she struck; having raked her twice. When we went on
board, the Captain would hardly answer any questions put to him, but we
found by the ship’s papers that his name was Theobald Dibnal, part owner
of the vessel, which was called the Palm-Tree, and consigned to Philip Han-
dle, merchant, at Savannah, in Georgia. We lost five men killed, and ten
wounded, and the American ten killed and 15 wounded.
1. London Chronicle, October 15 to October 17, 1776.
27 Aug.
Stephen Hooper to Coates 8c Reynell, Philadelphia 1
[Extract] Newbury Port Augt 27th 1776
... I also mention’d to you, my great Want of 16 6 Pound Cannon, 8c
some Swivels, I should now beg Leave to urge that Matter, in the most ex-
pressive Terms, if I did not think it needless with you, 8c if the Cannon are
to be obtain’d, 8c none of your Boats are to be hired, I would be glad a fast
sailing Boat might be purchas’d on the best Terms, 8c the Men hired to
bring her round to any Harbour to the Eastward of this, 8c if she arrives I
will send the Boat immediately back again; If she can take in a few Barrells
of Flour, should be glad, 8c also a few Pieces of Ticklingbourg, as we have
not any here. . . .
P.S. Our Friend Cap [William] Wyer sailed a few days past for the West
Indies, 8c expects to return Via Philadelphia, if you send a Boat or Vessell
with the Cannon order them, neither to make Cape Cod or Cape Ann, but
fall rather to the Eastward of both, 8c fall in between Cape Ann 8c Casco
Bay —
Prize Sugar, now selling from 30/ to 36/, 8c 4 or 5 Cargoes yet unsold -
1. Feinstone Collection, APS.
Journal of the Massachusetts Sloop Tyrannicide, Captain John Fisk 1
6 [A. M.]
11
1 [P. M.]
11
Remks on Tuesday 27th of August 1776
Continues to blow hard gale and Learge sea the prize in
Company
Saw a ship to the northward gave Chaise found her to be a
french ship from Hispanola for france. spake our prize
Lattd in 36d 15m Longd in 59d 50m
Saw a ship to the N E standing Close by the wind to the
southward we suppose her to be in Chaise of us spake with
our prize made sail split our Gibb and sprang our mast
down topsail yard hard gale.
lost sight of the ship we supposd was in Chaise of us
1. John Fisk Journal, AAS.
Advertisement of Sale of Prize Ship Eagle and Cargo 1
Notice is hereby given, That on Thursday the fifth Day of September next,
at 10 of the Clock in the Forenoon, at Messieurs Clarke and Nightingale’s
316
AMERICAN THEATRE
Wharff, in Providence, will begin the Sale at public Vendue, to the highest
Bidder, of the Prize Ship Eagle,2 about 280 Tons Burthen and her Appurte-
nances; and also the Cargo of the said Ship, consisting of 102 Hogsheads, 38
Tierces and 4 Barrels of common Sugar, 71,178 Weight of Muscavado Sugar,
14,800 Weight of first White Sugar, 36,918 Weight of second White Sugar,
118,253 Weight of clayed Sugar, 106 Hogsheads, containing 9,540 Gallons of
Barbadoes Rum, 127 Bags and 15 Barrels, containing 13,180 Weight of Gin-
ger, 26 Bags containing 2,200 Weight of Cotton, 1 Pipe of Madeira Wine,
and 39 Barrels of Oil. The Sale to continue until the whole shall be sold,
pursuant to a Decree of the Court for the Trial of Prize Causes, held in said
Providence on the 26th Day of August instant, by the Honorable John Fos-
ter, Esq; Judge of said Court.
Paul Tew, Sheriff
Providence, August 27, 1776.
1. Providence Gazette, August 31, 1776.
2. Taken by Daniel Bucklin in the Rhode Island privateer sloop Montgomery.
Journal of the Connecticut Council of Safety 1
[Lebanon] August 27th, 1776.
Voted, That Capt. Michael Melally be and he is hereby appointed First
Lieutenant of the armed ship, Oliver Cromivell, belonging to this State, and
that his Honor the Governor be desired to commissionate him accordingly.2
Commission sent him per Mr. Thos. Winthrop.
Voted, That John Smith of East Hartford be and he is hereby ap-
pointed Third Lieutenant of the armed ship Oliver Cromwell, and his
Honor the Governor is desired to commissionate him accordingly. Commis-
sion granted, and dated 30th August, 1776.
Voted, That John Chapman of New London be and he is hereby ap-
pointed Second Lieutenant of the armed ship Oliver Cromwell, and his
Honor the Governor is desired to commissionate him accordingly. Com-
mission sent per Mr. Thos Winthrop.
1. Hoadly, ed., Connecticut Records, XV, 508, 509.
2. Melally was highly recommended by Nathaniel Shaw, Jr. in a letter to Governor Trumbull
this date. Conn. Arch., 1st series, IX, 304, ConnSL.
Journal of H.M.S. Niger, Captain George Talbot 1
August 1776 [Long Island Sound] The Town of Killing Ni/£W3
Leagues
Tuesday 27 at 5 AM weigh’d and came to sail in Compy as above 2 at 7
came too wth the Bt Br in 16 Faths Veer’d to 1/3 of a Cable
off Hart Island sent the Boat on shore Man’d 8c arm’d for
Stock at Noon the Boat Return’d with 4 Head of Cattle
Mode 8c Cloudy Wr PM sent the Long-Boat on shore Man’d
8c arm’d wth the Brune s Boats for Stock Do Return’d wth
14 Sheep 8c 2 Head of Cattle.
1. PRO, Admiralty 51/637.
2. H. M. S. Brune, H. M. Brig Halifax and a sloop.
AUGUST 1776
317
“Extract of a letter from Crown Point, dated August 27.” 1
Our fleet, consisting of 3 schooners, 1 large sloop, 4 gondolas, and 4 gal-
leys, now lie in Lake Champlaine, near Crown Point and expect to sail in 3
days, and lay in a narrow passage of the lake, to prevent the enemy from
passing. We have information that the enemy are on their way to this place
from St. John’s, they have no other craft than battoes; if they come, I trust
we shall give them a warm reception, as our fleet is well fitted and
manned - We have now at Ticonderoga about 3500 effective men, and more
coming in daily: The fort and every height and point about it is well
fortified. - BesidJes vve have„lhJe.^x)mmanTof J4lt^lak£s^
1. Pennsylvania Packet, September 3, 1776.
Memorial of Commodore Jacobus Wynkoop 1
To the Honorable the United States of America in Congress assem-
bled -
The Memorial of Jacobus Wynkoop
Sheweth —
That your Memorialist has been employed, and served in the continen-
tal Service, and in the service of the United States of America, from the 28th
Day of June 1775, until the 18th Day of August Instant -
That your Memorialist by his first appointment, was a Captain of the
8th Company and 4th Regt of continental forces raised in the Province of
New York.
That his Honor M Genl Schuyler, Commander in Chief in the North-
ern Department, did sometime after the appointment of your Memorialist to
the Captaincy aforesaid, offer to your memorialist the Command of the Ves-
sels on Lake Champlain, and signified to your memorialist, that his honor
would recommend your Memorialist to the Honorable the Continental Con-
gress as a person fit for the said Station.
That your Memorialist being at Fort George, did in the month of Janu-
ary in the present year receive a Letter from his Honor M. Genl Schuyler,
informing Your Memorialist that his Honor expected momently to hear
from Congress, on the Subject of his appointment -
That in the month of April last Your Memorialist, at the City of New
York, did receive from the Honorable the Provincial Congress, for the Prov-
ince of New York, a certified copy of a Letter, written by his Honor M
Genl: Schuyler, to the President of the said Provincial Congress, which is in
the words following
Sir Albany March 8th 1776
I am Honored with yours of the 4th Inst - The Continental
Congress have resolved, that Capt Wynkoop should be employed
upon the Lakes, under Commodore Douglass. Whether the latter
Gentleman means to engage in that service, I do not know - Of
this Congress can very speedily inform itself, as he resides near
New York; Should he not engage, there is no person I would
318
AMERICAN THEATRE
more willingly have to command the Vessels than Capt Wynkoop.
At any rate, I wish You to send him up the soonest possible, with
a sufficient number of Sailors for the two Schooners and Sloop - I
am Sir [&c.]
Ph. Schuyler
To Nathaniel Woodhull Esqr.
The foregoing is a true copy of the Original examined and
compared by Robt Benson
Your Memorialist received, at the same time, an extract from the min-
utes of the Committee of Safety for N York aforesaid; A Copy of which
follows -
In Committee of Safety - New York April
the thirteenth 1776
Ordered that1 Captain Jacobus Wynkoop do inlist the number of
mariners desired by M Genl Schuyler, for the Service at the Lakes,
with all possible dispatch; That Capt: Wynkoop proceed to Albany
with the said Mariners, to Genl Schuyler, and take his directions as
to the Vessels on the Lakes until the Honorable the Continental
Congress shall have appointed him to that Command, or some
other Gentleman shall arrive at the Lakes authorized to take the
Command.
Extract from the Minutes
John McKesson Secy
That in Consequence of the aforesaid Letter and Order, your Memorial-
ist, immediately inlisted a number of Sailors and proceeded up to Fort-
George where he received from the Honorable M Genl Schuyler, an Order
in the Words following -
Sir Fort-George May 7th 1776
You are immediately to repair to Tyonderoga, and take the
Command of all the Vessels on Lake Champlain, which You will,
with the greatest expedition, put in the best condition possible, for
immediate Service.
I am Sir [Sec.]
Ph: Schuyler
That your.memorialist expecting the appointment of Commodore of the
Lakes, and not being willing to act in a subordinate capacity did agreeable
to the said Order take upon him the Command of the Vessels on the Lakes
aforesaid, Sc has since continued in that department, in the Service of the
said Continental Congress, and of these United States, acting and exerting
his abilities for the public advantage -
That on the 17th Day of August Inst Your Memorialist, being on his
Station, was alarmed, by the Report of a Swivel from one of the Schooners
under his Command, which was succeeded by a similar signal from another
of the said Schooners. -
That Your Memorialist observing that the Said Schooner was making
ready to get under Sail, and conceiving that they ought not to move without
320
AMERICAN THEATRE
his immediate Orders, (unless in case of alarm when a Boat should be in-
stantly dispatched to inform him of the Occasion) and fearing that some de-
sign had been formed by the Captain of the said Schooner, or their Crews to
go over to the Enemy; by the Command of your Memorialist a Swivel was
fired to bring too the said Schooners.
That upon firing of the said Swivel, they came to an Anchor again, and
your memorialist ordered the mate to go in the boat, and bring the Captains
on Board the Commodore Schooner; All preparations for sailing were
stopped, and Capt: Premer Commander of one of the said Schooners (The
other Capt being on shore) came on board the royal savage , then under
your Memorialists immediate Command -
That your Memorialist then desired to know from the said Captain, for
what reason those Guns were fired, and preparations made for sailing, who
informed your Memorialist, that he had received from his Honor Brigadier
Genl Arnold Orders to get his Schooner immediately under way and beat
down the Lakes, 8 or 10 miles and if he made any discovery of the Enemy to
send a boat, and acquaint him of the particulars —
That Your Memorialist not having received any Intimation of being su-
perceded in the Command aforesaid, and conceiving that any Orders even
from the Commander in chief of the Army in the Northern department, or
the Commanding Officer at Lake George or Tyonderoga, respecting the Ves-
sels on the Lakes, should be directed and first communicated to your memo-
rialist, and be given out by him to the respective Captains under his Com-
mand, your Memorialist being also best acquainted with the State and
Condition of the said Vessels, Your Memorialist did transmit to his Honor
the said Brigadier General Arnold, a Letter in the words following
On Board the Royal Savage Augt 17th 1776
Sir
I find by an Order You have given out that the Schooners are
to go down the Lakes; I know no Orders, but what shall be given
out by me, except sailing Orders from the Commander in chief; If
an enemy is approaching I am to be acquainted with it, and know
how to act in my Station I am Sir Yours
Jacobus Wynkoop Commander
of Lake Champlain
That Your memorialist soon after received a Letter from his Honor the
said Brigadier Genl Arnold, informing Your Memorialist of the Approach
of the Enemy, and intimating that the Commander in chief had appointed
him to take the Command of the Navy on the Lake and threatening Your
Memorialist with an Arrest -
That your Memorialist having thus received information of the ap-
proach of the Enemy, that the Service might not suffer, by the dispute of the
Officers, issued out an Order to the Captains of the said Schooners in the
words following —
On Board the Royal Savage Augt 17th 1776
AUGUST 1776
321
To Capt Seamons
Capt Premer
Gent
You will immediately get under way, and go down the Lake
about 8, or ten miles - If You make any discovery of the Enemy,
Send a Boat to acquaint me of the Particulars; If none of the
Enemy appear, You are directly to return.
Yours Jacobus Wynkoop Comd
That immediately after your Memorialist had received the Letter afore-
said from his Honor the said Brigadier Genl Arnold His Honor the said
Brigadier Genl Arnold came on board the Royal Savage , and asked your
memorialist, how he dared to countermand his Orders, and acquainted your
memorialist that he had power to take the command of the fleet, and shewed
a paper containing writing Orders from his Honor M Genl Gates to that
purport -
That your Memorialist conceiving that no Officer could be placed over
him in the Naval Department, unless by appointment from the United
States in Congress assembled, or the Provincial Congress for the Province of
New York, except in cases of Misbehaviour, and your Memorialist being
conscious of having done his duty, did acquaint the said Brigadier Genl Ar-
nold that he would receive no Orders from him as naval Officer under his
present appointment, and that all orders from the Commanders at the
several posts on the Lakes ought regularly to be first communicated to your
Memorialist. -
That his Honor the said Brigadier Genl Arnold, then dispatched a Let-
ter to his Honor M Genl Gates, acquainting him with the above particulars,
and on the 18th Day of Augt Inst Your Memorialist received a Letter from
the said Brigadier Genl Arnold, in the words following. -
Sir Crown Point Augt 18. 1776
The following is a paragraph of a Lettr Orders I have just re-
ceived from the Honorable M Genl Gates Viz -
It is my Orders You immediately put Commodore Wyn-
koop in Arrest - and send him Prisoner to Head Quarters
at Tyonderoga
Sign’d Horatio Gates
In Compliance of the above Order, I do hereby put you in
Arrest, of which You will take notice and govern yourself accord-
ingly - A Boat and Hands shall be ordered this Evening or to mor-
row morning to attend You to Tyonderoga - Please to let me
know what time will be most agreeable. —
I am Sir [8cc.j
B:Arnold: B:Genl
That agreable to the above order Your memorialist immediately re-
paired to Tyonderoga and was ordered from thence by his Honor M Genl
Gates, to the Honorable M Gen Philip Schuyler at Albany and was informed
by his Honor the said M Genl Gates that he had sent his Crime forward. -
322
AMERICAN THEATRE
That your Memorialist humbly conceives that if he had suffered the
said Schooners to go off unmolested, and design of the Captains or Crews of
the said Schooners had been to go over to the Enemy, and such decision car-
ried into execution - that your memorialist would not have been suffered to
escape with impunity, and that therefore it was his duty when signals and
preparations were made by them for sailing, to know their destination and
issue out the Necessary Orders.
Your Memorialist therefore humbly Requests these United States, in
Congress assembled; to take this Memorial into their wise Consideration and
grant him such Relief as he is in Justice entitled to -
Albany August 27th 1776 Jacobus Wynkoop
[Endorsed] Copy Richd Varick.
1. Schuyler Papers, vol. 16, NYPL. Wynkoop’s Memorial was received in Congress September 6,
1776 and referred to the Marine Committee. Ford, ed., JCC, V, 739.
Journal of the New York Committee of Safety 1
Tuesday Morning,
[Harlem] August 27th, 1776.
Major Lockwood informed the Committee that the enemy’s ships are at
White Stone. Thereupon,
Resolved and Ordered, That Mr. Hobart and Mr. R. R. Livingston, be
a committee to wait on His Excellency General Washington, and confer
with him relative to the state of Nassau island, and what measures may be
necessary for distressing the enemy thereon, or defending or removing the
inhabitants, and that they report the results of their deliberations thereon to
this Committee, or the Convention of this State.
Ordered, That Capt. [Anthony] Rutgers be requested immediately to
proceed to the city of New-York, and afford all possible aid, attention, direc-
tion and assistance in stopping, or impeding the navigation of the East river,
and that he employ all such persons as he shall think proper, to give him aid.
An express arrived from New-London and communicated a copy of a
letter from Erastus Wolcott to the committee of Say Brook, and is in the
words following:
New London, August 24th, 1776.
Gentlemen - Yesterday in the morning, appeared at the east
end of Fisher’s island, two of the enemy’s armed frigates and a brig,
and this morning they passed by this harbour, standing to the
westward. I thought it best to give you this intelligence by ex-
press, that you may keep a good look out, and take what measures
your prudence will suggest, and must leave it to you whether or
not to forward this from town to town by express, (if no direct op-
portunity offers) ; this may much depend on what is already
known of their being in the Sound, and by observing their mo-
tions.
I am, gentlemen, With esteem and regard, [Sec.]
Erastus Wolcott.
AUGUST 1776
323
To the Committee of Say Brook.
Ordered, That a copy of the letter from Erastus Wolcott, dated New-
London, Augt. 24, 1776, be immediately transmitted by express to Briga-
dier-General [Nathaniel] Woodhull, and that he be requested to cause all
the stock on the seacoast of Long island, which are most exposed to the ene-
my’s depredations, to be drove with all possible despatch so far into the inte-
rior part of the country as to be out of danger from the enemy.
1. New York Provincial Congress, I, 539, 594.
Memoirs of Major General William Heath 1
New York, August 27th. - Early in the morning, two ships and a brig came
to anchor a little above Throg’s Point.2 Our General immediately detached
Col. [Morris] Graham with his regiment, to prevent their landing to plunder
or burn. Before he arrived, several barges full of men landed on New City
Island, and killed a number of cattle. Two companies of the regiment, im-
mediately on their arrival, ferried over to the island. The enemy carried
off one man and 14 cattle - the remainder of the cattle were secured.
On the same day, there was a most bloody battle on Long Island, be-
tween the Americans and the British. The British, by a long circuitous
march in the night of the 26th, with a part of their army, found the left of
the Americans not so well secured as it ought to have been; and they had an
opportunity to reach ground which gave them great advantage, while it
equally exposed the Americans in the strong grounds towards Flatbush.
There was here also another circumstance of ground which now proved
disadvantageous to the Americans. There was a considerable marsh, into
which a creek ran, and on which there was a mill, known by the name of
M’Gowen’s. At the mill there was a passway over; but unluckily, when
some of the Americans had retreated by this mill, (for they were soon
routed by the British, who formed an attack almost in a semi-circle) it was
set on fire. This would have been a politic step, had all the Americans on
the other side, in that quarter, previously passed; but those still beyond the
creek were now driven to almost desperate circumstances; they could not
pass at the head of the creek; for the British column, which made the cir-
cuitous movement, were in possession of the ground on the left; conse-
quently, many were here killed or taken prisoners, and numbers perishing in
attempting to get over the creek, some of them sticking in the mud. Those
who escaped retreated to the American works. The British sustained a
considerable loss in killed and wounded, and a subaltern and 23 men were
taken prisoners; but the American loss was far greater in killed, wounded,
and prisoners. Among the latter were Gen. Sullivan and Lord Sterling.
Several field-pieces were also lost. At evening, the British army encamped in
front of the Americans.
1. Abbatt, ed., Heath Memoirs, 47-49.
2. H.M.S. Brune , H.M.S. Niger, and H.M. Brig Halifax.
324
AMERICAN THEATRE
Master’s Log of H.M.S. Roebuck 1
August 1776 'Staten Isld SW 2 Miles
Tuesday 27th AM. at 2 Cleared and Barracaded the ship Sc beat to
Quarters, at 4 receiv’d 30 men from the Bristol at 5
Weigh’d as Per Signl from the Admiral who with the Re-
nown Asia Repulse 8c Carcass 8c Thunder Bombs got under
way 1/2 past 9 the Admiral and other Ships anchor’d at
1 1 Turning off Red Hook and Exchang’d Several shot with
the fort at same time saw the troops engage on Shore
First part Modt and Cloudy, Latter, little wind and fair at
1 Anchor’d in 10 Fath. Red Hook ENE li/2 mile at 4 the
Admiral 8c other ships weigh’d not being able to get
ground at \/2 past Anchor’d again at 8 Mann’d 8c arm’d
the Boats 8c got Fire Boom Out, the Bristols people return’d
aboard again
1. PRO, Admiralty 52/1965.
Journal of H.M.S. Preston , Captain Samuel Uppleby1
August [1776]
Monday 26
Tuesday 27
[Off Staten Island]
prepared for sailing, received orders from Lord Howe, not
to weigh til further Orders, handed Topsails
[Squally weather and rain] my Signal was made on board
the Admiral, at 9 hoisted Sir Peter Parkers Broad pendant
at midnight several Volleys fired by the Troops on Long
Island, clearing the Ship for Action.
6 AM the Admiral made the signal to weigh, weighed in
Company the Eagle , Asia, Renown, Roebuck, Rainbow, Re-
pulse, Mercury, Carcass Sc Thunder Bombs, working up to
the Town of New York, at 10 the Admiral made the Sig-
nal to Anchor, do Anchored saw the Troops in close
action with the Rebels on Long Island.
Moderate and cloudy weather the Admiral made the Sig-
nal to weigh, weighed in Comp[any] as yesterday and
worked towards New York the Admiral made the signal to
Anchor which the Squadron soon after did in Line of Battle
1. PRO, Admiralty 51/720.
Journal of H.M.S. Eagle, Captain Henry Duncan 1
August 1776 At Anchor between Staten Island Sc Red hook
Tuesday 27th At i/2 past 3AM heard a Brisk fireing of Musquetry on
long Island At 6 fired 3 Guns as a Sigl weighed with the
Preston, Sir Peter Parker, Renown, Asia, Roebuck Repulse,
Mercury, Thunder Sc Carcass Bombs, Employ’d working to
Windwd 2 At 9 the Tide of Ebb making Strong made the
Sigl Sc Anchord in 7 fm Water
AUGUST 1776
325
The first & Middle parts light Breezes & Cloudy latter Calm
At 3 P M Weighed & made Sail towards New York At 5
made the Sigl & Anchord with the Bt Br in 7 fm Water &
Veered to i/£ a Cable At 6 made the Parole Sigl at 9 sent
the Flat Boat to row Guard
1. NMM, Admiralty L/E/ll.
2. “The Ships likewise made a Feint of attacking the Town and many of the principal men of
War got under Way and sailed backwards & forwards for great Part of the morning. This
diverted some of the Force of the Rebels to another Consideration. Capt. Hammond only
in the Roebuck went high enough to exchange a Shot or two with Red Hook, which, it
was believed, did no Harm on either Side.” Tatum, ed., Serle’s Journal, 79.
Journal of the Continental Congress 1
[Philadelphia] Tuesday, August 27, 1776
Resolved, That this Congress agrees to the proposition from General
Howe, that in exchanges of prisoners, the choice shall be made by the re-
spective commanders for their own officers and men; provided the respective
commanders shall also have a right to make choice what citizens shall be
given in exchange by the other.
1. Ford, ed., JCC, V, 705, 708-09.
Josiah Bartlett to William Whipple 1
[Extract] Philadelphia, August 27, 1776
By a letter from the Agent who was sent in the Reprisal , Captain Weeks
[Lambert Wickes], to Martinico, 2 he informs us, that the Governor (or
General as they call him) told him that he had lately received orders by a
frigate from France to give all possible assistance and protection to the
American vessels, and that he was ordered to send out some ships of war to
cruise round the Island for their defence, and that the Same orders had been
sent to the other French Islands, he also told the Agent that if the Ameri-
can cruisers should bring any prizes into the ports of Martinico, he should
not prevent their selling or disposing of them as they should think proper
(This is in confidence)
1. William Whipple Papers, Force Transcripts, LC.
2. William Bingham.
Continental Marine Committee to Captain William Stone 1
Sir [Philadelphia] August 27th 1776
The Marine Committee have directed me to inform you that the Hor-
net Sloop is now returned from her Cruize, during which she has been ex-
treamly leaky as Captain [William] Hallock the Bearer hereof will inform
you. The Committee have come to a resolution either to purchase the
Sloop or deliver her up to you as they will not any longer hire her, but as
the greatest part of the materials she now has on board belong to the Public
they wou’d prefer buying her at the valuation, to stripping her and when
you consider that she will be a mere wreck when so stripped, and that the
326
AMERICAN THEATRE
Hull is old and Schattered I should immagine you wou’d readily see that it
is more your Interest to sell than to receive her back in such bad condition,
as you will have the hire to this Time in addition to the price. You will
upon the whole receive a great sum for her I am Sir [8cc.]
Robert Morris
P. S. if you will not sell pray appoint some person to receive her
1. Marine Committee Letter Book, 18, NA.
John Adams to Brigadier General Joseph Palmer 1
[Extract] Philadelphia Aug. 27. 1776
. . . I am afraid, that Boston Harbour is not yet impregnable. - if it is not, it
ought to be. - Boston has not grown into favour with King George, Lord
North or General Howe. - It is no peculiar Spight against New York, which
has induced the Fleet and Army, to invade it, - it is no peculiar Friendship,
Favour, or Partiality to Boston, which has induced them to leave it. - Be
upon your Guard. - hesitate at no Expence, no[r] Fail to fortify that Har-
bour against all its Enemies. - You ought to Suppose the whole British Em-
pire to be your Enemy, and prepare your selves against its Malice, and
Revenge How’s Army must have winter Quarters Somewhere and will at
all Hazards - They may try at Boston there they lost their Honour, there
they would fain regain it if they [could] The Enemy, have a tough, hard
Bone to pick at New York, according to present appearances. They are
creeping on. Moments are now of Importance. - They are landed on Long
Island. - If they attack our forts in Columns, they may carry them, but if We
do our duty they will loose the Worth of them in Blood. - a few days will
disclose more of their designs
1. Adams Papers, MassHS.
Journal of the Pennsylvania Council of Safety 1
In Council of Safety,
[Philadelphia] August 27th, 1776.
John M. Nesbitt, Esq’r, Treasurer, was directed to pay the following
acco’ts, Viz’t:
Capt. Joseph Blewer <£23 6 0 for repairing a Shallop, damaged in Sink-
ing the Peers at Fort Island.
Mr. John Stelwell £23 11 6, being for Expenses in saving Powder out
of the Brig Nancy, paid by Capt. Wm. Pollock.
Capt. Thomas Bell £399 18 0, for Freight of 142 Barrels of Powder 8c
53 Tons of Lead.
The Board then adjourned to 3 o’Clock, P.M.
The Council having heard the complaints made against Commodore
Samuel Davison, with the proofs brought to support them; and taking into
consideration the situation of the Naval armaments belonging to this State,
are of opinion, that most of the Charges made against the said Samuel Davi-
son are frivolous, and discover a dangerous Spirit of Licentiousness amongst
the other Officers, inconsistent with The Duty they owe their Country, and
AUGUST 1776
327
not to be justified on Military Principles, which exacts a due Obedience at
all times to the orders of superiors; But as it appears to the Council that the
Officers of the Fleet in General, have not that respect for, nor Confidence in,
the said Samuel Davison, which is absolutely necessary to give Vigour and
Efficacy to the Command, and that notwithstanding the Known merit of said
Davison, yet the charge of Incompetency to so important a Trust is not alto-
gether without foundation; It is therefore
Resolved, That the said Samuel Davison, Esq’r, be no longer Continued
in the Command of the naval armament of this State, and he is accordingly
dismissed from the same.
Resolved, That Capt. Henry Dougherty be appointed to the Command
of the Galley building at Kensington, by Mr. Williams, and that she be
called the Delaware.
Resolved, That Capt. John Rice be appointed to the Command of the
Galley called the Convention.
Agreeable to a Resolve of the Honourable Congress, 8c by direction of
the Board, the following Commissions for Privateers, were granted, vizt:
To John Hamilton, Commander of the Brig’t General Mifflin, of 12
Carriage Guns and 90 men, owned by John Cox, John Chaloner, 8cca.
To Charles Ferguson, Commander of the Brig’t General Putnam, of 12
Carriage Guns and 90 men, Owned by Matthew Irwin, Benjamin Harbeson,
8cca.
1. Pennsylvania Colonial Records , X, 700, 701-02.
Advertisement of Sale of the Cargo of Prize Ship Friendship 1
On Monday the second of September, at ten o’clock in the morning, on
Plumstead’s wharf, will begin the sale of the cargo of the prize ship Friend-
ship, consisting of Rum, Muscovado and clayed Sugars, condemned in the
Court of Admiralty. 2
Matthew Clarkson, Marshal.
1. Pennsylvania Evening Post, August 27, 1776.
2. The Friendship, taken by Lambert Wickes in the Continental ship Reprisal, was condemned
as a legal prize on August 27. Records of the Admiralty Court of Pennsylvania, April
13 - December 3, 1776, LC Photocopy.
28 Aug.
Francis Shaw to the Massachusetts General Court 1
[Extract]
Honble Gentlemen, Machias 28th August 1776
After Removing many Difficultys started by the Crew of the Diligent,
and laying wind bound several Days We saild from Piscataqua the 14th In-
stant and arrived here the 25th, after being Confined in Gouldsborough six
Days by the Viper Sloop of War, who took two Sloops from this place within
about five Miles of us as we run into Gouldsborough and lay off and on that
Harbour most of the Time as We had not more than half our Compliment
328
AMERICAN THEATRE
of Men, and them but very Indifferent Capt [John] Lambert tho’t proper
to let the Ship Remove before we should proceed, by persons that have
been taken & releas’d we find she has but ten Carriage Guns, 18 Swivels &
about 100 Men one half of them Disaffected and only wait an oppertunity of
being properly Engaged to Rise on their Officers, her present Station is be-
tween Gran Mannan and Sequin, should she fall in with two of your Honors
Sloops of War, I dare say they would Clear this coast of the greatest Scourge
they have had since the Commencement of the present War - should I suc-
ceed in gitting a Number of Indians it would be Impossible to git them to
the Westward, unless the Viper is Removed from her Station, add to that
the Distress this Country must be in, as they can git no provisions from the
Westward past her, and the advantage our Enemy has by supplying the Eng-
lish W. I. Islands with Lumber & Fish they take from us -
I would further add one or more Ships are loading at Annoplass, that
the Inhabitants of Nova Scotia come to Passamaquodia for Lumber for
them, and as several have been taken and afterwards Clear’d by your Hon-
ors, our armed Vessels are Intirely Discouraged from taking them and unless
some stop is put to that Trade, and the Viper Removed, the Acts of the
Honble Continental Congress against the English Islands being Supply’d
will be frustrated, and this Extensive this new Country Intirely ruined -
1. Mass. Arch., vol. 210, 332, 333. Letter continued August 30.
Journal of the Massachusetts Council 1
[Watertown] Wednesday Augst 28th 1776
On Motion Ordered that a Warrant be drawn on the Treasury for Two
Hundred & Forty pounds, four Shillings, in favour of Richd Derby Esqr to
enable him to pay one Months avance Wages to the Seamen on board the
Brig Massachusetts Danl Souther Commander -he to be Accountable for
the Same -
A Warrant was drawn Accordingly & signed by 15 of the Council —
On Motion Ordered, that Richard Derby Esqr be directed to fit out the Col-
ony Armed Brigantine Call’d the Massachusetts whereof Daniel Souther is
commander with all possible Dispat[c]h -
1. Mass. Arch., vol. 19, 197, 198.
Petition of Ichabod Jones to the Massachusetts General Court 1
State of the To the Honorable the Council & the Honble
Massachusetts Bay j House of Representatives of the State aforesaid
assembled in General Court at Watertown Aug
28th 1776
Most humbly shews
Ichabod Jones late of Boston in the County of Suffolk That your Peti-
tioner in May 1775 considering that the People at Machias in the eastern
part of this State were of themselves unable to procure the Provisions neces-
sary for their Subsistence & knowing that the greater part of them depended
AUGUST 1776
329
on your Petitioner to supply them, the other Traders having declined to do
it, did purchase a Quantity of Pork Flower 8c other Articles of Food 8c con-
vey the same to the People aforesd in two Sloops belonging to your
Petitioner - That when arrived at Machias the Inhabitants at the Request of
your Petitioner met together 8c were informed that if they could furnish
themselves in any other Way with necessary Provisions your Petitioner
would be extremely glad to be freed from the difficult 8c hazardous
Task. That a great Majority of them declared they could not obtain the
necessary Supplies without the Assistance of your Petitioner 8c desired him
to continue as formerly to bring them Provisions —
That afterwards by Means of some of Machias People with the Assist-
ance of others in the neighbouring Places the Vessels aforesd 8c the Person of
your Petitioner were seised - that at the time of this Seisure the Inhabitants
of Machias owed to your Petitioner 8c Compy, nearly the Sum of four thou-
sand Pounds lawful Money which he is able 8c ready to prove - That your
Petitioner is lately informed they have taken Possession of his Houses Mills
8c all his other Estate at Machias 8c not only of the Estate of which your Peti-
tioner was sole Proprietor but also the Estate which belonged to himself 8c
others in Partnership -
That your Petitioner learns from an Advertisement in the Watertown
Paper of August 19th that Libels are filed against the Vessels 8c Cargoes
abovementioned before the Judge of the Maritime Court for the eastern Dis-
trict in this State 8c that the Justice of the Captures is to be tried at the said
Court to be holden at Pownalboro on the 9th of September next - 2
As your Petitioner is confined to this Town of Northampton under
large Bonds (with scanty Means of Subsistence) he is unable to attend him-
self or to procure any person to attend in his Behalf on so short a Notice 8c is
greatly apprehensive that his Property therefore will be condemned altho’ if
allowed to attend the sd. Court with his Evidence he persuades himself the
Innocence of his Conduct would fully appear -
Your Petitioner therefore most humbly prays your Honors to take the
Premisses into your wise Consideration 8c that he may be heard thereupon 8c
having no Doubt on a full Knowledge of his Case your Petitioner would be
discharged from any further Confinement - Your Petitioner also prays that
he may have Liberty to attend in Person the Tryal aforesd of his Vessels at
some future Time to which the said Court shall by Order of your Honors be
adjourned 8c that in the mean Time all proceedings touching the Vessels 8c
Cargoes aforesd may be staid - All which is most humbly submitted And as
in Duty bound shall pray
Ichabod Jones
[Endorsed] In the House of Representatives Sept 6 1776 -
Resolvd that the Prayer of this petition be so far granted that the maritime
Court for the Eastern District of this State to be holden at Pownalborough
on the nineth of this Instant in order to try the justice of the Captures of
two Vessels taken from the petitioner be adjourned to the first Day of Octo-
ber next in order that the petitioner by an attorney may Shew cause if aney
330
AMERICAN THEATRE
he has why the said Vessels Should not be Condemned. A — and that the
judge of said Court be Notify ed thereof by being served with a Coppy
of this order - passed - Sent up for Concurrence
Sami Freeman Speakr Pr Temp
In Council Sept 7th 1776
Read 8c Concurr’d with the Amendment at A & insert. And the Peti-
tioner by his Attorney has Liberty to file his Claim with the Judge of the
Said Maritime Court, to the Said Vessels 8c Appurtenances at any Time be-
fore the Said first Day of October next -
Sent down for Concurrence
John Avery Dpy Secy -
In the House of Representatives Sept 9 1776
Read 8c concurrd
Sam1 Freeman Speakr P T
1. Mass. Arch., vol. 181, 160-62a.
2. Sloops Unity and Polly. See libel in the Neiv-England Chronicle , August 22, 1776, and Vol-
ume 1 for details of the Machias affair.
Petition of Jonathan Eddy and Others to the Massachusetts
General Court 1
To the Honorable Council and to the Honorable House of Representi-
tives in the State of the Massach[uset]ts Bay in General Court Assembled
at Watertown the 28th day of August Anno Domini 1776 —
The Petition of Jonathn Eddy. William How. and Zebulon Rowe. Late
of Cumberland in Nova Scotia
Humbly Sheweth That Your Petitioners in Behalf of ourselves and distress’d
Friends Residing in the County of Cumberland in the Government of Nova
Scotia. -
That Your Petitioners would Inform your Honors that the Brittish Enemy
are now Repairing the Old Forts in that Province to the Great Detriment of
the Inhabitants there — That we Apprehend Can be for no other Intent but
to keep the Inhabitants in Subjection to their Tyranical Measures Especi-
ally Since their forces Arrived from Boston the Last Spring to Hallifax —
That the far Greatest part of the People of Nova Scotia are Greatly Con-
cern’d about it and has been the Cause of many of them to Leave their Es-
tates to be Confiscated and to Come over to These States and will be the
Cause of Many More to do the Same if they Can Effect it, Unless they Can
have Some Supplys and Assistance -
That Your Petitioners Humbly conceive that if we your Petitioners with a
Small number more to Joyn our Brethren there Could be Supply ’d with
Some Necessarys as Provisions and Amunition we Could at Present Easily
distroy those Forts and Relieve our Brethren and Friends by permittion
From Your Honors for So doing or in any other way your Honors Shall See
meet and -
Your Petitioners as in Duty bound shall Ever Pray 8cc -
John Eddy Wm How Zebulon Roe
AUGUST 1776
331
[Endorsed] In the house of Represents August 30. 1776 Read and Com-
mitted to Mr Sergent Mr Bailey and Colo Eleazer Brooks with such as the
honble board shall join -
1. Mass. Arch., vol. 181, 163-64.
Sent up for Concurrence
Sam 1 Freeman Speakr P T
Petition of Jonathan Hobby to the Massachusetts General Court 1
The petition of Jonathan Hobby of Boston
Most humbly sheweth -
That your petitioner hath in Compy with other owners fixed for Sea a priva-
teer now laying at Beverly Mounting fourteen Gunns of Six-four and three
pounders, Carrying 100 Men and waiting only for the Article of Powder,
your petitioner prays leave to purchase of any of the powder Mills five hun-
dred pounds of powder for the Supply of the said Privateer - your petitioner
also has ready to turn in to any of the said powder Mills about 70 lb of Salt-
petre - and in duty Bound shall ever pray -
Jona Hobby
Boston 28th August 1776
[Endorsed] In the house of Representatives Sepr 9. 1776
Resolved that the Com[missar]y Gen[era]l be and he is hereby Directed to
Deliver out of the Store belonging to this State (or ordr the Same to be De-
livered at the Powder Mill in Andover) Four hundred pound of Gun
Powder to Jonathan Hobby, he the Said Hobby Paying Six Shillings pr
pound for the Same The Commy Genl to be acc[ounta]ble for the money
so Received
Sent up for Concurrence
Sami Freeman Speakr PT
In Council Sep. 9. 1776 Read 8c Concurred John Avery Dpy Secy
1. Mass. Arch. vol. 210, 179^80.
“Accot of Money paid by the Continental Treasurer to Stepn
Hopkins Esqr for the purpose of Building the two Frigates
at Providence” 1
1776
Dolls
Feby
3
- pd
him
P.
Draft from the
10
pd
Do
P.
Do
Mar.
11
- pd
Do
P.
Do
20
Pd
Do
P.
Do
Apl
24
pd
Do
P.
Do
Augt
28
pd
Do
P.
Do
Marine Committee 60,000
20,000
9.000
8.000
11,500
40,000
148,500
The Credit given by the Naval Committee
at Providence for Money they reed.
Remains in the Hands of Mr Hopkins
or still unaccounted for
127,550
20,950 Dolls
1. Nicholas Brown Papers, JCBL.
332
AMERICAN THEATRE
“A Journal Kept by Ephraim Briggs On Board of the Good Sloop
Warren A Bold Privateer From Dartmouth to the Lattd of 33:” 1
Wednesday August the 28 Day A D 1776
Wednesday Morning struck A Porpis Lattd in 40:28
First Part these 24 hours A Jumbling sea Agoing Jib’d Ship the Wind at N
E. onbent our Topsail Mended Him Bent Him Again Mended Him
Handed Him Stearing S E by S Looks Like A [storm] Hous’d our Guns
Took them out of the Carrages Put them [illegible] Hole all But the After
ones
l. RIHS.
Advertisement for Deserters from the Continental Ship Warren 1
Deserted from the Continental Ship Warren, commanded by Capt. John
Hopkins, two Sailors, who entered on board on Monday last, and received
their Month’s Pay; one of them named John Williams, about forty Years of
Age, has a scar on his left Cheek, had on a blue Jacket and a Pair of Trows-
ers; the other named Thomas Kalton or Caton said to be about thirty Years
of Age, had on a light coloured Jacket, new Shoes, and a Pair of Trowsers,
one of his great Toes has been cut about Half off. Whoever takes up said
Deserters, and confines them in the Gaol in Providence shall have Six Dol-
lars Reward, and all necessary Charges paid by the Naval Committee.
N.B. It is supposed they have gone by Land, as no Vessel has sailed
since.
Providence, August 28 [1776].
1. Providence Gazette, August 31, 1776.
Journal of the Rhode Island Sloop Independence,
Captain Jabez Whipple 1
Remarks On Wednesday At. 28 [1776]
Spoke with the Brigg Sent the Bote on Board
Latt 40.29 Londg 65.27
The Furst [part] Weither pr Logg
Winds Enceling [inclining] E ward Sent The Dockter
on Board the Brigg One Man Very Much hirt
Heavey Sea Much Rain and theke Weither
1. Independence Journal, RIHS.
Nathaniel Shaw, Jr.’s Account Against the Connecticut Brig
Defence 1
1776 The Brig Defence 2d Cruse
July 17/ To Cash at Sundry times
Augt 2d To 10 bottles & 2 Cases Claret
To 439 Gal Rum
To 114 Gal Jamaca ditto
Dr
625. .4. . -
11. .
109. .5
36. .2
6[i/2]/
AUGUST 1776
333
To 8 iron bound Qr Cask for
ditto
6. .
To 3 Kegs Brandy
60/
9.. -
To 2 bar Sugar 5.. 2. 20
60/
17. .2. .-
To 4 1 Gall Melasses
3/
6. .5. .3
To 20 bunches Onions
/4
0. .6. .8
To 2 Firkens Butter 174
(a) /10
7. .5
To pd Hardings order to Moses paine
3 i 3
for a Firken ditto
D . 1 O . . —
To 335 lb Cheese
/6
8. .7. .6
To 56 lb Coffee
1/
2.16
To pd Archa Robeson for Candles
1.16. .3
To 2 bar Tallow 437
/8
14.11. .4
To 191/2 Gal oile
7/6
7. .6. .3
To 1 bar Tarr 24/ bar pitch
30/
2.14
To 1 bar turpentine
1.10
To 53 lb Old Junk
/6
1. .6. .6
To 208 feet pine plank
/2
1.14. .8
To 30 lb lOd Nails
1/
1.10
To 10 lb 4d ditto
1/4
13. .4
To Guy Richards 3 Bills
1/4
2. .1. .8
To Jas Owens do
8
To Jona Brooks 2 do
1. .4. .6
To Jas Benemans do
4. .6
To Silas Churches do
2. .2
To Davd Gardiners do
2. .8
To Wm Stewarts do for 6 lb
twine
18. .-
To Jona Baleys do (Joiner)
1.10
To Thos Hutchinsons Bill for
paint
12
To Thos Mumfords do for Boards [illegible] 10.-. .-
To 2 bottles Oile for the Armorer 7..-
To Eb Goddards Bill Carpenter 44.. 4.. 3
To Samel Latimers do Black Smith 48. 19.. 4
To Alex Merrels Bill Block Maker 13. .0. . 1
To Robt Ushers do Doctering 2.15
To pd Mrs Skinner boarding 0 10
James Wasling
To Ros Saltonstalls Bill for plank 3.. 5
To pd Owen for Lampblack 1 .
To pd Davd Gardiner 2d Bill for Nails 1 . .4.10
To Jas Tilleys do Ropemaker 8. 14.. 4
To 10 bus Corn 3/ 1.10
To 14 Bar beef 30/ 35
To 25 bar pork 80/ 100
To 23. .1.10 Bread 20/ 23.. 6.. 9
To Jas [D]enemans Bill S . A . Ay2
To 30 Double headed Shott Dd 3..-..-
334
AMERICAN THEATRE
Augt
[August 28]
To 2 barrels powder 220 5/4
To 1 Iron Cabbuse
58.13.
12
.4
Carried over £1258.. 6.. 6
1776
The Brig Defence 2d Cruse
Dr
To the Sum brot over
To Half bushel Lime
To pd Samel Cheeny the Mason
To pd Jona Douglass Bill
To 17 Iron bound Cask 15/
To 1 Cable 14. .0. .7 100/
To 1 Spy Glass
To 4 Cord Wood 12/
To pd Wm Brooks Bill
the Butcher
To pd Board Cornelias Dunham
a wounded Seaman
To pd Jona Starrs Bill
To pd Wm Skinner boarding
Thos Greystock
To Cash advanced ditto
To pd Charles Walkers Bill
To pd Nichoflas] Starrs ditto
To pd Davd Lewis boarding Thos Greystock
George Gea 8c Samuel Raymond
To pd Jas Robeson boarding John
Tenent 8c John Still
By Capt Hardings order on
Gov 8c Council
£1258. .6. .6
2. .
6 . .
4. .9
12.15. .
10. .7
3 .-. .-
2. .8
42. .3.11
3. .5
1.12. .0
7.16. .0
1
26
1
10. .
18. .
11. .6
5.15.
3.10.
1447.14.1H/2
652. .4. .-
To freight of 10 bus Corn 14 bar Beef
8c 25 bar pork P Dan Rice from fairheld
1. Nathaniel & Thomas Shaw Collection, Ledger 4, YUL.
£ 822.10.1H/2
3..1..6
Captain William Coit to the Connecticut Committee of the
Pay Table 1
Gentlemen New London August 28th 1776,
Please to pay Capt Elephalet Roberts One Hundred Pounds Lawfull Money
and place the same to my Acct as paymaster of the Ship of Warr of this State
Built at Saybrook (Now call’d the Oliver Cromwell) and You will Oblige
[&c.]
William Coit
Gentlemen Comtee the Pay Table of the State of Connecticut Hartford
Gentlemen The Reason of my giving the above Draft without A perticular
Order from his Honor the Governor, is, Tomorrow I shall set out for Nan-
AUGUST 1776
335
tucket and to go all the Way to Lebanon will detain me and so small a sum
cannot make any difficulty.
William Coit 2
1. Conn. Arch., 1st Series, IX, 120a, ConnSL.
2. Ibid., on August 29, Governor Jonathan Trumbull sent an order to the Committee of the Pay
Table authorizing the payment to Captain Roberts.
Connecticut Journal, Wednesday, August 28, 1776
New-Haven, August 28
Last Monday passed our Harbour, standing to the Westward, two Frig-
ates, the Nigar of 32 guns, Capt. [George] Talbot, the other is said to carry
28 guns, also a large Brig of 16 or 18 guns, 1 who had in Company two small
vessels supposed to be prizes. They left the English Fleet, near New-York,
last Friday se’nnight, and it is probable will remain in the Sound to inter-
rupt our Communication with the Army at New-York.
1. H. M. S. Brune, 32 guns, and H. M. Brig Halifax.
Orderly Book of Brigade Major Peter Scull1
Head Quarters [Ticonderoga],
Aug. 28th 1776
One Cap. 2 Sub[altern]s, 2 Ser. [sergeants] 2 D[ru]ms Sc 50 Rank and
File from Gen. Bricket’s [James Brickett] Brigade to parade as soon as possi-
ble, to take 12 Batteaus to Skeensborough, the Cap. to wait on the D. Aj.
[Deputy Adjutant] for orders before he setts out; - The Batteau Mas[te]r
will provide the Batteaus immediately.
The Batteau Masr is ordered to take a Fatigue-Party and proceed imme-
diately to collect all the Oars from the different Incampmts, and places
where they are scattered.
1. MNHP.
Major General Horatio Gates to George Washington 1
[Extract] Tyconderoga August 28th, 1776.
As the Small-Pox is now perfectly removed from the Army, I shall in
consequence of the Intelligence received of the Motions of the Enemy imme-
diately assemble my principal Strength to maintain this Important Pass,
and hope General Waterbury, in a Week at farthest will be able to come
with the three Row-Gallies to Tyconderoga, and proceed the Instant they ar-
rive and are fitted to join General Arnold upon the Lake.
1. Washington Papers, LC.
Memoirs of Major General William Heath 1
[New York, August 28, 1776] On the morning of the 28th, there was a skir-
mish between the Americans and British which terminated rather in favour
of the former. The same night, the British began to open works, at the dis-
336
AMERICAN THEATRE
tance of about 600 yards from the American works on the left. Gen. Wash-
ington wrote to our General to send down to the city all the boats that could
be spared from Kingsbridge and Fort Washington, intimating, that he might
possibly find it necessary, at night, to throw over more troops to Long
Island. This order was immediately complied with, and the boats sent
down, while the real intention of their use was fully understood.
1. Abbatt, ed., Heath Memoirs, 49.
Lieutenant Elias Baldwin to Solomon Porter, Danbury Merchant 1
[Extract] New York Augt 28, 1776.
Dear sir I wrote you soon after I came into Town of the landing of the
Kings Troops upon long Island we expected an Attack upon the Town by
the Shipping or an Attempt to land above the Town soon — but it seems
the Enemy have collected most or all their strength upon the Island - they
have been advancing towards our lines ever since they landed — & have met
with little opposition from our people till Yesterday. - Reinforcements did
not go on fast to the Island till Monday Sc yesterday. Probably our Gener-
als suspected it only a feint -There are now a large body of Troops on the
Island all the Connecticut Regs are there save the Militia - Sc those on the
Jersey side viz [Philip Burr] Bradley’s Sc part of [John] Durkee’s Sc
[Comfort] Sage’s on Govr Island. Part of General Miflins [Thomas Mif-
flin’s] Troops are called in from the blue Bell. The lines in the City are al-
most wholly manned by the Connecticut Militia. Our Alarm post is above
the Town by the North River; About I14 or D/2 miles from our Quarters,
Whither we are to repair by break of Day. Yesterday 5 or 6 Ships appeared
standing up to the Town -this Caused a General Alarm - we all continued
at our Alarm posts till from morning to Sunset. The Ships came up about
[illegible] half way from the hook where they came to anchor towards
Night - One of them saluted the Battery at Red hook with a few Guns Sc the
Compliment was returned probably very inoffensively to both Sides. There
was a Considerable Engagement on the Island Yesterday - But particulars I
cannot learn with any Certainty. Our people took near 40 Prisoners — 40
or more were sent over wounded. Col. Perrin 2 of Pensylvania was
killed - probably considerable Number have been killed on both sides - 1
fear we have a considerable number taken prisoners, but time only can as-
sure us of the particulars - Lord Sterling is probably Missing either killed or
taken. [Lt.] Col. [James] Grant of the Regulars probably killed as a Hat
was found shot through with his name wrote in it. Our Troops are doubt-
less retreated to their Lines - Sc the Enemy very near. - Nothing Material has
been done today as we hear - doubtless they will soon attempt to force our
lines w[hich] will be bloody work. . . .
1. Baldwin Family Papers, YUL.
2. Lieutenant Colonel Caleb Parry, of the Pennsylvania Musket Battalion.
AUGUST 1776
337
Vice Admiral Richard Lord Howe to Commodore William
Hotham 1
Eagle. 28 Augt [1776]
I return you many thanks, my dear sir, for your congratulations on the
events of yesterday. I have the satisfaction to hear from Genl Howe, that
he has every reason to be contented with the prospects before him, and in
the highest degree so, with the spirit & temper of the Troops.
I should be more deficient in judgement 8c discretion that I will confess
that I am, if I did not much covet the assistance of you, 8c your present cap-
tain likewise, when any effectual service is to be undertaken. At present we
must wait upon the movements of the Army; But if you can contrive to have
the service in Greenwich Bay carried on by Sr Geo: Collier with the assist-
ance of Capt [William] Williams, I shall be glad to see you with the
Ph[o]enix, Rose , 8c Greyhound also, when the last can be consistently spared,
nearer to me; for any occasional service, as well as opinion in the conduct of
it. Wherefore, tho’ your own ship goes down to you today, consider of the
plan of arrangement which it maybe necessary to give to Sr Geo: Collier for
the Gravesend Bay Service with the State of His Ship in point of Water,
and follow your own sentiments for the rest. I will in the mean time
endeavor to provide some means to supply him with Water which I believe
he wants, that no time maybe lost in fitting him for the proposed Service
and that I may the sooner derive the assistance from you which no person
can value more than your ever faithful servt
Howe
1. Collection of Lord Hotham, Yorkshire (East Riding) County Record Office, England.
Captain William Rogers’ Account of Prisoners Taken off
Fire Island 1
An Acct. of Prisoners taken in three following Vessels [fro]m Halifax
bound to Sandy Hook by Capt. Willm. Rogers [in] the Montgomery Priva-
teer of[f] Fire Island Creek South [sho]re of Long Island
1st. Sloop Phenix's Crew
John Brown Master
Willm. Hardy Mate
John Mayou, Boatswain
» John Deacon Seaman
John Pinnet Do.
John Lincis, Boy
George Clandir Passenger
2d Sloop Sally' s Crew
y
Solomon Smith Master
Seth Williams - Mate
Richd. Williams - Seaman
Robert Colefax - Do.
Calvar Hethway - Do.
Edward Cannibal - Boy
Daniel Dunbar - Passenger
338
AMERICAN THEATRE
3d. Sloop Mary’s Crew
Duncan Campbell Master
John Farrel - Seaman
Will Clear -Do
>- Peleg Manfil - Do
Andw. Mitchel Passenger
Michael Jobbin - Do.
Alexr. McMullen - Do. - Left Sick
There is also a Soldier taken Prisoner in the enga[ge]ment [on] Long
Island night before last whose name is John Wright
Augt. 28th 1776.
[First endorsement] Samp Town August 30 1776 Reed, of John Treat Crane
Nineteen Men & Two Boys which I am to safly keep in Custody till 31st of
sd. August 8c then to return them Over to the Aforesd. John T. Crane to-
morrow Morning Witness my Hand
Samuel Randolph Capt.
[Second endorsement] Sommerset Court House Augt 31st Reed, into custody
from the Hands of John T. Crane all the within Named Prisoners except
McMullen who was left Sick Witness my Hand
G Voorhees Dy Chearman 2
1. William Livingston Collection, MassHS.
2. Ibid., on August 31 the masters of the three ships and Andrew Mitchell, passenger in the
Mary, petitioned Brigadier General William Livingston “to order our Chests & Bedding to
be forwarded to us as our linen is already very dirty.”
Journal of the Continental Congress 1
[Philadelphia] Wednesday, August 28, 1776
Resolved , That an order for 500,000 dollars be drawn on the treasurer,
in favour of the Marine Committee, they to be accountable for the expendi-
ture of the same.
The Marine Committee having recommended Joseph Greenway to be a
third lieutenant on board the Delaware frigate, commanded by Charles Al-
exander, Esqr
Resolved , That he be accepted, and that a commission be granted to
him accordingly.
Resolved , That the Marine Committee be empowered to lend ten bolts
of light duck to the delegates of Maryland, for the use of their troops; pro-
vided the same can be done without prejudicing the [marine] service.
1. Ford, ed.,/CC,V, 710, 711.
Journal of the Pennsylvania Council of Safety 1
In Council of Safety,
[Philadelphia] August 28th, 1776.
An order was drawn on Jno. M. Nesbitt, Esq’r, Treas’r, in fav’r of Capt.
Hazlewood, or his son, for £20, on acco’t of the Fire Rafts, to be charged to
Capt. Hazlewood.
Admiral Howe’s Fleet at Anchor , After Battle of Long Island.
340
AMERICAN THEATRE
An order was drawn on John M. Nesbitt, Esq’r, Treasurer, in favour of
Arthur Donaldson, for £200, towards the Floating Battery now Building
under his direction, to be charged to his Account.
1. Pennsylvania Colonial Records , X, 702, 704.
Committee of Accomack County, Virginia, to the Committee of
Somerset County, Maryland 1
Gentn/ Accomack Augt 28th 1776
The bearer hereof (Nathan Linton) has informed the Committee of
this County, that some time past he in company with one other man took up
a wreck at sea, and carried it into some creek in your County, that before
they could strip the wreck it was retaken from them by Joseph Wailing a
noted Tory who was then bound to the Kings fleet with 20 or 30 people of
his own stamp, that he the said Linton insisted he was intitled to some re-
compense for his trouble in saving the wreck, but Wailing refused to allow
him any thing, saying the boat belonged to one Goodrich in the fleet and he
would keep possession of it for him. Linton then said he would make ap-
plication to some officer in the fleet for satisfaction, and was procuring a
boat for that purpose, but Wailing offered him a passage in his boat, which
he said was to return immediately after discharging her cargo of
Tories Linton accordingly made application to Capt. [Matthew] Squire, 2
who after being informed of the several circumstances above mentioned told
him he might have the hull of the wreck, and five barrels of Oyl which was
in the wreck, being of no use to the fleet; Linton also informs this Commit-
tee that he took up four clintcher boats drifting; three of which together
with 100 Gallons of Oyl and some old Iron, he says was taken from him by
Col Waters. -
This Committee has refused to do any thing in Linton’s Case, untill
fully informed concerning it from you, and what Character he supports as a
friend to America - which we hope you will supply us with by first opper-
tunity; in the mean time we desire that the boats and oyl as they are perisha-
ble articles may be sold and the money arising from the sale thereof retained
untill the matter can be fully heard and determined
Signed Pr Order Committee
John Powell Clk
N.B. As Linton had rather have the Boats Oyl and Iron deliver’d him than
sold, we are willing the said [w]ld be delivered him if he can give you secu-
rity for the delivery of those Articles in our County — J. Powell
[Endorsed] I will be Nathan Linton’s Security for the Safe delivery of the
goods here, and that they shall be Subject to the order of our Committee.
Onancock, Augt 28th 1776 Isaac Smith
1. Executive Papers, Box 1, Md. Arch.
2. Commander of H. M. Sloop Otter.
AUGUST 1776
341
Journal of the North Carolina Council of Safety 1
[Wake County] Wednesday August 28th 1776
John Hamilton appearing before this Board in behalf of John Hamil-
ton and Company and suggesting that they had been aggrieved by the deter-
mination of this Board relative to the Brigantine William directed by the
Congress held at Halifax in April last to be seized as British property, 2 and
praying an Appeal from the determination of this Board to the next Con-
gress, and that all further proceedings be stayed until the direction of Con-
gress be had thereon;
Resolved That the said John Hamilton in behalf of the Company, be
permitted to appeal to the next Congress and that the said John Hamilton
and Company and all other persons, the Officers of the Courts of Justice
excepted who have received any Monies arising from the Sale of the said Bri-
gantine William replace the same in the Hands of Christopher Neale Esqr
until the Resolution of the next Congress. 3
Resolved That Messrs Francis Brice and George Merrick be appointed
Commissioners for the port of Wilmington in this province and that they
enter into Bond with Security in the sum of five thousand pounds for the
faithful discharge of this Office.
Resolved That the Commissioners appointed at the Ports of Edenton,
Bath, New Bern and Wilmington be impowered to give Permits to Vessels
to load with Staves and heading for any of the French, Spanish, Dutch or
Danish Islands in the West Indies the Owner or Owners of such Vessels first
giving Bond with good and sufficient Security in the sum of two thousand
pounds, which Bond must be made payable to the president of this Congress
of this State and his Successors that Salt Arms Ammunition and other War-
like Stores shall only be imported in return for the Nett proceeds of such
Staves and heading, and that no person or persons shall be intitled to this
privilege but known Friends to the American Independency.
Resolved That Mr William Brown be appointed Commissioner for the
port of Bath and that he enter into Bond with Security in the Sum of two
thousand pounds for the faithful discharge of his Office which Bond is to be
lodged with the president of the Provincial Congress
1. Secretary of State Papers (Provincial Conventions and Congresses/ Councils 1774-1776), NCDAH.
2. See Volume 4, 757, 1346.
3. Hamilton and Company had a cargo of molasses, sugar, and coffee on board the William.
John Hamilton to Cornelius Hartnett, August 10, 1776, Secretary of State Papers (Corre-
spondence of Council of Safety), NCDAH,
Governor Sir Basil Keith to Vice Admiral Clark Cayton 1
Sir Kings House Spanish Town Augt 28th 1776
I held a Council yesterday before whom I laid all the Papers and Infor-
mations I had receiv’d relative to the Internal situation of this Country since
their last meeting on the 21st inst when the Board were unanimous in advis-
ing me to take off Martial Law provid’d I renew’d my former order of the
11th of July requiring the Colonels and Commanding Officers of the Mili-
342
AMERICAN THEATRE
tia through the Island to keep a proper Guard within their respective Par-
ishes till my further order, but at the same time it is express’d in our Min-
utes that we are more induced to this from the apprehensions of the
approaching rainy Seasons so very prejudicial to the health of the White In-
habitants than from any opinion on the information before us that the inter-
nal peace 8c Security of the Island are intirely restor’d, 8c establish’d, in con-
cequence of which I propose lodging the Colours at Noon of the 29th It
was likewise our Unanimous opinion that I should after offering you the
best thanks of the Board which I have the most cordial satisfaction in doing
for them, and myself, for your constant attention to the safety 8c Welfare of
this Island to represent to you, that we do not think it necessary at present
to request further assistance of you than that of the largest of the two Arm’d
Vessels, now to Leward which we wish you will order to remain at Lucea,
for about a fortnight longer, unless future applications should be found
Necessary. I am with great respect Sir [8cc.]
A Copy Basil Keith
1. PRO, Admiralty 1/240.
29 Aug.
Journal of H.M.S. Scarborough , Captain Andrew Barkley 1
Moor’d off Fort Cumberland in the Bay of Fundy,
Empd. Occasionally
First part fresh Breezes 8c Squally with rain, Middle 8c Latter
Modte 8c Cloudy, at 4 P. M found the Ship to take the
ground aft,
at 6 AM bent the stream Cable to the small Bower, veer’d
away and began to unmoor at 7 the Ship grounded aft;
the strong Ebb Tide taking her upon the Larboard Bow
twisted her round by which means the stream Cable parted
30 fms from the small Bower; the Ship fell down upon
her beam ends, at nine she righted as the Tide began to
flow, at 10 veer’d away on the Best Bower, in order to
weigh the small Bower, at 1 1 the Bouy Rope broke, let go
the Kedge Anchor with a Bouy to it for a mark for the small
Bower, at noon weigh’d 8c made sail, drop’d farther down
the Bay: open’d a Cask Beef Contents 154 pieces.
1. PRO, Admiralty 51 /867.
Judge J. Brackett to the New Hampshire Council 1
Gentlemen Portsmo Augt 29th, 1776.
The Ship Prince George commanded by Capt. Emms [Richard Emmes]
had her trial last week; 2 the Jury brought in their Verdict 8c condemned
three quarters of Ship 8c Cargo to the use of the Colony - the other quarter
to the Matross Company (Stationed at Fort Washington) to be equally di-
Augst [17]76
Wednesy 28th
Thursy 29th
AUGUST 1776
343
vided between officers Sc privates - tho’ both the Resolves of Congress Sc Law
of the Colony, say, the Captors shall have one third Sc the Colony two.
There was also a trial of the Masts 8cc. which were claimed by Mr. Perry
[Edward Parry]: 5 the Jury thought the claim was not Good, Sc condemned
them to the use of the Colony likewise. I shall in a day or two decree Ac-
cording to the Jury’s Verdict Sc Issue a Precept to the Sheriff to sell and
make distribution According to said Verdicts, and should be glad you would
appoint Pearse Long Esqr Agent for the Colony, that there may be some-
body here to take care of its Interests, Sec. I am, Gentlemen, [Sec.]
J. Brackett.
1. Nathaniel Bouton, et al., eds., Provincial Papers: Documents and Records Relating to the
Province of New Hampshire . . . (Concord, 1867— ), VIII, 360, 361. Hereafter cited as
Bouton, ed., Documents and Records of Neiv Hampshire.
2. The Prince George , with a cargo of flour, had blundered into Portsmouth harbor October 2,
1775. See Volume 2.
3. Parry was employed by the Royal Navy to supply masts from Maine. See Volume 1.
John Langdon to Thomas Cushing 1
Dear Sir Portsmouth 29th August 1776
Your favou’r of the 25th is now before me, I am much of Opinion with
you relative to Cannon, think the prices too high by one half, I’ve endea-
voured to Contract with them for Cannon but could not, therefore intend
letting it alone for the present, till seeing Colo Whipple, who I expect every
moment here from Philadelphia, the price of Cannon at Providence has
risen so fast, it looks like takeing the Advantage, however I may be
mistaken - The affair of the Milford I most heartily wish could take place,
tho’ we cannot give any Assistance with our Ship without Guns from some
other place those here in our Batteries (except one or two) being 32 poun-
ders, Six and 4 do therefore think it unlikely we can assist, however I intend
mentioning it to our State and if it’s possible to procure Guns, no doubt
shall join you What in under Heavens does our Friends at Providence
mean by not letting us have those Guns which have been cast so long. As
to the Cable you mention I had 90 fathom of Junk instead of one third of
all the Junk that was bought in Boston as that was our Agreemt if you
remember, I therefore Expect at least five Tons more of Junk from you, as
am much in want of it, not one peice of Light Canvas in this part of the
World. -
Your [8cc.]
John Langdon -
PS If any Canvas or Cannon shall inform you. -
1. John Langdon Letter Book, J. G. M. Stone Private Collection, Annapolis.
Advertisement for Deserters from the Continental Frigate Raleigh 1
Five Dollars Reward.
Deserted from the ship of war Raleigh, under my command, Charles
Williams, an Englishman, dark complection, five feet five inches
344
AMERICAN THEATRE
high - Francis Bennet, a Portuguese, dark complection, five feet four inches
high - Edward Fernald, an American, brown complection, 5 feet 8 inches
high, - and Samuel Clark, an American, brown complection, five feet
seven inches high. - Whoever will apprehend the said deserters and bring
them on board the said ship, shall have Five Dollars reward for each, and
traveling charges allowed.
Thomas Thompson
Portsmouth, August 29, 1776
N.B. Went adrift from said ship, a fourteen foot Moses Boat, whoever
will take up said boat and return her to said ship, shall have Two Dollars
Reward.
1. The Freeman’s Journal, September 14, 1776.
Journal of the Massachusetts Council 1
In Council [Watertown] Augt 29. 1776
Whereas The Ship Queen of England Arnot Master, loaded with Pork
and other Provisions for the use of the Enemy, was lately taken within the
Harbor of Boston by Capt Caleb Hopkins Commander of a Decoy Ship
placed at Nantaskett by order of this State 8c the regiments under the Com-
mand of Col Whitney and Colo Craft, stationed at Nantaskett Head for the
Protection and defence of the Harbor of Boston, and the Legality of the
Capture of said Prize has been Tryed 8c she has been Condemned one third
to Capt Hopkins 8c two thirds to the Regiments under the Command of
Colo Whitney and Colo Crafts, and the said Capt 8c Colos Claim the Whole
of said prize and their Agent is daily dispersing the same, so that this State
will be deprived of any share in said Prize notwithstanding the Capt & Colos
aforesaid with their regiments was paid and Subsisted by this State, There-
fore Resolved,
That Richard Derby 8c Thomas Cushing Esqrs with such as the Honble
House May join be a Committee to take this Matter under Consideration 8c
report what is proper to be done so that justice may take place
sent down for Concurrence
John Avery Dpy Secy
[Endorsed] In the House of Representatives August 30, 1776
Read 8c concurred and Judge [Nathan] Cushing Capt Bachellor [Josiah
Batchelder] & Colo Tarbell are Joined J Warren Spkr
In Council Sept 2d, 1776. Ordered That David Sewall 8c Daniel Hopkins
Esqrs be a Committee in the Room of Richard Derby and Thomas Cushing
Esqrs Absent - Sent [down] for Concurrence
John Avery Dpy Secy
In the House of Representatives Sept 2, 1776. Read 8c Concurred
J Warren Spkr
1. Mass Arch., vol. 210, 251, 252.
AUGUST 1776
345
Order of the Massachusetts Council Establishing Seniority
of the Captains of State Armed Vessels 1
In Councill [Watertown] August 29, 1776.
As it may often hapen that the armed vessels in the service and pay of this
State may meet 8c be called to act in conjunction - and as fatal consequences
might insue should a contest arise at such times, with whom lay the first
command. For the Prevention whereof it is ordered that Capt Daniel
Souther of the Brig Massachusetts be the first Captain of the Armed vessels
in the pay of this State 8c that Capt Simeon Sampson be second Capt Jno
Fisk third, Capt Richd Welden fourth, Capt John Foster Williams, fifth,
and Capt John Clouston be the sixth, 2 and that all Captains of Armed Ves-
sells hereafter appointed take Rank according to the Dates of their Commis-
sions unless otherwise ordered by this Board,
In the Name 8c pr Order of Council
Walter Spooner Prest
1. Mass. Arch., vol. 165, 171.
2. Sampson commanded the brig Independence ; Fisk, the sloop Tyrannicide ; Welden, the brig
Rising Empire-, Williams, the sloop Republic; and Clouston, the sloop Freedom.
Petition for Commission for Joshua Stone to Command the
Massachusetts Privateer Sloop Retrieve 1
To the Honble the Council of the State of Massachusetts. -
The Petition of John Fox, in behalf of himself and others of Falmouth,
Casco Bay -
Humbly shews
That they have been at great Expence in fitting out a Sloop called the
Retrieve burthen’d 95 Tons to be navigated by 80 Men - to be mounted
with 10 Carriage Guns, 4 8c 3 pounders, 8c 16 Swivel Guns, — to carry 600 lb
Powder 8000 lb Beef, 12 Barrels of Pork & 7000 lb Bread 8cc.
That said Sloop is fitted out by the Petrs for the purpose of cruizing
against the unnatural, 8c inveterate Enemies to the States of America -
That they have chosen the following Officers for said Sloop - viz: -
Joshua Stone Captain
Wm McLellan. 1st Leut
John Lemons - 2d Lieut
Arthur McLellan. Master.
The Petrs therefore pray your Honors to Grant a Commission to Capt
Joshua Stone as Commander of the abovemention’d Vessel -
And as in Duty bound will ever pray 8cc
John Fox for himself
8c the rest of the Owners
Watertown. Augt 29th 1776.
[Endorsed] In Council Augt 29th 1776. - Read 8c Ordered that the Prayer of
346
AMERICAN THEATRE
the within Petition be granted on the Capt Stone’s giving Bonds agreeable
to the Orders of Congress - 2
John Avery Dpy Secy
1. Mass. Arch., vol. 165, 174-74a.
2. Commissions were also ordered this date for the following Massachusetts privateer schooners:
General Putnam, Captain Stephen Mascoll; True Blue, Captain William Cole. Gunpowder
was hard to come by. Owners of privateers frequently requested that they be supplied
from the state magazine in order to send their vessels on a cruise. Numerous petitions for
powder are to be found in Mass. Arch, records.
John Bradford to John Hancock 1
Dear Sir Boston 29th Augt. 1776
I had the Honour to write you by the last post in which I hinted that I
had Sent Capt [Samuel] Tucker with fifteen hands to portsmo to bring the
prize round to Boston, Tucker proceeded so far as Salem where he met Mr
Tracy who assur’d him he was at portsmo the day before in Company with
Mr [Joshua] Wentworth and [John] Langdon, who were determined to keep
the vessell there and had libell’d her; on recievg this information he with his
men Return’d,2 I beg Leave to Suggest Sir if they have authority to stop
prizes that Just goes into the mouth of their harbour for a nights Anchorage,
no more Continental prizes may be Expected to this port, for as the Autumn
is Approaching, all the prizes must come round Coast ways from the East-
ward to shun the Enemy’s cruisers and must harbour every night, and I
think it would be Extraordinary for them Gentlemen who have no Care or
trouble in fitting out the Schooners to receive the Emolument arising on the
Comission, I thought it my Duty Sir to give this information and beg leave
to offer it to the Consideration of the Marine Committee
I had the pleasure of taking Mr Adams & Whippl[e] by the hand Yester-
day almost the Instant they arrived,2 they left their fellow traveller at Hart-
ford having meet an Accident, but they expect him in a few days. I wish a
long Continuance of your health and am with all due Respects [8cc.]
J. Bradford
1. Walter Fuller Don Collection, SI.
2. The Nelly Frigate taken by Washington’s schooners Hancock and Franklin.
3. Samuel Adams and William Whipple had left Philadelphia on August 4.
New-England Chronicle , Thursday, August 29, 1776
Boston, August 29.
On the 26th Inst. Capt. [William] Nott, of the Privateer Sloop Broome,
of New-Haven, arrived at Dartmouth with 4 valuable Prizes, viz. - the Ship
Charming Sally, John Stell, Captain, bound to Europe from Dominico; had
on board 465 Hogsheads, 31 Teirces, 35 Barrels of Sugar and 25 Tons of
Fustic: — The Snow Ann, John Bowes, Captain, from Tobago to Lancaster;
had on board 169 Hogsheads, 20 Teirces, 26 Barrels of Sugar, 40 Bags of
Ginger and 118 Bales of Cotton: - The Brig Carolina Packet, Mark Towel,
Captain, bound from Antigua to London; had on board 151 Hogsheads, 12
Teirces, 10 Barrels of Sugar, 2 Hogsheads of Rum, and 14 Tons of Lignum
AUGUST 1776
347
Vitae and Fustic: - And the Brig John, Daniel McKay, Captain, from Gre-
nada to Dublin; had on board 90 Hogsheads and 2 Teirces of Rum.
One Day last Week, the Viper Sloop of War, belonging to the Royal
Pirate, and which has been cruising off Cape-Ann some Days, took two
Sloops, from the eastward.
Last Sunday Morning safely arrived at Marblehead, a Prize Ship from
Jamaica, with a Cargo of Sugars, Cotton, &c. She was chased by the Milford
Frigate, who being fired upon from one of the Forts there, put out again;
and on Monday took a Brig (said to be a Prize bound for Salem) 1 and a
Schooner and Sloop from the Eastward, for this Port, laden with Lumber,
Sec. They set Fire to the two latter Vessels, and entirely destroyed
them. The Brig still remains in their Possession. The People belonging
to the Eastward Vessels made their Escape in their Boats, and got safe on
Shore. The Milford continues cruising off our Bay.2
1. The brig Diana, a West Indiaman for Cork; see journal of the Milford, August 25, 1776.
2. The Continental Journal, August 29, carries similar coverage of the events related in this en-
try.
Libels Filed in Massachusetts Admiralty Court Against
Various British Prizes 1
State of the Massachusetts-Bay, Middle District, ss.
To all whom it may concern.
Notice is hereby given, that Libels are filed before me, against the following
Vessels, their Cargoes and Appurtenances; to witt- in Behalf of Captain Jo-
seph White and his Company, and the Owners of the privateer Sloop Re-
venge, against the Ship Anna Maria, William Pringle late Master; and
against the Ship Polly , of about 170 Tons Burthen, Tobias Lear late
Master: — in Behalf of the Captains Tucker and Skimmer and their Compa-
nies, of the Continental armed Schooners Hancock and Franklin, against the
Brigantine Perkins, burthen about 140 Tons, William Jenkins late
Master: - In Behalf of Captain Wingate Newman and his Company, and the
Owners of the Privateer Brigantine Hancock, against the Ship Nancy, bur-
thened about 220 Tons, George Keys late Master; and against the Sloop
Two Friends, burthened about 95 tons: - In Behalf of Captain John Phillips
and his Company, and the Owners of the Privateer Sloop Warren, against
the Ship Isaac, burthened about 400 Tons, George Ashburn late Master:
And in Behalf of Caleb Hog and James West, against the Schooner Deborah,
burthened about 45 Tons, Samuel Nickerson late Master: All which Vessels,
their Cargoes and Appurtenances, so libelled, are said to have been taken
and brought into the County of Essex. And Another Libel is filed before
me by Bartholomew Putnam and Andrew Cabot, against the Ship Lord
Dartmouth, of about 300 Tons Burthen, her Boats, Sails, Cables, Anchors,
Rigging and Appurtenances, and a Chest of English Goods on board her; all
which, lately in the Possession, and under the Care and Command of Cap-
tain Lee, were they say, by them seized and taken in Danvers, in the
County of Essex, on a Part of the Sea, between high water and low-water
348
AMERICAN THEATRE
Mark. And for the Trial of the Justice of these Captures, the Maritime
Court for the said Middle District, will be held at Salem, in the County of
Essex, on Tuesday, the Seventeenth Day of September, 1776, at ten o’Clock
in the Forenoon; when and where the Owners of said Captures, or any Per-
sons concerned, may appear and shew Cause, if any they have, why the same,
or any of them, should not be be condemned.
Tim Pickering, Jun. Judge of said Court.
1. New-England Chronicle, August 29, 1776. This issue also contains libel filed by Captain John
Fisk of the Tyrannicide against the brigantine Betsey, Joseph Dean, commander - trial to
be held in Boston on September 6.
Journal of the Committee Appointed to Build Two Continental
Frigates in Rhode Island 1
[Providence] August 29
Voted That the Sum of One Hundred and six pounds twelve shillings
and six pence 34 be paid Mr John Smith out of the Treasury as the Ballance
of his Account
Tis agreed to pay Capt Christopher Sheldon Six pounds Lawfull
Money for the Damage done his Warfe in Launching the Ships
1. Journal R. I. Frigates, RIHS.
Major General Philip Schuyler to John Hancock 1
[Extract] Albany August 29th 1776
Sir Captain Wynkoop, who has been sent down to me by General Gates
has this Morning delivered me the enclosed Memorial,2 with a Request that
I should transmit it to Congress - As I cannot refuse complying with his Re-
quest I have thought it incumbent on me to let it be accompanied with Gen-
eral Gates and General Arnold’s Letter on the Subject - Altho’ I believed
Wynkoop to be brave and industrious and equal to the Command of what
Vessels we had when I recommended him, yet I was so far from being suffi-
ciently acquainted whether he was equal to the Command of such a Number
of Vessels as we have now there, that I learnt General Arnold’s Appointment
with great Satisfaction and very much approved of it . . .
Our Carpenters sicken very fast. Capt Titcomb of the Massachusetts Bay
had only ten at Work on the 25th out of fifty, and many of the other Com-
panies were also down. We are however so much a Head of the Enemy in
our Naval Force, that I do not apprehend they will be able to equal our
Strength this Campaign notwithstanding the Indisposition of our Carpen-
ters - 1 have ordered a Physician to Skenesborough to examine the sick
Carpenters that such might be discharged as are not likely to be of future
Service - the Expence being very high.
If the Enemy should find themselves unable to make an Attempt to
penetrate into the Colonies this Campaign it is more than probable that
they will assiduously employ themselves in the Course of next Winter to
procure Materials for building as large Vessels as the Lake will bear in Or-
der to get a Superiority next Campaign and altho’ I am under no Apprehen-
AUGUST 1776
349
sions that they will ever be able to penetrate into the Colonies from the
Northward as there is such a Variety of Difficulties to be surmounted before
they can reach any part where they can be subsisted, yet if they should ob-
tain a Superiority on the Lake they might in another Campaign possess
themselves of Tyonderoga, and thus compleat part of their plan, by
surrounding us with a Chain of Forts, and greatly harrass our Frontiers.
Would it not therefore be prudent to provide every Material this Fall and
Winter for the Construction of as large Vessels as any that can be borne on
the Lake?
1. Papers CC (Letters of Major General Philip Schuyler), 153, II, 305-12, NA.
2. See Wynkoop Memorial, August 27.
Journal of the New York Committee of Safety 1
Thursday, A. M.
[Harlem] Augt. 29th, 1776.
A letter from Comfort Sands, Esqr. dated at New- Rochelle, yesterday,
and sent by Mr. Dank Redheld, informing the Committee that said Redfield
was sent to be examined relative to the enemy’s ships, and requesting the
Committee to give him a permit to pass King’s Bridge.
Dank Redfield, being examined, says, that about 4 o’clock on Monday
morning last, his sloop, going from New-York, was taken by the Brig Hali-
fax, mounting 10 four pounders, Quorme [William Quarme], commander;
that about 12 o’clock same day, they run his vessel, after having stripped her
of the rigging, cable and anchor. The man who piloted the vessel was one
Reed; the frigates were La Brun [ Brune ] and the Niger; that the design of
the enemy was to bring over their tories from Long island; that the ships of
war were to run to King’s Bridge, there to land their forces, and make a
juncture with the other part of the army; that the enemy by this means
would be able to cut off all communication with our army both by land and
water, and oblige our troops in New-York to surrender. That the enemy
had plundered Hart and City island; that he thinks they got about 12 or 14
head of cattle, besides sheep, ducks. Sec; that while he was on board several
persons come on board from Long island; that on Tuesday a man came on
board who said that the King’s army had killed 1,300 of our men, and had
gained the ground of our men; that one Barne came on board from the City
island; that his partner, Stephen is kept on board in order to be exchanged
for the mate of the Niger, who had been taken by the sloop Beverly and car-
ried into Amboy. Says the private men were very inveterate against us;
they did not use his person ilk
1. New York Provincial Congress, I, 601.
“Minutes of the Council of War on the Evacuation of Long Island’’ 1
At a Council of War held at Long Island, August 29th 1776.
Present, His Excellency Gen. Washington; Major-Generals, [Israel] Put-
nam, [Joseph] Spencer; Brigadier Generals, [Thomas] Mifflin, [Alexander]
350
AMERICAN THEATRE
McDougall, [Samuel Holden] Parsons, [John Morin] Scott, [James] Wad-
sworth, [John] Fellows.
It was submitted to the consideration of the Council, whether under all
circumstances, it would not be eligible to leave Long Island, and its depend-
encies, and remove the army to New York. Unanimously agreed in affirma-
tive, for the following reasons:
1st Because our advanced party had met with a defeat, and the wood
was lost, where we expected to make a principal stand.
2d The great loss sustained in the death, or the captivity of several valu-
able officers, and their battalions, or a large part of them, had occasioned
great confusion and discouragement among the troops.
3d The heavy rains which fell two days and nights with but little inter-
mission, had injured the arms, and spoiled a great part of the ammunition;
and the soldiery being without cover, and obliged to lay in the lines, were
worn out, and it was to be feared could not be retained in them in any or-
der.
4th From the time the enemy moved from Flatbush, several large ships
had attempted to get up, as supposed, into the East River, to cut off our
communication, by which the whole Army would have been destroyed, but
the wind being northeast, could not effect it.
5th Upon consulting with persons of knowledge of the harbour, they
were of opinion that small ships might come between Long Islands and Gov-
ernour’s Island, where there are no obstructions, and which would cut off
the communication effectually; and who were also of opinion that the
[hulks] sunk between Governor’s Island and the city of New York, were no
sufficient security for obstructing that passage.
6th Thoug[h] our lines were fortified with strong redoubts, yet a great
part of them were weak, being abbatied with brush, and affording no strong
cover, so that there was reason to apprehend they might be forced, which
would have put our troops in confusion, and having no retreat they must
have been cut in pieces or made prisoners.
7th The divided state of our troops, render our defence very precarious,
and the duty of defending long and extensive lines, at so many different
places, without proper conveniences and cover, so very fatiguing, that the
troops had become dispirited by their incessant duty and watching.
8th Because the enemy had sent several ships of war into the Sound to a
place called Flushing Bay, and from the information received, that a part of
their troops were moving across Long Island that way, there was reason to
apprehend they meant to pass over land and form an encampment above
Kingsbridge, in order to cut off and prevent all communication between our
army and the country beyond them, or to get in our rear.
1. Force Transcripts, Miscellaneous Letters, LC. Peter Force had endorsed this document: “For
this I am indebted to Mr. [Jared] Sparks.”
AUGUST 1776
351
Diary of Lieutenant Jabez Fitch 1
Thirdsd the 29th [August]:
At about 4 in the Afternoon all the Officers & most of the Soldiers that
were Prisoners here 2 were order’d into the Flat bottom’d Botes & went
down to the Fleet, where we were put on Board the Pacific a Ship of about
900 Tons, Commanded by one Capt Dun here our Accomodations were
but somewhat Coars, for Officers & Men, being almost 400 in Number, were
soon Drove under Deck together without Distinction; Here we kept our
Residence three Nights Successively, & my own Lodging was no other than a
Great Gun or a Quile of Riging, yet we here Reed: great Indulgence from
one Mr. Dowdswell an Officer of the Marines, who was our Emediate Over-
seer
1. William H. W. Sabine, ed., The New-York Diary of Lieutenant Jabez Fitch of the 17th (Con-
necticut) Regiment from August 22, 1776 to December 15, 1777 (New York, 1954) 35, 36.
Hereafter cited as Sabine, ed., Fitch’s Diary.
2. Fitch, who was taken prisoner toward the conclusion of the battle of Long Island, was then
being held with other prisoners in a barn near Red Hook.
Memoirs of Major General William Heath 1
[New York, August] 29th. - The ships on the East River fell down to Hunt’s
Point. On the same night, the Americans evacuated Long-Island, bringing
off their military stores, provisions, &c. Some heavy cannon were left. In
this retreat from the Island, and which was well conducted, an instance of
discipline and of true fortitude was exhibited by the American guards and
pickets. In order that the British should not get knowledge of the with-
draw of the Americans, until their main body had embarked in the boats
and pushed off from the shore, (which was a matter of the highest impor-
tance to their safety the guards were ordered to continue at their respective
posts, with centinels alert, as if nothing extraordinary was taking place, until
the troops had embarked: they were than to come off, march briskly to the
ferry, and embark themselves. But somehow or other, the guards came off,
and had got well toward the landing-place, when they were ordered to face
about, march back, and re-occupy their former posts; which they instantly
obeyed, and continued at them, until called off to cross the ferry. Whoever
has seen troops in a similar situation, or duly contemplates the human heart
in such trials, will know how to appreciate the conduct of these brave men,
on this occasion.
1. Abbatt, ed., Heath Memoirs , 49.
Narrative of Captain Andrew Snape Hamond 1
[H.M.S. Roebuck, August 14 to August 29]
14th Augst In New York Harbour, I found my Lord Howe, with
his Flag onboard the Eagle, Lord Shuldham in the Chatham
and Commodore Hotham in the Preston, with about 25 Sail of
Men of War. They were laying off Staten Island, on which
General Howe’s Army (consisting of 24 thousand Men) were
352
AMERICAN THEATRE
19th Augst
22d Augst
encamped; the Transports, which could not be less than 300
Sail, covered a space of at least 3 Miles; And as the part of the
Island where the Camp was, is sloping ground down to the wa-
ter, the whole together, exhibited, by much, the finest scene I
ever Saw.
Lord Howe had arrived abt three weeks before this, but
as yet no opperations had been commenced against New York:
owing as was said: to having waited for the arrival of the rein-
forcemt from England, which came in only a few days before,
under the command of Como Hotham, after a most tedious Sc
tiresome passage of 14 Weeks. Lord Howe however had writ-
ten to General Washington to inform him of the Powers that
were lodged in him, Sc his Brother the General, of treating
with the Colonies, granting pardons Sec. The first letter, as it
was directed only to George Washington Esqr 8cc 8cc 8cc he sent
back unopend: saying he could receive no letter that was not
directed to him by the Title of General Washington, Com-
mander in Chief of the American Forces, which My Lord
Howe thought proper to comply with, and his second letter
was received; Also his Answer, saying he should lose no time
in laying the whole before the Congress, then sitting at
Philadelphia. His Lordship had also wrote to Doctor Frank-
lyn, whose answer breathed nothing but a firm resolution of
the whole colonies to throw off the Government of Gt
Britain. So that whatever hopes might have been concieved
of settling the dispute by negociation, it now appeared very
certain that they were futile Sc [nelgatory.
The Phoenix Sc Rose, which had been sent up the
North River 5 weeks before, where they had been attackd by
Galleys Sc Fireships came down this Morng passing through
the Fire of the Batterys on both sides without either recieving
any damage —
I Received orders from the Admiral to hold the Ship in
readyness for covering the descent of the Troops on Long
Island: In the Evening the Phoenix , Greyhound Sc Rose
came down Sc Anchored near us, and at day break the Ships
warped close to the Shore of Gravesend Bay. soon after the
Admiral came down, hoisted his Flag on board the Phoenix
and made the Signal for the Troops to land. By 8 oclock the
Flat bottomd Boats appeared in three divisions, and proceeded
to the shore in great order, where they landed without the
least opposition; and as the Transports with the remainder of
the Troops that were to be landed, followed the Boats me-
diately, Sc anchored very near the beach, there was at least
15. Thousand Men, with a large train of Artillery, on Shore
in less than an hours time, the first landing being about Six
AUGUST 1776
353
22d Augst
25th
27th Augst
thousand Men. The Boats were Commanded by Commodore
Hotham, assisted by Six or eight Captains and a Number of
Lieutenants, each boat carrying a Midshipman, a Coxswain 8c
10 Rowers.
after the Troops were landed the Admiral struck his
Flag on board the Phoenix , and left Como Hotham with the
Command of that Division of Transports, and to give the ne-
[cejssary Orders for the Baggage 8c Horses of the Army to be
sent over as soon as possible.
Untill this day we had lain without the Narrows, now
the Troops were landed, I moved the Ship near the Admiral’s
off the Watering place at Staten Island; where I erected Tents
with my Sails for the sick Men and sent upwards of Sixty
ashore, ill with fevers 8c scurvy, and borrowed 30 Seamen from
the Bristol to replace them.
General DeHyster 2 with 5 Thousand Hessians crossed
over to Long Island and Joind the Army, which was encamped
round Flatbush. All that part of Long Island that lays oppo-
site to New York is high land and commands the Town. The
Rebels had therefore fortified it in the best manner they were
able, and had thrown up a chain of Redouts 8c Lines to oppose
the British Troops, which they expected would imediately at-
tack them. Fortunately however this was not the Case; for
General Howe, remaining quiet in his Camp at Flat bush four
days, gave the Rebels such Spirits, that they determined to
take the Feild the Moment they should hear the Army was in
Motion.
From our Camp to the Rebels was about 7 Miles, our
Troops began their March at Midnight and came on with so
much silence that at day break they were discovered on the
Hills before the Rebels had heard of their Moving. They
however made the best disposition of their Forces they could,
and for some time shewed a resolution of making a stand; par-
ticularly on their right wing which was commanded by Lord
Sterling and extended down to the Water, where on Account
of having a considerable advantage of ground he prevented
General [James] Grant’s Brigade from advancing untill near
10 Oclock, by which time the right of our Army had got so
much behind the left of theirs, that they found themselves in
danger of being surrounded, and having suffered considerably
in their Center during the Action, they imediately gave way,
and made a precipitate retreat into their Works.
The Fleet assisted in this opperation by 5 Ships getting
under way and making an appearnace of attacking The Forts,
on which I led with the Roebuck , and exchanged a few Shot
with the Fort at Red Hook, but it was situated too high for
354
AMERICAN THEATRE
our Guns to do it any damage, and nothing being intended
more than to make a Diversion, to keep the Enemy in their
Forts, I hauld off again, and upon the defeat of the Rebels
Ashore, The Ships Anchored by Signal from the Admiral.
In this Action the Rebels lost in killed wounded Sc taken
Prisoners upwards of 3 thousand Men: among the Latter
were Ld Sterling Sc Mr Sullivan two of their Generals; who
were afterwards exchanged for Genl Prescot [Richard Prescott]
(who the Rebels had taken in Canada) and for Mr [Montfort]
Brown Governor of the Bahama Islands that had been taken
from thence by Hopkins’s Squadron. The English Army had
about 50 Killed Sc 300 wounded, mostly very slightly and by
the accident of mistaking a Party of the Rebels (who were
dressed in Blue) for Hessians, an officer Sc part of a company
of Marine Granadiers fell into the Rebels hands.
After this success Genl Howe lost no time in erecting
Battery’s against the Rebels works, but on News being
brought to the Rebel Army, that several Men of War had ar-
rived near Hell-Gate, thro’ the Sound, they saved him the
trouble of using them; for on the apprehension of being sur-
rounded, a Panick seized them, and in the Night of the 28th,
they, to a Man, deserted all their works on Long Island, and
crossed over in Boats to the Town; leaving all their Cannon
and a great quantity of Provisions behind them.
29th Augst They still however kept possessn of Governor’s Island,
where they had two Regiments in Garrison. In the afternoon
the General sent to them to surrender, but on their refusal, he
imediately opened a Battery against it at Brookland, and two
of the Roebuck' s Guns being by this time placed upon Red
Hook, together with the fire from her lower Deck, they were
soon obliged to quit the Island, leaving every thing behind
them. The Ships imediately moved up, but as night was now
come on, and it was uncertain if the Fort was entirely aban-
doned, we neglected taking possession of it. In the Night the
Rebels returned, with a Number of Boats, and carried off
their Tents Baggage Sc Provisions
1. Hamond, No. 5, UVL.
2. Leopold Philipp Freiherr von Heister.
New-York Journal, Thursday, August 29, 1776
New York, August 29.
On Wednesday afternoon last week, about 5 or 6 o’clock, came up from
the north, a cloud of an exceeding black and terrible appearance, from
which it rained considerably, with some wind and thunder, but not near so
much of either as was expected. Soon after, between 7 and 8 o’clock, came
up another cloud, which some, who observed, say moved in an opposite
AUGUST 1776
355
direction, and met another cloud, supposed to be that lately passed, right
over the city of New York, and parts adjacent. The effects were terrible;
the rain for a long time poured down in torrents, attended with almost in-
cessant broad streams of the fiercest lightning, and most tremendous peals of
thunder, resembling in quickness after the flash, the discharges of heavy can-
non, but louder, and roaring without intermission. The storm is supposed
to have continued near an hour, and the height of it about half that time,
exceeding in violence and terrible effects, any thing of the kind that was
ever remembered here. In the house of Mr. Joseph Hallet, in Hanover
Square, where soldiers were quartered, a soldier named [Abraham] Bartlett
was struck dead, and two others terribly wounded by the explosion of a
number of charged cartridges, an house adjoining was set on fire, but soon
extinguished. One of our Row Gallies in the East-river, was struck, the
mast and sprit shattered, and three men struck down, but by proper applica-
tion, all recovered. A house was struck in Maiden Lane, but whether any
person was hurt or not, we have not heard. The old City Hall was struck,
and some of the bricks beat down, but no person hurt, Four men were killed
on Long Island, and some houses and barns burnt in Toppan.
Master’s Log of H.M.S. Brig Halifax 1
Remarks off Frogs point Long Island Sound
Thursday 29 Augt 1776
8 [A. M.] Fresh Breezes wt Rain at times at 1 1 the Brune s Barge gave
Chace to a sloop standing out of Great Bay towards New
York at Noon Hurd the Report of Musquetry supposed to be
the Rebels firing on the Brunes Barge Weighd and Run up to
Her Assistance as pr Signal of the Brune
at 1 took up the Brunes Barge the Sloop Having got from
Her Fierd Several Shott at a House and Bushes on Frogs point
the Rebels having Fird on the Boat from thence at 3 Ancherd
wt the Bt Br in Flushing Bay in 5 Fathm Verd to i/% of a Cable
Lauren[ce]s point ESE i/2 a Mile
1. PRO, Admiralty 52/1775.
Journal of the Continental Congress 1
[Philadelphia] Thursday, August 29, 1776
The Marine Committee having recommended Alpheus Rice to be first
lieutenant of marines, on board the brig Hampden , commanded by Hoysted
Hacker, Esqr,
Resolved , That he be accepted, and that a commission be granted to
him accordingly.
1. Ford, ed., JCC, V, 715.
James R. Morris to the Maryland Council of Safety 1
Gentlemen, Baltimore 29th Augt 1776
I was requested by Capt Nicholson to procure a Vessell to go to James
356
AMERICAN THEATRE
River, for a load of coal. I have accordingly for that purpose made a Ver-
bal agreement with Capt Johnson of the Schooner Sally & Polly - he says she
will carry about 2000 Bushells of grain, if so, he is to receive twenty five
Shillings per day, he Victualling & Manning her. I have referred him to
you for Orders. Capt Nicholson also sent down the 27th Inst two other
Small Vessels at 12/6 pr day each with the Schooner Resolution I am
Gentlemen with the greatest respect [8cc.]
James R. Morris
1. Red Book, XV, Md. Arch.
Vice Admiral Clark Gayton to Captain Stair Douglas,
H.M.S. Squirrel 1
Copy
Pursuant to my Lords Commissioners of the Admtys direction,
You are carefully to avoid Cruizing off the Ports, or approaching so
near the Coasts of the French & Spanish Possessions within the Limits of
your Station, as to give any unnecessary umbrage or interruption to the Sub-
jects or Trade of those Nations, or any just cause of Complaint which you
are likewise to direct Lieutenant [James] Cotes 2 to pay particular attention
to for which this shall be your orders. -
Given under my Hand onboard His Maj Ship Antelope
in Port Royal Harbour Jamaica this 29th August 1776
Clark Gayton
[Endorsed] NB Captain Douglas receiv’d with the above order, the Kings
Instructions, relative to such Captures as should be made in concequence of
the late Act pass’d for prohibiting all Trade 8c Commerce with the Rebel-
lious Colonies 8c directed to pay particular attention thereto.
1. PRO, Admiralty 1 /240.
2. Commanding H. M. Schooner Porcupine.
William Bingham to Silas Deane 1
[Extract] [St. Pierre, August 29, 1776] 2
The Reprisal , the Vessel which was appointed to bring me here, sailed a
few Days agoe; tis Said that several Vessels of War are laying in Wait for
her; I have no reason to believe She will be taken; but if She was, I am con-
fident She would meet with very rough Treatment . . .
The General promised me, that one of the French Frigates should con-
voy the Reprisal beyond the Track of the British Cruizers, but upon Re-
ceipt of Admiral Young’s Letter, he called a Council, 8c it was thought
adviseable, that it should not be done; Perhaps they were afraid of com-
mencing Hostilities; as the French Navy is very weak in the West Indies
1. Collections of the Connecticut Historical Society , XXIII, 24-25.
2. The date is approximated. Josiah Bartlett, in reporting the arrival of the Reprisal at Phila-
delphia, wrote that she sailed from St. Pierre on August 26, 1776. As Bingham lists her
as sailing “a few Days agoe,” it is assumed that “a few” might represent three days.
AUGUST 1776
357
30 Aug.
Benjamin Foster, Chairman of the Machias Committee, to the
Massachusetts General Court 1
[Extract]
We being appointed the Committee for Machias, We think our Duty at
all Times to Make known to your Honors all & every Transaction against
this State - having Lately Seen a Copy of Capt. Jeremh O’Brian’s Muster
Rolls for the Sloop [ Machias ] Liberty & Schooner Diligent sworn to by him
the 12th February last, We have Examined the same and find that he has
much Deceiv’d your Honor’s by put mg down Men that Never did the duty
and after drawing their wages Refusing to pay the same To them — We
therefore beg that before your Honor’s make any Settlement with him you
would Examine into said Rolls, and if your Honor’s want any further profe
we shall have them procured and ready to send to you when called for . . .
Machias 30 August 1776
1. Mass. Arch., vol. 210, 335.
Francis Shaw to the Massachusetts General Court 1
[Extract] [Machias] Augt 30th
since I wrote the foregoing Mr [David] Gardner and several others taken
in the Sloop from this place have arrived here - as Mr Gardner takes pas-
sage in the Diligent, he can Inform you that they have Receiv’d accounts of
my coming down, and both Ships being sent to St Johns after us, 2 Conclud-
ing it would not be prudent for the Diligent to proceed to St Johns, We
have thot best for her to Return to your Honors - I just Mention that the
Schooners people Complain’d of not being paid for past Services, and was af-
fraid it might be the same for this Trip, therefore I was obliged to promise
them that this Muster Roll would be paid Immediately on their Return,
and they Expect your Honors will make my promise good - several Bales of
goods by accident broak open on board the Schooner & 1 ps Linnen & Sev-
eral small articles are missing, no doubt the Capt must be accountable as I
often Cautiond him against leaving his Cabbin Door open when absent — If
the Diligent should be sold Capt [John] Lambert has Express’d a Desire to
serve your Honors in any other Vessel that may be sent this way, as I dont
presume to be a Sutable Judge of the Qualifications Necessary for a Com-
mander, I shant pretend to say any more. . .
Fras Shaw
1. Mass. Arch., vol. 210, 333, 334. Continuation of August 28 letter.
2. H. M. S. Scarborough and H. M. Sloop Viper. See journal of the Scarborough, August 24.
Newburyport Committee of Correspondence, Inspection and
Safety to the Massachusetts Council 1
The Committee of Correspondence, Inspection, & Safety for the Town
of Newburyport, Would Beg Leave to Represent to your Honrs that a Sub
Committee was appointed by them to Inspect all Vessels Arriving att or De-
parting from this Harbour, that the Regulations of the LIonb[le] Con-
gress or of this State might not be Violated, that While On their Duty On
358
AMERICAN THEATRE
Board the Sloop two Friends , (which was Some time past Taken 8c Brot into
this place, by Capts Obrian 8c [John] Lambert, And Acquitted by Court of
Admiralty, held for this District,) William Hazen Master Bound for St
Johns, they Were Informed of two Men, that were Bound to Nova Scotia in
said Sloop and of whom it was Suspected, that if not prevented, they would
be of Real Damage to this State to Let pass, Upon further Inquiry we
were Satisfied as to the Unfitness of their Going and Prevented them, itt ap-
peared they were to be Sent by Mr Epes Sargeant of Cape Ann, (the One
being his Son 8c the Other a Master of a Vessel who had for Sometime past
been in his Employ,) down to East passage, where he had a Snow and tis
Said a Schr or two Laying, with Considerable Interest, we have Reason to
think has for some time past been Employ'd in and Under the protection of
that Government, By a Letter from Mr Epes Sargeant, which was Wrote
Directly upon his being frustrated in this plan, to Capt [Joseph] Sayw[o]rd
Master of his Snow there, and intercepted Just before the sloop Sail’d, fully
Convince us of the above Suggestions, 2 -We are Induced to Trouble your
Honors with this Information, by a Report, that the said Mr Sargeant, did
on his Leaving this Town, Hire a two Mast Boat, in Ipswich, 8c apply’d to a
Friend in Salem, who procured a Commission for sd Boat, that she has Ac-
tually Sail’d, it is Supposed, Directly for East passage, and that his Son is
gone in her, - Which your Honrs will be pleased to Act upon as Shall in
your Wisdom Seem fit, -
In Behalf 8c p Order of the Committee
Jona Titcomb Char P T
Newbury port, 30th August 1776
[Endorsed] In Council [Watertown] Sept 14[th] 1776 On the Representa-
tion from the Committee of Newbury Port relative to Epes Sargeant - Read
8c Ordered that the said Epes Sargent be notified to appear and make An-
swer in Council on Thursday the 26th Day of September Inst to such Mat-
ters as are in said Representation suggested to his Prejudice and that the Sec-
retary be directed to serve him the Said Epes Sargeant with a Copy of Said
Representation and this Order thereon and also serve the Committee of the
Town of Newbury Port with a Copy of the above Order that they may ap-
pear if they think proper.
John Avery Dpy Secy
1. Mass. Arch., vol. 165, 232.
2. Ibid., 233, Sargent’s letter to Sayword reads: “Newbury port Augst 16 1776 Capt Joseph
Sayword - sir I have only time to tell you that your Family is well and that Heaven
must direct you in your movements I cant get down [I] beg you’d keep a Good lookout
I cant Say any more Your Fr[ie]nd Epes Sargent.”
Master’s Log of H. M. S. Milford 1
August 1776 Cape Ann No72W. 11 Leagues
Wednesdy 28 AM Handed the Topsails at \/2 past 10 sent the Longboat
onbd the Prize with Provision 2
Little Wind and Hazey \/2 past 2 parted Company with the
Brig sent her to Hallifax at 5 saw a Sail to the Et ward
gave Chace at 8 lost Sight of the Chace
AUGUST 1776
359
Thursdy 29 at 12 saw our Prize and the Chace Fired 4 Shot and
Brought too the Chace, proved to be an American Sloop
loaden with Malasses Rum Coffee 8cc Reed the Prisoners on
bd sent a Petty Officer and men to take Charge of her
Do Wr made the Signal for the Brigg to join Company
Friday 30 1/% past 5 AM made Sail and gave Chace
Do Wr inclinable to Calm at 2 Hoisted out the Boats sent
them Man’d & Arm’d after the chace ... at 6 the Boats with
the Prize joined Company, she proved to be an American
Schooner load’d with Malasses, Coffee & Cotton at 10 made
sail in Company with the Prizes
1. PRO, Admiralty 52/1865.
2. The recaptured brig Diana.
Acts and Resolves of the Massachusetts General Court 1
[Watertown] Friday August 30th 1776.
The Committee of both houses appointed to take into consideration the
Representation made by Capt [Richard] Welden respecting the Brig: called
the Rising Empire have attended that Service - Report as followeth - viz.
that the said Welden repair forthwith to the Town of Plymouth, 8c bring
said Brig to a good Wharf in said Town, 8c there deliver said Brig with all
the appurtunances thereunto belonging to one, or more persons, that this
Court may appoint to take Charge thereof,2 and then said Welden is di-
rected to discharge all the Officers and Men under his Command, and make
up his Muster Roll for said Officers and Men, and lay it before this Court
for payment thereof.
also Report as the opinion of said Committee, that the Cannon now on
board said Brig be order’d forthwith to the Town of Swanzey, and there put
on board one, or both of the Armed Vessels now fitting out by this State
against the Enemies of the united States of America. - all which is humbly
Submitted
In Council. Read, 8c Accepted. Walter Spooner p order
1. Mass. Arch., vol. 35, 187, 189-90.
2. Ibid., 193, on August 31 the General Court ordered Welden to deliver the Rising Empire to
William Watson.
Journal of the Massachusetts Sloop Tyrannicide, Captain John Fisk 1
5 [A. M.]
1 [P. M.]
3
12
Remks on Friday 30th of August 1776
Carried a way a Great deal of our Riggin sprang our bow-
sprit we Are a perfect Rack
Learge sea setting NE our prize in Company
Lattd in 38d 48m Longd in 63d 56m
Freash gale, and high sea from S W
fair weather
Cloudy weather and squally
1. John Fisk Journal, AAS.
360
AMERICAN THEATRE
Nicholas Brown to John Langdon 1
Sir- Providence Augt 30th 1776 —
I received your Favr of the 12th Inst and have not been able to answer
it ’till now, as I cou’d not get the Sentiments of the Ships Committee about
lending you The Guns as you propos’d till the last post and not haveing op-
portunity to Consult Esqr Hopkins (The Manager Of the Furnace) ’till this
Morning, Could not Determine the Time we Cou’d Compleat a sett for you
’till now, which through the Loss of Time in the Misfortune Of the Furnace
Hearth giveing way, Shall not be able to Deliver you a sett here under 55
Days from this, at Five Pounds Lawful Money per hundred at which 8c much
higher we Cou’d now sell Guns — You will please to give us your Definitive
answer p Return Of Post, 8c if you have them, for Somebody to appear 8c
Finish the Contract as mention’d before, as to our Committee Delivering
or lending Those for our Ships, refer you to Collo [William] Whipple, Who
heard What was said, if you get them, you or the Collo must appear in per-
son, or write Govr Cook[e] as Chairman Of the Committee,- I am Sir [8cc.]
Nich0 Brown for the
Furnace Owners
Am much Obgd for yr Particular
Attention Abot the Masts 8c spars -
They are not yet Arrived
1. Captain J. G. M. Stone Private Collection, Annapolis.
Connecticut Gazette, Friday, August 30, 1776
New-London, August 30.
Last Saturday, two Frigates, a Brig, and a small Tender, being part of
King George’s piratical Fleet from Sandy Hook, came round Montauk-Point
into the Sound, and have proceeded as far up as the Narrows: It is supposed
their Views are to obstruct the Communication between New-York and
New-England. Several Vessels that were ready to sail from this Port with
Troops for New-York, are by this Means detained.
We hear that a small Vessel out of Connecticut-River, with Onions, was
taken by the above Tender.
Last Tuesday Morning two other Men of War were seen off Montauk-
Point.
Advertisement of Sale of Prize Ships and Cargoes at Providence 1
[New London, August 30]
Notice is hereby given, that on the 6th of September will begin at Pro-
vidence, the Sale of the following Prizes and Cargoes, viz. The Ship Jane,
Ship Star & Garter, and Ship Friendship - Cargoes consisting of Sugars,
Rum, Indigo, Cotton, Cocoa, Pimento and Oil. The Sale to begin at 10
o’clock, A.M. and continue till sold.
1. Connecticut Gazette, August 30, 1776.
AUGUST 1776
361
Lieutenant Elias Baldwin to Solomon Porter 1
[Extract] New York Augt 30. 76.
Dear sir. Last night was a time of the utmost Confusion & hurry Imagina-
ble—Our Troops from long Island retreated into the City last night. The
latter part of the night when they finished their retreat was very favorable
to the Design a thick fog came on Just at Day break - I believe they came
of [f] without any Molestation from the Enemy. The town is now again
filled with Soldiers — but all in Confusion, I hope things will be soon re-
duced to more Order. The Reason of this Retreat I cannot certainly learn.
The heavy rains we have had here for several Days past have fatigued the
men on that Station, great part of whom were without any Cover, almost to
death, I never saw poor creatures look more banged than they do. — Some
say the Rains have greatly injured the works there. Doubtless the Generals
think them not Tenable or they never would have quitted them. The
Retreat was conducted with great prudence, tho’ the Measure was unex-
pected & surprizing to me. ... I have this moment heard that the last divi-
sion of our troops were fired upon by the Enemy as they pushed from the
Shore & several killed. Tis doubtless the Enemy’s design to cross the Sound
below hell gate & take possession of Kings bridge, for this purpose they
have Carried a Number of Boats a[c]ross the Island, should they effect
this they will ruin us. But I trust they will never be able to Effect this we
have a large body of Troops at Kings bridge & thereabouts -
1. Baldwin Family Papers, YUL.
Narrative of Abraham Leggett 1
[July 1 to August 30]
I then with several others [at Poughkeepsie] formed ourselves in a com-
pany under the command of Barnardus Swartout all Vollenteers - the times
began to appear very Interesting - the British Fleet and large army was at
Staten Island - we march’d off in high spirits till we got to the Calder-bar-
rack near the Croton River - there we staid but three days for derection -
we then had news that the English army was preparing to land on Long
Island - that they easy effected under the protection of Shiping - our army
was at this Time on Brooklin Hights fortifying as fast as they Could -the
Enemy advanced upon Part of our army under the corn’d of Lord Stirling
and General Sullivan - they faught on the Retreat to Flatbush Hills. There
the battle became Very Hot but the Enemy was too powerful - they ex-
tended their write wing so as to cut off the retreat of our detachment from
the main army, which they succeeded in and they kill’d and captured many,
amongst them was several officers and the Two Gen’ls — many was Drownded
in the mill Pond. This took place 28th August [sic] 1776 -the next day
the 29th, Capt. Swartout crossed with us to the Island and we was placed on
the left from the Hill call’d Fort Greene to Wallabout - the two armies close
in view of each other, and for three Days the Rain fell in Torrents so that we
could not Cook - then was the first Time I was Brought to eat Raw Pork-
362
AMERICAN THEATRE
the last night we was on the Island myself and Several of Volunteers was put
on advanced Centres [sentries] with speshel orders how to behave should we
discover the Enemy advancing - the night was Foggy & very dark. Some cir-
cumstances made all the Centres return on the lines but myself - my Remain-
ing at my station was imputed to bravery. Early in the morning yet very dark
we was Paraded under the Report that we was to attack the Enemy in their
lines. We was Led around we new not where till I Saw the old stone Church
of Brooklin - then an officer riding by Says a groce mistake - we was orded to
wheel about and remain the lines, wich we did - a dangerous attempt - there
we remained till some Time after - we then formed the Rear Gard we
was ordered forward, still expected to meet the Enemy till we found our-
selves at the Ferry and the army all cross’d. But the Gard then under the
Command of Gen’l [Thomas] Mifflin — we then was order’d to choak up the
Street with waggons and Carts to Prevent the Light Horse from Rushing
Down upon us - at this time no boats - I prepar’d myself to Swim the River
flood tide But fortunately two Battoes struck Shore - by this Time there was
but a few of us left - we all hurred on board and Shoved off - the Enemy
Rush’d down on the Hill and Commenced a brisk fire. Fortunately no one
was hurt in our Boat - the other Boat had four wounded - 2
1. “The Narrative of Major Abraham Leggett,” The Magazine of History (New York, 1924),
XXVI, Extra No. 101, 46, 47.
2. The narrative, written late in life, suffers from the usual vague dating. What Leggett de-
scribed of his adventures on Long Island occurred between August 28 and early morning
of August 30, 1776.
Journal of H.M.S. Eagle , Captain Henry Duncan 1
August 1776 At Anchor between Staten Island and Red hook
Friday 30th At 8 AM Dryed Sails 8c Sent a Flag of Truce to New
York 2 At 9 AM made the Preston Asia Renown 8c Repulse
Signals to Unmoor At 10 the St Lawrence Signal At 11
Unmoord Ship
Moored off of Bedlows Island
The first part Light Breezes 8c Cloudy, Middle light airs 8c
Cloudy, latter Light Breezes 8c fair at 1 P M made the Re-
nown, Asia, Preston 8c Repulse Signals to get under way Do
wei[g]hed 8c turned up with the above Ships, at 7 made the
Sigl 8c Anchor’d with the Bt Br in 12 fm Veered to 1/3 of a
Cable At 10 sent the Flat Boat to row Guard.
1. NMM, Admiralty L/E/ll.
2. The flag was to convey Major General John Sullivan to New York with proposals for ex-
change of himself and Lord Stirling who had also been captured on August 27.
Journal of Ambrose Serle 1
[On board H.M.S. Eagle]
Friday 30th. August.
[John] Sullivan was allowed to go up to the Town this morning under a
./ ohn Sullivan.
William Alexander
364
AMERICAN THEATRE
Flag of Truce, to confer with Washington & to procure himself some Neces-
saries.
Soon afterwards, we were most agreeably surprized to find, that the
Rebels had entirely abandoned Long Island, and left every thing of Bulk
and Weight behind them; soon after which our People began to fire from
Red Hook upon Nutting Island.2 This hasty Evacuation surprized us the
more, as they had constructed Forts, Redoubts and Intrenchments without
End. Not a Foot of Ground was unfortified. . . . Before Night they also
abandoned Nutting Island, upon which likewise they had spent a great Deal
of Labor. Our People harrassed them in this last Retreat by their great
Guns from Brookland Ferry, Red Hook, and other Places. In the Evening
some of our People, who were sent up to the Town with a Letter, by a Flag
of Truce, directed to Sullivan (who is to set out to-morrow morning for the
Congress at Philadelphia), observed a great Firing of Musquetry & much
noise in the Town, from which they concluded, as our Troops could not
possibly be there, that they were all in Confusion among themselves. The
Ships of War had weighed Anchor in the Evening, and sailed up towards the
Town, which, together with the rapid Progress of the Troops, ’tis imagined
has occasioned a Panic. . . . The Ships cast anchor off Nutting Island, the
Night coming on apace, and the army and other arrangements not being im-
mediately ready for a great Operation.
. . . Sullivan promised me to mention Mr. Stanhope’s 3 Situation, and
to do what he could for his Release from Captivity
1. Tatum, ed., Serle’s Journal , 82-83, 84.
2. Now Governors Island.
3. Lieutenant Henry Stanhope, R.N., captured in Newport, November, 1775. See Volume 2.
Exchange of Letters Between General Sullivan and Lord Howe 1
New York, 30th of August, 1776
My Lord. - agreeable to your Lordships Request I have Conversed with
General Washington, who says that he has no power to Treat upon the Sub-
ject your Lordship mentioned, but has not the least objection to my going to
Philadelphia to Inform Congress of what your Lordship has been pleased to
Communicate to me upon the Subject. I shall wait your Lordships further
Direction, and am with much esteem, your Lordships most obedient Serv-
ant,
Jn° Sullivan
The Right Honble Lord Viscount Howe
His Lordship's Answer:
Eagle, 30 August, 1776
Sir,
Understanding by your Letter That the only Doubt of the propriety of
your going to Philadelphia is, by your Conversation with General Washing-
ton, Removed, I do not see occasion to give you further Trouble but to Rec-
AUGUST 1776
365
ommend the prosecuting of your Journey, as you were pleased on that Con-
dition to propose. I am Sir, your most obedt Humble Servt,
Howe
General Sullivan.
1. Ford, ed., JCC, V, 730, 731.
Journal of the Continental Congress 1
[Philadelphia] Friday, August 30, 1776
Resolved , That three advice boats be established; one to ply between
the state of North Carolina, and such port as shall be most convenient to the
place at which the Congress shall be sitting; one other between the state of
South Carolina and the said port, and one other between the state of Geor-
gia and the same port; that such advice boats be armed, and put under the
direction of the Secret Committee, who are empowered to freight them with
such merchandise or commodities, as, without retarding their passage, may,
together with the usual postage on letters, and other papers transmitted by
them, contribute to defray the expences of the said boats.
The convention of New York having represented that, for want of
blacksmiths, they are greatly delayed in obstructing the passage of Hudson’s
river, in the Highlands, which is an object of great importance:
Resolved, That the convention of New York be empowered to employ,
for the purpose aforesaid, the blacksmiths that are now engaged in building
the continenetal frigates at Poughkeepsie.2
The committee, to whom the petition of William Bell 8c Co. was re-
ferred, brought in their report, which was taken into consideration; Where-
upon,
Resolved, That Governor [Jonathan] Trumbull be requested to permit
the sloop Freemason, Epaphros Mygat, master, with her cargo, belonging to
the petitioners, to proceed on her voyage to the island of St. Eustatia, so
soon as the said master shall judge she may sail without falling into the
hands of the enemy on the coast.
1. Ford, ed.,/CC,V, 718, 720-21.
2. A copy of this resolve was sent to the New York Convention. Philip Livingston to Abraham
Yates, Jr., August 30, NYSL.
Samuel Huntington to Matthew Griswold, Eliphalet Dyer, and
William Pitkin 1
[Extract] Philadelphia 30th August 1776
By a vessel arived here yesterday we are Informed from the Master, who
lately Saild from this port for Cape Francois, that on his arrival there under
American Colours the curiosity of his flag drew Such numbers on board as
almost Sunk his vessel they enquired whence he came, what News 8cc he
told them he carried the flag of the Independant States of America, 8c gave
them the declaration of Independance which they carried on Shore Soon
after which the Govr sent his Compliments to the Capt with permission to
366
AMERICAN THEATRE
hoist his flag in that harbour; the Capt farther Says that three days before he
left the Cape, which is thirteen days Since, dispatches arrived from old
France acquainting the Governor that Twenty Ships of war with a number
of Troops were coming to that port in Consequence of which people were
set to work in repairing the barracks there to receive the Troops —
1. William Griswold Lane Memorial Collection, YUL.
Journal of the Pennsylvania Council of Safety 1
In Council of Safety,
[Philadelphia] August 30th, 1776.
Agreeable to a resolve of the Honorable Congress, Sc by direction of the
Board, a Commission was granted for the Privateer Brig’e, called the Gen-
eral Montgomery , Commanded by James Montgomery, mounting 12 Car-
riage Guns, navigated by One Hundred Men.
1. Pennsylvania Colonial Records, X, 705, 706.
John Thomas Boucher to Daniel of St. Thomas Jenifer 1
Sir Yocommico 30th August 1776
Tomorrow I shall quit this place Sc proceed down the Bay, with the To-
bacco loaded Brigg, on seeing her safe out to Sea, shall return to Wmsburgh,
Sc resign my Commission. - 2 Should Capt Nicholson quit the Defence, I will
accept the Command, provided my pay is equal to what I have in this Prov-
ince, Sc that I shall be permitted to go to Sea with the Ships. - 1 shall be un-
der the necesity of being at home, at least a fortnight after my return from
Wmsburgh Imediately on my return will pay you a Visit at Annapolis. - I
am sorry I had not the pleasure of seeing Capt Nicholson, I hope I shall in a
short time I am Sir [See.]
John Thoa Boucher
1. Red Book, XV, Md. Arch.
2. Boucher had resigned as first lieutenant of the Maryland ship Defence on March 27, 1776 to
accept a post as commodore of the Virginia Potomac fleet and commander of the ship
Congress.
Journal of the Virginia Navy Board 1
[Williamsburg] Friday 30th August 1776.-
Ordered that the keeper of the Public Store deliver unto Capt Tompkins for
the use of the Henry Galley five Bolts of Duck and four sides of Leather. -
James Davis personally appeared before the Board and entered into Bond
with Isaac Davis Sc Humphrey Davis his Securities in the Sum of One thou-
sand Pounds Current Money Conditioned for his faithfully performing his
Agreement of the 15th Inst in Building a Row-Galley for the use of this
Commonwealth. -
Ordered that Stephen Mitchell deliver unto Thomas Gibbs such Iron as he
may be in want of for the use of the Henry Galley. -
Capt Thomas Lilly of the Brig Liberty received Orders to proceed immedi-
AUGUST 1776
367
ately with his Vessel to Baltimore and there take on Board as much Pig-Iron
as may be sufficient to Ballast his Vessel, also to procure such other neces-
saries as may be requisite for fitting his said Vessel for Cruize and return as
soon as possible to York Town and wait on the Board for further Orders. -
Robert Elam second Lieut of the Norfolk Revenge Galley personally made
his appearance before the Board and resigned his Commission on Board the
said Galley. -
1. Navy Board Journal, 47, 48, VSL.
Journal of H. M. Schooner St. John, Lieutenant William Grant 1
Augt ’76 anchor’d in North River [St. Augustine]
Thursday 29 (A M) Got the Sheet Ancher out Sc hauled her on the Grav-
ing place having brought her to 6 feet water, employed scrap-
ing the Barnacles from the Bottom which was become a per-
fect Oyster bank.
Lresh Breezes Sc Cloudy Wr Empd Scrubbing and Cleaning
her Bottom at 5 received an Express from Govr Tonyn ac-
quainting the Capt that there was a Rebell Privateer of force
off the Barr who had made Prize of a Ship that was at Anchor
there Got all hands on board sent a Boat to tow the Flat
Bottom Boat down - As soon as the Tide would permit, hove
her off - Got the Guns, sails, Casks, Stores 8cca on Board - at
i/2 past 9 weighed Sc came to sail down the River - Left the
Sheet Ancher behind, at 1 1 Anchor’d off the Look out
house it bearing S:S:E the Hospitall WbS: the Fort Wi^S:
No Point N:E i/4 of a Mile distance, Fired a Gun as a Signl
to the Fort
Friday 30 (A M) saw 3 sail off the Barr, md the Signl for a Pilot Boat Sc
repeated it 3 Times, at 9 a Sloop got amongst the Breakers,
sent the Boat to assist her, she proved to be from Virginia, at
9 a Schooner run ashore on the same place at 10 a sloop
fired several Guns being a Ground sent assistance to her
also, she proved to be from St Christophers loaded wt Rum
Fresh Breezes Sc Clear Weather the Boats Sc people empd as-
sisting the Vessells. Fired 1 Three Pdr as a Signl to send the
Launch down to assist the Vessels in distress
1. PRO, Admiralty 51 /4330.
“A Journal Kept by Ephraim Briggs On board of the Good Sloop
Warren A Bold Privateer from Dartmouth to the Lattd of 33:” 1
Fryday August the 30 Day AD 1776
Latter Part after Twelve took in Two R[ee]fs in our Mainsail Blows
Heavy A bad sea A Going in the Current Fryday Morning Very squally
368
AMERICAN THEATRE
Blows Heavy A Bad sea A Going settle Away to it Continalley 8c Tack
Lattd in 38:20
First Part these 24 hours the Weather Moderates Drawing out of the
Current Nothing A Cooking A Large Sea A Going
1. RIHS.
31 Aug.
Joshua Wentworth to Charles Thomson 1
Sir,- Portsmouth, Augt. 31st, 1776
On a late Trial of a Brigantine named the Elizabeth, retaken from the
Enemy on her passage to Halifax — The Jury, were guilty of a Most flagrant
error in their Verdict by acquiting the Vessel 8c Cargo, after I had supported
the fact set forth in the Lible, (vizt) that she had been in Possesion of the
Enemy more than Ninty six hours, wch will plainly appear by the Masters
deposition, - I cou’d not consistant with my Duty as Agent for the Conti-
nent, let the matter rest on this Verdict, Therefore have appeal’d to the
Honble Continental Congress, and now forward you, the Papers of Appeal,
not doubting a very different determination on the next hereof. - The
Claimants made an Offer to Compromise with the Captors of £, 1000. Stg
about one third of their Just Quota, this was refused. Part of them then of-
fer’d their full share, but considering, the injustice of the Verdict, I cou’d
not Consent toe it for the Continent Claim, - The bearer Como Manly was
at the recapture, who can Inform you very particularly. — I likewise forward
you beside the papers from the Court Maritime, Capt. Ramseys desposition
who, was Master of the Brigt when taken, 8c the Command given him by Ad-
miral Shuldham - also a deposition one of the Claimants desired my
forwarding.2
In this recapture, there were, a Mr [William] Jackson a Mr [Edward]
Keighley 8c a Mr [Richard] Newton, who claim their Good they had with
them in this Vessel, undoubtedly those persons must be deem’d carrieg their
Interest for the supply of the Army 8cc - If it shou’d be thought necessary my
attendance at the Trial, shall be oblig’d you wou’d advise me, 8c the time
appointed, also please to advise me your receipt of those Papers. - Shou’d
the Honble Continental Congress, Permit a Compromise with the Claim-
ants, (except those that were in the Vessel wd presume to think they wont
allow it with them) shall be further oblig’d by an early direction thereon.-
The Mode proposed, (if such a measure was permited) was to have the
Goods Valued, by Three Gentlemen vers’d in Merchandize, 8c each
Claimant to pay his Quota. I mention this for your full Information of
what has been agitated since the Trial - I would presume to recommend a
decision as soon as may be, for the Interest of the concern’d, as the Good has
been a long time in my Care, and I fear they may injure much by laying, as
they are cheifly Woolens 8c Linnens, or rather a greater half of those
AUGUST 1776
369
Good. - In my Estimation the Vessel Sc Cargo may Yeild <£30,000 Lawfl. My
at Public Sale. — I am with due respect [8cc.]
Josh: Wentworth 3
The Honble Charles Thomson Esq
Secretary to The Honble Continental Congress
1. Revolutionary War Prize Cases, Court of Appeals, 1776-1787, NA.
2. Ibid,., the enclosure reads:
The several Papers contained in this File, Number’d from 1 to 57, together with
the Book containing an Invoice of all the Brigantine Elizabeth' s Cargo Number’d
55, contain a true Copy of the whole Case in which Joshua Wentworth Esqr Agent
for the United States of America in their behalf, and in behalf of the Captors, is
Libellant, of the sd Brigt her Cargo & Appurtenances tried on the 21st day of Au-
gust Inst., at Portsmouth New Hampshire, before the Honble Joshua Brackett
Esqr. Judge of the Maritime Court there, and by said Wentworth Appealed to the
Honble the Continental Congress - The several Claimants on file being Appellees
Portsmouth 31st August 1776
Attest Jona M Sewall Cler[k] of said Court
3. Congress set aside the decision of the New Hampshire court on October 14, 1776. See
Journal of the Continental Congress, October 14, 1776.
Valuation of Material Left after Building the Continental
Frigate Raleigh 1
Att the Request of John Langdon Esqr We the Subscribers have Surveyed
all the Stuff left after building the Ship of War Releigh Sc Judge the whole
to be worth Thirty Six pounds Lawful money - as Witness our Hands -
Portsmouth August 31st 1776
James Hackett James Hill Moses Noble
1. John Langdon Papers, 117, HSP.
Receipt of George Crowninshield for Share in a Privateer 1
Reed of Capt william bartlett the Sume of fifty six pounds four shillings in
full for One Sixteenth Part of A Scho (now fitting for A Privateere) As
Shee Arived from the Eastward Excluding Her Cargoe of Lumber Sec with
Her Sparrs Sc plank She Brought upon Deck Salem August 31 1776
Geo Crowninshield
1. The Revolution, Naval, vol. 1, Privateers, Book 13, BHS.
Advertisement for Claimants of Sloop Smiling Molly 1
Taken up by the Company stationed at Plimouth for the Defence of the
Sea Coast, the Hull of the Sloop called the Smilling Molley , with her Name
wrote on her Stern, with white Paint, is almost 90 Tons burthen, appears to
be about two Years old, was scuttled and drifting along Shore when found,
the 24th of August current, about 5 Miles to the Northward of the Light
House on the Gurnet, is painted with green Hants, and green Stern, had her
Mast carried away by the Deck, and quite empty, not a Chest or Paper on
board, is now at the Wharf in Plimouth. Any Person claiming Property,
are desired to apply to Captains William Weston and Jesse Harlow, at Plym-
370
AMERICAN THEATRE
outh, being the Commander of the Company above-named.
Plimouth, Aug. 31.
1. New-England Chronicle , September 5, 1776.
Journal of the Massachusetts Sloop Tyrannicide, Captain John Fisk 1
Remks on Satterday 31st of August 1776
At 6 A m saw a ship And schooner to the westward about 2
miles distance they gave us Chase I spake with our prize
Order him to Steare to the southward we steard to the East-
ward the ship gave Chaise to our prize fird at her 8c brought
her too then gave us Chaise come up with us a Little we
Employd in heaveing Over board ballast and starting water
Lattd in 39d 12m Longd in 64d 33m
1 [P. M.] Freash gale and high sea from SW
the frigat Comes up a Little we lightning Ship by starting our
water and heaveing over our ballast
at 2 P m saw a sail to the Eastward standing to the southward
at 4 saw a sail to the northward standing to the SE Cloudy
weather and squally
at 6 saw a Learge ship to the Eastward standing to the SW
at 7 lost sight of the frigat
At 8 Alterd our Course hald up to the northward
1. John Fisk Journal, AAS.
Providence Gazette, Saturday, August 31, 1776
Providence, August 31.
Monday last the Captains Grimes and Hill, in the two Gallies belong-
ing to this State, arrived here from New-York.
We learn that two of the Enemy’s Ships, and a Brig, are cruizing in the
Western Sound.
Journal of H. M. S. Niger, Captain George Talbot 1
August 1776 At single Anchor in Flushing Bay
Friday 30 AM Moor’d wth stream Cable sent the Boat on s[h]ore
Brought off 2 Head of Cattle sent one on board the Brune
Light Breezes 8c Cloudy Wr at 2 PM Took a Pettyauger
from N York
Saturday 31 Light Breezes 8c Fair Wr at 12 PM sent the Barge Man’d 8c
Arm’d up too Flushing Town took a Sloop 2
1. PRO, Admiralty 51/637.
2. Ibid., the following day the sloop was manned by a petty officer and six men, apparently to
be used as a tender.
AUGUST 1776
371
Master’s Log of H. M. Brig Halifax 1
Remarks off Flushing Bay Long Island Sound
Saturday Augt 31st 1776
4 [A. M.] Little wind and Fair Wr
6 Calm the Brune Made Our Signal for a Lieut
8 at 1/2 past Hove short Reed some Marines from the Brune and
Niger Weighd and Came to sail
10 Came too off White stone point Sent the Boats Mannd 8c
Armd on Shore to take off Cattle 8cc from [Francis] Lewis’s
House at White stone 2
4 [P. M.] Light Breezes and Fair Weather Empd taking off the Stock
and Cattle, Lewis’s House at White stone.
1. PRO, Admiralty 52/1775.
2. Lewis was a New York delegate in the Continental Congress.
Brigadier General Benedict Arnold to Major General Horatio Gates 1
Dear General Buttonmould Bay Augt 31st 1776
The 24th Inst I left Crown Point, the 25th at night Anchored at Wills-
borough, the Same night came on a Violent Storm at N Et. the Next Day
at 2 P M was obliged to weigh Anchor 8c return to this place, where the
whole fleet arived the same evening, except the Spitfire Capt Ulmer who
could not Clear the Shore 8c was obliged to come to an Anchor again, 8c rode
out the Storm, tho exposed to the rake of Cumberland Bay. Fifty miles
long, the hard gale made an amazeing Sea, 8c when I expected to hear the
Gondola was Foundered, or drove on shore, she Joined us haveing received
no Damage, tho a light Batteau, Veered a Stern of her was sunk, with the
Sea, breaking Over her. The severe weather prevented my dispatching
Lieut Whitcomb before yesterday morning, the first Fair wind, I will follow
him. I should have gone this evening but the breeze is so light, night
would have come on before we could have reached a safe place of
Anchorage - 1 have had no Advices From St.Johns, or the Isle aux
Nois, the earliest Intelligence I receive shall be communicated to you,
emediately. I am very Anxious to hear from New York 8c make no Doubt,
when you receive any material, Advices, I shall soon be Acquainted with
it. - Inclosed is a return of the Strength of the Fleet, by which you will ob-
serve that Seventy four Men are wanting to compleat the Numbers proposed
for the Vessells, which Are barely sufficient when compleat. I should be ex-
treamly glad, they would be sent to us soon - If you think proper to Send
them the bearer Lieut [James] Calderwood, will take charge of them - Mr
[James] Gilliland has the only good drawft I know of Lake Champlain,
which he says was Delivered Capt [Lewis] Bush for you. It will be of great
Service to me as I have no Drawft of the Lake. If a good officer can be pro-
cured to Act as Captain of the Royal Savage , I think he might be of Service,
in Case any Accident should happen to me the present Master is not fit for
the Command In Chief, tho a good Man in his present Station.
372
AMERICAN THEATRE
I suppose by this time General Schuyler has paid you a Visit, please to
make My respectful Compliments to him if arrived - & let him know I will
write him very particularly as soon as I arive at the other end of the
Lake - I am with real Affection & Esteem Dear General [Sec.]
B Arnold
1. Gates Papers, NYHS.
Colonel Israel Hutchinson to Major General William Heath 1
I am to inform your Honor that Capt Cooke sunk a Cheveaux D Fries
which is now floating down the River He has been with me this Morng
and tells me that it is His Opinion that the current is so rapid that all En-
deavours of the Kind will not stop the River; I should be glad to Receive
your Orders upon the Matter in the Meanwhile I subscribe myself yours to
Command
Israel Hutchinson —
Mount Washington Augst 31st 1776
I. Heath Papers, MassHS. Hutchinson was in command of the 27th Continental Infantry.
Journal of Captain Henry Duncan, R.N. 1
[On board H.M.S. Eagle off Staten Island]
On Thursday, 29th [August 1776], General Sullivan and Lord Stirling
both dined with the admiral, and were rather impudent than otherwise in
talking of yesterday’s engagement.2 This day, we with several of the men-
of-war moved up nearer the town; the army had got within musket shot of
the rebel’s works on Brookland Heights, and General Grant in the bay op-
posite to Red Hook.
30th, Friday. — This morning Sullivan breakfasted with us, and was af-
terwards sent with a flag of truce to New York and was left there. The ad-
miral was going on shore, and was met in his barge by Colonel Sheriff, who
informed him, to the surprise of the army, the rebels had quitted all their
strong posts on Long Island, and deserted it entirely. Our people took po-
session of them, and found them strong and might easily have been de-
fended for a considerable time. Some of the rebels, not knowing the pre-
cipitate flight of the others, were overtaken by our people by the time they
got to the boats, and received a heavy fire from them, which the general
believed did considerable execution.3 This evening, we, with several of the
ships, moved up within random shot of the town. The rebels quitted
Governor’s Island. On Saturday morning, the 31st, some few men returned
to it.
1. Duncan’s Journals, XX, 125-26.
2. Both generals were taken prisoner at the battle of Long Island.
3. 1 his seems to be the British version of Washington’s evacuation of Long Island. The few
men left behind, and who were fired at from the shore, had been a rear guard.
AUGUST 1776
373
Vice Admiral Richard Lord Howe to Philip Stephens 1
Number 5. Eagle off Bedlow’s Island, New York
Sir August the 31st 1776.
A Proposition having been made to me by the Commander of the
Rebel Forces for an Exchange of Prisoners, Number for Number and Rank
for Rank, I have thought it for His Majesty’s Service to concur therein.
I have in Consequence directed that some American Prisoners taken by
the Milford in an Armed Vessel from Boston 2 should be conveyed in the
Rainbow to Halifax; and have desired Commissioner Arbuthnot to take the
necessary Measures for effecting a suitable Exchange, with the Assistance of
Sir George Collier, whom I have ordered to remain at Halifax for the better
Protection and Security of that port.
Observing that the King’s Service has received great Prejudice in the
Decrease of the Ships’ Complements by the re-capture of Vessels the prop-
erty of His Majesty’s disaffected Subjects, taken and manned by the Cruizers
of the Squadron; I have recommended to the several Captains when making
Prize of such Vessels, to take out the Crews with the most valuable parts of
their Cargoes, and destroy the Vessels: Until the constitutional Authority of
Government is so far restored in some part of the Colonies, that the Benefit
intended by the restraining Act of the last Session of Parliament, may be
better secured to the Captors than the present disordered State of the Colo-
nies will admit. I am Sir [Sec.]
Howe
1. PRO, Admiralty 1 /487.
2. The Massachusetts privateer brig Yankee Hero taken by H. M. S. Milford, June 6, 1776. See
Volume 5.
Vice Admiral Richard Lord Howe to Philip Stephens 1
Number 6. Eagle off Bedlow’s Island, New York,
Sir, August the 31st 1776.
By the Hyde packet, which the General sends with his Dispatches to
make known the successful Progress of the Army in its first Operations, I
transmit for their Lordships Information, Duplicates of my Letters of the
28th of July, and 8th and 14th of August sent by the Sandwich Packet, No 2.
3 & 4; with Copies of such of the Papers referred to therein, as seemed to be
of any Moment.
I have now to add in respect to the Changes made in the Disposition of
the Ships since the Date of the last Return, that on the 19th Captain Par-
ker in the Phoenix , with the Rose Captain Wallace, and Tryal Armed
Schooner, Lieutenant [John] Brown, taking Advantage of a fresh Easterly
Wind, returned from the North River thro’ the Fire from the Enemy’s sev-
eral Batteries and joined the Fleet off Staten Island without any Loss.
The Spirit and perseverance of this small Squadron will be best ex-
plained to their Lordships by Captain Parker’s Journal enclosed 2
General Howe giving me Notice of his Intention to make a Descent in
374
AMERICAN THEATRE
Gravesend Bay on Long Island on the Morning of the 22d, the necessary
Disposition was made, and seventy five Flat Boats with eleven Batteaux and
two Gallies built for the Occasion, were prepared for that Service.
The Command of the Whole remained with Commodore Hotham. The
Captains Parker, Wallace and [Archibald] Dickson in the Phoenix, Rose and
Greyhound, with the Thunder and Carcass Bombs under the Direction of
Colonel [Thomas] James, were appointed to cover the Landing.
The Flat Boats Gallies and three Batteaux manned from the Ships of
War, were formed into Divisions commanded respectively by the Captains
[George] Vandeput, [Christopher] Mason, [Roger] Curtis, [Benjamin]
Caldwell, [Charles] Phipps, [Toby] Caulfield, [Samuel] Uppleby and
[Henry] Duncan; and Lieutenant [Samuel] Reeve of the Eagle. The rest of
the Batteaux making a tenth Division, manned from the Transports, were
under the conduct of Lieutenant Bristow, an Assistant Agent.
Early in the Morning of the 22d the covering Ships took their Stations
in Gravesend Bay. The Light Infantry with the Reserve to be first landed,
forming a Corps together of four thousand Men, entered the Boats at Staten
Island at the same Time.
The Transports in which the Several Brigades composing the second
Debarkation (about five thousand Men) had been before embarked, were
moved down and suitably arranged without the covering Ships by eight
o’Clock. The first Debarkation not meeting with any opposition, the Sec-
ond succeeded immediately after. And the other Transports carrying the
rest of the Troops following the former in proper Succession, the whole
Force then destined for this Service, consisting of about fifteen thousand
Men, was landed before Noon.
On the Diligence and Utility of Captain [John] Bourmaster and the
other Agents of the Transports on that Occasion, too much Commendation
cannot be bestowed.
On the 25th an additional Corps of Hessian Troops under General
[Leopold von] Heister, with their Field Artillery and Baggage, were con-
veyed over to Gravesend Bay.
Being informed the next Day by General Howe, of his Intentions to ad-
vance with the Army that Night to the Enemy’s Lines; and of his Wishes
that some Diversion might be attempted by the Ships on this Side; I gave
Direction to Sir Peter Parker for proceeding higher up in the Channel to-
wards the Town of New York next Morning, with the Asia, Renown, Pres-
ton, (Commodore Hotham embarked in the Phoenix having been left to
carry on the Service in Gravesend Bay) Roebuck and Repulse : And to
keep those Ships in readiness for being employed as Occasion might
require. But the Wind veering to the Northward soon after the Break of
Day, the Ships could not be moved up to the Distance proposed. Therefore
when the Corps under General [James] Grant, forming the left Column of
the Army were seen to be engaged with the Enemy in the Morning, the Roe-
buck Captain Hamond leading the detached Squadron, was the only Ship
that could fetch high enough to the Northward to exchange a few random
AFLAN 0fJnxwrORKl3LAirDM>itl>/>art<fL ONG/SJLAim, STATMN ISLAND & EAST . 1 'fit WjfJKWSMY, u'ttfi a panrcutar/k/lrydum
of die ENGAGEMENT on die Woody Heights of Long Hland .between Fl-ATBlTSHand BROOKLYN, on llie 27*0)' Anguft 1-76 .
beiween //is MAyESTy's FORCES Commanded bv General ffOU’E and d/e. 1 MERIC ASM render * \ fa/or Geneml F( rTA'ASl Shoeing atsc ehe Landing. yVk
0JtniS/T,4lLWroii}$ev?'(m\r. V&mvi, and tlv 'i/kirig.y'iJir City ef.VtiH’YORK C-k m the ri*dScptemb<r feUeiraip . nith t/u- Snlsc^ua it / /Ijyrsibcn of Both tlu Annies.
jdttfntyfd 1* FnM/fid >u\v/xftny k> . it! 0/ ' /hrfia/tttnl ( hdr *> V /jfi\ fir- WTftttlc n jhoyhrb' ifiekut. WTfJerfce ts. Ony/ty/ter (<* die Flu*), Gharrny t ,.'./, 0. vn t »,V.
376
AMERICAN THEATRE
Shot with the Battery on Red Hook. And the Ebb making strongly down
the River soon after, I ordered the Signal to be shewn for the Squadron to
anchor.
It was observed, that as soon as the Centre Column of the Army was
seen to have turned the Flank of the Enemy’s Line opposed to General
Grant, they immediately attempted to make their Retreat within their
Works; But that they suffered great Loss, both in the Number killed and
made Prisoners.
On the Night of the 29th the Rebels abandonned all their Posts and
Works on Long Island, and retired with great Precipitation across the East
River to the Town of New York.
Captain Bishop arrived in the Lively from St Augustine the 22d In-
stant, with Letters from Governor Tonyn.
The Governor expresses therein his Apprehensions of an Invasion of
the Province under his Government on the Side of Georgia. And before
the Lively sailed to give any Assistance the Captain might be able to render
on that part, Advice was received that the Rebels had plundered the Settle-
ments on Amelia Island.
I have directed Captain Bishop to return with a Supply of Provisions
and Stores of such Natures as could be spared for the Ships stationed in East
Florida; And to make the best Disposition of them with the Concurrence of
the Governor that their State and the Supplies Captain Bishop is enabled to
afford them will admit: Not having others in this port that are of the
Classes, and in Condition to replace them. Captain Bishop is to call off the
Capes of Virginia in his passage along the Coast to deliver Instructions to
the Commander of the Otter (the Fowey being daily expected here for Wa-
ter) and to the Captains of the Ships left in Cape Fear Harbour, to join me
in this Port. The Cruizer is represented to be incapable of putting to
Sea. And Captain [Anthony] Hunt is directed in that Case to provide for
the Removal of the Company and Stores, and to evacuate and destroy the
Sloop.
The Swan and Tamer are also not in a State for present Service; But
the first Opportunity will be taken to give them the Repairs which it is
hoped may be sufficient for enabling them to return to Europe.
Commissioner Arbuthnot having disembarked all the Naval Stores from
the Britannia Store-Ship at Halifax, as I am informed by Captain [George]
Montagu of the Mercury lately arrived from thence, the cruising Ships here
will be greatly distressed for that Article. I have ordered the Rainbow to
proceed to and remain at Halifax for the farther Security of the Port. And
by that Conveyance I shall desire the Commissioner to prepare an Assort-
ment of Naval Stores to be embarked again in the Britannia, ready to be
transported here, as soon as an Opportunity offers for conducting the Store-
Ship to the Fleet.
Finding the Defects of the Bristol such as cannot be conveniently re-
paired abroad, I propose sending her to Plymouth as soon as the Nature of
the Service upon which the Squadron is now employed will admit. And in
AUGUST 1776
377
consequence of an Application made upon my Arrival here by Vice Admiral
Shuldham for Leave to return to England (a Copy of which with my An-
swer are enclosed) I have assigned that Ship for his Conveyance.
I informed their Lordships in a former Letter that the Dispatch Schoo-
ner was separated from the Renown in the passage from Halifax; I have
since learnt that the Schooner was taken soon after by an Armed Vessel of
the Rebels of much superior Force; Lieutenant [John] Goodridge being
killed in the Action. 3
I send enclosed an Account of the State and Condition of the Squadron.
And am Sir [&c.]
Howe
1. PRO, Admiralty 1/487.
2. The period covered was from July 13 to August 18, 1776.
3. Taken by the Massachusetts state sloop Tyrannicide.
Master’s Log of H. M. S. Roebuck 1
Tenedy’s Isld NbW li/2 mile
A M at 9 Weighed and made sail Sc sent 2 Six Pounders on
shore to Red hook with Ammunition which our Troops was
in Possession of i/2 past 11 Anchor’d in l\/2 fath. Red hook
EbN 1/2 a mile Sc the middle of Governors Island NEi^N 1
mile -
First part Modt and Rain Latter fair Wr P. M. at 3 saw
the Rebels retreating from Governours Island Sc begun to
fire upon them at 4 cease’d firing Weigh’d Sc turn’d up a
Breast of the Island and Anchor’d in 7 1/2 fath The Flagstaff
at New York NEi/^E Sc the middle of Governors Island
NEbN 1/4 of a mile Kennedy’s Island WbN
A M Reed some Water and wash’d between Decks
First and Latter parts Modt Sc fair, P. M The Enemy from
Governors Island fire’d upon us which we return’d with sev-
eral Broadsides, weigh’d and dropped farther down
1. PRO, Admiralty 52/1965.
Journal of H. M. S. Solebay, Captain Thomas Symonds 1
August 1776 Sandy Hook N74: lOWt 305 Lgs
Saturday 31 Mod; Sc Cloudy with Showers of Rain i/2 past 1pm saw a
SI ahead fired 2 3prs Shotted at the Chace a Sloop from
Philadelphia to Surinam laden with flour, Tar Sc Lumber 2
Latt: in 35°40r N Long: in: 19:49 Et
1. PRO, Admiralty 51 /909.
2. Sloop Hope, from Egg Harbor for Surinam, Howe’s Prize List, March 31, 1777, PRO, Admi-
ralty 1/487.
August 1776
Friday 30th
Saturday 31st
378
AMERICAN THEATRE
Journal of H. M. S. Rose, Captain James Wallace 1
August 1776
Thursday 29th
Friday 30th
Saturdy 31st
Anchor’d off Red Hook Long Island
a great firing from the Army on Long Island at Noon 7
Flat Boats full of Rebel Prisoners Pas’d
First part little Wind and Cloudy, with hard Showr’s of
Rain, Mide light Airs and foggy. PM at i/2 past 6 An-
swer’d the Parole Sigl
AM at pc, past 9 Weigh’d and came to Sail turning up for
Red Hook as did the Roebuck, saw our Troops take Posses-
sion of Red Hook at 1 1 came too in 3 fm low Water
Red Hook NEi/4 Et and Bedlows Island NBWti/£ Wt Do
Anchor’d the Roebuck
First part little Wind and Cloudy with Rain at times Midi
light Airs, latter do and Clear, PM at i/2 past 5 weigh’d
and came to Sail as did the Roebuck, Turning up the
River at 6 the Adml and part of the Fleet under way
Do Anchd in 3 fm low Water the Flag Staff on Gov-
erners Island NBEi/£E and Red Hook SEBE, the Rebels
leaving Governers Island
AM at 9 the Adml made our Sigl for a Lieut some of
the Men of War dropping higher up, saw 2 Brig’s and 2
Sloops (fire Vessels) Off the Town.
Light Breezes Sc Clear at 5 PM the Renown and Roebuck
fir’d several Shot at some Rebels passing from the Town to
Governers Island, at 6 Answer’d the Parole Sigl
1. PRO, Admiralty 51/805.
Journal of H. M. S. Greyhound, Captain Archibald Dickson 1
August 1776 Moor’d at Graves End Bay-
Satury 31st at 9 AM weigh’d & Drop’d Nearer Bedlows Island Sc An-
chor’d wt the best Br in 4 fathm Water Bedlows Island
NbW Governers Island NE Sc the West Steeple of New york
NNE at Noon the Eagle, Preston, Renown, Asia, Phoenix,
Rowbuck, Repulse & Emerald in Compy at Anchor about 1
Mile from Governers Island and about the same Distance
from Bedlows Island.
Light breezes Sc Cloudy Variously Empd P M sent a boat
wt an Officer to Row Guard Read the Articles of War &rc
&rc to the Ships Compy
1 PRO, Admiralty 51 /420.
Journal of H. M. S. Galatea, Captain Thomas Jordan 1
Augst 1776 Sandy Hook N76.32Wt 105 Leagues
Saturday 31st at 5 AM Saw a Ship Sc a Sloop to the Eastwd Gave Chace,
the Sloop haul’d to the Eastwd the Ship to the Soward \/2
AUGUST 1776
379
past 9 Fired 2 Shot & brot too the Rachel from Antigua
bound to London who had been taken by the Sloop being a
privateer belonging to Salam Sent the Lieut with 7 Men
and took possession of her left the Cutter and made Sail af-
ter the privateer, at Noon the privateer Sloop Bore EBS 12
Miles
First part fresh breezes, Middle 8c Latter Modt 8c Cloudy,
Continueing the Chace, Started 6 Tons Salt water in the
fore hold in order to Trim the Ship at 6 PM the Chace
Dist about 7 Miles at 7 lost sight of the Chace
1. PRO, Admiralty 51/380.
Journal of the Pennsylvania Council of Safety 1
In Council of Safety,
[Philadelphia] August 31, 1776.
Resolved , That Wm. Farley, Michael Purviance, Arthur Canaday, 8c Ed-
ward Riely, belonging to our Fleet, be allowed leave of absence from the
Vessels they belong to for four weeks from this date, for the only purpose of
working at Mr. James Wharton’s Rope Walk on cordage for the Continental
Frigates, to be at all times subject to Mr. Wharton’s orders, and, in case of
any alarm, that they do Immediately repair on Board their Respective Boats
or Vessels.
1. Pennsylvania Colonial Records, X, 707.
Virginia Navy Board to Captain James Cocke 1
Sir, Williamsburg August 31st 1776 —
You are desir’d to get your Vessel ready by Thursday the twelfth day of
September and to proceed immediately to James Town and apply for fur-
ther Orders. I am for the Board [8cc.]
Thomas Whiting 1st Commr
To Capt James Cock of the Brigg Raivleigh
1. Navy Board Letter Book, VSL.
Journal of H. M. S. Active, Captain Anthony Hunt 1
Augt 1776 Charles Town Light house NbW, 1 % Leagues
Saturday 31st Mode and Clear Wr at 3 AM saw a Sail in the Wear Qr
Do come up with the Sail, and every person concluded by
the Behaviour that she was a Rebel Privateer, we haild
him to Lower down his Sails on his not complying we
fird into him which killd one Man 8c Wounded another,
she proved to be a Tender belonging to His Majs Sloop
Otter, Comd by Lieut Jno Wright took the Wounded man
on board in order that he may have all Possible Assistance
1. PRO, Admiralty 51/5. Captain Hunt superseded Captain William Williams on July 2, 1776,
the latter having been assigned to the Experiment. Hunt relinquished the command to
Captain Williams at New York on November 4, 1776.
380
AMERICAN THEATRE
Journal of H. M. S. Seaford, Captain John Colpoys 1
August 1776
Friday 30
Saturday 31st
At Sea
First & Middle Pts Moder & fair, Latter Pt Squally with
rain, At 5 A M hoisted a boat out 8c sent her on board a
Schooner from Surinam bound to Newberry. Sent a Petty
Officer 8c Six hands on board her took her hands Out, At 10
A M made Sail, parted Company with the Prize.
Light breezs 8c fair Wr at 6 P M Saw a sail to the N E
At 5 A M Saw a Sail to the No Wd gave chace, at 12 A M
hoisted a boat out & sent her on board the chace proved
to be a Sloop from Newburry to St Cruiz Put an Officer
and 5 Men on board 8c took her hands out.
1. PRO, Admiralty 51/880.
EUROPEAN THEATRE
From May 26, 1726, to October 5, 1776
EUROPEAN THEATRE
From May 26, 1776, to October 5, 1776
*
SUMMARY
Ports in England and France hummed with the activity of accelerated
naval preparations. On both sides of the Channel, diplomats and informers
kept their courts fully advised. Essentially the same question was being
asked in London, Paris, and Madrid— “Was the purpose of this augmented
naval armament offensive or defensive?”
France and Spain reasoned that the build-up of British naval strength
was in excess of that required to crush the rebellious Americans, and that it
could be used to descend on their West Indian possessions. Britain’s concern
centered on the knowledge that France saw in the American troubles a
prime opportunity for revanche. The imminent prospect of war between
Spain and Portugal did nothing to dispel the tension.
Silas Deane, Continental agent in Paris, after officially making his mis-
sion known to Versailles, was closely working with Beaumarchais, Dubourg
and others to muster a large shipment of arms, clothing, and essential sup-
plies for Washington’s army. In spite of his efforts at concealment, Deane’s
identity and reason for being in France were no secret to Lord Stormont,
British ambassador. Stormont also cast a suspicious eye on Beaumarchais
“who was lately not worth a shilling but now has Millions at his Com-
mand.”
News reaching London of the alarming number of ships being captured
by American privateers sent insurance rates up, and the merchants storm-
ing to government demanding protection. The Admiralty responded by di-
verting Royal Navy ships to convoy duty, and by arming ordnance and
store ships. Even the East India Company requested and received naval
coverage for homeward bound ships laden with madras and other exotic
cargo.
The King of Portugal, staunch friend of Britain, issued an edict deny-
ing American ships use of his ports. Suggestions by English envoys that it
would be a pleasing gesture to George III if Spain and Holland followed
suit, fell upon barren ground. The Portuguese port closure, however, led to
a recommendation, backed by Beaumarchais and Deane, that American
armed ships attack and seize Portuguese vessels.
Late in August, H.M. Sloop Ranger arrived at Spithead carrying dis-
patches from General Clinton and Commodore Sir Peter Parker telling of
their complete defeat before Charleston, South Carolina. As October
opened, word was anxiously awaited from the Howe brothers at New York.
383
384
EUROPEAN THEATRE
26 May (Sunday)
Gabriel de Sartine to Count de Vergennes1
Versailles, 26 May 1776
I have the honor to send you, Sir, the summary of the letters which
were sent to me by the governors of our colonies concerning the conduct of
the captains of English warships in those seas. I also enclose extracts of
declarations made upon their return by the captains of merchant ships that
were visited by English officers and of which several 8c were fired upon
with shot. Since England wages an open war with her colonies of North
America, our merchant ships cannot refuse at sea the visit required by the
captains of English warships, and to this effect they must lower their sails
at the first call as we require other nations to do for us in similar cases
under penalties regulated by article 12 of the title of prizes in the ordinance
of 168 1.2 The shots fired upon our merchant ships were certainly caused by
some resistance or delays to which several captains confessed and they ap-
pear to me as being of little consequence, but the English officers must exer-
cise caution with respect to our frigates and the approaches to our coasts
and roads. I beg you to examine these documents and to tell me what you
think of them. I shall be very happy to arrange with you the replies to be
made to the various governors as well as the orders that will be sent to the
ports. I have the honor to be with sincere attachment, Sir [8cc.]
de Sartine
[Enclosures]
Extract of various letters concerning the
English frigates cruising off St. Domingue.
From Count d’Ennery. 25 January 1776. No. 83.
Two English frigates cruise off the mole St. Nicholas and intercept the few
vessels from New England that come to or leave this port. I will order two
of our frigates to cruise there in order to draw them away from our coast
and prevent them from sailing too close to it as well as visiting our ships, as
they have been doing. They have not harmed them or insulted them, but
they have visited at least 20 or 30 French vessels.
Ditto. 13 February 1776. No. 95.
The two English frigates fire solid shot upon the French vessels that want
to proceed on their way. I know that we cannot prevent them from stopping
the vessels from New England or from their own Nation, but it seems inde-
cent that they should sail so close to our coast and search or visit our ships
in our own waters. Consequently, I am sending to this station the frigates
Amphitrite and Dedaigneuse with orders to ask them to bear off farther
from our coast and prevent them from visiting our ships. Since our frigates
are stronger, I hope they will comply with my protest. Furthermore, I en-
joined wisdom and prudence on Messrs . . . and de Grasse but I told them
not to suffer any impertinence.
MAY 1776
385
From Count Le Begue. 16 February 1776.
As I was sailing under the island of Tortue and as I was beating against the
wind, I met at night and very close to land an English frigate that had been
cruising there for a long time against all the vessels from New England.
First, she fired a blank and I payed no attention. Then she fired one round
of solid shot that fell astern. Since I had not cleared for action I stood on in
order to give myself time to do it, but with less sail than she carried. In-
deed, she closed with me and fired a second time with solid shot; then, I
clewed up my main sail. The moon was bright. I hoisted my ensign and my
pennant and I payed off in order to bring my broadside to bear on her bow
because she was on my quarter. I fired solid shot then with order to miss.
She made signals that I could not understand and bore away right before the
wind. I stood on my course towards the Cape where I arrived the next day.
Extract of the declarations made by the captains
of merchant ships coming from the French colonies.
1
Captain Foligny of the ship Constance from Nantes, upon leaving Leogane
and disemboguing, met three English frigates cruising off this port and
the mole St. Nicholas. One of these frigates first hoisted a white ensign then
the English ensign and sent on board his ship a boat carrying fifteen armed
men. The officer commanding this boat ordered several rifle-shots before
coming on board although he had brought his ship to, then he required to
look over the ship as well as the papers and after asking the French captain
several indiscreet questions told him to proceed on his way.
2
Captain Maillard of the ship Thomas from Nantes declared that on 2 March
1776 and coming out of St. Domingue he met at night off the mole St. Ni-
cholas two English frigates that signaled him they wanted to speak to him.
They then joined him after firing several solid shots at his ship. Then he
bore away and clewed up his sails. They asked where he came from and
where he was going and after answering these questions, they told him to
proceed on his way.
3
Captain Menard of the ship Lilavois from Nantes declared that he met off
the Island of Inagune [Inagua] an English frigate of 28 guns which hailed
him and asked him where he came from and where he was going, wished him
a good journey, then left him.
4
Messrs. Lavigne and Lalanne, owners of the ship Ceres from Le Havre de-
clared that on the 5th of March last as their ship was disemboguing from
Guadeloupe she met an English frigate that fired one solid shot upon her.
386
EUROPEAN THEATRE
The captain hoisted the White Ensign and sailed on, but this frigate did not
cease firing solid shot until the French captain hove to. The frigate sent a
boat with an officer who after asking . . . why they had not brought the ship
to at the first shot merely took the name of the ship and that of the captain,
took note of the cargo, then withdrew.
5.
Captain Toustaing of the ship Port de Paix coming from Port de Paix de-
clared that on 31 March 1776 as he was in the disemboguement at about
eleven o’clock in the evening, a ship fired a blank upon him, which he an-
swered in similar manner by firing a blank. As the frigate fired a second
time, but with solid shot, M. Toustaing immediately clewed up his sails. An
English officer came on board his ship and looked at the papers, then told
him that he was sorry but that he thought he was English.
1. AMAE, Correspondance Politique, Angleterre, vol. 516, LC Photocopy.
2. Article 12, Title of Prizes in the ordinance of 1681: “Any vessel that will refuse to lower
its sails after being summoned by our ships or those of our subjects fitted out as war-
ships, may be forced to do so by artillery or otherwise, and in case of resistance and
fight shall be considered as lawful prize.”
27 May
Philip Stephens to Vice Admiral John Amherst, Plymouth1
Sir 27 May 1776
I have communicated to my Lords Commrs of the Admty your Letter of
the 24th instant informing them of the Naval proceedings under your Cog-
nizance, And inclosing One you received from Lieut Colonel Irving Lieut
Governor of Guernsey, giving an Account of a Snow from Dublin being at
Poinbeuf upon the Loire, loading with Ammunition for America, I am 8cc
P.S
1. PRO, Admiralty 2/552, 89.
Public Advertiser , Monday, May 27, 1776
London [May 27].
Letters from Philadelphia, brought by the Lion / Wilson, by Way of
Cadiz, dated April 1, mention, that three Ships, laden with Flour, which
sailed the 30th of March from that Place for a foreign Market, after being
out six Days, were pursued and taken by two of our Ships of War, who car-
ried them to some of the West India Islands, and that several more were
then loading there with Flour, 8cc. for a foreign Market.
L See Volume 4, 580-82.
MAY 1776
387
28 May
Public Advertiser, June 11,1776
In the Dublin Journal are the following Articles, dated Corke, May 28:
The Morres [Morris'], Captain [Thomas] Bell, about 250 Tons Bur-
then, the Property of Morres and Williams [Willing, Morris & Co.] of Phil-
adelphia, sailed from Havre the 17th inst. for the said Place with 300 Casks
of Gunpowder, each Cask equal in Size to a Beef half Barrel 5000 Pigs of
Lead, a considerable Quantity of Canvass and coarse Linen for Sails, Tents
and Shirting, and twenty Chests of Arms. This Accounting may be de-
pended on.
A Sloop is arrived at Youghal from Havre in six Days, by whom we
learn that a Philadelphia Ship, commanded by Captain Bell, sailed from
Havre for America about fourteen Days ago with a considerable Quantity
of Gunpowder and Saltpetre on board. The Day she sailed some French
Fishermen saw her taken by an English Cruizer and carried her to
Portsmouth.1
1. The Morris was one of seven vessels freighted by Willing, Morris & Co. under contract with
the Secret Committee of Congress, to export provisions and invest the proceeds in arms
and ammunition. The French fishermen were in error as to her capture, and Robert
Morris, in summarizing the results of the venture, reported: “They also Credit for Nt
proceeds of ship Morris’s Cargo drawn for by them £ 1216.18. 4%,” Robert Morris
Papers, HUL.
29 May
Philip Stephens to All Commanders of His Majesty’s
Fleets and Ships of War1
Sir 29th May 1776
His Majesty’s Post Master General having appointed Captn John
Mitchell to command the Duke of Cumberland Packet Boat employed in the
Service of that Office between Falmouth and North America, and having de-
sired My Lords Commrs of the Admty to give orders to all Commanders of
His Majesty’s Fleets and Ships of War to give upon all occasions the Best
assistance they can to the Commander of the said Packet Boat, to avoid de-
taining her and stopping her upon any account; I am commanded by their
Lordships to signify their direction to you not to stop or detain the said
Vessel on any Account whatever, but to give her Captain all the Assistance
in your Power; And in Case His Majesty’s Service shou’d absolutely require
contrary proceedings; It is their Lordships direction that you acquaint
them with the Reasons of it that they may judge how far your Conduct is
justifiable, I am 8cc P.S
1 . PRO, Admiralty 2/552, 95-96.
388
EUROPEAN THEATRE
Vergennes to Gabriel de Sartine1
Versailles, 29 May 1776
I had the honor, Sir, to receive the letter which you wrote me on the
26th of this month, as well as all the enclosed documents.
I agree with you, Sir, that our merchant ships should not excuse them-
selves from answering the call of English warships, and it appears to me
that if these have had to use force so as to oblige the former to comply with
this rule, it was only after encountering resistance on their part, in view of
which we have no grounds for complaint in this matter.
However the establishment of English cruises near our coasts and
roads not only causes prejudice to the trade in which the inhabitants of
New England engage with our Colonies, but in my opinion, it is also preju-
dicial to the dignity of the King and contrary to common usage.
Indeed, it is against all rules to establish cruises within range of the
guns of a fort, and the King could not tolerate the English cruises without
making sacrifice of the rights of his Sovereignty. I will instruct M. Gamier
to make confidential representations to the Court of London in this matter
and especially to present to them the facts reported by M. d’Argout2 and
suggest to them that they recommend more consideration and caution to the
persons in charge of carrying out their orders.3 However, I believe that the
most effective manner to move the English ships away from our coasts and
ports is to establish our own cruises in such manner that they will keep off
the English ships and compel them to keep a good offing. Thus American
vessels and our own will be able to sail more freely and will find means to
escape inspection by the English. Furthermore, if the English are so bold as
to pass our ships and sail too close to our coasts, it will be possible to chase
them with gunfire without hesitation or evasion: a few examples of this
kind will inspire their respect far better than the orders and threats from
the Court of London.
1. AMAE, Correspondance Politique, Angleterre, vol. 516, LC Photocopy.
2. DArgout’s letter was not one of the enclosures in Sartine’s letter of May 26, 1776. See Volume
4 for exchange.
3. Vergennes sent Sartine’s letter and enclosures to Gamier in London on June 1 with instruc-
tions “to make confidential representations on this matter to the British Ministry.”
AMAE, Correspondance Politique, Angleterre, vol. 516, LC Photocopy.
30 May
Lords Commissioners, Admiralty, to All Naval Officers1
The King having been pleased, by His Order in Council of the 17th of
May 1776, to order, require, prohibit and command, That no Person or per-
sons whomsoever (except the Master General or principal Officers of the
Ordnance for His Majesty’s Service) do at any time, during the Space of
three Months, to commence from the 23d day of the Month abovemention’d,
presume to Transport into any parts out of this Kingdom, or carry Coast-
wise, any Gunpowder, Saltpetre, or any sort of Arms or Ammunition on
MAY 1776
389
board any Ship or Vessel, in order to transporting the same beyond the Seas
or carrying the same Coastwise, except in the cases comprized in His Maj-
esty’s Orders in Council of the 13th and 27th of October and the 6th and
22d of November 1775. and of the 5th and 19th of February last, without
leave or permission in that behalf first obtained from His Majesty or His
Privy Council upon pain of incurring Se suffering the respective forfeitures
and penalties inflicted by an Act passed in the 29th Year of His late Majes-
ty’s Reign entitled “An Act to impower His Majesty to prohibit the Expor-
tation of Gunpowder, or any sort of Arms and Ammunition, and also to
impower His Majty to restrain the carrying Coastwise of Saltpetre Gunpow-
der or any sort of Arms & Ammunition;” We send you herewith a printed
Copy of His Majesty’s said Order in Council of the 17th of May 1776. and
do hereby most strictly require and direct you to use your best endeavours
to intercept, seize, and bring into Port, during the time therein specified, all
Ships and Vessels whatsoever having on board Gunpowder, Saltpetre or
any sort of Arms or Ammunition, in order to transporting the same beyond
the Seas, or carrying the same Coastwise without leave or permission in
that behalf first obtained from His Majesty or His Privy Council, except in
the Cases comprized in His Majesty’s abovementioned Orders in Council of
the 13th and 27th October and 6th and 22d of November 1775. and of the
5th and 19th of February last, printed Copies of which are also sent you
herewith, and also excepting such Ships Se Vessels as shall be laden with
Gunpowder, Saltpetre, Arms or Ammunition for His Majts Service by the
Master General Lieut General or principal Officers of the Ordnance
Given Sec. the 30th May 1776
The respective Flag Officers
Captains and Commanders of
His Majesty’s Ships and Vessels.
By Sec. P.S.
1. PRO, Admiralty 2/101, 123-25. The order was sent to Vice Admiral Sir James Douglas at
Portsmouth, Vice Admiral John Amherst at Plymouth, and captains and lieutenants in
European waters.
C. Spencer
H. Penton
H. Palliser.
M. Garnier to Vergennes1
[Extract] London, 30 May 1776
You may have been informed, My lord, that the Frenchmen who were
in Philadelphia and about whom there was a great deal of talk in this coun-
try were captured upon their return on an American vessel and brought to
Lord Dunmore, Governor of Virginia, who sent them here on board the ves-
sel that was shipwrecked off Cape Lizard. There were three of them. The
youngest one perished. The other two were questioned with respect to the
purpose of their trip. They said that they had left St. Domingue with a
cargo of molasses which they had sold at great benefit in America. The
older one of the two that were left had been a musketeer. Since they had
390
EUROPEAN THEATRE
lost everything in this shipwreck and there were no papers to provide more
information about them, the Government gave them everything they needed
in order to return to France, considering that, being at peace with us, they
could not hold Frenchmen prisoners in England although they had been
captured on American vessels; a very wise decision on the part of the Gov-
ernment.
The two Battalions of Hessian Grenadiers sailed from Portsmouth on
the 24th of this month, under convoy of the Frigate Repulse , 32 guns. 35
vessels carrying war ammunition, victuals and 500 recruits joined this
same convoy.
1. AMAE, Correspondance Politique, Angleterre, vol. 516, LC Photocopy.
Philip Stephens to Captain Mark Milbanke, R.N.1
Sir 30th May 1776
Lieut Cunningham, who is employed at Dublin on the Service of rais-
ing Men having acquainted my Lords Commissioners of the Admiralty that
he has received information that Henry Watson a Seaman whose descrip-
tion is on the otherside hereof, and who entered with him the 12th instant
for His Majesty’s Ship Diamond , and was sent to Portsmouth in the Brig
Neptune the day following, was the Mate of a Vessel under Seizure at Dub-
lin, for having carried Gun Powder to America for the use of the Rebels: I
am commanded by their Lordships to signify their direction to you to give
the necessary directions for keeping the said Watson on board one of the
Guardships at Spithead until farther Orders, that he may be forth coming
is \_sic in] case he should be wanted as an Evidence, I am 8cc
P: S:
Captn Milbank, Senior Officer at Portsmouth
Henry Watson Is about 36 Years Old 5 Feet 4 incs high black Hair a re-
markable Mark over his right Eye, and born at Banff in Scotland,
1. PRO, Admiralty 2/552, 99.
Gabriel de Sartine to Count d’Ennery, Governor of Santo Domingo 1
Versailles, 30 May 1776
I had anticipated, Sir the observations that you brought to my atten-
tion concerning the need to send a few of the King’s Ships to cruise off St.
Dominique. As soon as he received news of the offensive actions committed
by the English frigates in the waters of this Colony, the King had ordered
that two frigates and one corvette be stationed there in order to enforce the
authority of the French flag. The frigate La T ourterelle under the command
of M. de Beaussier and the corvette L’Etourdie under the command of M.
Le Begue now stationed at St. Domingo are destined for this mission.
These Officers have been directed to give you a copy of their Orders in
which the King’s Instructions are explained in detail. You will please to see
MAY 1776
391
that they be properly executed. H.M. recommends that you do not change
anything in the arrangements that he made unless extraordinary circum-
stances which he could not foresee compelled you to do so.
You will send me in double envelope, the first one marked For You
Only, your reports with respect to the orders of Messrs. Beaussier and Le
Begue and the Officer who will be in command of the frigate which is to be
sent to you. I have the honor to be with sincere attachment, Sir [&c.]
1. AN, Marine, B4, 134, 90, LC Photocopy. Same letter sent this date to d’Argout, governor of
Martinique.
Gabriel de Sartine to Lieutenant de L’Abbadie, Commanding the
Sloop of War Le Rossignol1
Versailles, 30 May 1776
I enclose herewith, Sir, particular Instructions which will give you
directions relative to your cruise while you will be stationed at Martinique.
It is His Majesty’s intention that you give a copy of these Instructions to M.
D’Argout, Governor General; you will please to comply therewith.
It is said in the Instructions which you received as you left France that
one of the main objects of your cruise is to put a stop to illegal trade. The
new Instructions which I am sending you alter this arrangement: It is pos-
sible that circumstances and the needs of the Colony require that less vigi-
lance be exercised in this area. Consequently, H.M. [His Majesty] recom-
mends that you comply with the orders you will receive from the Governor
General.
You will send me in double envelope, the first one marked For You
Only, the reports relative to your Cruise as directed in the new Instructions
which I am sending you. I have the honor to be. Sec.
1. AN, Marine, B4, 134, 88, LC Photocopy. Similar orders were sent to commanding officers of
other warships in or bound for the West Indies.
31 May
Philip Stephens to Vice Admiral Robert Man1
Sir, [Admiralty Office] 31 May 1776.
Lord Weymouth, One of His Majesty’s Principal Secretaries of State,
having transmitted to my Lords Commissioners of the Admiralty Copy of a
Letter he received from Mr Consul Hardy at Cadiz, dated the 3d Instant,
giving an account that his Majesty’s Frigate Enterprize and Zephir Sloop,
had been for several days cruizing off that Port, and had chased and
searched some Vessels very near the entrance of the Bay, which proceed-
ings gives great umbrage there, and he is apprehensive may cause Com-
plaints from the Court of Spain; I am commanded by their Lordships to ac-
quaint you therewith, and to recommend it to you to order the Commanders
of the Cruizers which you may station from time to time to intercept Ships
and Vessels belonging to the Rebellious Colonies of North America, to avoid
392
EUROPEAN THEATRE
cruizing in sight of the Ports, and not to approach the Coasts of Spain so as
to give any Interruption to the Subjects or Trade of that Nation, or any
just cause of Complaint. I am &ca
Php Stephens.
[Endorsed] Duplicate sent by the Alarm the 13th July.
1. PRO, Admiralty 2/1333, LC Photocopy.
Giambattista Pizzoni to his Government in Venice 1
[Extract]
Most Serene Prince, London, 31 May 1776
After the Royal Army decided to abandon Boston for reasons already
explained, there was a rumor that its Commanding General Howe had
sailed for Halifax, capital of Nova Scotia; however, such information has
now become doubtful. Some persons who believe themselves current with
the military deployment of this Court in America maintain that after the
fleet of transports had arrived at a certain point to mislead the Americans
regarding his voyage to Halifax, he suddenly changed course for Long Is-
land, that is Isola Lunga, a very short distance from New York, capital of
the same Province. In fact, as said Island is situated facing the midpoint of
the very extensive English American coastline, such situation appears very
suited to favor any enterprise by the Royal Army. However, while well
founded news is awaited on this matter, a ship has come from America,
bearing the news of American uncertainty as to where the campaign will be
opened by choice, along with a notice to this Ministry of having met at sea
on the [21st] day of the month expiring, at a long distance from St. Helena
Island, the Warship Eagle of this Crown, which ship was sailing under fair
wind toward this Continent and was carrying Admiral Lord Howe; it is
then reasonably conjectured that the first of the two expeditions of troops
thus far sent has arrived at its destination, and that the second is about to
arrive. . . .
1. Papers of the Senate, ASV.
Public Advertiser , Friday, May 31, 1776
London [May 31].
Yesterday arrived in the River the John and James , Baker, from Ali-
cant; which brings letters that say, there were six American vessels taking
in goods there for Philadelphia, but do not say what sort of goods, but only
that the Americans carry on an extensive trade to those ports.
London Chronicle , Thursday, May 30 to Saturday, June 1, 1776
London [May 31].
Letters from South Carolina, brought by a ship that is arrived at Nantz,
mention, that on the 8th of April last, four large ships were then loading at
MAY 1776
393
Charlestown with indigo and rice, for a foreign market, they mounted from
20 to 30 guns; and that a transport, laden with porter, had been brought
into [South] Carolina by two American privateers, who had taken the cargo
out, and were then proceeding to fit her as a privateer, being a very good
ship.
Gabriel de Sartine to the Commissioners in Nantes and Bordeaux1
Versailles, 31 May 1776
The English Minister Plenipotentiary, Sir, was informed that a Dutch ship
loaded with 40 thousand pounds of Powder destined for Bordeaux and two
others loaded with 45 thousand pounds destined for Nantes recently left
Amsterdam. The Court of London thinks that this Powder is eventually des-
tined for New England. We have been requested to send orders to our ports
and prevent this destination to be reached. Although I have grounds to as-
sume that this supply of Powder is destined, on the contrary, to our traders
on the Cost of Guinea, who turned to Holland after being unable to obtain
any from England as they used to, I thought necessary to remind you again
that His Majesty’s intention is that his subjects shall not supply any war
ammunition to the rebels of North America. You will please to give all your
attention to this matter and keep your eyes open on the Dutch ships that
might bring powder into your port.
[Endorsed] Copy of the letter sent by M. de Sartine to Messrs. Doyard and
De la Porte.2
1. AMAE, Correspondance Politique, Angleterre, vol. 516, LC Photocopy.
2. Ibid., Sartine sent copies of these letters to Vergennes “which you may forward if you deem
proper to the English Minister.”
Gabriel de Sartine’s Instructions to the Captains in or
Ordered to the West Indies1
Draft of Instructions corresponding to those of the Spanish Court
for the four Frigates and the three Corvettes which His Majesty
proposes to keep operational and on observation cruises in the
Windward Islands and Santo Domingo.
His Majesty having deemed necessary to keep four frigates and three
corvettes stationed in the American Sea, these instructions will explain to
M. to whom is entrusted the Command of the line of
conduct he is to maintain during his cruise and inform him more per-
fectly of the object of his mission. H.M. thought it pertinent to disclose to
him the respective missions of the other frigates or corvettes and to indicate
to him the areas to be guarded by the said frigates and corvettes of H.M. as
well as by those of H.Cath.M. [His Catholic Majesty.]
394
EUROPEAN THEATRE
The precautions which must be observed in the present circumstances
require that particular attention be directed to the routes which the English
might follow as they sail from the New England Ports to the Gulf of Mex-
ico, the Island of Cuba, Santo Domingo, Puerto Rico, Guadeloupe and
Martinique.
Spain will direct four frigates to cruise in the following waters:
One to cruise 30 or 40 leagues Northward of the North East point of
Puerto Rico.
A second one will cruise between the western point of Puerto Rico and
the eastern point of Santo Domingo.
A third one, between the eastern point of Cuba and Mayaguana.
A fourth one, between the western point of Cuba and Vezil [Sisal?]
and the place where one begins to take soundings before reaching
Campeche.
By these dispositions, all passages on the lee-side of the Antilles are
guarded by Spanish frigates; and it would be difficult for the English to
reach the Gulf of Mexico without being sighted by one of these frigates sta-
tioned there on observation.
The Frigates and Corvettes which H.M. proposes to keep armed in the
American Sea will receive the following assignments:
The Frigate L’ Aigrette under the command of Captain Thomas
Dorves will cruise to windward of Martinique and patrol Northward
as far as the parallel of the southern point of Guadeloupe or that of
Marie Galante and Southward as far as the parallel of the North Eastern
point of St. Lucia.
The Frigate La Licorne under the command of Captain de Peynier
will cruise to windward of Guadeloupe and will extend her cruise
Northward as far as the parallel of Barbuda and Southward as far as
the parallel of Dominica.
These two frigates will observe the English ships that will come to
scout the Antilles in order to pass either to the North, or to the South of
these Islands, or through the channels lying between them.
The Corvette Le Rossignol commanded by Lieutenant de L’abbadie
will cruise to leeward of Martinique and will maintain such a course
that she will always be able to reach Guadeloupe.2
The Corvette Le Rossignol 3 commanded by Lieutenant Dussault
will cruise to leeward of Guadeloupe and will extend her cruise towards
Saint Christopher.
The Corvette L’ Etourdie commanded by Lieutenant Le Begue will
cruise to the North of the French Cape of Santo Domingo and will ex-
tend her cruise towards the Caicos Islands.4
The Frigate La Renommee, commanded by Captain de Monteil
will cruise off St. Nicholas Mole and towards the Great Inagua.5
This Frigate and the Corvette Le Serin will observe the Ships that
might want to reach the Old Channel.
MAY 1776
395
Finally, the Frigate La Tourterelle, commanded by Captain Beaus-
sier de Chateauvert, will cruise to the South of Fort St. Louis to Santo
Domingo in order to observe the Ships which might pass through the
Channel between this Island and Jamaica.
The only instructions which H.M. will give to the Commanders of his
Frigates and Corvettes destined to cruise in the waters as directed above in
order to observe the possible movements of the English Squadrons are lim-
ited to the following points to which M. will pay the greatest at-
tention.
1) They should hide as much as possible, even from their crews,
the purpose of their cruise.
2) They should all act in concert exchanging intelligence which
may guide them as much, of course, as distances and circumstances will
allow it, while each one will keep strictly to the primary object of his
mission.
3) With regard to inspecting and detaining of English Vessels,
they should not stray from the general practice which has been fol-
lowed up to now, that is to say, they should pretend that they are
trying to stop smuggling on the coasts of the Isles belonging to H.M.;
but each time they will be able to detain some Vessel on these just
grounds they will attempt to obtain information as to the destination,
movements, and business of the Ships of the English Fleet.
4) Rather than trying to intercept the illicit trade of the Ameri-
cans, they should be more concerned with maintaining their cruises at
fairly good distance in order to keep the English Frigates away and to
prevent their daring to come too close to the French Isles or visit the
harbors and various anchorages as they have already done.
5) In the event that a Vessel from New England, belonging to
the Insurgents, would be pursued by an English Frigate and would ask
for the protection of the French Flag, the Commanders of the King’s
Frigates and Corvettes will grant it to her, and if in spite of the decla-
ration made to this effect the English Frigate still attempts to seize
her, the said Commanders will oppose such an action and will use the
forces entrusted to them by H.M.
6) They will act likewise with regard to Neutral Vessels having
left European or American Ports and laden with ammunition or other
kinds of Aid for the Insurgents; and in the event that one of these
Vessels would be pursued by an English Frigate and would ask for
the protection of the King’s Flag, the Commanders of His Majesty’s
Frigates and Corvettes would not allow that said Vessel be inspected.
But in both preceding cases, they are not to move towards said Vessels
and must wait until circumstances bring those close enough to ask
for the protection of the King’s Flag, nor are they to try and facilitate
through their own manoeuvres those which the said Vessels may make
in order to approach His Majesty’s Frigates and Corvettes.
Gulf of Mexico and Caribbean Sea
MAY 1776
397
7) They should be prompt to communicate to the French Gover-
nors all the intelligence they will receive and their own findings, partic-
ularly to the Governor more concerned by this Information than the
others by reason of securing the Colony whose defence is entrusted to
him.
8) In pertinent cases the same information should be given to
the Governors of the main Spanish Colonies because, independently
from the fact that both Nations share the same interest in this matter,
the subjects of His Catholic Majesty will endeavour on their part to ob-
tain other intelligence which they will heedfully communicate to the
French Governors.
9) If they should encounter His Catholic Majesty’s Warships
and Frigates, they should conduct themselves towards their Command-
ing Officers with suitable courtesy and trust and exchange information
they might have which might be useful to the Service of both Monarchs.
10) Finally, at every available opportunity they should approach
Vessels returning to France and those arriving in American waters,
and use the former to acquaint His Majesty and the latter to acquaint
the French Governors with everything of interest they may have dis-
covered or learned during their cruise.
The Commanders of the Frigates and Corvettes will coordinate all their
operations with the Commandants of the Islands where they will be sta-
tioned.
His Majesty enjoins the said Commanders to remain at sea as long as
possible and to put into Port only when pressing needs will compel them to
do so or when they will have intelligence for the Commandants of the Colo-
nies.
Versailles, 31 May 1776
Approved in the hand of the King
1. AN, Marine, B4, 134, 96-99, LC Photocopy.
2. [Marginal note] Relieved by the Corvette La Favorite , commanded by Lieutenant de Kersaint,
dispatched on September 20 1776.
3. The repetition of the name was undoubtedly a copyist’s error. The vessel which should have
been named was probably Le Serin, which is listed in a subsequent paragraph.
4. [Marginal note] Relieved by the Corvette Le Serin, commanded by Lieutenant Ligondes de
Rochefort, dispatched on December 18 1776. The Corvette La Curieuse, commanded by
Captain de Rosnevet, was sent with similar instructions to Santo Domingo on September
30, but since she was not to be stationed in that Colony, she was not assigned any par-
ticular orders.
5. [Marginal note] Relieved by the Frigate L*. Indiscrete, commanded by Lieutenant de
l’Archantel, dispatched on December 27.
Dr. Barbeu Dubourg to Vergennes1
[Extract]
Monseigneur Paris 31st May 1776
Permit me to impart to you my uneasiness with regard to our great af-
fair, and, above all, as to the man who has the charge of it.
398
EUROPEAN THEATRE
You have seen the contract passed between the secret committee of the
Colonies, and ratified by the General Congress, of the one part and the Sires
Pliarne and Penet of the other; so we could not doubt the intentions of the
Congress. But it seems likely enough that, having but very recent and slight
knowledge of these two men, who have offered themselves to them at a mo-
ment when they were not in a position to choose, they have accepted their
proposals, without, however, having full confidence therein, and that they
have taken what precautions they could to bridle him whom they were
sending into France charged with their commissions.2
M. Penet was born in Alsace the son of an artillery store keeper who,
having many children, could give them but a mediocre education. This one
went to seek his fortune in America, and, at his departure, did a stroke of
business, not indeed of a dishonest man but of a not very scrupulous adven-
turer. He obtained from M. de Monthieu, 600 Muskets upon credit as a pri-
vate venture and their lender was many years without receiving news of
him; but, at last, when he believed all lost he received about half his princi-
pal and interest combined. This story is well vouched for. One cannot con-
clude much from it if there was nothing to support it. Let us pass to an-
other point.
This M. Penet has told me that he has letters from Messrs. Franklin
and Rush for me, which remain in Holland with his large pack and that he
has sent to have it forwarded to me here. I am impatient to receive this
packet, which will, perhaps, teach me more of the way of thinking of the
American Committee. Meanwhile this man evinces the greatest desire to
form a partnership to share with me, upon very liberal terms, all the bene-
fits of the immense trade of which the most fortunate prospect seems to
offer itself to him alone; whence it seems possible to conclude that he feels
the need of a little support.
Finally, what appears to me more conclusive than everything else, is
that he confided to me last night that for all consignments he shall make ei-
ther of men or stores he will be obliged to draw upon M. Swenghausen,3 or
Chevisgouze banker, at Nantes, but that the letters which shall authorize
him therein were not delivered to him at once, and are only to come to him
by the vessels expected at Nantes from America, to take in cargo— proof
that they have not thought fit to put themselves altogether at his discretion.
That being the case, Monseigneur, it seems to me necessary, in the first
place to try and get to the bottom of all that, in the second place to provide
in one way or another for the pressing needs of our good friends the Colo-
nists of America.
To fulfil the first object,— would there be no means of making inquiry
in Alsace about him personally, at Nantes as to the power entrusted to
him and the advices transmitted from America to the banker Swengause
[Schweighauser] ? This latter point is the most important, but only a com-
mandant or intendant, commisssoned thereto by the Court could manage it.
That is too far beyond my reach. Still, could we not facilitate and accelerate
JUNE 1776
399
the arrival of the packs from Holland, which should contain these letters,
with details, more or less, about him?
And supposing that we could only deal with much reserve and caution
with the Sieur Pennet, how could we contrive so as not to leave the Colonies
destitute of the resources most necessary to their defence, in which France
has so great an interest? I am very devoted to them, looking upon this new
State almost as my second country. I flatter myself that they honour me
with a singular confidence and I would rather die than abuse it in any way;
but my arms are not long enough to embrace an object of this importance. I
implore your goodwill for them, your protection for myself. I have the
honour to be with profound respect [8cc.]
Du Bourg
1. B. F. Stevens, ed., Facsimiles of Manuscripts in European Archives Relating to America 1773-
1783 (London, 1889-1895) , No. 566. Hereafter cited as Stevens, ed.. Facsimiles.
2. Penet returned from America to France, leaving Pliarne, his partner, to conduct affairs in
Philadelphia.
3. John Daniel Schweighauser, Nantes merchant.
1 June
Lords Commissioners, Admiralty, to All Naval Officers 1
The King having been pleased, under His Royal Signet and Sign Man-
ual to establish Instructions (bearing date the 2d day of May 1776.) for the
Commanders of His Ships and Vessels of War, in regard to such Captures
as have been, or shall be made by them, in consequence of an Act lately
passed, prohibiting all Trade and Commerce with the Colonies of New
Hampshire, Massachusets Bay, Rhode Island, Connecticut, New York, New
Jersey, Pensyl vania, the three lower Counties on Delaware, Maryland,
Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina & Georgia, during the continu-
ance of the present Rebellion within the said Colonies respectively; We send
you herewith a printed Copy of His Majts said Instructions, and do hereby re-
quire and direct you to pay the strictest regard and attention thereto. Given
Sec. the It June 1776.
To the respective Captains and Commanders Sandwich
of His Majesty’s Ships and Vessels. Lisburne
By &c. P.S. H. Palliser
[Endorsed] Sent the same as in the preceding List, vide page 125 to 7
1. PRO, Admiralty 2/101, 129.
Vergennes to Dr. Barbeu Dubourg 1
M. Barbeau DuBourg Doctor of Medicine
Rue Copeau— Paris Versailles the 1st June 1776
I have just received, Monsieur, the letter of yesterday which you have
thought good to write to me, in order to inform me of your uneasiness about
the person who presented himself to you as recommended by your friends,
400
EUROPEAN THEATRE
and who cannot now produce his credentials.2 The most favourable judg-
ment one can pass upon the man in question is that he is one of those
fortune-seekers who are willing to enrich themselves at any cost; that, with
this aim, he has been to offer his services you know where, that they have
been accepted and that thinking to find people here equally bold and
venturesome he has perhaps undertaken to supply to distant parts what
he is seeking to obtain here, only to receive the price of it after delivery.
So reckless a party not being of a kind to find associates, I think you would
do very well, Monsieur, to put a check upon the facilities which you seemed
inclined to procure for this man, and above all, not to answer for anyone
whatsoever. One advice, moreover, which I cannot omit to give you is to
inspire this man and his adherents with the greatest caution in their manner
of dealing and dispatching business. You are aware that if the object of his
negociation were to acquire sufficient publicity for direct and well defined
complaints to reach us we could not avoid giving redress and so putting
a stop to everything. Pray recollect what I told you, one can connive at
certain things but one cannot authorize them.
The enquiries which you suggest, Monsieur, would be, at the least, use-
less; the production of the credentials is what you ought to insist upon; in
default, avoid everything which would implicate you, and consequently com-
promise you. I am &c
1. Stevens, ed., Facsimiles, No. 568.
2. Penet, of the firm Penet & Pliame.
4 June
John Robinson to George III1
Mr. Robinson has the Honour, by Lord Norths Order, to transmit to
His Majesty, the Dispatches which have this Day been received from Gen-
eral Howe, and to add that a Fleet of Victuallers sailed from Cork under the
Convoy of the Greyhound Man of War, on the 4th of April for Boston, be-
sides the several Victuallers which went the latter End of last year and
which have been drove off the Coast of America, which Fleet it is hoped
must have arrived with Genl Howe at Halifax very soon after the Date of
His Dispatch, and which probably wd have been with him by the time he
wrote, if they had not gone to seek him at Boston.
Treasury Chambers. 4th June 1776-10 P.M.
1. Sir John Fortescue, ed., Correspondence of King George the Third from 1760 to December
1783 (London, 1927, 1928) , III, 372. Hereafter cited as Fortescue, ed.. Correspondence
of George III.
M. Garnier to Vergennes1
[Extract] London, 4 June 1776
There was an action at sea between the Frigate Glasgow and some
American Privateers that dared attack her. The fight was obstinate, but
JUNE 1776
401
both parties separated without much damage. The frigate returned to a
port of Rhode-Island, and the Privateers to the Port of New- London in the
province of Connecticut.2
The number of horses being embarqued for America amounts to thir-
teen hundred at the rate of 12 tons per horse. The freight cost is 13 shillings
and 6 pence per ton, and the freight for fodder costs 5 pounds Sterling per
Ton. As you can see, My lord, this [is] quite an expense for this one item,
the least important in this famous expedition. When we recall that the orig-
inal purpose behind this enormous expense was to impose a small tax to
America, we seem to see an Alchemist of a new kind throwing into his cru-
cible everything he can gather that is made of gold and precious metals in
order to turn it into lead: this ruinous and mad war is the reverse of the
Philosopher’s stone for England.
1. AMAE, Correspondance Politique, Angleterre, vol. 516, LC Photocopy.
2. A preliminary report of the engagement of Esek Hopkins’ Continental fleet with H.M.S.
Glasgow. See next entry.
London Chronicle, Saturday, June 1 to Tuesday, June 4, 1776
London [June 4].
A severe naval engagement likewise was fought about the same time
off Philadelphia between the Glasgow man of war, with two frigates, and
the provincial Commodore Hopkins’s fleet, consisting of five ships mounting
together 100 guns and all ably manned: after an obstinate fight, of four
glasses, one of the Commodore’s fleet was taken, another sunk, and the rest
were driven in the most tattered condition with the loss of half their hands
into New London, near Rhode Island.1
1. This garbled account was the initial news received in England of the engagement on April
6, 1776 between H.M.S. Glasgow and the Continental fleet. See subsequent accounts,
June 5 and June 8.
5 June
Lord George Germain to Governor Sir Basil Keith1
[Extract]
(No 9) Whitehall 5th June 1776
Sir, I have received your Dispatches numbered 1 8c 2, and your Letter of
the 27th of March and have laid them before the King.2
The Information you had received, of the Arrival of so considerable a
Body of Troops at St Domingo was a just ground of Alarm, and His Maj-
esty very much approves of the prudent Measures you took for the safety of
the Island, without interrupting it’s Commerce, or exciting too strong Ap-
prehensions of Danger to the Inhabitants.
Mr [Charles] Cobb’s Letter contains so exact a State of the Military
Forces in the Island, as leaves no room to suspect that the Count d’Ennery
402
EUROPEAN THEATRE
has any Instructions to employ it in any hostile Enterprises; but at the
same time you cannot, in the present Circumstances, be too much upon your
Guard, and every Precaution that can be taken without exciting Jealousy,
or creating Alarm ought to be made use of, to prevent any Surprise, and to
obtain constant Sc exact Information of what is passing, in both the French
Sc Spanish Islands, and His Majesty relies upon that Zeal Sc Attachment for
his Service, which has hitherto distinguished your Conduct, for exerting
you to continue your Attention to these important Objects.
1. PRO, Colonial Office, 137/71, Part II, LC Photocopy.
2. See Volume 4, 544-46.
Philip Stephens to Vice Admiral Clark Gayton, Jamaica1
Sr 5 June 1776.
Have received Sc communicated to my Lords Commrs of the Admty
your letter of the 28th of March last, with it’s several Inclosures,2
Their Lordships are satisfied with the reasons you have given for or-
dering the Naval Storekeeper at Port Royal to purchase the Lady Keith
Schooner, and, considering her as one of the three Schooners which they
have directed you to purchase, will confirm the Order you have given Mr
Francis Le Montais to be Lieut Sc Commander of her.
My Lords approve of your having employed an Attorney to defend you
in the several Actions brought against you for the detention of the Vessels
seized, as belonging to the Rebel Colonies, and part of their Crews; but their
Lordships commanded me to inform you that you should have defrayed the
Expence yourself and charged it in your contingent account, instead of
directing the Naval Storekeeper to pay it.
I have only to add that their Lordships have sent to the Navy Board an
Extract of so much of your Letter as relates to the Surgeon of the Maid-
stone, the appointment of those Officers being vested in that Board, and to
assure you that I am &c
P. S.
By the Packet.
Duplicate by the Packet 4th Septr.
1. PRO, Admiralty 2/552, 119, 120.
2. See Volume 4, 552-55.
Lords Commissioners, Admiralty, to Vice Admiral Clark Gayton1
Having ordered the Complements of His Majesty’s Ships and Vessels
under your Command, whose names are on the other side hereof, to be in-
creased to the Numbers against each respectively exprest You are hereby
required and directed to give Orders to their Commanders to increase their
Complements to those Numbers respectively, and to bear such increased
Complements until they receive further Order. Given Sec the 5t June 1776.
JUNE 1776
403
To Clark Gayton Esqr Vice Admiral
Palmerston
of the White, and Commander in
C. Spencer
Chief of His Majesty’s Ships and
Vesels at and about Jamaica
Lisburne
By&cP:S: (By the Packet 5t June
1776)
Antelope
_____ 350
Maidstone
_____ 200
Boreas
_____ 200
Squirrel __
_____ 160
Sloop Diligence
_____ no2
1. PRO, Admiralty 2/101, 132.
2. Ibid., 133, orders were also sent to Vice Admiral James Young this date to increase the com-
plements of the ships under his command as follows:
Portland 350 Hind 160
Argo 200 Pomona 125
Lords Commissioners, Admiralty, to Captain James Cook, R. N.1
Whereas the Commissioners appointed by Acts of Parliament for the
Discovery of Longitude at Sea Sec have agreed with Mr William Bayly to
proceed in His Majesty’s Sloop Discovery on her present intended Voyage
in order to make Nautical and Astronomical Observations and to perform
other Services tending to the improvement of Geography and Navigation
(as you will see by the Copy of his Instructions which will be sent you by
their Secretary) and have desired that he may be received on board the
abovementioned Sloop; And whereas we have ordered Captain Clerke her
Commander to put himself under your Command and follow your Orders
for his further proceedings You, are therefore hereby required and directed
to cause the said Mr Bayly, together with his Servant, Instruments and
Baggage to be received on board the Discovery accordingly; directing Cap-
tain Clerke to victual him and his Servant during their continuance on
board in the same manner as her Company are, or shall be, victualled; and
to give him all convenient accommodation and such assistance and support
as he may stand in need of from time to time to carry his said Instructions
into execution and to be particularly careful, whenever there are convenient
opportunities and he shall be desirous of landing in order to make observa-
tions on shore, to furnish him with a proper Boat and with a sufficient
Number of Men, as well to assist in fixing his Instruments as to protect him
from any annoyance or disturbance which may be attempted to be given
him by the Natives during his stay; and to land, at the same time, a suffi-
cient Quantity of Provisions and Necessaries for the use of himself and
Servant, and the Persons who may be put on shore to assist and protect him
as above directed.
And whereas the said Commissrs have thought it expedient to send out
for trial during your present intended Voyage, two Watch Machines which
have been made by Mr Kendal in consequence of their directions, one of
them, being a Copy of that made by the late Mr Harrison and the same that
404
EUROPEAN THEATRE
was sent out with you upon your last Voyage, on board the Sloop you com-
mand, and the other being of the said Mr Kendal’s own Construction and
having never yet been at Sea for trial, on board the Discovery; and in order
as well to prevent any improper management, or ill treatment of the said
Watch Machines as any suspicions thereof have desired that the Keys of the
three different Locks which are affixed to the Boxes in which those Watch
Machines are respectively kept, and which Keys will be sent to you: by the
Astronomer Royal may be disposed of in a manner similar to that which
was practiced on the like occasion during your last Voyage, You are hereby
further required and directed immediately after they come to your hands,
to dispose of the said Keys (which to guard against Accidents will be sent
in Duplicate) in the following manner, Vizt, to keep those of one of the
Locks of the Box containing the first mentioned Watch Machine yourself,
and to deliver those of the other Locks of that Box to your 1st and 2d Lieu-
tenants respectively; and you are to be present yourself, and to take care
that your said Lieutenants be present also, every day at the winding up of
the said Watch Machine and to see that the respective times shown thereby
be properly inserted, and attested under your and their hands respectively,
in the general observation Book, agreeable to the 2d Article of the above-
mentioned Instructions to Mr Bayly; and you are to give orders that the
Keys of two of the Locks on the Box containing the other Watch Machine be
kept in the Custody of Captain Clerke and his first Lieutenant respectively,
that they be present every day at the winding up of the said last mentioned
Watch Machine by Mr Bayly, and that they do see that the inspection times
shewn thereby be properly inserted and attested agreeable to the abovemen-
tioned Article of Mr Bayly’s Instructions, a Copy of which you are to de-
liver to Captain Clerke; But, if it shall happen that you yourself or your
first or second Lieutenant, cannot, at any time, through indisposition, or ab-
sence upon other necessary duties conveniently attend as above directed,
you are, in such case, to take care that the Keys in the Custody of the Per-
son who cannot attend be delivered to some other Officer of the Sloop you
command, whom you can best trust therewith, in order that he may supply
the Place of such Invalid or Absentee; and you are to give similar directions
to Captain Clerke with respect to the Keys which are in the Custody of him-
self and his first Lieutenant respectively. Given &c the 5th of June 1776
Palmerston
C: Spencer
Lisburne
To Captain Cook, Commander of
His Majesty’s Sloop Resolution in Longreach
1. PRO, Admiralty 2/101, 135-38.
405
JUNE 1776
Public Advertiser , Wednesday, June 5, 1776
London [June 5].
An old Seaman remarks, that the Provincial Squadron cannot be very
formidable, since the Glasgow , an old 20 Gun Ship, engaged and beat the
whole Squadron: However, none of them are taken, as was at first reported.
The Glasgow Man of War, of 20 Guns, and 160 Men, was attacked by
Commodore Hopkins’s Fleet on the 20th of April [sic April 6] off Newport
in Rhode-Island; and notwithstanding the Superiority of both Guns and
Men, yet got clear off.
Commodore Hopkins’s Fleet consists of two Ships, the Alfred , of 34
Guns, 330 Men, commanded by himself; the Columbus , of 30 Guns, 300
Men, by Capt. Whipple; with two Brigs and two Sloops; the Number of
Guns on board the same amount to 104.1
1. This report, the first reasonably accurate summary of the engagement between the Glasgow
and the Continental fleet, probably “leaked” out of the Admiralty Office before the re-
lease on June 8 of Captain Tyringham Howe’s account which was published in the
London Gazette, June 4 to June 8, 1776.
6 June
Beaumarchais to Arthur Lee, London1
No 2. Paris June 6th 1776
Mrs. Johnstone2
I received your Letter of the 23d May. I will perform “my” promises
“in the way I have pointed out.” I am about to send to Cape Francois
in the island of St Domingo, a Ship loaded with Merchandize to the value
of <£25000, besides Cannon, Powder and Stores, but this last article will
arrive but in small Parcels on account of the risque. “On your part do not
fail to send a Ship loaded with good Virginia Tobacco,” and let your
friend send in the Ship an intelligent discreet and faithful Person with
powers to receive the Money or Merchandize and Powder, “and to make the
remittances in Tobacco,” which I can no more do without, than your friend
can without what I send to him in a word, let him give his Notes to my
House for what he shall not be able to pay in Tobacco, and make certain and
solid arrangements with my Agent at the Cape for the future.
The Captain on his arrival at the Cape must enquire of the first Magis-
trate, who is the Merchant entrusted with the affairs of Roderique Hortalez
and Co. and he will introduce him to the correspondent of your humble
Servant.3
[Copy]
1. Henry Laurens Papers, Letters to Secret Committee, &c. 1776, SCHS.
2. In this exchange of letters, Beaumarchais used the name “Hortalez” and Lee, “Mary
Johnstone.” For explanation of the quotation marks, see Lee to Beaumarchais, May 23,
1776, Volume 4, 1137.
3. Ibid., Lee replied on June 14 cautioning Beaumarchais to “Consider above all things that we
are not transacting a mere Mercantile business but that Politics is greatly concerned in
this affair.”
406
EUROPEAN THEATRE
Estienne Cathalan to Willing, Morris 8c Co.1
Gentlemen — Marseilles the 6th June 1776 —
I confirm what I did myself the pleasure of writing you by Mr Van
Horne, who I hope will long ere this, be arrived, 8c the Cargo under his
direction safely Landed with you; he will him self have related to you the
many obstacles we had to surmount in procuring it here, as such a Cargo
had never before been shipped from any port of France; and the publick
Orders relative to the Articles it was composed of expressly 8c rigourously
prohibited their Exportation. In order then to obtain a Secret permission, it
was absolutely necessary to go to Paris, as such would never have been
granted to any one in writing; every thing I could desire was granted me
there, but on my return I found I had still many other difficulties to en-
counter here, 8c at Toulon, which I at last got over with much trouble 8c
perseverance: and I rest upon the whole so much the more satisfied that in
having succeeded for Mr Van Horne, I open’d the way to others in this
Kingdom, who have supplied both our Islands 8c your Continent with these
Commodities.
Our worthy friend Mr Thomas Morris arrived here about 12 days ago,
I have since had the pleasure of Several Conferences with him on the pres-
ent state of affairs, and as he possesses a very great share as well of politi-
cal as Commercial Knowledge, the Informations he has been pleased to give
me, have affor[d]ed me the most perfect Satisfaction
Your firm resolutions to maintain your priviledges are certainly very
just 8c commendable, 8c it was very pleasing to me to learn that you were in
a state to enable you to render unfruitfull the Efforts of Great Britain, 8c
frustrate her designs to deprive you of your Liberty, may the God of Jus-
tice protect you, 8c secure to you the Conservation of your Rights, these are
my Sincere prayers; but I cannot look upon all the present Horrors of this
Cruel warr, 8c it’s consequences perhaps still more fatal, without being
deeply affected, and would be exceedingly happy if I or my friends could be
in any way instrumental, in stopping those Rivers of such noble Blood, in
these Circumstances so much profused. I highly disapprove of the injustice
of the British Government, in not listening to your Complaints, as I do of
their Obstination to Submit you to Laws contrary to your priviledges. all
the Neutral Nations in general, 8c France in particular, warmly blame Such
a Conduct, the English them Selves are Sensible of the Impropriety of their
proceedings, which they have carried too far to retract, it would be mani-
festing their real weakness if they now consented to grant what they have
So constantly refused; But there is an Expedient which would be equally
creditable for you and decent for great Britain. I mean that the Continental
Congress should demand the mediation of some respectable power in Eu-
rope, who might terminate in an amicable way all your troubles and pre-
serve your Rights. I think there is the greatest reason to believe, that the
English Government would readily 8c willingly grant in favor of such a me-
diating power, what they have so constantly 8c obstinatly denied you. If you
JUNE 1776
407
inclined to make choice of our Court, I would act with equal Zeal 8c Satis-
faction for your Just cause; the Equity, Justice, 8c powerfullness of our
Sovereign are I believe too well known in England to refuse his mediation,
which I have some ground to presume you might obtain.
Having thus given you my Sentiments in favour of a happy reconcilia-
tion, which I hope you will approve of, I shall proceed to inform you that
Mr Ts Ms has communicated to me the Contents of a Letter he has received
from your Committee of Correspondence, and in the Several Conferences
we have had together expressed great desire to be informed the dispositions
of this Court towards America (as he appears to join in oppinion with me
that nothing can be done in her favour in Spain) 8c whether in case of not
being able to continue the Warr against England, alone, the Colonies might
in such case place a dependance, on being heartily join’d by the French, on
their become thenceforeward Subjects under the protection of France, as
they have here to fore been under that of Great Britain. I am of opinion
they very readily might assist them as the advantages which would accrue
to this Kingdom from such a Junction would certainly be very great yet
any thing I could now Say upon this Subject would be mere conjecture, 8c
consequently not worthy of your attention. But I have written in strong
terms thereon to a friend of mine whose employ at Court gives him free ac-
cess 8c great Credit with the Minister, and on his answer if there is the least
glimpse of being favorably received, Mr T. M. will sett out for Paris, 8c if
necessary, I shall accompany him thither; and how soon we can learn any
thing certain 8c a sure conveyance offers you may depend on its being imme-
diately communicated to you either by Mr. T. M. or me. but in the mean
time I must observe to you that I much doubt if the above mentioned Letter
from the Committee, which Simply request him to get information without
empowering him to treat or conclude any thing, will be thought Sufficient to
obtain audience at Paris.
As to assistance by furnishing you with ammunition 8c stores, you may
rest fully assured that any of your Vessels which may come hither in search
of them will not here after meet with the Least difficulty in obtaining their
Cargoes. I could now ship any Articles you might have occasion for without
any further permissions being necessary than the one I have already ob-
tained, if you thought proper to send back Capn Van Horne’s Vessel or any
others, by making them a french Bottoms 8c dispatching them for one of our
Island, Called St Pierre Miquelon, to the South west of New found Ld,
every possible risk would be avoided.
all Kind of woolen Cloaths may be had here. I intended sending you
Samples of the different qualities of them which I have wrote for, into the
Country, by this opportunity, but they are not yet Come to hand; and all the
Medecinal Drugs of the Levant may be purchased here considerably cheaper
than any where else —
I shall conclude this Letter, with assuring you that [it] is my hearty
desire to be of any service in my power to America; 8c that there is nothing
408
EUROPEAN THEATRE
I would not undertake for her interests, or to evince the Sincere regard 8c
Esteem with which I very respectfully remain Gentlemen [&c.]
Estienne Cathalan
[P.S.] I have omitted to mention that I am bound to our Aldmiralty
office, under a penalty of £10,000, for the safe return to this Port of Capn
Troud, 8c his Crew, in the Vessel he carried from hence (the danger of the
Seas 8c restraint of Princes only excepted) wherefore Should he appears
with you, please by no means fail to Send him 8c his Vessel back, 8c in case
of reloading her at your place, the Cargo must be declared in the Bills of
Lading as for my account -
E. C.
1. Papers of Robert Morris, Accession 1805, LC.
7 June
Lords Commissioners, Admiralty, to Lord George Germain1
My Lord, Admty Office [London] 7th June 1776
Having received a Letter from Vice Adml Gayton Commander in Chief
of His Majesty’s Ships 8c Vessels at Jamaica, dated the 30th of March last,
enclosing one he received Express from the Chief Justice of His Majesty’s
Island of [New] Providence, giving an account of the proceedings of Esek
Hopkins Commander in Chief of an Armament fitted out by the Rebel
Americans, for the purpose of possessing themselves of the Powder 8c
Stores belonging to His Majesty in that Island; We send your Lordship
Copies of both the said Letters2 for His Majts Information: And are My
Lord, Your Lordships [&c.]
Palmerston C Spencer Lisburne
1. PRO, Colonial Office, 5/124, 71a.
2. See Volume 4, 461-64, 588-89.
M. Garnier to Vergennes1
[Extract] London, 7 June 1776
My lord, we cannot mark without justifiable alarm the daring acts of
which the English Sea Officers are capable. As the war gets hotter, they will
become more dangerous; and their avidity for spoils will increase as they
get used to firing their guns. If the English people are generally proud and
greedy, it can be said with them maritime pride exceeds national pride by
several degrees and that the sailors are the most miserly and at the same
time the most prodigal of all the people in England. The name of Lord
Howe Commanding the naval forces over such an extended Coastline is
more likely to exalt than temper this pride, and I sincerely hope that the
British Ministry will not have to repent for employing him in circum-
stances that require more caution than valor and more shrewdness than
military talent.
JUNE 1776
409
The facts presented in the various documents which you were kind
enough to send me are assuredly of a dangerous as well as offensive nature.
In conformity with your instructions, My lord, I spoke of it yesterday to
Lord Suffolk in a friendly and confidential manner, telling him that our con-
fidence in the promises and good intentions of the English Ministers had
prevented us up to now from taking the precautions which circumstances
might require for the protection of our Islands and our trade, but that, how-
ever, the Governors of St. Domingue and Martinique were complaining bit-
terly of the conduct on the part of the Commanding Officers of the English
frigates cruising in the Seas neighboring our Colonies. “I know, Sir,[”]
this Minister replied immediately, [“]that a large quantity of powder
leaves your Islands for America, that the American ships carry it under the
French flag; I positively know this, so that I cannot doubt it.” Although he
was looking down, Lord Suffolk put a remarkable amount of dignity into
these words.
I answered that it could very well be that the Americans obtained pow-
der from our islands and others, and that I was equally convinced that Eng-
land was no more sterile for them in this respect than any other country
where there were people interested in this sort of smuggling. As for the
flag, the English Frigates use ours as well as the American ships, from
which I concluded it apparently was a ruse of war employed by both par-
ties; furthermore, that the King’s attitude towards His British Majesty
was friendly and obliging enough to arouse all the gratitude of the King of
England and his Administration; that these were the feelings which he had
often expressed to me himself.
I went on with my speech presenting our detailed grievances against their
officers, especially Captain [Robert] Keeler Commanding the Corvette
Lynx which has just arrived in Portsmouth. I explained that he would
agree with our motive for speaking confidentially since such procedures
were obviously contrary to the intentions of the British Ministry and since
our purpose was to bring him on the one hand to punish the defaulters, es-
pecially Captain Keeler, in a manner he would deem most suitable, and on
the other hand to provide more effective means than in the past to prevent
the repetition of such violations.
Lord Suffolk found my request to be very modest and promised to take
it into consideration. I observed that I did not show him the letters in which
our Governors express themselves with all the resentment inspired by
pranks which they consider as an insult to the Sovereignty of the King as
well as the respect due his flag, and that, wishing to avoid anything official
in my approach, I preferred to tone down the affair rather than make it
worse.
The Minister did justice to my intentions as well as my procedure. He
agreed that our ports, our roads and our coasts should be respected, and
that once the Americans were in our waters their shelter should be sacred;
he assured me that he would speak to Lord Weymouth and to the Admiralty
without wasting time.
410
EUROPEAN THEATRE
Of course, I did not want to leave any trace of doubt with respect to the
words used by Lord Suffolk when he interrupted me so seriously, and I
thought it was best not to be afraid and come back to this matter. I there-
fore confessed to him that X was quite surprised he had placed this matter
first in reply to what I had to tell him, and I asked him if his intention was
that I report it to my Court. The Minister answered that he mentioned this
fact only to show me the necessity that compelled them to visit most strictly
the ships bound for or coming from our Colonies; furthermore, that he did
not impute this traffic of powder to the Government, but merely to individu-
als who found it to their interest to sell ammunition to the Americans as the
inhabitants of St. Eustache and other islands do it.
My lord, this is what happened during my conference with Lord Suf-
folk on the subject which you had assigned to me. Lord North to whom I
mentioned this assured me that since my last grievances new orders had
been sent but that distances caused delays in their execution.
The frigate Aldborough which ran aground recently in Plymouth was
pulled out and towed into the harbor on the 2nd. Her crew relates that she
went through our Squadron composed of 2 Ships of the line, 3 frigates, 2
Corvettes and three Transport ships which appeared to be sailing for the
Coast of Guinea.
1. AMAE, Correspondance Politique, Angleterre, vol. 516, LC Photocopy.
8 June
Lords Commissioners, Admiralty, to Captain Tyringham Howe,
H. M. S. Glasgow , Plymouth Sound1
You are hereby required and directed to repair with His Majesty’s
Ship under your command into Homoze where we have ordered her to be
cleaned graved and refitted, stored for foreign Service, and her Provisions
completed to six Months of all Species except Beer, of which she is to have
as much as she can conveniently stow; and to be supplied with Wine or
Spirits in lieu of the remainder.
Applying to the Commanding officer of His Majesty’s Ships and Ves-
sels at Plymouth for the security of your Men.
And returning when ready into Plymouth Sound, and remain there
until you receive further Order. Given Sec. the 8th June 1776.
Sandwich Palmerston H. Palliser
By Sec. P.S.
1. PRO, Admiralty 2/101, 145.
London Chronicle , Thursday, June 6 to Saturday, June 8, 1776
London [June 8].
On Thursday night advice was received, by express from Falmouth,
that the Glasgow man of war was arrived there from Halifax. She was sent
JUNE 1776
411
with dispatches from General Howe, which were carried to the Secretary of
State’s office. She sailed from Halifax the 12th of May.
The following letter was received yesterday at Lloyd’s Coffee-house,
dated Bristol, June the 5th:
I hereby certify, that I sailed from Jamaica the 19th of
April, in the ship called the Mars , and on the 4th of May, in lat.
29.40. and long. 67.30. I fell in with a letter of Marque sloop,
bound from Rhode Island to Cape Francois, with a cargo of provi-
sions, to purchase gunpowder, mounted with four carriage and 12
swivel guns, and 14 men. She hoisted Provincial colours, and or-
dered me to come on board in my boat, and bring my ship’s papers
and letters with me, or they would sink me. This I complied with,
and then he sent a prize-master on board to take the command of
my ship, and ordered him to keep him company. The next day my
mate proposed to my ship’s company not to work the ship, which
they agreed to; the Captain made use of threats and promises,
which had no effect on them; after many altercations, the Captain
of the armed sloop, not having men capable of working or navigat-
ing my ship, he on the second day ordered me to go on board my
ship, and permitted me to proceed on my voyage, and this morning
I arrived in the port of Bristol.
Mag. Miller.1
It was reported yesterday that advice was received that Commodore
Hopkins, with his squadron, consisting of nine ships, was seen within three
leagues of St. Kitts, and that it feared he intended to pay that island a
visit.2
Postscript.
London.
Advice is just received, that the following ships are taken by the Pro-
vincial privateers, viz. the James , Littledale, and Norfolk, Grindal, of White-
haven; the Henry and Esther, Helles, and Stakeshy, Watt, of London.3
Accounts received from on board his Majesty’s ship Glasgow, say, that
during the engagement with Hopkins, nothing could be supposed fiercer
than it was. Hopkins’s ships were full of men, and had they been under
proper command, and exercized as in the King’s service, it would have been
next to a miracle for the Glasgow to have escaped. She had two ports beat
into one, her masts wounded, her sails and rigging cut almost to pieces, yet
she made shift to fight against, and get clear from, six vessels, who had
above 600 men, and 104 guns, whilst the poor Glasgow had but 24 guns, and
125 men. Captain [Tyringham] Howe, (no relation to Lord Howe) who
commanded her, has gained great credit by the affair.
1. The American was probably the armed sloop Joseph , Captain James Munro, which cleared
Providence for Hispaniola, on April 20, 1776.
2. A rumor without foundation.
3. See Volumes 3 and 4.
412
EUROPEAN THEATRE
10 June
“Extract of a Letter from Portsmouth, June 10.”1
Capt. [John] Boyle, in the Hunter sloop of war, is arrived here; he
sailed from Quebec the 16th ult. and says, the Surprize arrived there the
6th of May, with the Isis , and several other ships, at the sight of which the
Rebels immediately raised the siege, leaving behind them 20 pieces of can-
non, 6 mortars, 8cc. The Hunter met the transports, having on board Gen-
eral Burgoyne and the Brunswic troops, in the river St. Laurence; so that,
he says, there is no doubt but by this time the Rebels are entirely drove out
of all Canada.
1. London Chronicle, June 8 to June 11, 1776.
“Invoice of 263 Guns Shipped by Messrs Sollicoffre Freres 8c
Wilkie of Merseilles”1
Invoice of 263 Guns Shipped by Messrs Sollicoffre Freres 8c Wilkie of Mer-
seilles on board the Brigantine Grant John Waldron Master by order of
James Vanzandt bound for St Eustatia or St Martins on the Account 8c
risque of Jacobus Vanzandt, Comfort Sands 8c J V DeBilt [Vanderbilt] of
New York and goes Consigned to vizt
No 1 Cask Containing 98 Guns
2 Chest
30
3 ditto
40
4 ditto
40
208
Guns with Brass-work a 15s
£3120
5 ditto
27
6 ditto
28
55
Ditto New fashion’d Iron-wk
263
24s
1320
Charges vizt
4440
[5 Ches] ts a 8
40
[1 Cas]k
12
[Stra]w Cloth Cord 8c
Thread
49
[Pack] ing
12
[Porter] age to Warff
6
119
several Sailors for work on board Ship while } ^
[illegible] getting out of the Harbour 8cC j
French Capt in attendance all Night [illegible] J
the vessel Piloting her 8cc f
JUNE 1776
Boats to carry the Boxes out of the Harbour
12
413
1. NYSL.
200
4640
Commission 2 pCent 92.16
<£4732.16
Errors Excepted Marseille 10th June 1776 —
Sollicoffre Freres 8c Wilkie
Invoice of 250 Barrels of Gunpowder Shipped by
Sollicoffre Freres 8c Wilkie* 1
Invoice of 250 Barrels Powder Shipped by Messrs [Sollico] ffre Freres
8c Wilkie Of Marseilles on board the Brigantine [ Grant ] John Waldron
Master by order of James Vanzandt bound for St. Eustatia or St Martin, on
the Accot and risque of Jacobus [Van Zandt] Comfort Sands 8c John
Vfander] Bilt of New York 8c goes Consigned to Vizt
D G No 1 a 167 Barrels Powder Wt 20040 lb @ 20 £20040..-
D F 1 a 83 ditto Finer 9960 30 14940..-
250 Gratification to the Boatman 20..-
35000. .-
Commission 2 pCent 700. .-
£35700
Errors Excepted Marseilles 10th June 1776
(Signed) Sollicoff[r]e Freres 8c Wilkie2
1. NYSL.
2. Document charred during the fire at State Library, Albany, N.Y. It was pieced together from
two invoices and filled in by comparison with a similar invoice for 263 guns. See preceding
entry.
11 June
Lords Commissioners, Admiralty, to Commissioners for Victualing
the Navy1
Whereas you have represented to Us, by your Letter of the 7th in-
stant, that Messrs Hanbury’s and Lloyd have acquainted you that the pres-
ent disturbances in America, have put it out of their power to furnish His
Majesty’s Ships at Virginia with fresh Beef agreable to the Contract made
with Messrs Capel and Osgood Hanbury, but that they are willing to pro-
cure whatever fresh Beef they possibly can for the use of His Majesty’s
Ships at Virginia, upon being allowed the same Commission as you have
agread to allow several Contractors in the other Colonies; And, that you are
of opinion it will be adviseable to employ Messrs Hanbury 8c Lloyd to fur-
nish the same til’ further Order, since what fresh Beef can be procured in
414
EUROPEAN THEATRE
those parts will be an advantage to the Service, by lengthening out the Sup-
plies sent from England; We do hereby signify to you our approval of what
you have proposed, and require and direct you to employ Messrs Hanbury’s Se
Lloyd to furnish fresh Beef to His Majesty’s Ships at Virginia upon Com-
mission, until further Order, accordingly. Given 8cc. the 11th June 1776.
Sandwich Lisburn H. Palliser
By 8cc. P.S.
1. PRO, Admiralty 2/101, 153.
Lords Commissioners, Admiralty, to Captains St. John Chinnery, R. N.,
and James Robertson, R. N.1
You are hereby required and directed, so soon as you shall have re-
ceived on board the Ship you command, from the Head Quarters at
Chatham, the Party of Marines mention’d on the otherside hereof, to pro-
ceed in her with all possible dispatch to Spithead, and remain there until
you receive further Order. Given Sec. the 11th June 1776.
Sandwich
Lisbume
H. Palliser
Captn Chinnery, Daphne, Nore
1. Serjeant
1. Drummer
12. Private
Captn Robertson, Hound Sloop, Nore.
1. Subaltern
1. Serjeant
1. Corporal
20. Private.
By Sec. P.S.
1. PRO, Admiralty 2/101, 152.
M. Garnier to Vergennes1
[Extract]
My lord, London, 11 June 1776
Information received from Canada is becoming clearer. An officer,
dispatched from Quebec on the 16th of last month on board the Corvette
Hunter, brought yesterday letters from General Carleton dated on the
14th of the same month. They indicated that, upon the arrival of the first
reinforcement brought by the ship Isis and a few Frigates or transport
Ships, the Americans, numbering about three thousand, had decided to
raise the siege on the 6th of last month. They abandoned their artillery and
war ammunition. The Garrison made a sortie on the same day, the 6th of
JUNE 1776
415
May. However, this detachment must not have got too close to the retreat-
ing Americans since there was not a single man killed, wounded or made
prisoner.
The essential thing is that Quebec is safe. On the 21st, the Corvette
Hunter met the English troops and those from Brunswick under the Com-
mand of General Burgoyne sailing up the St. Lawrence. Counting this rein-
forcement and what may be obtained from Canada, General Carleton will
soon be at the head of about ten thousand men in order to march on Mon-
treal and attack the Lakes. It is assumed that the Americans will dispute
every inch of the passage. General Burgoyne has with him 20 boats suitable
for this expedition. They only need to be assembled and have the guns
mounted. But a great number of other boats will be required to carry the
troops, and it is expected that this expedition, subject to a number of diffi-
culties, will require a considerable amount of time, even if we assume that it
will be successful.
We have no confirmation concerning the capture of General Lee. We
only know that badly needed arms and ammunition arrived in Virginia. As
you can imagine, My lord, people say that we have sent them. But it matters
little where the Americans obtained them as long as they have them.
From Halifax, we have reliable intelligence that General Howe’s Army
is in miserable condition. A number of the troops have to remain on board
for lack of lodging ashore. The soldiers are suffering of dysentery and were
on half-allowance until the arrival of the supply-ships which had fortun-
ately reached Halifax before the departure of the Frigate Glasgow arrived
on the 5th at Plymouth and which brought this news.
If General Howe’s Army can not find billets in Halifax, it will be even
worse off after the arrival of the Hessian troops; thus it can be expected
that this Officer will hurry and begin operations in some more bountiful
Province either by landing in Jersey or by making another attempt upon
New York. Two of the ships which had left Boston with him fell into the
hands of the Americans. One of them had a cargo of cloth exported from
England and valued at thirty thousand pounds Sterling.2
The report made by the crew of the Frigate Glasgow on her fight
against part of M. Hopkins’ Squadron is quite different from the relation
published in the Gazette of London. According to the information received
from our correspondent in Plymouth who has it from the members of the
crew themselves, the American Privateers attempted to board her several
times, and she was able to get clear only by cutting off part of her stern,
mounting a gun there and fighting her retreat. She only lost one man be-
cause the fire of the Americans was constantly directed at her rigging and
her sails which were torn to pieces, as well as her masts which were badly
damaged and delayed her passage greatly. Our Correspondent adds that she
would have certainly been captured if other ships had not appeared during
the pursuit. The Privateers had hoisted a Blood ensign and nailed it to the
mast to show that they would not surrender. Hopkins himself did not want
to get too deeply into the action because he carried an enormous quantity of
416
EUROPEAN THEATRE
powder which had to be saved at all cost.3 In addition, he brought back 200
pieces of cannon which he landed in the Province of Connecticut, and cap-
tured prize after prize on his way. It is even reported that he took a bomb-
galiot.4
You know, My lord, that until now the Americans cruised only against
the transport ships belonging to the Government, but since Congress re-
ceived the Prohibition Act which authorizes the seizure of all American
Ships, it authorized in return the capture of any English Ship wherever
they may be encountered, except those which would bring war ammunition
to the Colonies. This bait should cause the Privateers to multiply and should
be detrimental to the trade of Great Britain in the West Indies.5
Through a resolution on the 6th of April, Congress has opened the
Ports of the Thirteen United Colonies to Goods and Ships from all Nations.
The only item not included is tea; the only Nation not included is Great
Britain. This resolution, although it may arouse the speculations on the part
of other trading Powers, especially those which have a great deal of natural
resources and industry, would undoubtedly be of more value if it had been
accompanied by the capture of Quebec; because, in order to trade with
America, the latter must be independent, and it will become independent
only through success on the battlefield. Among the resolutions carried on
the same date, we find one which forbids the importation of slaves. If it is
put into effect it augurs a sharp decrease in the crops of rice and tobacco.6
1. AMAE, Correspondance Politique, Angleterre, vol. 516, LC Photocopy.
2. Brig Elizabeth, whose rich cargo was comprised chiefly of loot from the counters and shelves
of Boston merchants.
3. The Continental fleet carried little powder. Most of the gunpowder had been removed
from New Providence a few hours before the capture of the island.
4. The few prizes taken by the squadron included the bomb brig Bolton.
5. See Volume 4, 648-52.
6. Ibid., 683-84.
London Gazette, Saturday, June 8 to Tuesday, June 11, 1776
Admiralty- Office [London] , June 11, 1776.
By Letters from Captain [Charles] Douglas, of His Majesty’s Ship the
Isis, dated Quebec the 8th and 15th of May, received Yesterday by Captain
[John] Hamilton, late of the Lizard, who arrived from thence in his Majes-
ty’s Sloop the Hunter, it appears that the Isis, which sailed from Portland
on the 11th of March, having Succours on Board for the Relief of the Place,
made the Island of St. Peter’s on the 11th of April; that he had from thence
with the greatest Difficulty, made his Way, pressing the Ship, by Force of
Sail for Fifty or Sixty Leagues through large Fields of thick Ice; that on
the 21st of April, when he got clear of the Ice, he made the island of Anti-
costie, and the same Evening entered the River St. Lawrence; that on the
30th he anchored in a Snow Storm near the Pilgrim Islands, and from
thence, as the Storm cleared up, observed successive Smoaks from Cape to
Cape, towards Quebec; and that, after various Obstacles from Fogs, Calms,
JUNE 1776
417
or contrary Winds, he arrived on the 3d of May near Isle aux Coudres,
where he was joined by His Majesty’s Ship the Surprise , and Martin Sloop,
which sailed on the 20th of March from Plymouth, having likewise Suc-
cours on Board. Captain Douglas adds, that having secured here all the
French Pilots, and every Hour becoming more and more precious, he gave
Orders on the 5th of May to Captain [Robert] Linzee, of the Surprise , to
make the best of his Way, and give Notice to Governor Carleton of the ap-
proaching Relief. Captain Linzee arrived in View of the Town at six
o’Clock the next Morning; and after answering the private Signals from
the Garrison, came to an Anchor in the Basin of Quebec, between the Reb-
el-battery on Point Levi and the Lower Town, where the Isis and Martin
came to an Anchor also, very soon after; and the several Detachments they
had on Board were immediately landed. Captain Douglas further ob-
serves, that the General wisely availing himself of the different Impressions
which the Arrival of the Ships had made on the Minds of the Rebels,
marched out to give them Battle, but that they as instantly retreated; on
which Captain Douglas ordered Captain Linzee and Captain [Henry]
Harvey, of the Martin Sloop, with a Province Armed Vessel, to proceed up
the River as far as the Rapids, in Hopes to annoy them in their Retreat,
which was attended with good Effect, as it hindered the Parties on the op-
posite Sides of the River from joining in their Flight towards Montreal. He
represents their Flight to have been very precipitate, as they left not only
their Cannon undischarged, their Ammunition, Scaling Ladders, Intrench-
ing Tools, and Provisions, but even many of them their Muskets.
The Surprise and Martin were farther successful in taking an Armed
Schooner belonging to the Rebels, carrying Four 6 Pounders and Six 3
Pounders, but the Men escaped into the Woods, they also recovered His
Majesty’s Schooner the Gaspe, which in the last Winter, had fallen into the
Hands of the Rebels, and had been sunk by them, but was soon weighed and
found to be not materially damaged. It also appears, from Captain Doug-
las’s Letters, that on the 8th of May His Majesty’s ship Niger arrived with
Three Transports, having on Board the 47th Regiment, from Halifax; and
that on the 10th, Captain [Skeffington] Lutwidge, of His Majesty’s Ship
the Triton , arrived with the Lord Howe and Bute Transports, having
Troops on Board, together with the British Queen , Agnes and Beaver, Vic-
tuallers from England.
Captain Douglas speaks highly in Commendation of the Captains and
Officers of the Ships employed to carry Succours, for their Perseverance
and Exertion in the many Difficulties they had to encounter in the Passage
through the Gulph, and in every other Part of the Service.
M. de Lombard to Gabriel de Sartine1
My lord, In conformity with the instructions you sent to M. de la Porte in
your dispatch of 31 May last, I fruitlessly made the most rigorous investi-
gation in order to discover the Dutch ships which sailed recently from Am-
418
EUROPEAN THEATRE
sterdam with a cargo of 40 thousand pounds of gunpowder destined for
New England according to the English Minister Plenipotentiary.
Since the instructions which you had sent previously to this port, we
took scrupulous care in order to prevent any ship from New England to
take on war supplies of any kind. I shall be twice as careful in this matter
and I shall keep a watchful eye on the destination of gunpowder which
might be brought here by Dutch ships. I have the honor to be 8cca.
[Endorsed] Copy of a letter written to M. de Sartine by M. de Lombard,
Navy Commissioner in Bordeaux, 11 June 1776. 2
1. AMAE, Correspondance Politique, Angleterre, vol. 516, LC Photocopy.
2. Ibid., Sartine forwarded this letter to Vergennes on June 16.
12 June
London Chronicle, Tuesday, June 11 to Thursday, June 13, 1776
London [June 12].
Orders are sent for the men of war now fitting out as a reinforcement
to Admiral Gayton’s squadron on the Jamaica station, to be in readiness for
sailing by the beginning of next month.
Gabriel de Sartine to Vergennes1
Paris, 12 June 1776
I have the honor, Sir, to send you the reply which I received from the
Navy Commissioner in Nantes concerning 45 thousand pounds of powder
which recently left Amsterdam and which the Court of London believes to
be destined to New England. However, you will see that M. Doyard does not
believe it was part of the shipments received in this port during the month
of May and that he will take great care to see that none is embarked for a
foreign destination, as well as any war ammunition. I have the honor to
be with sincere attachment, Sir, [8cc.]
de Sartine
1. AMAE, Correspondance Politique, Angleterre, vol. 516, LC Photocopy.
14 June
‘‘Extract of a Letter from Whitehaven, June 14.”1
On Monday morning arrived here a schooner, which sailed the 14th of
May from Squam (it is a creek on the N.E. side of Cape Ann, a few leagues
from Boston) commanded by Captains [William] Wood and [John] Rob-
inson, whose ships, the Jenny and Nelly, were taken by the Provincials; as
were also the James, [William] Littledale; the Norfolk, [Jonathan] Grin-
dall; and the Happy Return, [James] Hall, all of this port. The above
schooner was purchased by the Captains who came home in her jointly,
JUNE 1776
419
with Capt. Littledale and Capt. Nellis, of the Henry and Esther , of Whitby,
who, with their people, being prisoners, had obtained leave to depart the
continent, and take their passage for Great Britain.
This being granted, and the provisions laid in for the people, as they
amounted to forty-eight, some disagreeable accounts coming to the Provin-
cials they unbent the sails and took away her rigging, till they gave further
permission. During this and sailing Capt. Littledale, Capt. Nellis, and a
Mr. Wilson, who were coming home with them, were drowned by the boat
oversetting in going on shore from the vessel. The schooner sailed the Mon-
day following this accident, and off the banks of Newfoundland was
boarded by his Majesty’s ship the Centurion , Capt. Braithwaite [Richard
Brathwaite] , who pressed eleven hands out of her, his ship’s company being
then eighty short of complement.
When the schooner left Squam, upwards of thirty vessels were upon
the stocks at Newbury, among which were one of 24 and another of 36
guns; one of 36 was launched a few days before a little to the northward of
Newbury.2 Ships, they were informed, were arriving there daily from Bil-
boa with gunpowder and military stores. The men of war sometimes pursue
them to the mouth of the river, at the entrance of which there is a very bad
bar, about three miles from the town. Numbers of people were employed at
Newbury making saltpetre, of which one man will, with indifferent mate-
rials, make a pound a day.
1. London Chronicle, June 15 to June 18, 1776.
2. The Continental frigates Boston and Hancock, building at Newburyport, and the Raleigh,
launched at Portsmouth.
London Chronicle , Thursday, June 13 to Saturday, June 15, 1776
London [June 14].
Yesterday a full Board of Admiralty was held, when Capt. [John]
Hamilton, of the Navy, who arrived with the Quebec news, was promoted to
the command of a ship of 64 guns.
15 June
Philip Stephens to John Robinson1
Sir, 15 June 1776.
Having communicated to my Lords Commrs of the Admty your Letter
of Yesterday’s date, desiring to know for the Information of the Lords of
the Treasury the Names of such Ships as are to Sail soon to join the Fleet
with General Howe; I am to acquaint you that His Majts Ships named on
the otherside hereof are intended to Convoy the Troops against their Names
expressed from Spithead to the places of their respective destination. I am 8cc.
P. S.
420
EUROPEAN THEATRE
Guns.
Names
Commr
32
Diamond
Capt. Chs Fielding
32
Lark
Rd Smith
32
Ambuscade
Jno Macartney
20
Unicorn
Jno Ford
32
Amazon
Maxm Jacobs
24
Garland
Rd Pearson
' To Convoy the
2d Division of
the Hessns to the
Army with Genl. Howe.
Do 2d Division
>of the Brunswickers
to Quebeck.
1. PRO, Admiralty 2/552, 153.
Vergennes to M. Garnier1
[Extract] Versailles, 15 June 1776
There can be no better way of showing to the King of England our de-
sire to perpetuate the good intelligence which exists than that of presenting
to him the actions of subordinates which might disturb it. The English
cruisers take certain liberties which might determine commitments against
the wishes and will of the two Courts. I believe that it was not in a manner
of reproach that Lord Suffolk mentioned to you the war ammunition which
the Americans may have obtained from our islands, and that he does not
wish to use it as an argument in order to justify the acts of carelessness on
the part of their sailors who took it upon themselves to make incursions
into our roads and under our guns. The English have encouraged illicit
traffic as long as it was convenient for them, and they would like to stop it
now that it has turned to their disadvantage; but greed will always be
stronger than caution and human laws. We had a good example of this dur-
ing the disorders in Corsica. The English merchants brought arms and war
ammunition there with much publicity. We always understood that they
were private and independent ventures, loathsome even to the
Government. The King would be displeased to see his subjects taking the
liberty to bring any form of offensive assistance to the Americans, and if
they were caught by English ships in this illicit traffic they could expect no
support nor help from us. However, I cannot help but note that Lord Suf-
folk, while mentioning their numerous cruises, gave us to understand that
they also watched those of our ships which sail to and from our islands and
carry arms and other war ammunition on board. But there is an essential
difference which you will please to mark to the English Minister. I can con-
ceive that vessels coming out of the Bahama strait on pretext of returning
to Europe with rather large quantities of contraband may be presumed to
deal in illicit traffic and be suspect enough to be stopped and subjected to
the loss of their cargo, but I cannot understand on what grounds one could
take the liberty to limit our direct trade with our islands, whatever the na-
ture of the cargoes may be. What England considers as contraband in the
JUNE 1776
421
present circumstances is quite legal from one French possession to another
French possession, and I remain convinced that if this matter were taken to
any English tribunal, its decision would be favorable to us, but we cannot
rely upon the wisdom of the British Government and believe that it would
raise such a delicate question. Furthermore, the sea is free and we do not
stand opposed to the British if they seize the American ships, even those
which would sail under our flag, and prevent them from reaching our ports
and returning to theirs; but our territorial waters must remain a sacred
shelter for them.
I find easier to believe the disasters which General Arnold is said to
have suffered before Quebec and which forced him to raise the siege than
the arrival of the ship Isis which is said to have anchored at this place on 19
April; there is no previous example to the effect that the St. Lawrence is
navigable before the end even of the month of May.2
1. AMAE, Correspondance Politique, Angleterre, vol. 516, LC Photocopy.
2. Even though the April 19 date was in error, Vergennes was wrong in his surmise, as the Isis
arrived early in May.
H. Katenkamp, British Consul at Corunna, to Lord Weymouth 1
[Corunna] 15th June 1776.
Several masters of American vessels, in order to deceive His Majesty’s
ships of war, have of late made fictitious sales of their ships to British and
Irish merchants established in this kingdom, and thereby continue their
navigation with safety. An Irish merchant established at Ferrol acquainted
me last week that he had made a purchase of the ship, the King of Prussia,
of 300 tons burthen, belonging to Philadelphia,2 and desired me to indorse
the ship’s Register to him, but suspecting the identity [ sic authenticity] of
the sale, I refused to do it, notwithstanding the offers that were made me,
unless both the purchaser and captain would positively swear that no for-
eigner or inhabitant of the Colonies in rebellion held or retained any part,
share or interest therein, with which they have not thought proper to com-
ply.
1. Letters and Extracts from the Correspondence of Lord Grantham In Spain, January 1776 to
June 1779, Sparks Transcripts, No. 23, I, 9-10, HU. Hereafter cited as Sparks Transcripts,
Lord Grantham, HU.
2. The ship King of Prussia, W. Potts, master, entered Philadelphia just prior to October 18,
1775, Pennsylvania Journal, October 18, 1775, Inward Entries.
17 June
“ Extract of a Letter from Chatham, June 17.”1
Jahleel Brenton, Esq; is appointed to the command of his Majesty’s
ship Pembroke of 60 guns, now fitting out at this port, to serve as a hulk in
America.
422
EUROPEAN THEATRE
Thursday last [June 13] a detachment of marines of this division, con-
sisting of one corporal and 20 privates, embarked on board the Hound sloop
at the Nore, commanded by John Walters, Esq; Lieutenant of the said ma-
rines, who is bound for America.
The same day a detachment of marines, consisting of one serjeant and
12 privates, embarked at the Nore, on board the Daphne of 20 guns, also
bound for America.
1. London Chronicle, June 18 to June 20, 1776.
“Extract of a Letter from Portsmouth, June 17.”1
Came into the harbour to dock and refit, the Hunter sloop of war, lately
arrived from America. As the Light Horse arrive, they continue to ship
them on board the transports for America.
1. London Chronicle, June 18 to June 20, 1776.
Orders to Captain de Monteil, La Renommee 1
[Extract] Marly, 17 June 1776
His Majesty having decided that the Frigate la Renommee will cruise
off the coast of St. Domingue, he issues these particular instructions to Cap-
tain de Monteil in order to acquaint him with the nature of his mission and
the line of conduct he will maintain with respect to the command of his
frigate, his Crew, the victuals and the salutes.
As soon as the said frigate is ready and the winds are favorable, M. de
Monteil is to get under way and leave the road of Brest. . . .
Upon his arrival at Port au Prince, he will communicate the present
Instructions to the Commandant of the Colony and M. de Vaivren, Intend-
ant, and he will comply with the orders contained in his particular In-
structions relative to his operations and his cruise while he will be stationed
in this Colony.
One of the main objects of M. de Monteil’s mission during his cruise is
to stop the trade which foreigners might try to carry in to St. Domingue. In
this end, His Majesty orders him to remain constantly at sea and to put into
ports and roads only when he will receive special orders in writing from the
said Commandant a copy of which he will send to the Secretary of State in
charge of the department of the Navy upon his return in order to establish
the length of his calls as well as the extraordinary expenses which they may
have caused. . . .
The campaign of the frigate la Renommee will last seven months as of
the date of her departure from Brest. . . .
He will salute all the ships of the crowned heads flying our flag or some
other mark senior to his. However, he will not salute English ships regard-
less of their flag and he will not request to be saluted by them; he will act
likewise if he has to put into the places and dominions of the King of Eng-
land.
I. AN, Marine, B4, 128, 98-99, LC Photocopy.
Contemporary Model of Portsmouth Dockyard, 1774.
424
EUROPEAN THEATRE
18 June
Lords Commissioners, Admiralty, to Vice Admiral Sir James Douglas,
Portsmouth1
You are hereby required Se directed to send to North America by the
Ships mentioned on the otherside hereof, in the proportions against their
Names express’d, One Hundred of the Landmen borne as supernumeraries
on board the Guardships at Spithead, to serve on board such of the Ships
under the command of Lord Howe, as his Lordship shall judge proper to-
wards completing their respective Complements, taking care, that they are
healthy able bodied Men, and causing Pay Lists to be made out for their
Wages, from the days of their original Entrys, to the day of their removal
into the said Ships, where they are to be borne as supernumeraries for
Wages Se Victuals, Til otherwise disposed of by the directions of Lord
Howe. Given Sec 18th. June 1776.
Sandwich Palmerston Lisburne
By Sec P.S.
Ships No of Landmen.
Diamond 20.
Ambuscade 20.
Lark 20.
Unicorn 10.
Amazon 20.
Garland 10.
1. PRO, Admiralty 2/101, 177-78.
William Knox, Under Secretary of State, to Lord Dunmore1
My Lord, Whitehall 18th June 1776.
Lord George Germain being gone into the Country for a few days, it is
my Duty to send Your Lordship the inclosed Copy of His Lordship’s Letter
of 22d May,2 which will inform Your Lordship of the Loss of your Dis-
patches by the Duke of Cumberland Packet; and I have the honor to ac-
quaint you, that this Packet is principally dispatched for the Purpose of af-
fording Your Lordship, and His Majesty’s other Servants in the Southern
Colonies, an Opportunity of transmitting an Account of such Occurrences
as you shall judge it of importance to communicate to Lord George Germain
for His Majesty’s Information. I have the honor to be Sec.
W. Knox
1. PRO, Colonial Office, 5/1353.
2. Germain’s letter was dated May 21, not May 22, 1776.
JUNE 1776
425
19 June
Dr. Barbeu Dubourg to Vergennes1
Monseigneur Paris 19th June 1776
I have this morning seen M. de Gribauval,2 who, interesting himself
much in the fate of our friends in America, into whose secrets he has been
initiated by the Count de St Germain, is very uneasy on their account be-
cause of the advance of the English by way of Canada. He fears lest they
may be forced to bend beneath the yoke of the Mother Country if they are
not promptly and efficiently succoured. Consequently, having meditated
thereon, he thinks it would be very possible to transmit to them what they need
the most urgently in order to make a stand against their enemies; and he is
persuaded that I would experience little or no difficulty therein on the part
of the Minister for War provided I found some source elsewhere to furnish
the expenses of transport. There are in the Royal arsenals more than 300 or
400 pieces of cannon of No. 4 calibre, (the most necessary in their position)
not at present in use for the service of the State, which could be sold to
Spain to be forwarded to Havanna, and which any merchants would pur-
chase at Havanna for the neighbouring Continent. It would only be a ques-
tion of filing off the fieurs de lys or double L’s. They would soon be replaced
by new castings, and the merchants would send over for their discharge as
soon as possible a sufficient, or more than sufficient, amount of produce of
the new Continent, as for instance 4 or 5 millions of tobacco the sale of
which is assured beforehand by my arrangements with the Farmers Gen-
eral. He wished then that I would make the application for them at once to
the Count de St. Germain, not being able for his part to undertake more
than to support it well. Not having the honour to be known to that gentle-
man I have no hope but in your goodness, Monseigneur, — if you would
condescend to inform him of it in order that I might gain admission to pre-
sent to him my humble petition upon this subject, we could find means to
smooth away all difficulties; we should not want for officers for the service
of this artillery; M. de Gribauval, already authorized to grant leave for this
service, would choose them himself; and I do not believe M. Penet so desti-
tute of means as not to furnish with ease all the unforeseen expenses. I shall
write to him tomorrow. I have the honour to be with the most profound
respect Monseigneur [8cc.]
Barbeu Dubourg
1. Stevens, ed., Facsimiles, No. 570.
2. Lieutenant General Jean-Baptiste Vaquette de Gribeauval, Director General of Artillery.
20 June
“Remarks on the State of His Majesty’s Fleet”1
June 20 th 1776.
We have now 29 Ships of the Line compleatly fitted as Guardships,
which, with the aid of a Press, might be all at sea in a Fortnight.
426
EUROPEAN THEATRE
There is one additional Guardship of 74 Guns ordered to be got ready
to receive Men.
All our Frigates (that do not want considerable repair) including
Ships of 50 Guns, and Two of 64, are in America, or appropriated for the
American Service, so that we have nothing left for our Home Stations ex-
cept 2 Frigates of 32 Guns, 8 Sloops, & 9 Cutters; These, together with 20
Tenders, will be disposed of to the best advantage for raising voluntier Sea-
men, and for beginning a Press whenever that Measure is found necessary;
and for the same purpose we have Rendezvouz’s with proper Officers in 20
of the Out Ports, besides a Regulating Captain & several Lieutenants under
him in the Port of London.
Besides these Vessels stationd at home, there will seldom be less than 5
or 6 Frigates in England fitting out for America, or of those that from time
to time will be coming home to refit
I suppose we have above 30,000 Men now employed, of which, about
15,000 on the American Service, 8,000 at home, and the rest on the several
foreign Stations.
In case of a War 20 Ships of the Line may be depended upon as ready
for Sea (if there is no difficulty about getting Men) within a Year from the
time of their receiving Orders to fit out; but it must be observed that it will
usually require a Month to prepare each Ship for receiving Men, and at
least two Months more before she will be manned and ready for Sea.
What I would propose should be done, in case upon consideration it is
judged that the French 8c Spanish Equipments deserve our immediate at-
tention, is, first, to order one additional Guardship to be commissioned at
each Port, which, if the Asia of 64 Guns returns from America this Year,
will make 24 Line of Battle Ships ready for Sea.
I would give immediate Orders for 12 Line of Battle Ships more to be
got in readiness to receive Men, which would put them in the State we sup-
pose the Fleet at Brest now to be in, as far as the preparation of the Ships
in the Dock Yards; for it is to be apprehended that they can raise Seamen
to a certain number much faster than we can.
The Workmen in the Yards to be allowed to work double Tides
The Marines to be augmented from 90 to 100 private per Company.
To go on raising Voluntier Seamen.
To prepare measures for a Press with Secrecy that it may be carried
suddenly 8c effectually into execution, in case the Answers 8c intelligence we
receive from Foreign Courts are not satisfactory.
It must be observed that by these preparations we shall considerably
exceed the Number of Seamen voted, and incur a large expence in fitting the
Ships.1 2
1. Fortescue, ed., Correspondence of George III , III, 378-80.
2. Ibid., 380, this statement and proposals, apparently prepared at the Admiralty, were presented
and acted upon at a Cabinet meeting the same day.
JUNE 1776
427
British Intelligence Regarding French and Spanish
Naval Preparations1
20 th June 1776
By the Advices from Rotterdam and other Intelligence received, it ap-
pears
That the French have now at Sea a Squadron consisting of
1 Ship of 74 Guns
2 64
6 Frigates
6 Sloops 8c
2 Cutters.
manned as in time of War
That orders are sent to Brest de pourvoir a leur besoin, or, to forward,
so as that they may be ready to sail in 15 days after receiving the definitive
Orders from Court,
1 Ship of 90 Guns
3 80
7 74
1 70
7 64
2 50
1 1 Frigates from 32 to 26 Guns
That 2,000 Workmen of one sort or another are expected at Brest.
That 4000 Sailors are ordered for that Department, and are daily pass-
ing thither.
That Orders are also sent to Rochfort 8c Toulon to visit all the Ships 8c
Frigates at those Ports, 8c to put such of them as are good, into a condition
to be armed; to which end they work without intermission at the last men-
tioned Port, the number of Workmen there being also increased, particu-
larly in Ropemakers 8c Coopers, and the Bakers kept fully employed.
It also appears that orders have been given for fitting out at Brest
Rochfort 8c L’Orient for the East Indies
2 Ships of 64 Guns
1 56 8c
2 Frigates
and that one of the ships of 64 Guns 8c the two Frigates are actually sailed
for the Isle of France with Troops, a great quantity of Bomb Shells, Shot,
Powder 8c on board.
And it farther appears that Reinforcements have been sent this Year
to their West India Islands, which, with the Troops that were already there,
amount to about 7000 Men.
With respect to the Spanish Equipments it appears, about the latter
end of April,
That they expected at Cadiz 10 Ships of the Line and 4 Frigates from
Ferrol
428
EUROPEAN THEATRE
That officers & Petty officers were to be sent from Cadiz to Ferrol to-
wards manning those Ships and Frigates.
That on the 8th of May 2 Ships of the Line sailed from Cadiz with the
Flota
That an Edict has been published for all the Registered Seamen to ap-
pear at the proper Office in three days under pain of death.
That on the 20th of May a Squadron sailed from Cadiz under the com-
mand of a Rear Admiral, consisting of
5 Ships of 70 Guns
2 Frigates of 26.
2 Sloops of 10
1 Xebeck of 30
the destination of which was kept secret,
That there remained in the Bay of Cadiz
2 Ships of 70 Guns
1 Frigate of 26.
That Orders are sent to Ferrol to hold all the Ships there in readiness
to be armed, if there should be occasion for it, 8c that the Cadiz Squadron is
to be increased to 15 Ships of the Line, besides Frigates.
It also appears they are preparing at Barcelona a number of Tents,
a great Train of Artillery, Baggage Waggons 8c all sorts of Necessaries.
By these Intelligences it appears that France 8c Spain have, or will
soon have a larger number of Ships in Commission in Europe than we have,
and that they may have double the number unless we immediately take
proper measures to keep pace with them in our Equipments.
1. Fortescue, ed., Correspondence of George 111 , III, 380-82.
London Chronicle , Tuesday, June 18 to Thursday, June 20, 1776
London [June 20].
It was yesterday reported in the city, that Commodore Hopkins, with
nine ships under his command, had landed in the island of Bermudas, and
carried off all the valuable goods he could meet with whilst he staid, which
was three days.1
1. While this report was without foundation, it illustrates the uneasiness created in London by
news of Hopkins’ amphibious assault on New Providence. The Public Advertiser, July
29, 1776, carried another: “a British fleet was totally defeated by Admiral Hopkins upon
the 23d of June, after a dreadful slaughter on both sides.”
21 June
Lords Commissioners, Admiralty, to Captain Maximilian Jacobs,
H. M. S. Amazon , Spithead1
Whereas it is intended that the Transport Vessels
Mary and Ann mentioned in the Margin having on board 447 German
George and Molly Recruits and also a Detachment of His Majesty’s British
JUNE 1776
429
Troops consisting of Six Officers and Sixty Private
destined for the several Regiments of Foot serving
under the Command of General Carleton in Canada,
shall proceed to Quebec in the River St Lawrence,
under Convoy of the Ship you command: You are
hereby required and directed to take them under your
Convoy, and see them safe to Quebec when you proceed
thither
And it being intended that the Transports having
on board the Regiment and Artillery of the Prince of
Waldeck which you were directed by our Orders of the
19th mstant, to take under your Convoy shall proceed
under Convoy of Captain [Charles] Fielding of His
Majesty’s Ship the Diamond , to join the Army under
the command of General Howe, You are to leave them
to proceed under the Convoy of Captain Fielding ac-
cordingly. Given Sec the 21st June 1776.
J: Buller Lisburne H. Palliser
By Sec P:S:
1. PRO, Admiralty 2/101, 186.
Arthur Lee to Beaumarchais1
No 4. London June 21st 1776
In Cyphers
The Army of England in America consists of forty thousand Men and
their fleet of one hundred Ships, of which but two are of seventy four Guns.
Their Officers both by Sea and Land, and Engineers are good; they are well
supplied with Artillery and Stores. Consider then, Sir, how diffucult it
will be for the Americans to resist such forces, ‘‘if they are not assisted by
France with Officers, “Engineers and large Ships of War.” You may send
them out without the least risque. Ten French Ships of War dispatched se-
cretly to the Cape or Martinico, and joined with the American Fleet might
scour the American Coast, and destroy the whole English fleet, dispursed as
it is at present, On which the land Army deprived of succour would be eas-
ily defeated. And by this shock the English Marine would be mortally
wounded. Do you fear that this will kindle a War between the two Nations?
But how will England be able to support a War without Fleets, without Col-
onies, without Seamen, and without resources? On the contrary, if you suf-
fer America to fall again under the dominion of England, the latter will for
ever be invincible.
Adieu
[Copy]
1. Henry Laurens Papers, Letters to Secret Committee, &c, 1776, SCHS. Again in this letter
Lee used the cover name “Mary Johnstone” and addressed Beaumarchais as “Hortalez.”
Mediator
Favourite
James
British Queen
430
EUROPEAN THEATRE
London Gazette , Saturday, June 22 to Tuesday, June 25, 1776
At the Court of St. James’s, the 21st day of June, 1776:
Present, The King’s Most Excellent Majesty in Council.
Whereas His Majesty was graciously pleased, by His Royal Proclama-
tion, bearing Date the 22d Day of March last, to promise and declare, That
the Bounties of Three Pounds for every Able Seaman, and of Two Pounds
for every Ordinary Seaman fit for His Majesty’s Service, should be paid, in
the Manner thereby directed, to every such Able and Ordinary Seaman not
above the Age of Fifty, nor under the Age of Eighteen Years, who should,
on or before the Thirtieth Day of April then following, enter themselves to
serve in His Majesty’s Royal Navy either with the Captains or Lieutenants
of His Majesty’s Ships, or the Chief Officers on Board such Tenders as
should be employed for raising Men for the Service of the Royal Navy: And
whereas the Time thereby limited was, by Order in Council, prolonged and
extended from the said Thirtieth Day of April to the Thirtieth Day of this
Instant June. And it being judged expedient for His Majesty’s Service that
the said Bounties should be continued to be paid for some longer Time: His
Majesty, with the Advice of His Privy Council, doth therefore Order, and it
is hereby accordingly Ordered, that the Time limited for Payment of the
said Bounties be prolonged and extended from the said Thirtieth Day of
this Instant June, to the Thirty-first Day of August next inclusive: Whereof
all Persons concerned are to take Notice, and govern themselves accord-
ingly.
G. Chetwynd.
Vergennes to M. Garnier1
[Extract] Marly, 21 June 1776
Already some time ago, Sir, I told you that the English Ministers form
conjectures about what we do from what they themselves would do if they
were in our place, and they are convinced that any form of assistance re-
ceived by the Americans comes from France. I shall not deny that some help
may come from France. Our merchants like to make money as well as those
of other nations; and I am sure that the English merchants themselves do
not fail to act likewise in spite of the much stricter prohibitions to which
they must be subjected. Furthermore, there is no such thing as contraband
on land, everything there is merchandise. Only at sea, and according to its
destination, may a certain merchandise be called contraband. We do not
protect those who carry it; we do not stand against the English if they seize
them; we would not protect any French subject who would be caught in this
illicit traffic, with the exception of course of their passage from France to
our islands, or any port under the sovereignty of the King. I have made my-
self sufficiently clear with respect to all this in my last dispatch, Sir. Fur-
thermore, if the English fear that the Americans obtain assistance from us
JUNE 1776
431
by way of trade, our market is open to them as well as the others. Whoever
can pay the most can be assured of the preference.
I have seen the resolution passed by Congress on the 6th of April last
to open the ports of the thirteen united Colonies to the vessels and merchan-
dise from all nations, with the exception of the English and tea. I do not be-
lieve that there will be many people interested in this venture: the risks
outweigh any possible advantages since it is most probable that the English
who have not yet recognized the independence of America would seize indis-
criminately any vessel entering or leaving American ports on pretext of il-
licit trade. Something else seems to require more attention: it is the order
issued by Congress to its ship-owners to chase indiscriminately all English
vessels in all parts of the world. The desire to make captures more easily
may attract Privateers in the European seas where the English are less on
their guard and it will be rather embarassing to decide what to do if they
want to send their prizes to our ports for security. With respect to all civil-
ised nations, the Americans to this day are only in a state of open rebellion
against their legitimate master. This does not keep them from finding shel-
ter in our ports for themselves, their ships and their goods; we continue to
consider them as English subjects and we let them enjoy all the rights at-
tached to this quality; but in what light shall we look upon the prizes they
will most certainly capture if these are claimed? Since it is most likely that
this probable contingency has already been the object of reflections on the
part of the English, you will please to inform me of any sensible or reasona-
ble comments you may hear on this subject. . .
M. de St. Paul is worrying again; he sees fleets being armed in our
ports as well as everything which his imagination, exalted by nature, may
suggest to him. Nothing of the kind is taking place, we wish to be ready for
any eventuality and our caution has no other purpose but that to assure our
safety in all possible events.
1. AMAE, Correspondance Politique, Angleterre, vol. 516, LC Photocopy.
22 June
Lords Commissioners, Admiralty, to Captain Charles Fielding,
H. M. S. Diamond , Spithead1
Whereas Lord George Germain, one of His Maj-
esty’s Principal Secretaries of State, hath, by his Letter
of Yesterday’s date, signified His Majesty’s Pleasure that
the Transport Vessels having on board the 2d Division
of the Hessian Troops, the Regiment and Artillery of
the Prince of Waldeck, the 16th Regiment of Light
Dragoons, the Remount Horses for the 17th Regiment
of Light Dragoons, and the Draught Horses for the
Baggage and Artillery of the Army, as also the Trans-
ports named in the Margin having on board 402 German
Minerva
Neptune
Matty
Jane & Isabella
Elliot
432
EUROPEAN THEATRE
John
Chamhri
Susannah
Triton
Generous Friend
T uscany Frigate
John
Nancy
Sally
Wolf
Recruits and two Officers, should proceed under proper
Convoy to join the Army under the command of Gen-
eral Howe, with all possible dispatch; and whereas we
intend that His Majesty’s Ship under your Command
together with the Lark, Ambuscade, and Unicorn (whose
Commanders are directed to follow your Orders) shall
proceed with the said Transport Vessels to the place of
their destination: You are hereby required and directed
to take His Majesty’s said Ships under your Command
together with the several Transports abovementioned
(Lists of which you will receive from their respective
agents who are likewise directed to follow your Orders)
and, so soon as they are assembled at Spithead and ready
to sail, You are to put to Sea with the first opportunity of
Wind and Weather and proceed according to the secret
Instructions which you will find contained in the in-
closed sealed Pacquet.
And it being intended that the Transport Vessels
named in the Margin, which are to receive on board at
Chatham and Dover British Recruits for the army
under General Howe, shall also proceed under your Con-
voy, in case they arrive at Spithead before you are
ready to sail, You are accordingly to take those Trans-
port Vessels under your Convoy in case they arrive in
time, but not to wait for them after the other Vessels
are ready.
You are likewise to take under your Convoy the
Victualling Ships named in the Margin which are now
at Spithead an[d] any others that may arrive before
you sail, as also any Storeships or Victuallers belonging
to the Navy, Ordnance, or Treasury Departments, that
are to join the Fleet under the command of Lord Howe
or the Army under the command of General Howe, and
also other Vessels bound to North America that may be
ready and willing to accompany you; transmitting to
us, before you sail a List of the names of all the Ships
and Vessels under your Convoy with the names of the
Masters, and the number of Troops or the nature of the
Lading, they have on board.
And we having given directions for the Jane
Transport laden with Waggons and Stores for the use
of the Army under General Howe, to proceed from
Plymouth to join you at Spithead You are to take her
also under your Convoy in case she arrives in time or
JUNE 1776
433
you should meet with her in your way down Channel.
Given &c the 22d June 1776.
Palmerston Lisburne H. Palliser
By&c G:J:
1. PRO, Admiralty 2/101, 188-90.
Philip Stephens to Captain Charles Douglas, R. N.1
Sr 22 June 1776.
I reed on the 10th Inst by Capt Hamilton your Letters of the 8th Sc
15th of last Month; the former giving an Account of your arrival at Que-
beck on the 6th in the Isis, together with the Surprize Sc Martin Sloop, after
having forced with the utmost difficulty a passage through large fields of
Ice, Sc of the happy consequences which attended it; the latter acquainting
their Lordships with the arrival of the Triton Sc Niger with several Trans-
ports Sc Victuallers Sc of your proceedings since the raising the Seige of
Quebeck; And having laid your said Letters before my Lords Commrs of
the Admty, I have it in command from them to acquaint you, that they can-
not too much approve of the indefatigable zeal Sc the diligence with which
you Sc the rest of the Captains of His Majts Ships Sc Vessels pursued Sc ef-
fected so difficult a passage with such Credit to yourselves Sc advantage to
your King Sc Country. This you will take care to make known to them.
Their Lordships have the highest satisfaction in the Accots they have
received of the meritorious Service of the Navy Battalion formed by Capt
Hamilton, and intending to appoint him to the command of a Ship at home,
have signed a Commission for Capt Mackenzie to be Capt of the Lizard, as
also one for Lieut Boyle of the Isis, who brought the Hunter to England, to
be Commander of her in the room of Captain Mackenzie. Their Lordships
have likewise signed Commissions for Lieuts. McEvoy and Berkeley to be
1st & 2d Lts of the Isis, and Mr Butler, late master, to be 3d Lieut of her;
And my Lords intending also to provide for Mr [William] Fooks 1st Lt Sc
Mr John Thompson Master’s Mate, of the Lizard, at home; I am to signify
their Lordships direction to you to send them to England by the first oppor-
tunity, and to acquaint you, that they have signed Commissions for Lts
Macclellan to succeed Mr Fooks & for Mr Starke, who had been ordered by
Capt Hamilton to act as Lieut of the Lizard, to be 2d Lieut of her in the
room of Lieut Macclellan, all which Commissions, except Capt Boyles, will
be sent to you by this conveyance, to be delivered to the Persons for whom
they are respectively designed.
My Lords understanding, by your last Letter, that Genl Carlton is de-
sirous that Mr Starke should command, as Lieut, the Schooner which has
been taken from the Rebels, I am to acquaint you that they have authorized
Vice Adml Lord Howe, Commr in Chief of His Majts Ships & Vessels in No
America, to purchase the said Schooner for His Majesty, and have recom-
434
EUROPEAN THEATRE
mended it to his Lordship to appoint Lieut Starke to command her, and fill
up the vacancy which will thereby be made in the Lizard .2
Their Lordships have promoted Lieut Nunn to the command of the
Beaver Sloop 8c intend to send her out to him, with which they have ac-
quainted Lord Howe, that he may appoint a Lieut to command the Magda-
len Schor in his room.
Their Lordships have also promoted 2d Lieuts Brown 8c Strickland of
the Marines, serving on board the Lizard , to 1st Lieutenantcies, which you
will please to signify to them.
And, in consequence of what has been represented to the Earl of Sand-
wich by Genl Carlton, and by yourself in your last mentioned Letter, their
Lordships will lay before His Majesty the Case of the several Officers of the
Navy Battalion with respect to the Allowance of Pay they crave while they
served on Shore.
I have nothing further in command from their Lordships but to ac-
quaint you, that they cannot approve of your hoisting a broad pendant,
much less of your appointing a Captain to serve under you in the Isis, and
that if you have done so, it is their direction that you do immediately recall
the Appointments you may have made upon that occasion. I am 8cc
P. S.
Capt Douglas of His Majts Ship Isis,
8c Senr Capt of His Majts Ships at Quebeck.
(By the Amazon.)
1. PRO, Admiralty 2/552,202-05.
2. Ibid., 200-01.
23 June (Sunday)
Philip Stephens to Vice Admiral Richard Lord Howe1
My Lord 23d June 1776
I have now the honor to acquaint your Lordship by
direction of my Lords Comrnrs of the Admty that His
Majts Ship the Repulse sail’d from Spithead on the 26th
of last Month having under Convoy the Transports
Storeships and Victuallers whose Names are in the List
you will please to receive in this
The Diamond with the Lark Ambuscade 8c Uni-
corn have orders to proceed 8c take under Convoy the
Transports which carry the 2d Division of Hessian
Troops The Regt 8c Artillery of the Prince of Waldeck;
the 16th Regt of Light Dragoons; the Remount Horse
for the 17th; And the Draught Horses for the Baggage
8c Artillery of the army serving with Genl Howe; as
also the Transports having 402 German Recruits on
board. They take under Convoy likewise the Seven Vic-
Triton
Generous Friend
T uscanny Frigate
John
Nancy
JUNE 1776
435
Sally tuallers named in the Margin loaded with Provisions
Wolf. for the use of the Fleet, and the whole will sail from
Spithead as soon as the Wind permits: Three other
Victuallers are daily expected. Vizt Northam , Edward 8c
Adventure , And if they arrive in time will proceed with
the same Convoy, as will three more Transports Vizt.
John , Chamhre, Susannah havg British Recruits on
board for Genl Howe’s Army, but this being uncertain
the Convoy is ordered not to wait for them
My Lord having been informed by the Lord of the
Treasury that there are a number of Victuallers at Cork
laden with Provisions 8c Stores for the use of the afore-
mentioned army they have directed Capt Jordan of the
Galatea to repair thither, & taking them under Convoy
proceed on the 1st of July to Halifax, where he is to
leave the said Victuallers or proceed with them to such
Port or place as he shall learn by directions, which it is
expected he will find the Army is removed to.
Besides the Supplies in the Army Victuallers above-
mentioned my Lords have understood it is intended
that the like shall be repeated at the expiration of
every following 14 Days, or as near to that period as
the same can be done; which it is thought fit I should in-
timate to your Lordship as you may expect Convoys will
from time to time be appointed to see the Ships which
carry such supplies safe to the place of destination.
The Second Division of the Brunswick Troops 8c
the Hannan Artillery with a party of 447 German Re-
cruits 8c a detachment of British Troops consisting of
Six Officers 8c Sixty Private intended to join the Army
serving in Canada being embarked, my Lords have or-
dered Capt Jacobs of the Amazon with the Garland to
take the Transports which have the said Troops on
board under Convoy to see them in safety to Quebec,
with all such Storeships 8c Victuallers belonging to the
Navy, victualling or the Ordnance Departments as may
be destined to Canada.
Having now acquainted your Lordship with the
Convoys which have sail’d, or that are ready to sail,
since your departure from England I have only to add
on this Subject that as soon as the said Services are per-
formed the Captains of the several Ships aforemen-
tioned are ordered to join the Squadron under your
command 8c follow your Orders for their further pro-
ceedings.
436
EUROPEAN THEATRE
Their Lordships have thought fit to order His
Majts Ships the Pembroke Sc Boulogne to be fitted to
proceed to Halifax, where the former is to serve as a
Sheer Hulk Sc the latter lay in the Harbour to be em-
ploy’d on such Services as she may be applicable to:
And to be established whilst they serve as such with the
Officers & Men as follows
Pembroke.
1 Boatswain & Servant
1 Carpenter Sc Do
40 Seamen
44
Guns 20 upper Deckers
Boulogne
Do
Do
10
14
Guns as opposite
And in order to assist in Navigating the said Ships
there will be employed in them respectively the addi-
tional Officers Sc Men as under.
Pembroke
1 Lieut Sc Servant
1 Clerk to Do
1 Master Sc Servant
4 Petty Officers
1 Surgeon Sc Servant
1 Clerk & Servant
103 Seamen
U6
Boulogne
1 Lieut Sc Servant
1 Clerk to Do
1 Master Sc Servant
4 Petty Officers
1 Surgeons Mate
1 Cook Sc Servant
54 Seamen
66”
With respect to the additional Officers it is their
Lordships directions that you send them to England by
the first opportunity that may offer: But as to the Petty
Officers Sc Seamen they leave it to your Lordship to dis-
pose of them amongst the Ships under your command in
such way as your Lordship shall find necessary with the
others whom I shall have occasion to mention in a sub-
sequent part of this Letter.
Their Lordships with a view to benefit the public
all they can by the Service of these new Ships have di-
rected the Navy Board to provide Sc send in them as
many large Masts Sc other Stores as they can take in;
And knowing from the representations before them of
the State of Stores at Halifax, the very great advantage
it must be to have the Magazines there replenished as
largely, and in as short time as is possible, they have
further directed them to take up two Storeships of
about 300 Tons each Sc load them with the utmost expe-
JUNE 1776
437
dition with every assortment proper for the use of a
Fleet, 8c which they hope may be in readiness to sail by
the middle of August next.
By means of these; and the Supplies which are like-
wise ordered to be sent to Antigua 8c Jamaica for the re-
fitting such Ships 8c Vessels as you may send to those
places for that purpose, their Lordships hope the Serv-
ice so far as respects the supplying the Fleet with
Stores, will be effectually answered 8c the Ships thereby
kept in continued employ
Vice Adml Shuldham representing in his last Let-
ters, as Vice Adml Graves had done before, the want of
ordnance Stores for supplying the Fleet at Halifax 8c
the same was signified to the Master Genl of the Ord-
nance, 8c having received an Answer thereto I sent your
Lordship a Copy thereof for your information on this
Subject, desiring at the same time to refer you to a Let-
ter to Mr Shuldham of the 27th March Copy of which
was given to your Lordship, by which you will observe
that every thing in their Lordships power respecting
the Ordnance Articles has been duly attended to
Mr Shuldham having also taken Notice in his Let-
ters that some of the Ships are short in their Comple-
ments of Marines; Their Lordships command me to ac-
quaint you that it is their intention to send out Marines
to compleat the respective Ships Complements so soon
as the numbers at Quarters will enable them to do so.
Their Lordships upon reviewing the Complements
of such of the Schooners, 8c other small Vessels, which
at present bear 30 Men only; reflecting also upon the
Services to be expected from those Vessels, think it may
be of advantage to have their Complements encreased to
Forty Men each, they therefore, if your Lordship shall
coincide in opinion with them herein, command me to
authorize you to increase their Complements accord-
ingly.
Lord Geo Germaine having transmitted to my
Lords the extract of a Letter his Lordship has written
to Genl Carleton 8c to Genl Howe respecting the return
to England of such Transports as can be spared from
the Services of the Armies under their respective com-
mands, I send you by their directions a Copy of the said
Extract 8c am to recommend it to your Lordship to do
every thing in your power toward carrying Lord
George’s directions into execution: and for your further
information your Lordship will receive also a Copy of
438
EUROPEAN THEATRE
my Letter on this Subject to the Senior Officer in the
River St Laurence with a Copy of the Order therein re-
ferr’d to their Lordships wishing in a matter so very
important as this is, that you may see the same in its
fullest light. What more I have to observe is their Lord-
ships desire that in sending home such of the British
Transports as can be spared your Lordship do give
preference to those which have been longest abroad and
are most in want of refitting.
Mr Shuldham has very strongly stated to their
Lordships the distress that may attend his Majestys
Ships Stationed in No America, from the impossibility
of procuring Men to keep up their respective Comple-
ments: but they hope from the great number of Ameri-
can Ships lately taken on that Coast, his apprehensions
on that head have been obviated, as by Virtue of the
prohibitory Act a power is given for putting the Crews
of Prizes on board His Majestys Ships where they are
to be considered as much in the Service of His Majesty
as if they had enter’d into it voluntarily: Which their
Lordships doubt not you will observe, 8c comply with, as
far as necessary to compleat the Complements of Ships
which may be deficient - Nor can they doubt in your
Lordship’s doing this but you will Order a preference to
be given to those Men who are Natives of Great Britain
or Ireland should the number that may be taken be
more than enough to compleat the Complements of the
Kings Ships as aforementioned, it may be proper to
send the overplus to England, as opportunities offer of
Ships returning, in lieu of the Marines, which may be
left to do Duty with the Battalion on Shore; But if in
the event the number of Men taken in Prizes shall be
more than can be disposed of in the modes above pro-
vided for, and by their increase they should become in-
convenient, My Lords Command me to say, that under
such a circumstance they see no impropriety in your or-
dering such Men to be set on Shore in any part of
America Your Lordship shall approve of
However their Lordships not chusing to trust too
far to those Supplies which may arise from Men pro-
cured from prizes have besides the Men put on board to
assist in Navigating the Pembroke 8c Boulogne ordered
one Hundred Landsmen to be sent out in the numbers,
and on board the Ships mentioned in the Margin to be
disposed of in the Ships Your Lordship may think fit,
Diamond 20
JUNE 1776
439
Ambuscade 20
Lark 20
Amazon 20
Unicorn 10
Garland 10
and by which their Lordships hope the Ships will be
completed with such Men as may be confided in.—
The Glasgow which was sent to England to repair
the damages she received in Action with five Rebell
Cruizers, being arrived at Plymouth, And the Hunter
which came with Dispatches from Quebec being arrived
at Portsmouth, My Lords have order’d them to be imme-
diately Refitted 8c so soon as the same is done they will
be returned to serve as part of the Fleet under your
Lordships command 8cc PS
Vice Adml Lord Howe in North America
Sent to Sr James Douglas, 23 June at Nine oClock P M
By Butler the Messenger, to go by the Diamond
Duplicates sent 25th June by the Galatea
1. PRO, Admiralty 2/552, 205-12.
Philip Stephens to Vice Admiral Molyneux Shuldham1
Sir 23d June 1776
Since my Letter to you of the 3d of last Month I have received your
several Letters of the dates mentioned in the Margin2 together with all the
Inclosures therein referr’d to, Which I did not fail to communicate to my
Lords Commrs of the Admty as they came to hand: And in return to the
accounts you give of the proceedings of His Majts Fleet under your Com-
mand their Lordships are pleased to direct me to acquaint you that they
very well approve thereof: And that so far as the Intelligence or other
matters contained in your Letters were necessary for the Kings informa-
tion, the same were transmitted to Ld Geo. Germaine, to be laid before His
Majesty for that purpose:
I have only further to acquaint you that upon your representation of
the necessity of Lt Ramsay of the Orpheus returning to England, on ac-
count of his Health, And of one of the Lieutenants of the Roebuck having
been taken prisoner by the Rebells their Lordships have granted Commis-
sions to Mr Barton 8c Mr Drake (whom you had order’d to act) appointing
them Lieuts in their room and that the said Commissions are sent to Vice
Adml Lord Howe in order to their being delivered with one to Mr Mason
appointing him to command the Tamar in the room of Capt Thornborough,
whose Infirmities render him incapable of Duty, 8c another Commission to
Mr Lutton for 3d Lt of the Experiment in consequence of Mr Riddal’s re-
moval from that Ship into the Chatham 8cc
PS
Vice Adml Shuldham in North America, By the Diamond 8c under Cover to
Lord Howe
JUNE 1776
441
Duplicate sent 25 June under Cover to Lord Howe by the Galatea
1. PRO, Admiralty 2/552,213.
2. Notation in margin regarding Shuldham letters:
One of
the 27th March
One
27
Do [April]
Three
16
April
One
30
April
One
18
Do
One
3
May
One
19
Do
Two
10
Do
Three
24
Do
Two
12
Do
Two
25
Do
Silas Deane to Robert Morris1
(Duplicate) Bordeaux June 23d 1776
Dear Sir, I wrote you a long letter from 6th to this Day, which DD Capt
[Thomas] Palmer of Portsmouth 8c fearing Accidents recapitulate the
Heads in this (Via New York) . I arrived the 6th 8c sent forward your
lettrs and the Bills for Acceptance. Messrs Ds 2 have done everything in
their power to assist Me 8c have added the utmost personal kindness 8c hos-
pitality. I could wish No American Vessels were sent to any other address
in this port as theirs is a Capital House 8c may be relied on for secrecy 8c
Dispatch - have critically attended to such Occurrences as might point out
the disposition of this kingdom 8c am of Opinion it is much in Our Favor-
Large Fleets are fitting out at Brest and Toulon— Ammunition 8c other
Stores are buying up by Order of Court, 8c Spain is arming Ostensibly
against Portugal - the Crop of Grain will be short in this Kingdom of
Wheat one third, of Rye one half the usual supply, this may be relied on, -
Salt Provisions are scarce 8c Dear— Beef 56s/ Stg p Barrl see prices Currt
enclosed have written into Spain, Portugal, 8c England to find if they are
in the same situation, 8c as I wrote immediately on my Arrival expect an
Answer in a few Days, Messrs Ds have wrote on the same subject - I set
out for Paris Tomorrow having obtaind Lettrs to Persons of Note there,
particularly to Monsr Clugny, Compt[rolle]r of Finances, Monsr Ver-
gennes, Ministre des Affaires Etrangeres 8c some others, also to the Farm-
ers General on the subject of Tobacco from their Agent here, 8c a Memorial
from some i[n] this City on the subject of American Commerce, which in-
deed is in part Already granted, it having been sent forward a few Days
after my Arrival. - My Letters are from persons of influence 8c Note here,
—my immediate address will be to Messr Germany Gerardot 8c Co Bankers
in Paris on whom have Lettrs of Credit from hence - I have had all the suc-
cess I could have wishd for in this City, 8c have formed a Connection, (which
may greatly promote my further Views, by shewing them how deeply they
were Interested in obtaining the Chief Share of the American Commerce -
the Ministers were Changed the Week I arrived Count Maurepas is at the
Head; Mons Clugny late intendt of this City 8c province is Comptroller of
Finances, a Circumstance which has greatly helped my obtaining Lettrs of
Introduction— the Gentlemen who have Assisted Me are of Note and stand
well with the Ministry but I may not mention them in my Lettrs. I leave the
442
EUROPEAN THEATRE
Sloop I came in, here for the present for I expect to meet Doctr [Edward]
Bancroft at Paris Sc may send my first Dispatches from thence in her -
None of the articles of the Contract are to be purchased in this part of
France on any reasonable Terms Sc but few at any rate I have wrote to all
the Ports where remittances were expected, for tho I can obtain a Credit, the
last Necessity only will induce Me to Use it, whilst remittg is so hazardous
—But I am hourly in hopes of receiving something from you - I can add
Nothing Material in this [illegible] - My respectful Compliments to the
Gentlemen of the Congress, to the Worthy Prest 8c the Committ[ee] with
which I am more immediately connected in particular - I am with respects
to Mrs Morris Dear sir [Sec.]
S. Deane
P.S. As my Lettrs will often refer to Matters concerning the Ind[ia]n Con-
tract in [par] ticular, as well as to those of a General Nature, it will be at
Times much easier for Me to direct my Lettrs Sc write them address’d indi-
vidually to You, as in the present Case, than to write in the plural Stile of
Address—
To Robert Morris Esqr to be Communicated to the Honl the Committee for
Secret Correspondence.
1. Papers of Robert Morris, Accession 1805, LC.
2. Samuel & John Hans Delap, Bordeaux merchants.
24 June
Lord Sandwich to George III1
Sheperton June 2.^th half an hour
past seven A.M.
Lord Sandwich has the pleasure to forward to your Majesty the dis-
patches Sc private letters which are just brought to him by Lieutenant
Fooks of the Lizard.
Mr Fooks is with the Messenger that is charged with these dispatches,
in case your Majesty should chuse to ask him any question.
Mr Fooks met the Carysfort Sc Pearl with the Troops from Ireland
about 7 Leagues below Quebec on the night of the 26th of May, Sc says that
General Burgoyne was arrived Sc gone up to Quebec in a Frigate, the Troops
of his embarkation were at anchor off the Isle of Coudres when Mr Fooks
passed by on the 28th.
1. Fortescue, ed., Correspondence of George III, III, 387.
Lords Commissioners, Admiralty, to Commissioners for Victualing1
Whereas, upon receiving information from Vice Adml Sr James Doug-
las, Commander in Chief of His Majts Ships at Portsmouth, that a Fever,
supposed to be infectious, had got into His Majesty’s Ship the Lark , We
have, in order to stop the progress of so fatal a distemper, ordered that
every Sickly Man on board the Lark should forthwith be sent to the Hospi-
JUNE 1776
443
tal, and that the Ship should be fumigated with Tobacco 8c washed with
Vinegar; You are hereby required 8c Directed, to cause the said Ship to be
supplied with the quantity of Vinegar that may be wanted for the above
purpose, and to pay the Purser for the Tobacco that may be consumed, upon
his producing proper Vouchers 8c Certificates of the expenditure thereof.
Given Sec 24th June 1776.
Palmerston Lisburne H Palliser
By 8cc P.S.
1. PRO, Admiralty 2/101, 192-93.
Lords Commissioners, Admiralty, to Captain James Cook,
H. M. Sloop Resolution , Plymouth1
Whereas we have engaged Mr John Webber Draughtsman and Land-
ship Painter to proceed in His Majesty’s Sloop under your command on her
present intended Voyage in order to make Drawings and paintings of such
places in the Countries you may touch at in the course of the said Voyage,
as may be proper to give a more perfect Idea thereof than can be formed
from written descriptions only, You are hereby required and directed to re-
ceive the said Mr John Webber on board, giving him all proper assistance,
victualling him as the Sloop’s Company, and taking care that he does dili-
gently employ himself in making drawings or paintings of such places as
you may touch at, that may be worthy of notice, in the course of your Voy-
age, as also of such other Objects 8c Things, as may fall within the Compass
of his abilities. Given Sec. the 24th June 1776.
Sandwich C. Spencer H. Palliser
By Sec P.S.
1. PRO, Admiralty 2/101, 200.
William Knox to Philip Stephens1
Sir, Whitehall 24th June 1776.
I am directed by Lord George Germain to desire you will move the
Lords Commissrs of the Admty, to give the necessary Orders that the fol-
lowing Persons may be permitted to take their Passage to New York on-
board the Springfield Transport now at Portsmouth, or any other Ship in
the Service of Government bound for that Place which can with Conven-
ience receive them Henry White Esqr, a Member of His Majesty’s Council
for New York Samuel Cornell Esqr a Member of His Majestys Council for
North Carolina Mr John Stephenson of Mr White’s Family Malcolm Me
Isaac Steward to Govr Tryon. I am Sec
Willm Knox
1. PRO, Colonial Office, 5/124, 95.
444
EUROPEAN THEATRE
M. Garnier to Vergennes1
[Extract]
My lord, London, 24 June 1776
When we consider the forces of a Nation we ordinarily distinguish her
own from those she derives from her alliances. The combination of these
means is the measure of her power and determines to what degree she may
impress rival nations. I doubt that, if England considers us under both
these views, she will find the balance to tip in her favor. But I shall leave
these speculations to her competence. I shall limit myself to look for her in-
terest, her views, her means, her undertakings. Today I propose, My lord, to
call to your attention the condition of her forces.
When considering the political situation of England, we find this
Power to be without system, without liaison, without purpose, and almost
without any influence on the Continent, with the exception of Portugal
whose alliance, useful to her trade in time of peace, would be a burden in
time of war. We see her fighting the difficulty of governing far away posses-
sions with eccentric agitation, while the different parts of her empire act
upon one another in order to destroy one another.
If, from there, we look over her means, we find from the progress of
the present war that everything points to the insufficient resources of Eng-
land in men and money in order to sustain a prolonged war at sea. The ex-
traordinary inducements for the levy of sailors, the permission to use for-
eigners on merchant ships, the quality of military crews where real sailors
are in proportion of less than 1 to 3 do not indicate a superabundance of
means in this area. On shore, the difficulty of finding recruits due to a short-
age of men which was openly confessed in Parliament by the Secretary of
War, compels this Power to import foreign troops at great expense; the im-
possibility to face such an expensive undertaking even by using all her reve-
nue places her in such a position that she must increase taxes and issue new
Government bonds. Such behavior should surprise rather than alarm the
rival powers of England, especially when we observe that her use of the re-
sources which she exhausts, or the charges which she multiplies can only
bring about the ruin of the country from which this country pretends to
draw the bulk of her commerce by open force.
Following this survey, there remains for us to consider more especially
the present state of her forces at sea as well as on land. This is the subject
of the tables No 1 and No 2. 2 The first one will interest you more since Eng-
land is detached from the Continent not only by her policy but also by her
geographic situation and can be considered only as a maritime Power di-
vided over several parts of the world and of which the real center is the Sea
itself.
You will undoubtedly observe, My lord, that the ships in activity and
those ready to be activated at the first order constitute the essential part of
the Navy. If to these two columns consisting of 67 Ships of the line mount-
ing from 100 to 50 guns inclusively, 62 Frigates mounting from 44 to 20
JUNE 1776
445
guns inclusively and 55 ships mounting less than 20 guns, we add the ships
requiring average repairs, consisting of 25 Ships of the line, 5 Frigates and
one Sloop, we see that the foundation of the English Navy consists of 92
Ships of the line, 67 Frigates and 56 ships of less importance, or a total of
215 sails. Since these are the real forces that we would have to fight, should
we be at war, it seems to me that we should make our plans on the basis of
this foundation upon which we must properly fix our attention.
It is not enough to ascertain that it exists. We must also examine the
works upon which it rests. The cruises strain the Ships. Thus, upon their
return from their station, they are successively classified among the ships in
need of more or less considerable repair. Each year, the weather causes
damages and wear to those that remain in the Ports. Already several of the
guardships are reputedly no longer in condition to undertake a hard cruise,
and within a year or two, a number of those which are presently considered
to be in excellent condition will be counted among the damaged ships in
want of repair.
All the ships being built or repaired are therefore destined to replace
rather than increase the number quoted above, and we must look upon this
column as the feeding branch of the Navy. The ports have a three year sup-
ply of timber at the rate of 22 thousand tons per year. They must be con-
stantly maintained on the same footing. Thus, My lord, these are sufficient
means for the continuous upkeep of the foundation upon which we must di-
rect our speculations.
We have placed the next column in the real foundation of the Navy, al-
though the ships there included are not really in condition to put to sea.
These are the sick who, in case of need, would soon be able to join the
Army.
As for the Vessels that require major repair and consist of 14 Ships
and seven frigates, they get weather-beaten a little more every day. We will
see more of these go down among the condemned ships rather than come
back into the column of ships in repair where they have to return before
being reinstated among the sound ships. The last column contains only nom-
inal forces and I will not mention them here. They are counted in the al-
phabetical list attached to the table. This list is composed of 141 Ships of
the line, 88 frigates, 67 Vessels of lesser importance, for a total of 296 sails.
I must warn you, My lord, that I placed in America by anticipation a few
frigates and sloops which have not yet left for their destination. Further-
more, the list indicates the domestic distribution of the guardships and
ships not in commission in the Ports and which, for this reason, I have
omitted in the table.
The conclusion that we may draw from this table can be divided into
two main points:
1. The number of Vessels of which the real forces of the English Navy
are composed amounts to 92 Ships of the line, 67 frigates and 56 vessels of
lesser importance, for a total of 215 sails.
446
EUROPEAN THEATRE
2. Of this number those actually in activity consist of 35 Ships of the
line, 61 frigates and 55 Vessels of lesser importance, for a total of 151 sails
of which 89 are employed in North America.
By having the condition of each ship in different ports examined by ex-
pert people, I have avoided errors and I was able to classify each ship ac-
cording to her worth. This examination brought us to find out that among
the ships that are not employed, only 32 and one frigate could be readied at
the first order, and 25 ships and six frigates would require repairs of 6 to 8
months.
If we distribute these forces by dividing them into squadrons of the re-
quired strength in time of war in the Mediterranean, Africa, the East and
the West Indies, Europe, everywhere finally where England has possessions
to defend, we find that they present an imposing display when gathered
under a single point of view, but when they are spread over the immensity
of the globe, they become hardly adequate to fulfill so many purposes, and
England, by remaining on the defensive, would present many a weak point
to her enemies. I am convinced that the English Ministers repeat this to
themselves once in a while, and I believe that they are more occupied with
preserving what they have than with planning new conquests. However, if
we have every ground to remain at ease with respect to the considered de-
signs of England, since we must suppose them to conform to the interest,
the faculties, as well as the dispositions of a Nation and a Government
which are inclined toward peace, we have everything to fear from sudden
events which opportunity, chance, or the carelessness even of individuals
may bring about, when we look at the advantage they would derive at the
beginning of a war from their 150 vessels in activity. Three fourths of these
ships being composed of frigates or sloops are most apt to privateer and
consequently to make a clean sweep of our fishing and trade at a time when
both of these would be defenseless.
Besides this advantage which the English, in their bad faith, will draw
from the ships they have constantly cruising on all the seas, this system of-
fers them a more honorable one in the number of officers that it forms for a
profession requiring more practice than theory. Indeed, we cannot conceal
from ourselves that the great superiority of the English Navy consists espe-
cially in the confidence and the emulation which reigns in it, spirit founded
on the success and the experience of its officers who are accustomed to mas-
ter their element. This is what would give them especially the means to
wage an offensive war, the only type of war that befits a nation that can be
lead only by victories and that would be without strength and credit in the
course of a slow war barren of glorious ventures.
However, if these considerations, joined to our past experience, arouse
our vigilance more and more and lead us to be more cautious than ever,
we will be able to avoid in the next war as fatal a beginning as that of the
preceding war. Once we are out of this awkward situation, everything leads
us to assume that, regardless of the development of the war so to speak, it
will end only with the complete downfall of England.
JUNE 1776
447
You will observe, My lord, that this conjecture rests mostly on the po-
litical situation of England and the contradiction that exists between her
financial means and the extreme measures which she must take in order to
activate her forces. This year Parliament voted for only 28 thousand sailors
and the money voted for the Navy, although deemed to be insufficient,
amounts to three million seven hundred and twenty seven thousand pounds
Sterling. Should a rupture with the House of Bourbon occur, it would not be
extravagant to estimate that England would have to employ three times as
many sailors as she has today and triple the expense in proportion in order
to support a war exposed to more considerable risks and losses than those
suffered today against a Nation which has no Navy.
You will ask perhaps, why triple the number of sailors since it is ob-
vious from the table on the Navy that one could not in any case double the
number of Vessels in activity today? There are two answers to that: one
stems from observation and the other from fact. The first one shows that
among the 60 Vessels which remain to be employed, we count 57 Ships of
the line which consequently require more numerous crews than the frigates
and sloops presently at Sea, and, furthermore, one would also have to dou-
ble the crews of the Ships already employed since they have only a few Pri-
vateers to fight today and need only a sufficient number of men to maneuver
them. The second answer points to the example of the last war when we saw
Great Britain use as many as 80 thousand sailors.
I shall end these observations, My lord, on the maritime forces of Eng-
land by informing you that I made the necessary inquiries concerning the
rumors found in the public papers to the effect that a few individuals here
had Privateers with letters of marque against the Americans, and I found
that this rumor, which is contrary to the assurances given to me by Lord
North in this respect, is totally unfounded.
[Enclosure— Table No. 1]
Table of the English Navy including the Cruising Stations of Commissioned
Ships and the Condition of Non-Commissioned Ships, under date of 21
June 1776
Guardships in ports.
Barfleur
90
Ocean
90
Foudroiant
80
Albion
74
Centaur
74
Egmont
74
Lenox
74
Mars
74
Marlborough
74
Royal Oak
74
Ramillies
74
Resolution 74
Torbay 74
Boyne 70
Ardent 64
Exeter 64
Raisonable 64
Somerset 64
Non Such 64
Worcester 64
Note: The last two ships left some
time ago on a secret expedition.
448
EUROPEAN THEATRE
Ships cruising in the Channel.
Arethusa 32
Thetis 32
Note: These two frigates have not
returned yet from St. Helena where
they went cruising in February last
in order to assure the safe return
of the ships belonging to the India
Company.
Wasp Sloop
A Iderney do.
Wolf do.
Ships Cruising in the Mediterra-
nean.
Medway 60
Enter prize 28
Levant 28
Raven Sloop
Coast of Africa.
Pallas 36
Atalanta Sloop
Weazel do.
East Indies.
Salisbury 50
Coventry 28
Dolphin 24
Seahorse 24
Swallow SIood
West Indies.
Portland 50
Antelope 50
Winchester 32
Argo 28
Boreas 28
Greyhound 28
Maidstone 28
Seaford 20
Squirrel 20
Diligence
Sloop
Ferret
do.
Pomona
do.
Voyage of Discovery.
Resolution
Sloop
Discovery
do.
Lyon
Schooner
North America.
Asia
64
Eagle
64
Bristol
50
Centurion
50
Chatham
50
Experiment
50
Isis
50
Preston
50
Renown
50
Ph[o]enix
44
Rainbow
44
Roebuck
44
Blonde
32
Brune
32
Diamond
32
Emerald
32
Flora
32
Juno
32
Lark
32
Niger
32
Pearl
32
Perseus
32
Repulse
32
Richmond
32
Acte on
28
Active
28
Amazon
28
Ambuscade
28
C ary s ford
28
Cerberus
28
Fox
28
Liverpool
28
Lizard
28
Milford
28
Orpheus
28
JUNE 1776
449
Solebay
28
Surprise
28
Syren
28
T artar
28
Triton
28
Fowey
24
Garland
24
Hind
24
Unicorn
20
Daphne
20
Dealcastle
20
Galathea
20
Glasgow
20
Lively
20
Mercury
20
Scarborough
20
Sphynx
20
Adventure
Sloop
Beaver
do.
Canceaux
do.
Cruizer
do.
Falcon
do.
Favorite
do.
Hawke
do.
Hound
do.
Hunter
do.
King’s Fisher
do.
Merlin
do.
Martin
do.
Nautilus
do.
Otter
do.
Ranger
do.
Savage
do.
Senegal
do.
Shark
do.
Speedwell
do.
Swan
do.
Tamer
do.
Viper
do.
Zephyr
do.
Cherokee
Schooner
Diligence
do.
Gaspee
do.
Halifax
do.
Hazard
do.
Hope
do.
St. John
do.
Magdalen
do.
Carcass Bomb-brig
Thunder
do.
Scorpion
Fire-ship
Strombolo
do.
Newfoundland
Romney
50
Rose
20
Cygnet
Sloop
Postillion Schooner
Penguin
do.
Being commissioned
for unknown
destination.
Mermaid
28
Camilla
20
Hornet
Sloop
Spy
do.
Vulture
do.
Being commissioned
for the East
Indies.
Rippon
60
Cormorant
Sloop
Ships in Port ready to be commis-
sioned at the first order for the most
difficult cruises.
Britannia 100
Victory 100
Prince George 90
Queen 90
Princess Royal 90
Sandwich 90
Bedford 74
Berwick 74
Canada 74
Conqueror 74
Courageux 74
Culloden 74
Cumberland 74
450
EUROPEAN THEATRE
Ships in Port ready to be commis-
sioned at the first order for the most
difficult cruises [continued].
Elizabeth 74
Fame 74
Hector 74
Hercules 74
Grafton 74
Shrewsbury 74
Prince of Wales 74
Sultan 74
Terrible 74
Triumph 74
Valiant 74
Vengeance 74
Augusta 64
Isle 64
Defiance 64
Monmouth 64
Sterling Castle 64
Vigilant 64
Yarmouth 60
Lowestoff 32
Ships being built.
Royal Sovereign 100
Duke 90
Formidable 90
St. George 90
Glory 90
Alcide 74
Alexander 14:
Alfred 74
Edgar 74
Montagu 74
TTamor 74
America 64
Anson 64
Lyon 64
Magnanime 64
Polyphemus 64
Ruby 64
* 64
Leopard 50
Medusa
50
50
Vestal
20
Ariadne
20
Ceres
Sloop
Dispatch
do.
Fly
do.
Fortune
do.
Pegasus
do.
Swift
do.
#
do.
#
do.
do.
Etna
Bomb-brig
Vesuvius
do.
Ships presently under repair.
Namur
90
Arrogant
74
Defence
74
Hero
74
Thunderer
74
Alarm
32
Eolus [Aeolus]
32
Thames
32
Hussar
28
Success
24
Ships requiring a
few months re
pair.
Royal George
100
Princess Amelia
84
Ajax
74
Dragon
74
Essex
74
Invincible
74
Kent
74
Magnificent
74
Monarch
74
Robust
74
Russel
74
Suffolk
74
Superb
74
Burford
70
St. Albans
64
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k!
FT
,v 1! — L
Jip
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’“ v-ir~r
4-h
r
i I
jlgitfJ-A
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_ sS
t
EUROPEAN THEATRE
452
Bienfaisant 64
Captain 64
Europa 64
Prudent 64
Intrepid 64
Modest 64
Firm 64
Dunkirk 60
Panther 60
Warwick 50
Venus 36
Apollo 32
Southampton 32
Guadaloupe 28
Lynx Sloop
Ships requiring major repair.
Blenheim 90
London 90
Neptune 90
Union 90
Royal William 84
Cambridge 80
Cornwall 74
Dublin 74
Temeraire 74
Warspight 74
Oxford 70
Trident 64
Achilles
60
Dreadnought
60
Boston
32
Jason
32
Minerva
32
Stag
32
Quebec
32
Aquilon
28
Aldborough
20
Condemned Ships.
Bellona
Buckingham
Chichester
Northumberland
Revenge
St. Ann
Conquestador
Windsor
Brilliant
Crescent
Diana
Montreal
Sap hire
Tweed
Nightingale
Bonetta
Sloop
St. Lawrence
Earl of Egmont
Schooner
1. AMAE, Correspondance Politique, Angleterre, vol. 516, LC Photocopy.
2. Table No. 2 relates to the army.
London Chronicle, Saturday, June 22 to Tuesday, June 25, 1776
London [June 24].
Capt. Charles Douglas, of the Isis, who arrived so critically at Quebec,
after passing thro’ a most dangerous navigation, is appointed a Commo-
dore.
25 June
Philip Stephens to Vice Admiral Richard Lord Howe1 2
My Lord 25th June 1776
Vice Adml Sir Jas Douglas, Commander in Chief of His Majesty’s
Ships at Portsmouth having in his Letter of the 22nd instant acquainted my
JUNE 1776
453
Lords Commissioners of the Admiralty that a Fever supposed to be infec-
tious, had got into His Majesty’s Ship the Lark which was appointed one of
the Convoy now going out as mentioned in my Letter to your Lordship of
the 23rd of this Month; and my Lords judged it of the highest importance
that the progress of so fatal a Distemper should be stopped as soon as possi-
ble have ordered the Lark to be detained at Portsmouth that the proper
measures may be taken for that purpose, and have directed the Daphne to
proceed with the Convoy in her room with which I am commanded to ac-
quaint your Lordship, and at the same time to signify their Lordships direc-
tions to you to take the Daphne under your Command upon her joining you,
instead of the Lark & employ her as you find best for His Majesty’s Service.
Their Lordships being informed that the Victuallers which were to
have assembled at Cork by the first of next month, and were to have pro-
ceeded to join General Howes Army under Convoy of the Galatea will not be
ready to sail til the middle of that month I have it in command from their
Lordships to acquaint you therewith, and that they have therefore ordered
the Galatea to proceed to join your Lordship2 with all the dispatch that
may be with the Duplicates of the Letters, I had the honor of writing to
your Lordship by the Diamond , that you may be apprized of the Reinforce-
ments that are coming out to join you. I have the honor to be 8cc.
P. S.
By the Galatea, at Plymouth, same Night -
1. PRO, Admiralty 2/552, 226-27.
2. Ibid., 2/101, 192.
26 June
Beaumarchais to Arthur Lee1
No 5. Paris June 26th 1776
In Cyphers
I refer you to my former Letter of the 6th of June (No 2) of which I
pray you to follow the disposition.
“The difficulties which I have met with in my negociation with the
Ministers, have made me take the resolution of forming a Company which
shall send out the supplies of Powder and Stores to your friend, depending
in the mean time on remittances in Tobacco at Cape Francois and always
under the name of your Servant.”
Roderique Hortalez 8c Co. [Beaumarchais]
[Copy]
1. Henry Laurens Papers, Letters to Secret Committee, &c. 1776, SCHS.
454
EUROPEAN THEATRE
27 June
Philip Stephens to Vice Admiral Richard Lord Howe1
My Lord 27th June 1776
My Lords Commissioners of the Admty having received a Petition
from Mr John Strettell, in behalf of himself 8c others the Merchants of Lon-
don trading to Canada, praying that a Convoy may be appointed to protect
the homeward bound Ships from Quebec the ensuing Autumn, which usually
sail on the 25th October: I am commanded by their Lordships to send you
the inclosed Copy of the said Petition, and to recommend it to your Lord-
ship to appoint such Convoy accordingly for the said Ships if it shall appear
to you to be necessary. I am 8cca.
P. S.
By the Diamond at Portsmouth.
1. PRO, Admiralty 2/552, 234.
28 June
Lords Commissioners, Admiralty, to Lord George Germain1
My Lord, Admiralty Office 28th June 1776.
Having received a Letter from Vice Admiral Sir James Douglass of
Yesterday’s Date, giving an Account of the Departure of His Majesty’s
Ship the Amazon with the Convoy for Canada; and of the Readiness of the
Convoys with the Hessians, and other Troops going to General Howe, We
send Your Lordship the inclosed Copy of the said Letter for His Majesty’s
Information and are 8cca.
Lisburne H. Palliser
1. PRO, Colonial Office, 5/259, 84.
M. Garnier to Vergennes1
[Extract] London, 28 June 1776
Yesterday, there was a conference at Lord Weymouth’s. I took this op-
portunity to discuss with this Minister various matters about which I had
already conversed with Lord Suffolk: . . .
As to the liberties taken by their cruising vessels, I also read to him
the letters from Messrs. d’Ennery and d’Argout, and I observed to him that
I did not officially request M. [Robert] Keeler’s punishment, but that by re-
ferring the conduct of this officer to him it was our intention to leave to the
prudence of the British Ministry to judge whether the best way to have their
orders carried out was to punish those who did not conform to them. I
tried to make him feel how important this [was] to them as it is to us by
pointing out to him that the great care we take in this respect is the least
equivocal proof of our desire to perpetuate the good intelligence. Lord Wey-
JUNE 1776
455
mouth disapproves of the conduct of the English Officers, does not look for
any excuses, does not mention the Americans smuggling with our Islands,
falls back on the strict orders given to respect our Coasts and our Flag,
promises to see to their execution and begs me to believe that they would be
in despair if we had a ground to be unhappy. He will request information
from the Admiralty concerning M. Keeler’s conduct. Furthermore, up to
now nothing seems to augur on the part of the English Ministers as offend-
ing an idea as that of limiting the direct trade of our Islands. Such preten-
tions may be ventured but they are nothing more than an act of sovereignty
with regard to Holland and Denmark. I cannot imagine they would go that
far with regard to France and Spain.
I shall remain on my guard, however, in order to wave aside as soon as
I can see it coming a question which could only deeply hurt the King’s dig-
nity. The remark which you made so judiciously, My lord, about the behavior
of the English during the disorders in Corsica had not escaped Doctor
[Benjamin] Franklin who, before his departure for America, had quoted
this example to me more than once; and I would have used it modestly with-
out fail with regard to Lord Weymouth if he had led me to the subject of
the similar contraband which afflicts them today. We found English guns in
Corsica and we did not complain about it. If the English find French guns
in America, they should wisely use the same reserve with us. The important
point, My lord, is the one which you recommended to me with your usual
foresight, I mean the prizes which the Americans might bring into our ports
and which would be claimed by the English Government. If we had to shape
our attitude according to what the English would do in a similar situation,
the problem would soon be solved because we would not return them. At
least we would be authorized not to agree to anything until we received let-
ters of concessions by which the English would reciprocate each time we
would claim a French ship, but in order to be valid, this security would have
to be sanctioned by Parliament. Furthermore, My lord, I have not yet heard
anything on this matter and I will not lose time forwarding to you any in-
formation I may obtain. Meanwhile, the prizes that would be taken to our
Islands would apparently be sold there before any claim could intervene.
As we were about to take leave after yesterday’s conference, this Min-
ister told me in a trifling manner as if to make conversation that there had
been much talk concerning our important armaments. I had not yet re-
ceived, My lord, your dispatch of the 21st. I answered that, to my knowl-
edge, we were not arming, but that I was not unaware that England was
armed and that, while the Sea was covered with her ships under the com-
mand of Officers who did not breathe peace as much as the British Ministry
and were most capable to commit acts of boldness that might shorten the
continuance of the said peace, I would not be surprised that we took on our
side the necessary steps to be ready for any eventuality. Lord Weymouth
said that we should know the purpose of their armaments and that we could
not doubt their peaceful intentions. I replied that we did not doubt it but
that, since they had established a Squadron of observation in time of peace,
456
EUROPEAN THEATRE
they were to expect that this example would be followed. The Minister said
that this establishment was already old, and he asked me if I knew when the
Duke de Chartres would return. I answered that I believed his cruise should
last 3 or 4 months, but that I did not remember exactly at what time his
Squadron had sailed.
1. AMAE, Correspondance Politique, Angleterre, vol. 516, LC Photocopy.
Public Advertiser , Friday, June 28, 1776
London [June 28].
A private Letter from Philadelphia has the following Article:
“. . . We have now fifty Sail of armed Ships from twenty to forty guns,
well manned and well stored; and we have larger ships building, besides
what are in other Parts; so that in a short time we shall have a very power-
ful Navy.”
29 June
London Gazette , Tuesday, June 25 to Saturday, June 29, 1776
Admiralty-Office [London] , June 29, 1776.
Vice-Admiral Shuldham, in his Letter dated the 20th of May last, gives
an Account, that the Cruizers of his Squadron had intercepted and taken
Twenty-four Ships and Vessels belonging to or trading with His Majesty’s
rebellious Subjects in North America, in Addition to those mentioned in his
Letter of the 25th of April, among which was The Lyon Schooner, bound
from Cape Francois to Rhode Island, laden with Arms and Ammunition.1
1. See Volume 4.
“Extract of a Letter from Plymouth, June 29.”1
His Majesty’s ship Galatea got under sail on Wednesday last [June
26] for America; but an express arrived to stop her until further orders,
and it is now said she is going to Jamaica. The Commissioner paid the
officers and seamen belonging to her two months advance before she got
under weigh.
Arrived his Majesty’s sloop the Hound , with money to pay the artifi-
cers of his Majesty’s dock-yard, from Portsmouth.
1. London Chronicle, July 2 to July 4, 1776.
30 June (Sunday)
“Extract of a Letter from Portsmouth, June 30.”1
Yesterday morning the following men of war sailed from St. Helen’s,
viz. the Diamond , Capt. [Charles] Fielding; Unicorn , Capt. [John] Ford;
JULY 1776
457
and Lark, Capt. [Richard] Smith, having under their convoy 22 sail of
ships, with foreign troops on board for America, having orders not to
wait any longer for the horse ships; and this morning his Majesty’s ship
Daphne, Capt. [John] Henry, with several transports, dropped down to St.
Helen’s, and will sail to-morow, if their dispatches come down, and the wind
will permit, which will make the third division that sailed from this place
since February last.
1 . London Chronicle, June 29 to July 2, 1776.
1 July
Morning Post and Daily Advertiser, Monday, July 1, 1776
By a gentleman who left Philadelphia in the end of February, we have
received the following intelligence, which may be depended upon.
French vessels, both from the colonies and France, come in there daily;
bringing sugar, melasses, salt-petre and other commodities; which they sell
freely for cash, and provisions; particularly a vessel from Port L’Orient,
brought in sixty tons of salt-petre, which was sold for upwards of 12,000 1.
sterling. Two Frenchmen of note have continued there during the winter,
one of whom was sent off to the camp at Cambridge, with an escort; the
other staying at Philadelphia, greatly caressed by the Congress. It was
suppose [d] they were agents from France, sent to observe the situation of
things, and conclude a treaty with the new republic. — They are fitting out
different squadrons of frigates and letters of marque, for various services,
and to cruise against the West India trade. One small squadron has sailed
for St. Helena, to intercept the East India trade. [Three blurred and inde-
cipherable lines] Hopkins had sailed with eight vessels under his command;
two of them frigates of thirty guns; their service was kept a secret. Some
suppose them to be gone to France, to get such warlike stores, as they most
want; some, to Rhode Island, to take Capt. Wallace, in the Rose; some to
Virginia, to seize Lord Dunmore; others, that they are to cruise against the
West-India trade. They are victualled for six months,
The people think of nothing but independence, and talk of war with
pleasure. A man of war has not been seen or heard of in that river this
whole winter. The trade up to the city is intirely free, and has not suffered
the least obstruction. Their numerous provisions vessels, in their return
from the Dutch and French islands, have got all safe back with powder,
warlike stores and other goods. Cloathing they have in plenty at Philadel-
phia.—Their newspapers are stuffed with essays, in favour of independ-
ence. They leave to Wilkes, Burke, and their other part[i]zans in Britain,
to dwell upon the hardships, impositions and tyranny of Britain, which they
never felt, and speak boldly out, that a dependence on Britain, is a check
upon their grandeur. They speak with contempt of the British constitution;
and give this shrewd instance of its imperfection, that it has not power suf-
ficient to keep its colonies in subjection. They say such a virtuous people as
458
EUROPEAN THEATRE
they are, ought to disdain any connection with such a vicious, corrupt na-
tion as Britain; lest they share in the punishment, which is ready to over-
take her.
A pamphlet greatly celebrated and much read among them, supposed to
be written by Adams, and actually corrected by Franklin, and of which
their several printing houses are vying, and multiplying copies, under the
title of Common Sense , says, ‘reconciliation and ruin are near [illegible] ’
that the King of America lives on high; and delights not in the blood of his
subjects like the Royal — of Britain; that by shaking off their dependence
on Britain, they will make all Europe the guardians of their liberties, and
open to themselves the ports of every nation: As a lure, on the other hand,
they say, it can never be their interest, to make war with Europe; but they
are silent respecting those sweet morsels, which the French and Spainards
possess in America. They say Britain will come shortly crouching to them,
begging to be allowed some small share of their trade. They remark on the
folly of calling Britian their mother country; as if that title carried an idea
of duty and respect; For Europe is their country, and Britain is indebted to
them not they to Britain.—
It is confidently given out that a fleet of twenty ships of war, and
eighty transports is preparing at Brest, to co-operate with the Americans,
either in sweeping our helpless sugar islands, or in attacking Quebec. It is
certain, the French governors here have offered all American vessels on
their coasts protection; and that one of their men of war actually convoyed
off this station, a vessel commanded by one Parker, which took in four
hundred barrels of powder, at Martinico. Never was there such a brisk
trade at St. Eustatia, as at present, to America, carried on chiefly, I believe,
by renegado Englishmen; and though our few cruizers now and then take
one of their provision vessels; yet they are so numerous, the loss is not felt.
So inveterate are the Congress members against Britain, that though they
are in want of every species of goods, they oblige every master of a vessel to
bring certificates upon oath, that the commodities they import, are not of
British manufacture. One of our merchants, who went down a few days ago
to St. Eustatia, saw them actually cutting out the British mark, from a bale
of goods shipping for America, to prepare it for the necessary affidavit:
This circumstance you may assuredly depend upon as a truth.
One Tudor is superintending the building of three frigates, at New
York. We expect our seas to swarm soon with their little privateers; and
that our good friends the Dutch will give them all the assistance in their
power. If the states general really wish us well, and I think they can only
keep their own independency while Britain is powerful enough to protect
them, they should allow us to keep consuls in St. Eustatia and Curraso
[Curasao] to prevent any improper trade with America: — Or if good sense
had not this effect, suppose we stopped the interest of their money in our
funds, to enable us to finish a war, which they formed and support. — The
friends of America in St. Eustatia, and our several islands, send them con-
stant intelligence of every thing transacted here, which they insert in their
JULY 1776
459
news-paper; nay, and point out to them, the active friends of government.
Three or four more frigates upon this station, would have interrupted their
trade greatly; but we seem to be intirely neglected.
(To be continued) 2
1. Samuel Tuder, one of the superintendents for the Continental frigates Montgomery and
Congress building at Poughkeepsie, New York.
2. See under July 2.
SOLLICOFFRE FRERES 8c WlLKIE TO SlLAS DEANE1
Sir Marseille the 1st July 1776
We had the Honnour to write you the 26th ulto advising the safe arri-
vall here of the Brigg Elisabeth Captn John Palmer from New York last
from New London, We returned you at the Same Time your Letter for
your Brother Mr Simeon Deane said Gentleman having remained in Amer-
ica. By the Inclosed Letter from Captn J. Palmer to you, you’ll see that in
the present Circumstances he thinks with reasons, that to execute his in-
tended Voyage would be attended with too much Danger, both at the
Streight Mouth as likewise at the Coming Near of the Coast of
America, We shall be very much obliged to you to Comunicate us your
Opinion and whether it would not be more prudent to Imploy here Captn
Palmer Vessells under French Colors, (if possible to be done) : for two or
three Month, rather than to Expose both her and her Cargoe in such evi-
dent a Manner.
We have sold all the flower sd Vessell brought us at 14 pr lb 100. of our
wheight equal to lb 88 English, and we have begunn to sell the Wheat at 25
p charge
In Expectation of your Commands we remain very Respectfully Sir [8cc.]
Sollicoffre Freres & Wilkie
[Superscribed] Monsieur Silas Deane Chez Mess: Sami 8c F: Delap negts
Bourdeaux
[Endorsed] Solli Coffre 8c Freres Lettr from Marseilles
1. “The Deane Papers,” Collections of the Connecticut Historical Society, XXIII, 22-23.
2 July
Morning Post and Daily Advertiser , Tuesday, July 2, 1776
London, July 2, 1776
By a gentleman who left Philadelphia in the end of February, we have re-
ceived the following intelligence, which may be depended upon:
(Concluded.) 1
If the men of war, for I think it will be impossible to assemble an army
capable of acting this season, finish not the business this summer, we shall
certainly have a French war on our hands, to call off our attention; a thing
which the friends of America expect, and rejoice at the thoughts of; and in
460
EUROPEAN THEATRE
this case our sugar islands may fall an immediate pfey; for it is certain the
French are pushing out an extraordinary number of troops to all their set-
tlements. A push should therefore be made in America, with the ships of
war, and every floating stick of timber, every magazine for naval stores
should, if possible, be destroyed. Every sailor taken should be carried to Eu-
rope, if not wanted in the fleet; and be distributed among the merchant
men, particularly the India ships. — If we have a French war on our hands,
a strong squadron should be immediately sent out to protect the sugar colo-
nies, and transports should be ready before the middle of October, in Amer-
ica, to bring over at least 12,000 men to the West-Indies, and make at once a
sweep of the French islands. In making the attack, their towns and planta-
tions should be more aimed at than their strongholds. Indeed the only
strong forts of consequence are at Martinico and the West end of Hispan-
iola.
When the American trade, and shipping are destroyed, you may leave
these heroes to boast of their prowess, and parade their armies as they
please; it will be a pity to risk the life of a gallant soldier against
them. And in this case two expeditions might at once be carried on against
Martinico and Hispaniola. And if we value the sugar trade, these islands
should be suffered to be even deserted, rather than ever be returned to
France. — I say this, on the supposition, that France is ungenerous enough
to meddle in the present dispute.
We find, there is no attention given to the supplying of the sugar colo-
nies with the articles, which they formerly had from America. Many im-
provident people begin already to be pinched for food; and there is no
promise of a supply; 150,000 acres extraordinarily laid down for raising
grain would more than supply all the West-Indian demands for inhabitants,
poultry, and horses. — Suppose the bounty upon corn were confined at pres-
ent to West Indian consumption; or that no bounty should take place till
certificates were produced of a sufficient quantity shipped to the West In-
dies. If the British market were opened for rum by lessening the duty; it
would be more profitable for us to be supplied with our provisions from
Britain than from America. At present the British ships which take away
our sugar, come generally out less than half laden. The freight of our provi-
sions from Britain ought therefore to be but little additional expence; and
much below what is necessary to support the American trade; and we should
pay for them with our produce, instead of paying the Americans besides
rum a considerable proportion of money, to supply them with cash, to buy
French melasses and sugars, to injure our own consumption.
Franklin is so much revered in Philadelphia, that whenever he walks
the streets, he has a crowd constantly at his heels. Sometime before the gen-
tlemen left Philadelphia, he and some others of their chiefs, and Macleod
[John Carroll] a priest, set off for Canada, to reconcile the Canadians to
their measures, and frame a code of laws for them. We shall see if Parlia-
ment, or the free thinking Congress, be more favourable to popery
JULY 1776
461
It is surprising to think of the number of ignorant fellows that you
have suffered to carry out transports and storeships. One fellow has carried
down his lading to dispose of it at Jamaica: Several, as we are here credibly
informed, have given up their ships designedly to the Provincials; and num-
bers of them were so ignorant of the coast, as to come here to the West-In-
dies, rather than venture in. Every transport should have carried a navy
Lieutenant or skillful midshipman, or master’s mate, to keep the master to
his duty, and guard against his treachery. It deserves to be a matter of en-
quiry, whether those masters, who have treacherously delivered up their
ships, had any encouragment from the traitors in London; for the worst
enemies of government are to be found there.
Notwithstanding all the boast of securing Philadelphia, by staking the
river and building galleys with long guns, people begin to remove their ef-
fects from thence, expecting it to be laid in ashes. I abhore the burning of
towns; and it would be a pity, if it could be avoided, that so fine a one as it
is should be destroyed; though if any place has greater demerit than an-
other it is this.
Though the colony would not take up arms to defend itself from the
French, even when fire and destruction threatened, it has for a speculative
point, run headlong into arms against its protector. It has shaken off the
peaceable tenants of its founder; and raised the standard of rebellion in the
very face of its charter; which expressly reserved taxation by Parliament:
a reservation intended by Penn, to take the colony out of the power of the
Crown, and make it dependent upon Parliament, as a situation most favour-
able to liberty. Little did he then think, that the time would come when
America should solicit the crown, to take it out of the hands of parliament,
and rebel against King and Parliament, because they were not indulged with
their request; and that all who pretend to be patriots in Britain, should join
in abetting their insolent demands. Might it not be made a convenient place
of arms, till peace was restored.
Should France the good ally of the Americans attempt to entangle us in
another distructive continen[t]al war, by attacking Hanover; suppose we
were to transport all the Hanoverians to Pennsylvania and the middle colo-
nies, and leave Hanover deserted as a bone of contention to be scrambled
for by the Germans and French. The Hanoverians would gain a fertile ter-
ritory by the exchange; and if we took care to make good regulations for
them, we might exchange riotous and unprofitable rivals for faithful and
useful subjects. Or suppose we were to give Hanover to Denmark for her
sugar islands.
I think it hardly possible that the Americans can supply all their de-
mands with the barter of provisions; so that their present trade must drain
them entirely of their cash; flour as a specimen, is now at Philadelphia at 6s
(currency, or about 4s. sterling) per 100 wt. Indeed nothing but paper is to
be seen in circulation. Those who refuse to take it, are sent to work in slav-
ery, in their iron mines.
1. See Morning Post and Daily Advertiser , Monday, July 1, 1776.
3 July Account of Brig Timoleon in the Service of Maryland1
Dr Mr McCreery Merchant his Accot Currt with Tanays Boulet Merchant
at Bordeaux Cr
To Expences of Disbursments on Brig M By the sale of 83 Casks
Timoleon P Act. 1623.12. .4 Coffee to Messrs Reth-
462
EUROPEAN THEATRE
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464
EUROPEAN THEATRE
“Complement of Men allow’d to Guardships of the 3d Rate of 74
Guns’’1
Admty Office
3d July 1776
Captain
Lieutenants
Master
Chaplain
Boatswain
Gunner
Carpenter
Purser
Cook
Surgeon
Masters Mates
Midshipmen
Captains Clerk
Quarter Masters
Do Mates
Boatswains Mates
Yeomen of the Sheets
Coxwain
Sailmaker
Do Mate
Gunners Mates
Yeomen of the Powder Room
Quarter Gunners
Armourer
Carpenters Mates
Pursers Steward
Surgeons Mates
Master at Arms
Corporal
Captains Cook
Seamen
Marines
Servants (as above)
Total
1 Servants 14
4 4
1 1
1 1
1 1
1 1
1 1
1 1
1 1
1 1
2 “26
8 —
[1]
[5]
3
3
2
1
1
1
2
1
8
1
2
1
2
1
1
1
217
47
26
350
N.B. The Captain is strictly enjoined not to enter any of
his menial Servants, except his Cook in any other Quality
than Captains Servant.
1. PRO, Admiralty 2/101, 199.
465
JULY 1776
Public Advertiser , Wednesday, July 3, 1776
London [July 3].
The Jane (formerly the Minerva) [James] Fulton, a transport from
Clyde to Boston, was taken by the Provincials on the 6th of May, and car-
ried into Salem.1
The Jane, Fulton, taken by the Provincials, had a cargo on board,
worth upwards of 6000 1. which is mostly insured at Glasgow.
A Gentleman who came from Georgia, and arrived in Town last Fri-
day, says, that when they left America they had authentic Information of
Commodore Plopkins, together with the Provincial Fleet, being blocked up
in the Harbor of New London, by Captain Wallis [James Wallace], of
Rhode Island, and several of the King’s Ships, and that it was impossible
for one of Hopkins’s Ships to retreat or get over the Bar; it seems he had
put in there for a Supply of Powder and Provision.
1. The Jane was captured by Washington’s schooner Hancock, Captain Samuel Tucker. See
Volume 4, 1456-57.
4 July
William Eden to John Pownall, Deputy Secretary of State1
[Extract] Downing Street [London]. July 4th
I was sorry to see that the Vessel lately sent to the Southern Colonies
had no instructions to look into Annapolis en passant: It surely w’d be
both a reasonable 8c proper Indulgence to my Brother2 to direct one of the
Kings Ships on the Southern Station to call in upon Him; 8c to give His
Family that Opportunity (for they can have no other) of writing to Him.
Believe me with real Esteem 8c Regard my dear Sir [8cc.]
Wm Eden.
1. Correspondence of the Rev. Jonathan Boucher, MdHS.
2. Robert Eden, Governor of Maryland.
Public Advertiser } Thursday, July 4, 1776
London [July 4] .
Letters from Holland say, that the States have issued out an Order for
no Ship to take Arms or Ammunition to any Part of his Britannic Majes-
ty’s Dominions, on the Forfeiture of the Ship and Cargo, and Imprisonment
of the Officers belonging to such Ships; the Order to continue in Force so
long as the Americans continue in Arms against their Sovereign.
Advice is received by Tuesday’s Irish Mail, that an American Vessel,
being in great Distress, for want of Provisions, put into a Creek in the
North Part of Ireland, where the People seized her, and after plundering
the Vessel of every Thing of Value, and stripping the People, they set fire to
the Ship, and consumed it; they then suffered the Crew to depart, who got
to Kinsale in a most deplorable Condition.
Joseph I, King of Portugal
467
JULY 1776
London Chronicle , Tuesday, July 2 to Thursday, July 4, 1776
London [July 4].
Yesterday was launched at Blackwell dock-yard, the Swijtsure, a cu-
rious bomb man of war, on a new construction, going in his Majesty’s
servi[c]e to America, with two bomb beds, mounts 40 guns, and carries 240
men.
5 July
M. Garnier to Vergennes1
[Extract] London, 5 July 1776
You are informed, My lord, of the plans for the Royal Army in Canada.
The intention is to penetrate the English Colonies by way of the Lakes
Champlain and George. It has been admitted that much time will be
needed to build the boats required for this passage. Then, these boats will
have to be carried from one lake to the other and the Americans will have to
be overcome at Ticonderoga. We might say that first of all the Lakes must
be reached.
. . . Such are the plans for this country, as you have known them for a
long time, My lord, and as they were explained to me on the map by Lord
Barrington, Secretary at War. He intends to encircle New England in such
a way as to cut all communications with the Southern Provinces.
. . . Their enemy claims that they [the Americans] lack everything;
but we know that in spite of the vigilance of the English Cruisers they have
ammunition in fair abundance. It is only feared that they are poorly sup-
plied with locks for their firearms. They have quite recently captured the
transport Hope which had sailed from Corke for Boston with a cargo of 75
tons of powder, one thousand rifles, a few military waggons, and six gun-
carriages.2 This prize as well as the capture of other transports is one of
the lesser consequences of the unexpected evacuation of Boston.
1. AMAE, Correspondance Politique, Angleterre, vol. 517, LC Photocopy.
2. The powder ship Hope taken May 17, 1776 by Captain James Mugford in Washington’s
schooner Franklin. See Volume 5.
Edict of King Joseph of Portugal1
Joseph, by the grace of God, king of Portugal and of the Algrave, Sec. I
make known to all who shall see this present edict, that having been lately
informed, that the English Colonies in America, had not only separated
themselves by an act of the Congress, the 15th of May last, from the subjec-
tion to the crown of Great-Britain, but also were making laws of their own,
and giving particular power to resist the lawful authority of his Britannic
Majesty my good brother, friend and ally: and whereas so pernicious an ex-
ample ought to interest even the most indifferent princes not to favour or
assist, directly or indirectly, subjects thus publicly and formally rebelling
468
EUROPEAN THEATRE
against their lawful sovereign: it is my will and pleasure to order, that in
all the ports of these kingdoms and its dominions, no shelter shall be given
to any ships loaded or in ballast, coming from any of the ports of the said
North American British colonies, but on the contrary, that they are to be
repelled from the said ports, and in the same manner they entered, without
giving them the least succour of any kind whatsoever. The masters of ships,
who have been permitted to enter hitherto, in consideration of not having
received any express injunction to the contrary shall be notified to depart
with their ships out of the above mentioned ports within the space of eight
successive days, without fail; examination being had before their depar-
ture, if they have on board any gunpowder, or other warlike stores of the
kinds already prohibited by my royal orders, given the 21st of October last,
to the arsenal of the army, and to the office of outward consulship; and con-
fiscating, for the benefit of the public works, any of the said ships on board
of which shall be found clandestinely concealed any of the above mentioned
warlike stores, as goods rightly seized and manifestly known to be the prop-
erty of rebels. Our Lord the King hath ordered this by his royal decree of
the 4th of this current month of July, and directed to his royal council, com-
manding it to be printed and set up in all public places of Lisbon and ports
of this kingdom, and of the Algraves, in order that every one should have
notice thereof, and that no person may pretend ignorance.
Lisbon, 5th of July, 1776.
(Signed) Count De Azambuja, pres.
1. Massachusetts Spy, January 2, 1777, under a London, September 6, 1776 date line.
6 July
Philip Stephens to Captain James Cook, H. M. Sloop Resolution ,
Plymouth1
Sir, [Admiralty Office] 6th July 1776.
I send you herewith the Secret Instructions which my Lords Commis-
sioners of the Admiralty have been pleased to sign for your proceedings
with the Sloop you command and the Discovery Sloop commanded by Cap-
tain [Charles] Clerke; But as Captain Clerke is not yet able to repair on
board the Discovery , and it is of great consequence that you should yourself
proceed to the Cape of Good Hope without delay, I have it in command from
their Lordships to signify their direction to you to put to Sea with the first
opportunity of wind and weather without the Discovery Sloop, leaving
directions for her Commander (to be delivered to him on his arrival at
Plymouth) to follow you to the Cape of Good Hope without a moment’s loss
of time; And as their Lordships do not wish that you should wait for him at
the Cape any longer than you think it may be done with prudence, and with-
out risking any inconvenience to the further progress of your Voyage, it is
their Lordships farther direction that if you judge it proper to sail from the
Cape before the Discovery arrives, you do, in that case, leave with a trusty
JULY 1776
469
person, to be delivered to her Commander upon his arrival, such Rendez-
vous, and Accounts of the Course you intend to steer, as you shall think
most likely to effect his speedy junction with you.
Their Lordships command me to add that a Copy of your Secret In-
structions will be delivered to Capt Clerke before he sails from Plymouth,
with directions to him to open them, and execute them as far as he is able,
in case he should not, after using his utmost efforts, be able to join you ac-
cording to the Rendezvous you will leave for him; but to deliver them to you
unopened, in case he should join you.
I most heartily wish you a succesful Voyage;2 and am &ca
Php Stephens.
1. PRO, Admiralty 2/1333, LC Photocopy.
2. This was the beginning of the third and fatal voyage of the famous navigator and explorer.
His secret orders were to try and settle the question as to whether there was a northwest
passage. He was to approach it from the Pacific side, first rounding the Cape of Good
Hope, and visiting a number of the newly-discovered islands in the South Pacific.
7 July (Sunday)
“Extract of a Letter from Chatham, dated July 7.”1
Tuesday last sailed from this port for America, where she is to serve as
a hull, the Pembroke , of 60 guns, commanded by Jahleel Brenton, Esq.
1. London Chronicle , July 9 to July 11, 1776.
“Extract of a Letter from Plymouth, July 7.”1
Came in this day the fleet with the Hessian troops on board, under con-
voy of his majesty’s ships Ambuscade , Diamond, and Unicorn, from Ports-
mouth, and will sail as soon as the wind permits for America.
1. London Chronicle , July 9 to July 11, 1776.
8 July
Claude Julien to Vergennes1
My lord, [Paris, July 8, 1776] 2
Although it seems from public notices in the different ports of the
Kingdom that American Ships come in freely in order to exchange the
Goods which they bring from their Colonies for Merchandise from our Con-
tinent, the Supplicant, a Merchant in the City of Bordeaux, uncertain as to
whether this new Traffic is carried by virtue of some special permission,
and unwilling to innovate without the approbation of the Government dares
request very humbly, My lord, permission to give ear to the trade offers
which might be made to him by American Shipowners.
470
EUROPEAN THEATRE
The latter may offer the following trade items:
Sperm oil
do. from other fish
Rice
Tobacco
Sperm candles
Pitch
Tar
Turpentine
Pelts
Indigo
Boards of oakwood
■*
do. of pine
Masts and spars of all
sizes
Wood for cooperage
Salt-wort
Flour
And a number of other essential items.
In exchange, this Nation may take Wines, Spirits, a quantity of manu-
factured articles of infinite variety.
The favor which the Government may grant the French merchants in
this circumstance is of the greatest consequence for the State since it
would enable them to obtain at first hand and for a much better price the
same merchandise which the English and the Dutch bring us only after a
profit to two or three other hands.
This would also present a most essential advantage to the Farm Gen-
eral, especially if the Farmers General are satisfied with ordinary and
fairly reasonable duty charges so as not to frighten the Merchants in their
New Speculations.
The Supplicant will act only by virtue of the permission he dares ex-
pect from the kindness of Count de Vergennes by whom he already has the
honor to be protected having the advantage to be his compatriot.
Claude Julien, Banker and general Contractor
to the French Navy in Paris
[Endorsed] M. Louis Poncel Esquire Merchant Shipowner, Former Aider-
man, Great Judge of the Chamber of Commerce, Director and Administrator
of the hospitals in the city of Bordeaux.
1. AMAE, Correspondance Politique, Angleterre, vol. 517, LC Photocopy.
2. The petition is undated, but, from its position in the manuscript collection, and the subject
matter, it was likely presented at about this time.
9 July
M. Garnier to Vergennes1
[Extract] London 9 July 1776
I have the honor to send you herewith the Translation of a resolution
passed by Congress and published on the 15th of May, to abolish any au-
thority on the part of the Crown, and to recommend to each Colony to chose
its own Government. It is even reported that, in consequence, the provinces
of South Carolina and Georgia have already elected each a Governor, a
Council and an Assembly.
The instructions of the Capital of the Province of Massachusetts]
tend no less but to divest the King of Great Britain of any authority in
America, and the language used in them is of the most hostile nature. The
King of England has already made the only reply of which they might be
JULY 1776
471
susceptible. He has sent fifty thousand men and a fleet of eighty sails to sub-
due these Colonies. Considerable forces such as these can only be victorious
wherever they attack, and with military victories coming to the support of
political operations, we must hope that this year will see the end of a war
detrimental to the subsistence of our Islands and which may provoke inci-
dents that might endanger general Peace.
On the 5th of this month, an accident occurred in Portsmouth on board
the guardship Marlborough. Four barrels of powder which had been set
aside by the Gunner caught fire. The explosion caused great damage to the
ship and cost the lives of 17 persons besides 43 men who were critically
wounded. This ship had been recently brought from the roadstead to the
port for repair. Fortunately, most of the powder had been removed from
the magazine when the accident took place. It is believed that these four
barrels which caught fire had been set aside by some dishonesty of the Gun-
ner who proposed to sell them for profit. The Captain was not on board the
ship of which the crew was composed of only 180 men. I have not heard that
any officer was wounded.
1. AMAE, Correspondance Politique, Angleterre, vol. 517, LC Photocopy.
London Chronicle , Saturday, July 6 to Tuesday, July 9, 1776
London [July 9] .
A letter from Jamaica, says, “The snow King of Bohemia, commanded
by a Lieutenant of the navy, fitted out at Port Royal as an armed cruiser,
has taken near Cape Francois an American vessel under French
colours: she was bound to Philadelphia, and had three French persons of
eminence on board, who came from the Cape. This affair it is thought will
be a good pretence for the French to take advantage of the present disturb-
ances between England and her colonies. The Frenchmen are, however,
treated with the utmost respect, notwithstanding several letters which were
found on board the vessel, have been opened and perused by Admiral Gay-
ton, leave no shadow of a doubt that the French are absolutely assisting the
Americans to the utmost of their abilities.
10 July
Lord Sandwich to George III1
[Extract]
Lord Sandwich allso desires to inform your Majesty that the Ordnance
Board (as he is informed by Mr Wilkinson the Agent for transports) re-
cieved an anonimous letter to the same purpose as that written to Captain
[Archibald] Dickson,2 before the Hope Storeship sailed from Portsmouth;
in consequence of which they sent orders that the passenger who had been
mentioned as in connection with the rebels, should be sent on shore and not
be allowed to proceed in the Storeship to America.
472
EUROPEAN THEATRE
Mr Wilkinson who is employed as a broker for transports by the Navy
Board, is allso employed by the Ordnance, and let the Hope to that depart-
ment.
July 1 Oth: [1776] 4. P:M:
1. Fortescue, ed., Correspondence of George III, III, 388-89.
2. Captain of H. M. S. Greyhound, under whose convoy the powder ship Hope sailed for
America. See Volume 5 for capture of Hope by Washington’s schooner Franklin.
Public Advertiser , Wednesday, July 10, 1776
London [July 10],
All the Ships at Barbadoes, homeward bound, wait there for the Ar-
rival of Men of War from England to convoy them home, they not daring to
stir on account of the Multiplicity of American Privateers.
Vergennes to M. de Clugny1
[Extract] Versailles, 10 July 1776
It seems to me, Sir, that our political interest, as well as our commer-
cial interest, requires that we treat favorably the Americans who frequent
our ports; indeed, if they succeed in establishing the freedom of their trade,
they will have already developed the habit of dealing with our merchants,
and if they fail, we will have entertained with them, at least momentarily, a
trade exchange which is obviously to our advantage. Therefore I think, Sir,
that we are in the position to show the greatest marks of favor to the Amer-
ican vessels and that the circumstances in which they find themselves
should exempt them from the rigor of the decree of 1701 as well as from the
decision of the Council of 1742. This last point presents less drawbacks
since the English Colonists can only import their own produce into our
country and since they have almost no merchandise or industrial products to
bring us; but whatever their imports may be, I believe not only that we
should not forbid them, but on the contrary, that it is advisable to relax the
duties that we may be in a position to require from them. I also believe, Sir,
that it would be proper to allow the Americans to export by way of other
foreign vessels the articles which we could not admit: this is the method
followed in England; besides the advantages it presents to the Americans, it
may help to establish a store between the English Colonies and the European
nations that need their products. ... I think it would be necessary to take
all the precautions that prudence might suggest so that our motives and our
views and even our procedures remain hidden from the English; in this re-
spect, I can only rely entirely upon the instructions which you will deem
proper to issue.
1. AMAE, Correspondance Politique, Angleterre, vol. 517, LC Photocopy. De Clugny was
Controller General of Finance.
JULY 1776
473
11 July
Lords Commissioners, Admiralty, to Captain William Shackerly,
H. M. Sloop Spy, Plymouth1
You are hereby required and directed to proceed with His Majesty’s
Sloop under your Command to the Harbour of St Johns or to such other
Port in the Island of Newfoundland as you shall learn Vice Admiral
[John] Montagu may be at; and upon joining him you are to deliver to him
the inclosed Pacquet and follow his orders for your further proceedings.
Given Sec the 1 1th of July 1776
By &c. P:S: Sandwich C: Spencer H: Palliser
1. PRO, Admiralty 2/101, 223.
London Chronicle , Tuesday, July 9 to Thursday, July 11, 1776
London [July 11].
Two bombs, on the same plan as the Swiftsure , which was launched a
few days ago at Blackwall-dock, are contracted for by Government, to be
built in a private dock-yard.
12 July
M. Garnier to Vergennes1
[Extract] London, 12 July 1776
The English Ministers no longer mention our Armaments to me; but I
have heard that they are becoming alarmed. Some of their confidants claim
even that the differences with Portugal depend upon the war with the Colo-
nies, that is to say they consider this discussion as a pretext that will be
used according to the state of affairs; that, if England meets with rapid
success in America, the Portuguese affair will settle down, whereas in the
opposite case, it would determine general war. This smacks too much of meta-
physics and I don’t believe it is the opinion of the English Ministers. I
would think rather that Portugal is trying to spread this notion. However
far from the truth it may be, I would not be surprised if it made proselytes
in the system now favored here whereby Spain wants war and we shall not
fail on our side to take advantage of the distress which afflicts England.
The second Hessian division was forced by adverse winds to enter the
harbor of Plymouth on the 6th inst. . . .
The Treasury is presently commissioning on the Thames 25 Vessels of
120 to 400 tons carrying from 4 to 10 guns, without any fixed number of
crew. Our Correspondent in Deptford informs us that they take as many as
they can find; and that the number of these Vessels which are to carry sup-
plies from Ireland to America is still to increase. It is probable that, unable
to provide convoys to all the Vessels that sail singly to America, the Govern-
474
EUROPEAN THEATRE
ment felt the necessity to enable them to defend themselves. At least, it is
the most natural explanation and it is also my opinion. However, if we
wished to look at the dark side of things, it would not be difficult to regard
all these preparations as some dreadful plan capable to arouse the attention
of the neighboring Powers since, if need be, all these Vessels could soon be-
come as many Privateers.
I have just learned at this instant that a City Merchant received intelli-
gence that the Ship on which Doctor Irwin [Charles Irving] had sailed to
found a new Establishment on the Mosquito Coast in the Gulf of Honduras
was captured by two Spanish Coast-Guard vessels in the mouth of the Black
River.2
1. AMAE, Correspondance Politique, Angleterre, vol. 517, LC Photocopy.
2. The vessel was the sloop Morning Star captured on April 30, 1776. See Volumes 4 and 5.
Giambattista Pizzoni to his Government in Venice1
[Extract] London, 12 July 1776
. . . What is certain on the side of the Americans is their activity at sea
and the ships of the Crown they are capturing. They recently seized three
transports, one of which named the Hope had a cargo of one thousand car-
bines, much powder and other munitions; so even if the abovementioned
declaration by Congress were not true, these operations make it evident
their determination to resist the strength of England.
The other day the 74-gun warship Marlborough, one of the eighteen as-
signed to guard duty in the ports of these kingdoms, burned its main deck
and its entire hull warped when fire broke out in three barrels of
gunpowder. . . .
1. Papers of the Senate, ASV.
Public Advertiser , Friday, July 12, 1776
London [July 12].
The following is the purport of the intelligence received by Captain
Furse, who left Boston the 1st of June, 1776, and arrived at Bristol after a
passage of thirty days: . . . The Alfred, Columbus, and a brig, part of
Commodore Hopkins’s Fleet, arrived from New London at Newport the
29th of April. Both those harbours are now fortified. At Philadelphia a
vast supply of arms, ammunition, and stores of every kind, have been re-
ceived lately; not less than 300 tons of powder, and full 10,000 stand of
arms, were imported in one month.
JULY 1776
475
13 July
London Chronicle , Thursday, July 11 to Saturday, July 13, 1776
London [July 13] .
Letters from Lisbon, brought by the Camberwell, Capt. Forbes, men-
tion, that on the 29th of June, four ships from America arrived at that port,
which had brought valuable cargoes. They were ordered to traffic for mus-
quets, powder, &c.
On the 7th instant arrived at Torbay his Majesty’s ship Daphne, with
12 sail of transports under convoy for America.
Dr. Barbeu Dubourg to Vergennes1
[Extract]
My lord, Paris, this 13th of July 1776
I saw M de Beaumarchais this morning, and following your express au-
thorisation, I gladly conferred with him without reservation. Everyone
knows his good sense, his talent, and no one gives more credit than myself
for his honesty, his discretion, his zeal for everything that is great and
good; I believe he is one of the men best suited to political negotiations, but
perhaps at the same time least suited to the business of trade. He likes os-
tentation, he is said to support young ladies, he passes for a spendthrift fi-
nally, and there is not a single merchant or manufacturer in France who
does not entertain this notion about him and does not hesitate a great deal
to do business with him.
Therefore, I was quite surprised when he informed me that you had in-
structed him not only to advise you but also to center around him alone the
whole and the detail of all trade operations for the export as well as the im-
port either of war ammunition or usual goods, from France to the united
Colonies, and from the Colonies to France, the management of all the busi-
ness, the determination of prices, the settlement of deals, the contracts and
the collections to be made, the debts to be paid off 8cca. I agreed with him
that it might ensure somewhat better the secrecy of all these operations, but
I objected to him that by taking hold of all this immense traffic and by ex-
cluding completely people who had gone to such an expense, endured so
much fatigue and run so many risks at the service and by order of Con-
gress, he would give them good reason to shout monopoly and deeply wrong
them, whereas they deserved quite a different fate.2 He told me that this
would not cause any prejudice to them and made full use of his eloquence to
prove it to me after a fashion. I confess that these particular motives would
not weigh heavily enough in the balance against the necessity for secrecy in
such a critical conjuncture; but may I doubt whether there are not other
means, whether there are not even better means to ensure this important
secrecy, because assuredly M.de Beaumarchais, with all the resources of his
genius, could not do without employing at the same time many subordinate
476
EUROPEAN THEATRE
agents who would always be less discreet than merchants whose chief aim is
to conceal their speculations and to distrust continually every one. But I
shall return to my first and most important reflection and I beg you, My
lord, to give it all your consideration. There may be a hundred, perhaps a
thousand persons in France who, although much less talented than M. de
Beaumarchais, could better serve your views while inspiring more confid-
ence to those with whom they would deal in trade, either French or Ameri-
can, in the cities, the ports, the factories &ca. . .3
1. AMAE, Correspondance Politique, Angleterre, vol. 517, LC Photocopy.
2. Dubourg was pleading the cause of Penet 8c Pliarne, who recently had formed a partnership
with M. Gruel, a prominent merchant in Nantes. Penet and Pliarne came to America
in 1775, and had made contracts with Nicholas and John Brown in Rhode Island and
with the Secret Committee of the Continental Congress. Penet returned to France, but
his partner remained as the American representative.
3. Beaumarchais, shown this letter by Vergennes, replied to Dubourg with cutting sarcasm on
July 16. Stevens, ed.. Facsimiles, No. 882.
15 July
Public Advertiser, Monday, July 15, 1776
London [July 15].
The Sloop St. Peter, of New- York, under Dutch Colours, from St. Us-
tatia to Amsterdam with Tobacco, Sugar and Rum, is taken by the Dolphin
Cutter, Capt. Miller, and brought into Cowes.
They write from Boston, that the Privateers yet at Sea are mostly
small; but there are a great many on the Stocks, which will be soon
launched, to carry from 16 to 24 Guns; and several Frigates are building,
and some of them near finished, in different Parts on the Continent, for the
public Service, which will mount from 36 to 44 Guns.
There is a very advantageous Trade carried on from New England,
which in fact is at the general Risque, as they insure for each other; and al-
though several of their Vessels are taken, they nevertheless find it very ben-
eficial, as nine out of ten escape; and it is said the same good Fortune at-
tends the Adventurers in other Colonies; the Value of the Vessels, and the
Cargoes taken from them is trifling, whereas those they take are worth
more in Proportion than ten to one. In short, their Success is so pleasing,
that in consequence the Spirit for Privateering is so prevelant, that they in-
tend the West-Indies, and other Parts, shall swarm with them next Winter.
Advise is received by the London, Hall, which is arrived at Brightelm-
stone from Tobago, that the American Privateers swarm about every Island
in order to intercept our homeward-bound Ships, and that many Vessels
which have been loaded for some Time are fearful of sailing till they can
procure a Convoy to England.
The following letter was received on Saturday from Mr. Charles Barns,
Commander of the Snow Blake, in the Service of Government, dated Cadiz
Bay, June 20. — “Yesterday Morning I chased an American Ship, of about
JULY 1776
477
250 Tons, into this Bay, but cannot take her, it being a Foreign Port. I
never was more surprised in my Life, when I found there were three Ameri-
can Privateers riding here at single Anchor, and a Number of their Merchant
Vessels loading and unloading at their Quays. . .
16 July
Public Advertiser, Friday, July 19, 1776
York, July 16.
By a letter from Liverpool we are informed, that the Fleet which plun-
dered the Island of New Providence, consisted of seven Sail, Commodore
Hopkins, Commander, viz. two Ships of 30 Guns each; two Brigantines of
14 Guns; one Sloop of 12 Guns, and one of six Guns; and one Schooner of
Eight Guns. They took Governor Brown and Secretary Babbedge [James
Babbidge] Prisoners, and a Mr. Irvin [Thomas Irving] belonging to
Charles-Town, all of whom were in the Fleet when they engaged the Glas-
gow Man of War. The Colours of the American Fleet were striped under the
Union with 13 Strokes, called the Thirteen United Colonies, and their
Standard a Rattle Snake, — Motto, “Don’t tread upon me.”
17 July
Lords Commissioners, Admiralty, to Captain Richard Smith,
H. M. S. Lark, Spithead1
You are hereby required and directed, to proceed with his Majesty’s
Ship under your command to Corke, and upon your arrival there, you are to
make enquiry for, and take under your Convoy such Ships laden with Provi-
sions for the use of the Army under the command of General Howe, as may
be ready to accompany you, and putting to Sea with the first opportunity of
Wind and Weather make the best of your way with them to Halifax in Nova
Scotia, where you are to leave them, unless the Commanding Officer of His
Majesty’s Land Forces there, shall desire you to Convoy them to the place
where Genl Howe with the Army may be, in which case, you are to do so,
and then proceed to join Lord Howe wherever he may be, and follow His
Lordships Orders for your further proceedings; But, if the Victuallers re-
main at Halifax, you are in that case to make the best of your way to join
Lord Howe Se follow his Orders as above directed.2
Given Sec. the 17th July 1776.
Sandwich Palmerston H. Palliser
By Sec. G. J.
1. PRO, Admiralty 2/101, 231-32.
2. Ibid., 232-33, this date the Admiralty informed Admiral Howe that the Lark was being placed
under his command.
478
EUROPEAN THEATRE
Lords Commissioners, Admiralty, to
Lieutenant Benjamin Bechinoe, R.N.1
Whereas We think fit that you shall command His Majesty’s Storeship
the Elephant; You are hereby required and directed to take upon you the
Charge 8c Command of her accordingly, her Officers & Company being here-
by strictly required to observe 8c follow your Orders; And, you are care-
fully to observe 8c follow the General Printed Instructions, and such Orders
8c Directions, as you shall from time to time, receive from Us, or any other
your Superior Officer for His Majesty’s Service.
And, whereas We have ordered the said Storeships to be fitted 8c stored
for a Voyage to North America, mann’d with Forty Men, agreeable to the
annexed Scheme, and Victualled for Six Months with all Species of Provi-
sions except Beer, of which she is to have as much as she can conveniently
stow, and to be supplied with a proportion of Wine or Spirits, in lieu of the
remainder; You are hereby further required 8c directed to use the utmost
dispatch in getting her ready for the Sea accordingly, and in receiving on
board such Stores as the Navy Board may have to send to Halifax, and then
falling down to Galleons Reach, take in her Guns 8c Gunners Stores at that
place, 8c proceed to the Nore for further Orders.
Given the 17th July 1776. J Buller
To Lieut Bukinoe hereby appointed to Palmerston
command His Majts Storeship the Elephant C: Spencer
at Deptford
By Sec P. S.
1. Lieutenant
1. Master -
1. Midshipman
1. Clerk & Steward
1. Boatswain -
1. Gunner
Scheme .
1. Carpenter
1. Surgeon -
1. Servant to the Lieut
1. Ditto Master
30. Able Seamen.
407
1. PRO, Admiralty 2/101, 233-35.
18 July
Philip Stephens to Commodore William Hotham, R.N.1
Sir 18 July 1776
I have communicated to my Lords Commrs of the Admty your Letter
dated 5th June at Sea giving an Account of the progress you had made in
your Voyage, with His Majesty’s Ships under your Convoy (except the Mal-
aga which had Parted Company) and acquainting their Lordships that the
Captain of the Jersey had been obliged to cut away the Bower Anchors in a
small Gale and to throw the Flatt bottom’d boat over board to relieve the
Ship in her Complaint. I am 8cc
P. S -
JULY 1776
479
Commodore Hotham on board the
Preston in North America By the Lark at Portsmouth
1. PRO, Admiralty 2/552, 297.
Beaumarchais to Silas Deane1
18th July 1776
I don’t know, sir, if you have any body with you, whom you may trust
for translating the French letters, which treat on important affairs. On my
part I shall not be able to treat with security in English, till after the return
of a person whom I expect at this moment from London, and who will be an
interpreter between us, meanwhile I have the honor to inform you, that I
had for some time past, the desire of helping the brave Americans to shake
off the English yoke. I have already tried several means to open secret and
sure correspondence between the general Congress and a house which I am
about to establish on that occasion; I shall exert my endeavors to provide
the continent either by way of our West Indies or straight from here if pos-
sible, all such articles which the Americans shall be in need of, and which
they can not any more get from England. I have already mentioned my plan
to a gentleman in London who pretends to be much attached to America,2
but our correspondence, since I left England having been carried on with
difficulty and in ciphers, I have received no answer to my last, in which I
tried to fix some terms for that great and important affair.
But since you are vested with a character which permits me to have
confidence in you, I shall be very glad to begin anew, in a manner more cer-
tain and more regular, a negotiation which was before but touched on. My
means are not very considerable, but they may be much increased if we can
establish together, a treaty of which the conditions shall be honorable and
advantageous and the execution of the same shall be exact.
I can not grant either to Mr. Dubourg or to anybody else, the confid-
ence of speaking freely of my plan; but when you have compared the nature
of the offers which shall be made to you from every quarter, to the disinter-
ested zeal which attaches me to the cause of America, you will perceive
what difference there is between treating with common merchants and on
the hardest terms, and the good fortune of meeting with a generous friend
who shall think himself happy in proving to your nation, and to you, its se-
cret representative, how truly he is devoted to them. I am sir, Your &c. 8cc.
(signed) Caron de Beaumarchais.
1. State Papers, House Document No. Ill, appendix, 15th Congress, 1st session, 24-25, NA.
2. Arthur Lee.
480
EUROPEAN THEATRE
19 July
Philip Stephens to Vice Admiral Sir James Douglas,
Portsmouth1
$r 19th July 1776
I have communicated to my Lord Commrs of the Admty your Letter of
the 17th Inst informing them that having intelligence of two Vessels being
at Guernsey belonging to some of His Majts Rebellious Subjects in No
America you have given Orders to Lt Mainwaring Commg the Meredith
(either to call in the way to his Station Sc Seize any Vessels he may meet
with at that Island agreable to the above information; And I am com-
manded by their Lordships to acquaint You that they approve of what you
have done I am Sec
P S
1. PRO, Admiralty 2/552, 301.
Public Advertiser , Friday, July 19, 1776
London [July 19].
Advice is received from St. Maloes, that the Americans carry on a very
extensive trade to that place; that no less than seven vessels arrived there
the first week in June, and at the time the account came away, there were
four more just arrived.
The certain accounts daily received of the many captures made by the
American privateers, have roused the Underwriters from their lethargy;
the Ministry have lulled them a long time with a notion, that the Ameri-
cans had very few privateers out; and those were of such small force, that
a merchant ship which carried a few guns might beat them off; but behold
they are convinced, to their great cost, that they have been led into an
error; for that the Americans are very powerful at sea; that some of the
privateers carry guns enough to engage the largest frigate we have; and it
is well known that New-England produces as fine and brave sailors as Old
England.
The ministerial gentry in the City have taken great pains to stifle the
report of four Jamaica ships being taken by the Provincial privateers, and
have prevailed on many to give no credit to it. On the other hand, others be-
lieved, that it would not have been entered in New Lloyd’s book, without
they had some foundation for it.
20 July
Lord George Germain to Commodore Marriot Arbuthnot,
Halifax1
[Extract] Whitehall 20th July 1776
I understand that some Rebel Traders in the New England Provinces
have established a Correspondence and are forming Connexions with cer-
JULY 1776
481
tain ill affected persons in Nova Scotia through whom they expect to receive
Supplies of Merchandize from England and that there is now a Vessel load-
ing in the River upon this Account, The Ship is owned and commanded by
Malachy Salter and proposed to be cleared out for Halifax, but the greatest
part of her Cargo is supposed to be intended to be privately sent from
thence to Boston or some neighbouring Port in that Province; Proper Or-
ders are given for a strict examination of her Papers before she sails from
hence; but as it is possible they may have taken their measures so as to
elude detection here, we must rely upon your vigilance and that of the other
Servants of the Crown in their several Departments for preventing any
Merchandize being carried to the Rebellious Colonies from Nova Scotia, and
for an exact and strict execution of the Act for prohibiting all Trade and
Intercourse with them.
1. PRO, Colonial Office, 217/52, DAC Photocopy.
Public Advertiser , Saturday, July 20, 1776
London [July 20] .
Letters from Barbadoes, dated the 5th of June, mention that six Amer-
ican Whale Fishing Ships were taken off that Island by a Man of War, who
carried off five of them to Antigua, where they are since safe arrived; we
have received no Intelligence of the other.
The St. James , Captain Wilson, from Jamaica, for Bristol, one of the
Ships that was reported to have been taken by the Provincials, was spoke
with clear of the Gulph the 17th of May.1
1. The St. James was taken by the South Carolina brigantine Comet. The prize grounded
running into Charleston, was boarded by a party from H.M.S. Sphynx and destroyed.
See Volume 5.
“Extract of a Letter from Plymouth, July 20.”1
Yesterday in the afternoon, the wind coming round, Capt. [Charles]
Fielding in his Majesty’s ship the Diamond , with two other men of war, and
all the transports under their convoy, that have been windbound here for
some time, all sailed for America.
1. London Chronicle, July 23 to July 25, 1776.
Silas Deane to Beaumarchais1
Sir, [Paris] July 20th, 1776
In compliance with your request at our interview of yesterday, I send
you inclosed copies of my commission, and an extract from my instructions
which will fully satisfy you of my being authorized to make the purchases I
have applied to you for. To understand this extract, it is necessary to in-
form you that I was ordered to make my first application to the ministers
and to procure the supplies wanted of them by way of purchase or loan; and
482
EUROPEAN THEATRE
in case the credit or influence of Congress should not be such under the pres-
ent circumstances to obtain them from that quarter, I was instructed then
to apply elsewhere. My application to the minister and his answer I have al-
ready acquainted you with. With respect to the credit which will be re-
quired for the goods and stores which I propose to engage of you, I hope
that a long one will not be necessary. Twelve months has been the longest
credit my countrymen have ever been accustomed to, and Congress having
engaged large quantities of tobacco in Virginia and Maryland, as well as
other articles in other parts, which they will ship as fast as vessels can be
provided; I have no doubt but very considerable remittances will be made
within six months from this time and for the whole within a year; this I
shall in my letters urge Congress to do. But the events of war are uncertain,
and our commerce is exposed to be affected thereby: I hope, however, that
at least such remittances will be made you, that you will be able to wait for
whatever sum may remain due after the credit we shall agree on is expired,
having the usual interest allowed you.
I send you also an invoice of the clothing and of many articles of the
furniture and stores necessary for our army, in which I can not be so par-
ticular at present, as it will be necessary to be hereafter in case you under-
take it; but as the articles for the uniforms can at this time be ascertained
as well as ever, I have made out a detail of them; though my instructions
speak of but 100 brass cannon, and of arms and clothing for 25,000 men, yet
considering the importance of the articles to America, I shall, (if to be ob-
tained) venture in a larger quantity, the probability of some part being
taken, with other circumstances, will, I think, fully justify me therein. But
it is improper to add on this subject until you resolve whether you will un-
dertake, and on the terms, which I presume you will do. As soon as you shall
have obtained a translation of this and the enclosed, I will do myself the
honor of waiting on you; In the mean time, I am, with the utmost respect
and attachment, Sir, [&c.]
Silas Deane.
1. State Papers, House Document No. Ill, appendix, 15th Congress, 1st session, 25-26, NA.
Silas Deane to the Committee of Secret Correspondence1
[Extract] Paris, [July 20, 1776]2
I wrote you every material occurrence to the time of my leaving Bor-
deaux, and sent duplicates by Captains Palmer, Bunker, and Seaver, one of
which you will undoubtedly have received before this comes to hand. I left
that city on the last of June and arrived here the Saturday following, hav-
ing carefully attended to everything in the manufacturing or commercial
towns in my way; which, indeed, are neither numerous nor of great conse-
quence. I spent at Angouleme a day in viewing what, as to manufactures
alone, deserves attention on the journey — the foundry for cannon, where
the greatest part of those used in the kingdom are manufactured. The can-
non are cast solid, after which they are put as in a turner’s lathe and bored
484
EUROPEAN THEATRE
out and the outside smoothed and turned at pleasure. They can bore and
complete a twelve-pounder in one day in each lathe, which takes four men
only to work. The workmen freely showed me every part of their furnace
and foundry. On Monday after my arrival I waited on my bankers, and
found that Mr. [Edward] Bancroft had arrived the same day with me, Mr.
Thomas Morris and M. Venzonals3 about ten days before. I waited on M.
Dubourg and delivered him Dr. Franklin’s letter, which gave the good gen-
tleman the most sincere and real pleasure.
M. Penet, on his arrival in Paris, waited on M. Dubourg, showed him a
copy of his contract with the committee of Congress, and told him he had
letters from Dr. Franklin to him, but had left them on the road or at Rot-
terdam through fear of a search. He told M. Dubourg, to whom he was a
perfect stranger, so many particular circumstances that he could not doubt
of his sincerity, and in consequence he embarked in his affairs to a large
amount. Five or six weeks have now passed without the arrival of the let-
ters said to be left on the road. Arms, powder, etc. to a large sum were in
readiness, when my arrival gave him confidence that I would take the bur-
den off him, as he doubted not that my credentials would be explicit. I saw
immediately the arrangement of the whole, and that M. Penet had returned
to France (copy of the contract excepted) almost as empty-handed as he
came to Philadelphia, yet had found means to collect a very considerable
quantity of stores, part of which he had actually shipped. This circumstance
gave me hopes; yet I found that it would now be expected I should become
responsible for the articles, which embarrassed me much, since to detain
them would be quite disagreeable, and to step out of my own line and in-
volve myself with Messrs. Plairne and Penet’s contract would be equally so.
M. Penet had somehow got intelligence of my being in France and that
I was expected at Paris; he therefore waited for me, and I saw him the next
day at my hotel, when he complained of want of remittances, and desired
me to pledge my credit for the stores, which I waived in the best manner I
could, for I saw the consequences might involve me in many difficulties and
frustrate my greater designs. I therefore told him I would certify to the
merchants, if necessary, that the Congress would pay for whatever stores
they would credit them with; and in the mean time advised him to proceed
strictly agreeable to the letter of the contract, and I was positive that the
Congress would fulfill their part of it. I finally satisfied both him and M.
Dubourg, and he parted for Nantes to ship the goods the next day. I must
do him the justice that is his due: he has been indefatigable in the business;
his heart seems to be entirely in it and I believe him honest; but his connec-
tions, either commercial or political, are not of themselves equal to such an
undertaking; but the cause he was employed in had in a great measure, I
found, supplied this deficiency, which was to me a favorable appearance.
M. Dubourg told me that the ministers would not see me, as they meant
to be quite secret in any countenance they gave the United Colonies, and
that my arrival in France was already known in London, in consequence of
which Lord Stormont arrived express but a few days before and had ap-
JULY 1776
485
plied to the court on the subject. I showed him my commission and told him
I was determined to apply; for every circumstance, in my opinion, was fa-
vorable instead of otherwise. On this he wrote a letter to Count de Ver-
gennes, asking liberty to introduce me the Thursday following, on which
day I went to Versailles, and, though the letter had not been delivered to his
excellency, yet he gave us immediate admission. Fortunately his chief secre-
tary spoke English well, by which means I had an opportunity of convers-
ing freely with him on the subject of my commission for two hours, and
was attentively and favorably heard by him and was asked many questions,
which shows that the American disputes had been, and still were, a princi-
pal object of attention. I pursued nearly the line marked out by my instruc-
tions, stating the importance of the American commerce and the advan-
tages Great Britain had received from a monopoly of it. That, all inter-
course ceasing between the two countries, the Colonies had considered
where they might dispose of that produce which they necessarily had so
large a surplus of, and receive for their raw or first materials the various
manufactures they wanted. That they first turned their eyes on France as
the best country on Europe for them to be connected with in commerce.
That I was purchasing a large quantity of manufactures, for which I ex-
pected to pay the money, and that I would want a quantity of military
stores, for which remittances would be made. That I doubted not the Colo-
nies had before this declared independency, and that I should soon receive
instructions, in consequence, more full and explicit; that in the mean time
they were very anxious to know how such a declaration would be received
by the powers in Europe, particularly by France, and whether in such case
an ambassador would be received from them, etc.?
To which he replied that the importance of the American commerce
was well known, and that no country could so well supply the Colonies, and
in turn receive their produce, as France; it was therefore the interest of
both to have the most free and uninterrupted intercourse, for which reason
the court had ordered their ports to be kept open and equally free to Amer-
ica as to Britain. That, considering the good understanding between the two
courts of Versailles and London, they could not openly encourage the ship-
ping of warlike stores, but no obstruction of any kind would be given; if
there should, as the custom houses were not fully in their secrets in this
matter, such obstructions should be removed on the first application. That I
must consider myself perfectly free to carry on any kind of commerce in the
kingdom which any subject of any other state in the world might, as the
court had resolved their ports should be equally free to both parties. That I
was under his immediate protection and should I meet with any difficulty,
either from their police, with the rules of which he supposed me unac-
quainted, or from any other quarter, I had but to apply to him and every-
thing should be settled. That as to independency, it was an event in the
womb of time, and it would be highly improper for him to say anything on
that subject until it had actually taken place; meantime, he informed me
that the British ambassador knew of my arrival, and therefore advised me
486
EUROPEAN THEATRE
not to associate with Englishmen more than I was from necessity obliged,
as he doubted not I should have many spies on my conduct.
I then told him the precautions I had taken, and should persevere in, in
coming from Bermuda, and that I did not mean in public to pass for other
than a merchant from the Island on speculation during the present cessa-
tion of commerce in America; but, at the same time, I told his excellency
that I was well assured it was known in London that I was coming long be-
fore I arrived in Paris, and I doubted not they conjectured my errand; but
at the same time I should take every precaution in my power, and most sin-
cerely thanked him for his protection and assistance so generously offered,
which he might depend I would never abuse. Lie was pleased with my hav-
ing come by Bermuda and passing as an inhabitant of that island, and said
if questioned he should speak of me in that character. He then asked me
many questions with respect to the Colonies, but what he seemed most to
want to be assured of was their ability to subsist without their fisheries ana
under the interruption of their commerce. To this I replied in this manner:
That the fisheries were never carried on but by a part of the Colonies, and
by them not so much as a means of subsistence as of commerce. That, the
fisheries failing, those formerly employed in them turned part to agricul-
ture and part to the army and navy. That our commerce must for some time
be in a great measure suspended, but that the greater part of our importa-
tions were far from being necessaries of life, consequently we should not
suffer under the want of them, whilst it was not wealth or luxuries that we
were contending for. That, our commerce ceasing, it would be out of the
power of our enemies to support themselves on our plunder, and on the
other hand our ships, as privateers, might harass their commerce without a
possibility of their retaliating. That I hoped to see a considerable marine
force in the Colonies, and that, joined to the impossibility of Britain’s
guarding so extensive a coast, would preserve some of our commerce until it
should be thought an object deserving the protection of other powers.
After many questions on this subject he put this, in which I thought he
seemed interested — whether, if the Colonies declare an independency, they
would not differ among themselves? To this I replied that the greatest har-
mony had as yet subsisted, and that I had no grounds to doubt it in future;
that the common danger which first drove them into measures which must
end in such a declaration would subsist, and that alone was sufficient to in-
sure their union.
He then desired me to give his secretary my address, and said, though
he should be glad to see me often, yet as matters were circumstanced his
house was too public a place, but that I might put the same confidence in his
secretary as in himself, to whom I might apply for advice and direction; but
that whenever anything of importance occurred I need but inform him and
he would see me, but on common occasions I must address the secretary,
which would be every way more convenient, as he understood the English
language well and was a person in whom the greatest confidence could be
placed. Having settled the mode of intercourse, I expressed the sense I had
JULY 1776
487
of his excellency’s politeness and the generous protection he had given me,
and on parting said if my commission or the mode of introducing the sub-
ject were out of the usual course, I must rely on his goodness to make allow-
ances for a new-formed people, in circumstances altogether unprecedented,
and for their agent, wholly unacquainted with courts. To which he replied
that the people and their cause were very respectable in the eyes of all dis-
interested persons, and that the interview had been agreeable.
After this I returned to Paris with M. Dubourg, whose zeal for the
American cause led him to draw the most favorable consequences from this
beginning. The next day, while from home, I was informed that Count
Laureguais had inquired out my lodgings, immediately after which he asked
leave to go for England, which was refused by the court. The same day I
was informed that Sir Hans Stanley and Sir Charles Jenkinson, who I knew
were at Bordeaux when I left it, were in France for the sole purpose of in-
quiring what agents were here from the Colonies and what commerce or
other negotiations between them and the Colonies was carrying on. This
alarmed my friends and as I had agreed for other lodgings, to which I was
next day to remove, M. Dubourg advised me to secrete both my lodgings and
name. I told him that the Count Laureguais’ conduct appeared mysterious,
yet I could never think of keeping myself secret, for though I should not
seek these gentlemen nor throw myself purposely in their way, yet I must
think it an ill compliment to Count Vergennes to suppose, after what had
passed, that I was not on as good and safe footing in France as they or any
other gentleman could be. However, his uneasiness made him write to the
count what he had advised, who returned for answer that such a step was
both unnecessary and impolitic, as it would only strengthen suspicions by
giving every thing an air of mystery, while there was not the least occasion
for it.
The next day I had a fresh conference with M. Dubourg, who brought
me a number of memorials from officers and engineers offering their serv-
ices in America, some of whom I believe deserve the utmost encouragement;
but more of this hereafter. While I was casting in my mind how best to im-
prove the present favorable crisis for supplying the Colonies, Monsieur
Beaumarchais made proposals for procuring whatever should be wanted,
but in such a manner as was understood by M. Dubourg to amount to a
monopoly, which indeed was not his only objection for Monsieur Beaumar-
chais, though confessedly a man of abilities, had always been a man of
pleasure and never of business; but as he was recommended by Count Ver-
gennes, M. Dubourg could not avoid noticing him, but immediately expostu-
lated with the count in a letter, which brought on embarrassments no way
favorable, and I saw that M. Dubourg was so far from sounding the views
of his superior in this manoeuver, that he was, with the best intentions in
the world, in danger of counteracting his own wishes, the extent of which
were to obtain the supplies of merchants and manufacturers on the credit
of the Colonies, in which the strictest punctuality and most scrupulous ex-
488
EUROPEAN THEATRE
actness would be necessary, and which, under the present difficulties of re-
mittance I feared would not be lived up to.
As I had learned that in the late reform of the French army they had
shifted their arms for those of a lighter kind, the heavy ones, most of which
were the same as new, to the amount of seventy or eighty thousand, lay use-
less in magazines, with other military stores in some such proportion, I ap-
prehended it no way impossible to come at a supply from hence through the
agency of some merchant, without the ministry being concerned in the mat-
ter. In such case the merchant would be accountable to the ministry and the
Colonies to the merchant, by which means a greater time of payment might
be given and more allowance in case of our being disappointed. With this in
view, I went to Versailles on Wednesday, the 17th. and waited on M. Ge-
rard, first secretary of foreign affairs, and presented to him the inclosed
memorial, which led to a very particular conversation on the affairs of
America, and which I turned finally on this subject, to which he would not
then give me any immediate answer, but promised me one in a day or two.
Returning to town, I found Messrs. Dubourg and Beaumarchais had a mis-
understanding, the latter giving out that he could effect everything we
wished for, and the former, from the known circumstances of M. Beaumar-
chais and his known carelessness in money matters, suspecting he could
procure nothing, and the more so as he promised so largely. They parted
much displeased with each other, and Mons. Beaumarchais went directly to
Versailles. On M. Dubourg’s coming and informing me what had passed I
immediately wrote to M. Gerard the inclosed letter, and in return was de-
sired to come with M. Dubourg the next morning to Versailles.
We went as desired, and after explaining many things to M. Gerard,
had a conference with his excellency, from whom I had fresh assurances of
the utmost freedom and protection in their ports and on their coasts; that,
in one word, I might rely on whatever Mons. Beaumarchais should engage
in the commercial way of supplies, which, indeed, was all I wished for, as I
was on the safe side of the question, viz. on the receiving part. I communi-
cated to his excellency that clause of my instructions for procuring arms,
etc. of which he asked a copy. I then informed him that I considered the
present as the most critical juncture of American affairs; that the campaign
would undoubtedly be carried far into the winter; that supplies now
shipped might arrive very seasonably in the fall to enable the Colonies to
hold out the present campaign. He replied that no delay should be made by
any obstruction of any officer, or others, of the customs or police. He then
told me that Count Laureguais was perhaps a well-meaning man, but not
sufficiently discreet for such purposes as this; that Mr. Lee (meaning Mr.
Arthur Lee of London) , had confided, he feared, too much in him, and
wished me to caution him on the subject, and that if I would write to him he
would inclose it in a letter of his by a courier that evening. I most readily
embraced this safe way of corresponding, and sent a letter I had before writ-
ten, with an addition on this subject, a copy of which is inclosed.
JULY 1776
489
I have thus given you the heads of my negotiations to this time, July
20, and will not take up your time in making remarks on it and the prospect
before me, which are obvious, but inform you of the plan I mean to pursue
in the execution of my commission, and hint some methods by which I think
I may be enabled to complete every part of it to your satisfaction and the
relief of my country, which is all my wish and the extent of most ambitious
hopes. I go on the supposition of an actual, unconditional independency,
without which little can be effected publicly; with it, almost everything we
can wish for.
It is by no means probable that Europe will long remain in a state of
peace. The disputes between Portugal and Spain are on the point of produc-
ing an open rupture; the former relies on England; the latter will look to
this kingdom, and has already applied to this court on the subject. Nothing
but the division of Poland has taken the king of Prussia’s attention off from
the injustice done him in Great Britain at the close of the last war. He has
now completed his part of that extraordinary work, and, I am well in-
formed, listens with pleasure to the dispute between the United Colonies
and Great Britain. He is ambitious of becoming a maritime power, and is
already in possession of the capital ports of the Baltic; but without com-
merce it is impossible to effect the design, and no commerce can put him so
directly in the road as the American. The consumption of coffee, sugar, and
other West India productions increases fast in the north of Europe, and it
must be his interest at least to supply his own dominions. In case of a war in
Europe, France, Spain and Prussia might be brought into one interest, and
the Emperor of Germany is too closely connected with his majesty of
France to take part against them, after which, Great Britain having her
whole force employed in America, there could be nothing on the one hand to
prevent Spain and France from reducing Portugal to a submission to the
former, nor from Prussia and France subduing and incorporating into their
own dominions Hanover and the other little mercenary electorates which lie
between them, and which for several centuries have been one principal
cause of every war that has happened in Europe.
With respect to Russia, it is as closely allied to Prussia as to Great
Britain, and may be expected to be master in the contest. Denmark and
Sweden are a balance for each other and opposites. Not to enlarge on this
plan at present, I have only to suggest that an application to the King of
Prussia will do no harm, and may be attended with good and great conse-
quences; the Prussian ambassador at this court and at that of London may
be sounded on the subject. But my powers and instructions are so limited
that I can by no means take such a step; yet when I see Great Britain exert-
ing her whole force, and that of her allies and courting every power in Eu-
rope to aid her, I can but wish she may be counteracted in her own system,
and, by having employ found for her in Europe, bring her to leave America
in peace, and I think myself bound in duty to hint at what to me seems the
most probable means. Dr. Bancroft was full with me in this opinion.4
490
EUROPEAN THEATRE
1. Francis Wharton, ed., The Revolutionary Diplomatic Correspondence of the United States
(Washington, 1889) , II, 112-19. Hereafter cited as Wharton, ed.. Revolutionary Diplo-
matic Correspondence .
2. This letter, in Wharton, bears the date August 18, 1776, which is the date Deane finished it.
There were several interruptions in his writing, and the section included here, by his
own comment in the letter, was written July 20, 1776.
3. There is no further reference to M. Venzonals in the diplomatic correspondence of the period,
and it is possible Wharton and Jared Sparks before him, misread Van Zandt.
4. As Bancroft left Paris on July 26, 1776, the past tense reference to him would indicate that
Deane was now writing after the July 20 date given in his letter.
21 July (Sunday)
Precis Prepared for George III of Events Leading to the
Expedition Against the Southern Colonies1
[Extract] [London, July 21, 1776] 2
Genl Clinton arrived at Cape Fear on the 12th of March, 8c on the 21st
of July Lord George Germain received a Dispatch from him dated in Cape
Fear River the 3d May, on which day the Bristol with the rest of The
King’s Ships arrived there, many of the Transports having got in a few
days before.
In this Dispatch General Clinton observes, that had the embarkation
taken place at the time appointed, there was great reason to believe that
the intentions of Govt would have been answered — That affairs however,
had lately much changed for the worse — That the well-affected Inhabit-
ants of the back Settlements had met with a severe check near Moor’s
Creek, of the particulars of which he had acquainted Mr [John] Pownall
by the Cumberland Packet, 8c of the consequences which followed from it.
That he now begged leave to add, that by all the accounts he had since been
able to collect, their Chiefs had been imprisoned, 8c all others who had either
taken up Arms, or been suspected, had been disarmed 8c watched with a
most jealous eye — That in this situation he apprehended no immediate
success could be expected in No Carolina — 8c therefore for these reasons, 8c
as they were without horses to convey their cannon, or without water car-
riage that they could call their own, he was of opinion that an attempt
would scarcely be advisable. - That the Province of South Carolina differed
very little from that of No Carolina. That the well affected there had been
defeated 8c dispersed. That the reduction of Charles Town would be very
difficult; 8c if effected would contribute but little to the reestablishment of
order in that Province, the well affected Inhabitants of which lived all in
the interior Country. That with respect to Georgia, the climate alone at that
season of the year must render every attempt abortive. That under these
Circumstances therefore his views would probably be directed to the Prov-
inces bordering upon Chesapeak Bay, unless called away by orders from
Genl Howe, before any thing could be effected. To these observations he
adds, that he is of opinion, that any attempt to assemble the friends of Gov-
ernt in any of the Provinces, without giving it a fair 8c full trial, would be
JULY 1776
491
so far from producing any salutary purposes, that it would only serve to in-
flame men’s minds & sacrifice your friends to the rage & fury of the multi-
tude, & therefore upon this principle, he should proceed warily during the
short time it might fall to his Lot to Command in the Southern Provinces.
1. PRO, Colonial Office, 5/232.
2. This is the date Germain received Clinton’s dispatch.
Dr. Barbeu Dubourg to Vergennes1
[Extract] Paris, 21 July 1776
I beg you in the second place, to ask M. de Sartine for his consent, at
least tacit, to have cannon cast at the Ruelle forge in Angoumois, on the ac-
count of some owners of privateers; this forge, excellent for this purpose, is
well situated, and was returned to the King’s demesne last October; if it
were still in the appanage of the Count d’Artois, I should have had every
desirable and suitable facility for these operations, and notably to cast can-
non there in the English fashion, under the direction of M. d’Antic, who
knows this method better than anyone in Europe, and is in a position to still
further improve it.
1. Stevens, ed., Facsimiles, No. 884.
22 July
Silas Deane to M. Gerard de Rayneval, French Foreign Office 1
Sir Paris July 22d 1776
Inclosed I send You a Copy of the Article of my Instructions which was
the subject of Our last Conference.2 I have not as yet had the pleasure of
seeing Monsr Beaumarchais but am so Confident, from the Character I re-
ceived of him from You that he will be able to procure for Me the Articles I
want, That I shall Apply to him in preference to any other person; And I
imagine thro’ him the Stores mentioned in my Instructions may be procured
with the utmost Secrecy and Certainty — They will Amount to a Considera-
ble Sum, 8c as the Colonies expect, 8c are willing to give a Commission, for
Negotiating the Business this Concern may turn very well to his Account
without his having much Trouble in the Affair I have the honor to be
most Respectfully [&c.]
Silas Deane
>
A Monsieur Gerard
1. Stevens, ed., Facsimiles, No. 573.
2. Deane’s instructions from the Committee of Secret Correspondence. The article he enclosed
begins: “At this audience, if agreed to, it may be well to show him first your letter of
credence. . .” See Volume 4, 148-50.
492
EUROPEAN THEATRE
23 July
Philip Stephens to Vice Admiral Richard Lord Howe1
My Lord
23d July 1776
Maria
Providence
Prince George
Burstwick
Rum adventure
St George
Hayfield
Polly
Generous Friends
George
Nancy
Dinah
The Diamond , Ambuscade and Unicorn, three of
the Ships which I have had the honor to inform your
Lordship were to convoy the Transports carrying the 2d
Division of Hessians, with the other Reinforcements
therein mentioned (except the 16th Regiment of Light
Dragoons) put to Sea from Spithead on the 28th of last
Month; but were not able to get out of the Channel, the
Wind coming strong to the Westward, which obliged
them to put into Plymouth where they remain with
their Convoy.
The Daphne, which was charged with Convoy of
the Transports having on board the 16th Regiment of
Light Dragoons, sailed also from Portsmouth the 4h in-
stant, but from the same reason was obliged to put into
Torbay, where she remains likewise.
The Adventure, one of the Victuallers which (as I
mentioned in my former Letter) was expected to arrive
at Spithead in time to sail with the aforesaid Convoy,
not succeeding in her Voyage, my Lords Commissioners
of the Admiralty have directed her to proceed under
convoy of His Majesty’s Ship Perseus; whose Captain is
ordered to join your Lordship, and on his arrival put
himself under your Command: The like directions are
given to the Master of the John, Chambre and Susan-
nah Transports, as they could not be got to Spithead in
time to sail with Captain Fielding.
Besides the Victualler and Transports last men-
tioned, Captain [George Keith] Elphinston takes under
his Convoy the Victuallers named in the Margin, loaded
with Provisions for supply of the Fleet under your
Lordships Command, being part of the second Propor-
tion of four Months for 13,000 Men; and the Grand
Duke, Friendship King of Naples and Betsey, having on
board the Provisions to complete the aforementioned
Proportion, will sail at the same time, if they can be got
round before the Perseus sails; but this being uncer-
tain, the Captain is not to wait for them. If there should
be any army Victuallers at Spithead, in readiness to sail
with Captain Elphinston, he is to take them under Con-
voy with the Ships abovementioned.
JULY 1776
493
Captain [Richard] Smith of the Lark is ordered to
repair to Cork, and take under his Convoy from thence
such army Victuallers as may be ready to proceed with
him to Halifax, where he is to leave them, unless the
Commanding Officer of His Majesty’s Land Forces
there shall desire him to convoy them to the place where
General Howe with the army may be, in which case he
is to do so, and then proceed to join your Lordship
wherever you may be, and follow your orders for his
further proceedings. But if the Victuallers remain at
Halifax he is in that case to make the best of his way
to join your Lordship and follow your orders as afore-
said.
The Commissioners for the Sick and Hurt Seamen
having in consequence of directions they received from
my Lords ordered the Medicines, Bedding and other
Stores intended for the use of the Naval Hospital in
North America to be put on board His Majesty’s Hospi-
tal Ship, the Jersey , I have thought it necessary (the
matter having before escaped my recollection) to in-
form your Lordship thereof, that if you have not al-
ready done it, You may give such orders for the disposal
of them as you shall think fit; as also for the disposal of
the additional Quantities of Stores and Medicines which
the aforementioned Commissioners have provided and
which, my Lords have ordered to be sent out in the Per-
seus. I have the honor to be Sec
P : S:
P: S: The Mermaid , which is now at Plymouth, will
have orders to proceed to Cork with similar directions
to those given to the Captain of the Lark, to sail from
thence in 14 days after the departure of the Lark with
such of the army Victuallers as may be there ready to
accompany her.
Rt Honbe Lord Viscount Howe in North America By
the Perseus at Portsmouth
By a Messenger at 10 PM
1. PRO, Admiralty 2/552, 311-14.
Lords Commissioners, Admiralty, to Captain George Keith Elphinstone,
H.M.S. Perseus, Spithead 1
Whereas it is intended that the Transport Vessels
John named in the Margin having on board British Recruits
Chamhre for the Army under General Howe, and the Victualling
Susannah Transports named in the inclosed List laden with Pro-
View of S pithead
JULY 1776
495
Grand Duke .
Friendship.
King of Naples
Betsey
visions for the use of the Fleet (all which Ships are at
present at Spithead, or daily expected to arrive there)
shall proceed to North America under Convoy of His
Majesty’s Ship under your Command; You are hereby re-
quired and directed to take the said Transports and
Victuallers under your Convoy, and, when ready to put to
Sea with them the first opportunity of Wind and Weather,
and proceed with them to New York, where it is expected
you will find Vice Admiral Lord Howe, Commander in
Chief of His Majesty’s Ships and Vessels in North Amer-
ica; But if, upon your arrival at Sandy Hook, you should
be informed his Lordship is not at New York, You are
then to proceed to such place as you may learn he is re-
moved to, and, upon joining his Lordship, you are to put
yourself under his Command and follow his orders for
your further proceedings.
And it being intended that the Victualling Transports
named in the Margin shall also proceed under your Con-
voy, in case they arrive at Spithead before you are ready
to sail, you are accordingly to take the said Victualling
Transports under your Convoy in case they arrive in time
and proceed as aforementioned, but not to wait for them.
If there are any other Storeships or Victuallers be-
longing to the Navy, Ordnance or Treasury Departments
intended to join the Fleet under the command of Vice Ad-
miral Lord Howe, or the army under the command of
General Howe, or any other Vessels bound to North Amer-
ica that may be ready and willing to accompany you, You
are also to take such Vessels under your Convoy, transmit-
ting to us before you sail a List of the names of the several
Ships and Vessels with the names of their Masters, and
the nature of the lading they have on board Given &c the
23d of July 1776.
J. Buller Palmerston C: Spencer H: Palliser
By &c P : S :
Admiralty OfficeJList of Victualling Transports at Spithead, to proceed
23d July 1776 J under Convoy of the Perseus.
Ships Names
Adventure
Maria
Providence
Prince George
Burstwick
Rum adventure
Masters Names
John Mason
Solomon Jones
John Sherrard
Robert appleton
alexander anderson
Peter Leadbeater
496
EUROPEAN THEATRE
Masters Names
Benjn Bigood
John Clark
John Harrington
Hill
Gray
Williamson
Brown
1. PRO, Admiralty 2/101, 236-38.
Philip Stephens to Vice Admiral Molyneux Shuldham1
My Lord 23d July 1776
Since the Letters received from your Lordship which I had the honor
to answer in mine of the 23d of last Month, I have received several others
dated Vizt three of the 20h May, one of the 23d, two of the 8h June; one of
the 9h of that Month, and another from Halifax Harbour but without any
date to it; In return to all which I am to acquaint you that the same were
communicated to my Lords Commissioners of the Admiralty as they came
to hand, and that such of their Contents as were necessary for the Kings in-
formation, were transmitted to Lord George Germain for that purpose.
My Lords are pleased to approve of your having purchased the Ship
Lady Gage, in lieu of that which your Lordship was directed to purchase,
establish, and put under the command of Lieutenant Mowatt, the said Ship
having been destroyed at Boston, when the Place was vacuated
My Lords, in consideration of what you have represented concerning
Captain Dudingston’s state of health have ordered him to be put on Half
Pay, and have signed a Commission appointing Mr. [Roger] Curtis to the
Senegal in his room, which Commission is sent by this Conveyance to Lord
Howe to be delivered to him, and that they have also ordered that he shall
be paid for the time he acts pursuant to the Order he received from you for
that purpose.
Their Lordships will confirm the Commission you have given to Lieu-
tenant Bourmaster to be a Master and Commander when it shall be laid be-
fore them: and their Lordships will grant Commissions to Mr Thomas For-
rest and Mr Samuel Thomson, whom you have ordered to act as Lieutenants
in the Cerberus and Chatham when it shall appear they have passed their
Examinations to entitle them to that rank; and they will order them to be
paid for the time they may act by virtue of your Lordships Orders.
I have only further to acquaint your Lordship that a Warrant is sent to
Lord Howe appointing William Hedges Carpenter of the Savage, and that
my Lords have directed his being paid for the time he acts by your
appointment. I am 8cc
Ships Names
St George
Hayfield
Polly
Generous Friends
George
Nancy
Dinah
P: S:
497
JULY 1776
Rt Honbe Lord Shuldham in North America— By the Perseus
By a Messenger at 10. PM
1. PRO, Admiralty 2/552, 311-14.
24 July
Public Advertiser, Thursday, August 8, 1776
Corke, July 24.
This Morning arrived at Cove, from Bourdeaux, the Brig Neptune,
Capt. Hawkins, who says, there were 12 Sail of American Vessels there
loading for America, and that they were getting large Quantities of Gun-
powder.
Lords Commissioners, Admiralty, to Lord George Germain1
My Lord, Admiralty Office, 24th July 1776
Having received a Letter from Commodore Sir Peter Parker dated in
Cape Fear River the 15th May, giving an account of his arrival there on the
3d of that Month, with the several Ships Transports 8cca therein men-
tioned, and of his proceedings up to the date of his said Letter; We send
your Lordship a Copy thereof together with the Papers therein referred to,
for His Majesty’s Information.
We send your Lordship also a Copy of a Letter We have received from
Vice Admiral Visct Howe dated off Halifax the 23d of last Month, and de-
siring you will please to lay the same before the King, for his Information.2
We are 8cca
Sandwich C: Spencer H: Palliser
1. PRO, Colonial Office, 5/259, 85-86.
2. See Volume 5 for the Parker and Howe letters.
Lords Commissioners, Admiralty, to Captain James Hawker,
H.M.S. Mermaid, Plymouth1
Whereas we have directed Capt [Richard] Smith of His Majesty’s
Ship the Lark to proceed to Cork to Convoy from thence to North America
such Victuallers as may be laden with Provisions for the use of the Army
under Genl Howe, And whereas we intend that you shall also Convoy to
America such other Victuallers for the said Army as may be ready to sail a
Fortnight after the departure of the Lark; You are hereby required & di-
rected to proceed with His Majesty’s Ship under your command to Cork
where you are to remain til the Lark shall have been sailed from thence a
Fortnight & then take under your Convoy such Ships laden with Provisions
for the use of the Army under the command of Genl Howe as may be ready
to Sail, and putting to Sea with the first Opportunity of Wind & Weather
498
EUROPEAN THEATRE
make the best of your way with them to Halifax in Nova Scotia where you
are to leave them unless the Commanding Officer of His Majestys Land
Forces there shall desire you to Convoy them to the place where Genl Howe
with the Army may be, in which case you are to do so & then proceed to join
Lord Howe wherever he may be and follow His Lordships Orders for your
further proceedings. But, if the Victuallers remain at Halifax, you are in
that case to make the best of your way to join Ld Howe Sc follow his Orders
as above directed. Given Sec 24th July 1776
Sandwich Palmerston C Spencer
By 8cc P S
1. PRO, Admiralty 2/101, 241.
Silas Deane to Beaumarchais1
Sir: Paris, July 24, 1776.
I have considered the letter you honored me with the 22d, and am of
the opinion that your proposals for regulating the prices of goods and
stores are just and equitable. The generous confidence you place in the vir-
tue and justice of my constituents affords me the greatest pleasure, and
gives me the most flattering prospect of success in the undertaking to their,
as well as your, satisfaction, and permit me to assure you the United Colo-
nies will take the most effectual measures to make you remittances, and to
justify in every respect the sentiments you entertain of them; but at the
same time, as the invoice for clothing only, and without the incident
charges, amounts to about two and three millions of livres, and as the can-
nons, arms, and stores will raise the sum much higher, I cannot, considering
the uncertainty of the arrival of vessels during the war, venture to assure
you that remittances will be made for the whole within the time proposed;
but in that case, as I wrote you before, I hope that the interest on the bal-
ance will be satisfactory. With respect to cargoes sent from America either
to France or the West Indies, designed as remittances for your advances, I
think there can be no objection to their being sent to the address of a house
in France, or to your agents where they may arrive.
I find that cannons, arms and other military stores are prohibited and
can not be exported but in a private manner; this circumstance gives me
many apprehensions, for, as I can not have those things shipped publicly, I
can not have them purchased openly without giving alarms, perhaps fatal to
our operations. In this case various deceptions and impositions must be
practiced. You know that the ambassador of England is attentive to every-
thing done by me, and that his spies watch every motion of mine, and will
probably watch the motions of those with whom I am known to be con-
nected. In this situation, and being a stranger in a great measure to your
language, I foresee many embarrassments which I know not how to obviate,
and such as I fear may greatly perplex even yourself, notwithstanding your
superior knowledge and address. Two things, you will agree with me, are as
essential as even the procuring of the cannon, arms, etc. First, that they are
JULY 1776
499
good and well laid in, and that they be embarked without being stopped and
detained. The fate of my country depends, in a great measure, on the ar-
rival of these supplies. I can not, therefore, be too anxious on the subject;
nor is there any danger of expense so great but what must be hazarded, if
necessary, to effect so capital and important an object. I pray you to con-
sider this subject, and to give me your thoughts upon it. I called on you this
morning, with Dr. Bancroft, to have conversed with you on this subject, but
found that you was gone to Versailles. Permit me to urge your early atten-
tion to this subject, and to assure you that I have the honor to be with the
highest respect Yours, sir, etc.,
Silas Deane
1. Wharton, ed., Revolutionary Diplomatic Correspondence, II, 105, 106.
Lord Stormont to Lord Weymouth1
No. 53 Paris July 24th 1776
My Lord On Monday Night I received the Honour of yr Lordships Letters
Nos 26 and 27.
As it is natural that this Court, tho’ they may not desire the Indepen-
dency of America, should wish, that the Reduction of it may cost us dear,
and must therefore be disposed, to connive at least, at any assistance the
Rebels can draw from hence, I keep that object constantly in view, and col-
lect the best secret Information I can, without betraying any suspicion, or
Mistrust.
I am assured that there are several french adventurers, who attempt
to supply the Rebels with arms and amunition. They clear out for Africa,
and sometimes go to North America, sometimes meet American Vessels at
Sea.
I have heard it said that Monsieur de Chaumont, a Man of Rank and
Fortune in this Country,2 is secretly engaged in these Enterprizes, which
are winked at here. Messrs. Gerner and Viars Merchts at Bourdeaux, have
sent lately, two thousand eight hundred Barrels of Gunpowder to Martin-
ico; In January last Gunpowder Sold there, for Six Livres a Pound.
I am told, that Gradiz a Jew Merchant at Bordeaux, sends under
French Colours, Powder, Arms, 8cc. to North America and it is pretended,
has got Permits from this Court.
The Result of the best enquiry I have been able to make with regard to
the American Gentleman, who called himself Nathan Rumsey is, as fol-
lows.—
He staid here but three or four days, had an interview with Monsieur
de Mazieres, a Farmer General, to make an offer of supplying la Ferme
[Farmers General] with Tobacco from America, but met with no Success,
His offer was absolutely rejected. He had frequent interviews with a
Banker here, called Grand3 but what Business he transacted, or attempted
to transact there, I do not Know. He is now gone to Nantes, in company
with a Monsr Penet, a Considerable German Merchant and his Cousin;
500
EUROPEAN THEATRE
from Nantes he goes to Bordeaux, and Marseilles, in order to establish a
Correspondence with Some of the principal Merchants there, and it is Said,
means to return to Paris in about a Month.
I have not discovered that Rumsey ever went to Versailles tho’ this
Penet with whom he is intimately connected has I am told several acquaint-
ances there. Another informer tells me, that Rumsey had an American Com-
panion, but this I doubt, as I know there was no such Person Lodged with
him, I am assured that he arrived at Bordeaux on board a small Sloop of
twenty five Tun, carrying ten Guns, and neatly painted white and Red,
which waits there to carry him back to America.
There is a Physician here, called Barbeux du Bourg who is in regular
Correspondence with Doctor Franklin, and who helps to circulate all those
Reports to our Disadvantage, which are so greedily received by the Wish-
ings, and Coffee house Politicians, of this Country, who are always loudest,
when they talk of what they least understand
I am with great truth and Respect My Lord [8cc.]
Stormont
1. PRO, State Papers, 78/299.
2. Jacques Donatien Le Ray de Chaumont.
3. Ferdinand Grand, Swiss banker in Paris.
SOLLICOFFRE FRERES & WlLKIE TO SlLAS DEANE 1
Sir Marseille the 24 July 1776.
Your most esteemed of the 14 Instant from Paris we have duely re-
ceived. We Observe that you are of the same Opinion with us to Postpone
the sending of the Elisabeth & her Cargoe, till the first of September next,
to which your advise we have resolved to adhere and herewith we remitt
you a Copy of the Agreement we have passed with Captn John Palmer
which we bagg to peruse and give us your Abrobation. you’ll Observe that
Captn Palmer being intitled to receive Five Pounds Sterling each Day of
Demeurage we have Consented to allow and Pay him here his and his Ves-
sell maintaining Charges wch we have Valued to Three Pounds
Sterling The Other Two Pounds to be Pay’d him in America, by that
Mean his return Cargoe will not be so much lessened, on All which we
shall expect your Abrobation and Consent Mean time shall Keep the return
Cargoe ready to be shiped, the Chief Articles are to be Blankets and
Course Cloth, very litle being to be found here we have been Obliged to
Order it in the Fabricks of our Neighbouring Province of Languedoc, and
hope to have the whole ready towards the beginning of next Month, about
which time hope to be favoured with your Answer.
The Elisabeth Cargoe out of N york is all sold and the Neat Produce
will be about £ 36000.
as to Imploy the said Vessell under French Collours in those Seas untill
the 1st Septber the time being so short it would not be practicable, besides
the Heavy Charge which would Accrue from such an Oparation renders it
JULY 1776
501
imposible, if Some french Man of war should be ordered out of the
Streight Mouth and a Permission Obtained for Captn Palmer to follow ’em
under french Collours, he might by that mean guet Clear of more than half
the Danger, we leave the whole under your farther Consideration and
bagg to favour us with an Answer as soon as possible, there is two Engs
[English] Fregatts Continualy Cruising in the Streight Mouth Stoping
and Searching all the ships. A Dutch Captn Arrived last weeck reports
that he has been Visited by one of them the officers of wch told him that
they had taken two America Vessells bound for the Continent out of a
french Port in the Mediteranean we are much aprehensive it is Captn
Robinson and Captn Waldron, who sailed from this Port last Month. We
hope Capn Palmer of the Elisabeth will share a better fate, the Days in the
Month of September being much shorter and more Windy he has a much
better chance of passing free. We are most respectfully Sir [8cc.]
Sollicoffre Freres & Wilkie
Mr Silas Deane in Paris
[Superscribed] Monsieur Silas Deane chez Messrs Germany Girardot Sc Co
A Paris
[Endorsed] . . . reed at Paris Augst 7th & answered . . .
1. “The Deane Papers,” Collections of the Connecticut Historical Society, XXIII, 25-26.
25 July
Public Advertiser , Friday, August 9, 1776
Limerick, July 25.
By the Jackson , Sharp, which arrived Yesterday in 14 Days from Lis-
bon, we have Advice that there were at the Time of his Departure, twenty-
four American Vessels in the Tagus, which with those at the other Ports
had Orders to quit the Kingdom in nine Days, and that an English Man of
War was cruizing off Lisbon in order to make Prizes of them.
Philip Stephens to Vice Admiral Molyneux Shuldham1
My Lord [London] 25th July 1776
My Lords Commrs of the Admty having directed Vice Adml Ld Howe,
to order You to return to England2 in His Majts Ship Chatham towards the
fall of this Year, unless his Lordship shall judge it expedient for His Majes-
tys Service, that you should continue with the said Ship in No America; I
am commanded by my Lords to acquaint your Lordship therewith Sec
PS
Rt Honble Ld Shuldham No America
By the Perseus at Portsmouth
1. PRO, Admiralty 2/552, 322.
2. Ibid,., 2/101, 243.
502
EUROPEAN THEATRE
“Extract of a Letter from Gosport, July 25. ”1
Sailed from Spithead his Majesty’s sloop Spy , on a cruise. Sailed from
ditto, the Hornet man of war, for America.
1. London Chronicle , July 27 to July 30, 1776.
26 July
Lord Weymouth to Lord Stormont1
No 29. St James’s 26 July 1776
My Lord I cannot avoid making mention to Your Excellency of the Arma-
ment carrying on at the several Ports of France rather from the great Im-
portance of the subject than from any thing new I can have to say there-
upon. Your Excellency’s Attention is directed to that Point and you will not
fail to transmit to me every thing you can collect that may tend to explain
the Intention of the french Court.
I transmit to Your Excellency herewith an Edict of His most Faithful
Majesty with respect to any American Vessel that may put into the Har-
bours of Portugal.2 It is unnecessary to apprize you that it would be very
desirable that something similar should be done at the Court where you re-
side, but as in the present situation of Affairs it would not be expedient to
receive a refusal to any application on that subject, I must wholly leave the
matter to your Discretion, not doubting that you will use the most proper
means to try the practicability of a Measure that would be important at the
present crisis. I am Sec.
Weymouth
1. PRO, State Papers, 78/299.
2. See Edict, July 4, 1776.
M. Garnier to Vergennes1
My Lord, London, 26 July 1776
You will see from the List enclosed herewith of the Crews presently on
board the Guardships that they come to a total of 4,948 men who are quite
unequally divided since there are ships with more than 400 men and others
that do not have enough to man their boats. To tell the truth, only those in
Chatham are in this situation because the port is the least exposed. Among
the others we can see two with crews of 500 men. You will remember, My
lord, that these two ships had been cruising off the Azores in order to inter-
cept American vessels following the intelligence brought by the ship from
Philadelphia taken by treason to Bristol by her crew.2 They stopped several
Vessels which they met during their cruise but they did not capture any.
d hese two ships will return to the other Guardships the detachments they
had drawn from them in order to be able to put to sea.
JULY 1776
503
We receive intelligence from all the Ports that Sailors are so rare that
they cannot be found in spite of the extraordinary inducements offered by
the Government, and that most of those who are on the Register of Seamen
are land people, so that out of the 4,948 hardly a third are true sailors.
However if we consider this total as an effective number and compare it to
what is required in order to complete the commissioning of these 20 Ships
in time of war, we see that 9,000 men are still lacking. Thus, My lord, the
greatest advantage to England in having these Guardships on the present
footing, is to have always available 20 seaworthy ships which by the detach-
ments they can provide put her in a position occasionally to put a few Ships
to Sea on a day’s notice, and to have, if need be, a fleet ready to sail in a
short time by means of an impressment.
They are busy training the men they receive in order to provide
trained crews to the Frigates that put to Sea. Thus, we cannot consider that
they are on stable footing today. But we must not conceal from ourselves
that this is a useful establishment which deserves to be imitated.
Captain [James] Cook sailed from Plymouth on the 18th of this
month for his new journey to Otahitee, new Zealand, and from there to the
Coast of California from whence he will look for a passage to the Pole. The
ship which is to follow him is still in Plymouth.
We still have not received any news concerning the military operations
in America. Lord How arrived in Halifax on the 25th of June with his sin-
gle ship and he was to sail without delay to rejoin the General his brother
who had left on the 10th of the same month.
The Board of Trade received intelligence today that American Priva-
teers captured nine richly loaded ships from the West Indies, namely, 3
from Jamaica and 6 from Nevis, Antigua and the Barbados. This piece of
news is so unquestionable that the cost of Insurance went up from 5 to 15 p.
100. A Ship arrived in Bristol from Jamaica and confirmed the capture by
two Spanish coast-guard ships of M. Irwin’s vessel. I am with respect &ca.
[Enclosure]
Current List of Crews on Board the Guardships, 26 July 1776
Ports
Plymouth.
Ships Guns Complement
Ocean
90
358
Foudroyant
80
280
Albion
74
360
T orbay
74
350
Boyne
70
256
Wartime
Number
complement
required to
complete war-
time comple-
ment on
board each
Ship
850
492
750
470
700
340
700
350
670
414
504
EUROPEAN THEATRE
Ports
Ships <
Guns
Complement
Wartime
Number
Non Such
64
500
complement
650
required to
complete war-
time comple-
ment on
board each
Ship
150
Sommerset
64
300
650
350
Raisonable
64
300
650
350
Portsmouth.
Barfleur
90
400
800
400
Royal-oak
74
174
700
526
•
Centaur e
74
150
700
550
Hector
74
150
700
550
Resolution
74
150
700
550
Lenox
74
180
700
520
Egmont
74
190
700
510
Worcester
64
500
650
150
Exeter
64
230
650
420
Chatham.
Ramilies
74
70
700
630
Mars
74
25
700
675
Ardent
64
25
650
625
4,948
13,970
9,022
1. AMAE, Correspondance Politique, Angleterre, vol. 517, LC Photocopy.
2. Snow Dickinson. See Volume 4.
M. Garnier to Vergennes1
[Extract] London, 26 July 1776
The Second Hessian division finally left Plymouth on the 23rd of this
month with the pack-horses. They will be convoyed by the Frigates Dia-
mond, Unicorn and Ambuscade. The Frigate Lark sailed from Portsmouth
on the 24th with two transports carrying recruits and ammunition. This
frigate has one hundred thousand pounds Sterling to pay the troops in
America. Well, nothing can distract them from their purpose and it is easy
to see that they intend to impose their rule.
You probably know, My lord, about the decree passed in Portugal on
the 4th of this month to close all trade in that country to the Americans. It
may be presumed that if they had had to supply a number of islands in the
vicinity of the American Continent, they would not have come to such a de-
cision which will bring them a dangerous enemy without increasing the
number of their friends. . . .
JULY 1776
505
... It is one thing or the other, either the Americans are still English,
or they no longer are. In the first case it is not for us to make any distinc-
tion between them, nor for England to prescribe to us whom we must admit
and whom we must exclude. In the second case, the Americans are the
enemy of England and we are a neutral power. Shall we say that they are
pirates? They do not commit any acts of piracy against us and it is up to us
to decide how we should treat them.
This, My lord, is the legal aspect of the situation, unless I am mistaken.
If we proceed from there to our political interests, we will probably find
that it is essential for us to weaken a Power which claims sovereignty over
three parts of the world and, after appropriating the empire of the Sea to
itself, applies tyrannical methods to trade.* It is no less than a matter of
breaking the British Power in half. M. de Montesquieu believed that mak-
ing Ireland independent was the only way to achieve this. He could not have
foreseen what is about to happen. Never perhaps has a more important
event offered itself to the speculations of France. The essential thing is not
to fail without disturbing the peace of the other States, if it is possible. The
Ministry that will be able to fulfill this double goal will deserve well of the
country and will receive the homage of posterity.
A few days ago, one of the American supporters asked me this question
with respect to which you had requested some information from me, My
lord. He claims that the Americans are getting ready to put many ships to
sea during the next winter and would like to know if they can leave in
safety in our ports the prizes which they might capture. I replied that this
matter was new and that I could not yet give an answer.
#N[ote] To give you an idea, My lord, of the manner in which these people
think and express themselves, it might be useful to offer you quite a recent
example. The other day, Lord North was speaking of the Dutch in front of
me and was turning their ambition into ridicule as they place themselves on
the same footing with England and say we maritime Powers. It is, Lord
North added, like the story of the shoemaker who lived next door to the
Lord Mayor and said my neig[h]bor and I. Lord Barrington often told me
that we could not become a maritime Power and that the more money we
spent to achieve this goal, the more he would be pleased being certain that
the money will be wasted. I asked him once upon what he based such a
strange opinion while speaking of a Power which has an important trade, a
large population and Coasts extending along both Seas from Dunkerque to
Antibes. He always persisted in his assertion, refusing to reveal his secret.
1. AMAE, Correspondance Politique, Angleterre, vol. 517, LC Photocopy.
Public Advertiser , Friday, July 26, 1776
London [July 26].
Letters from Jamaica, of the 26th of May, mention that Capt. [Alan]
Gardner, of the Maidstone Man of War, had just brought into that Port an
506
EUROPEAN THEATRE
American Ship under French Colours, having 20 Tons of Gunpowder on
board, with 1200 Stands of Arms, and a great Quantity of other warlike
Stores.1
1. Gayton’s prize list shows no vessel with such a cargo taken by the Maidstone. But see
Journal of H.M.S. Maidstone, Volume 4, 1474. The log of H.M.S. Antelope, May 14,
1776, noted that the Maidstone entered Jamaica and also “came in a French Arm’d
Schooner.” PRO, Admiralty 51/39.
“Extract of a Letter from Plymouth, July 26.”1
Last Night arrived the Mercury , of Nantucket, for London, taken the
25th of July [ sic June] by the Cerberus , Captain Symonds [John Symons],
off Block Island, from her Return on a Whale Voyage; she has also on
board a Cargo of a Schooner which had been also a Whaling, which the
Cerberus burnt: The Master of the Prize is Henry Spencer, who says the
Cerberus has taken sixteen Prizes;
1. Public Advertiser, London, July 30, 1776.
27 July
Lords Commissioners, Admiralty, to Lord George Germain1
My Lord, Admiralty Office 27th July 1776.
Vice Admiral [John] Montagu, Commander in Chief of His Majesty’s
Ships at Newfoundland, having acquainted us that having purchased at St
Johns, a Bermudian Vessel Sc Commissioned her by the Name of the Pen-
guin; and it being impossible to get any Guns for her in that Island, he in-
tended to send for 10 or 12 Guns, three Poundrs left in the Charge of Mr
Andw Pinson, a Merchant at York Fort, on the Coast of Labrador, when
the Fort was dismantled last Year by Rear Admiral [Robert] Duff, as the
said Guns would do for the Penguin; and that part of Labrador being
within Genl Carleton’s Govt, We acquaint Your Lordship therewith, in
order that he may be informed thereof. We are Sec
Sandwich C. Spencer H. Palliser
1. PRO, Colonial Office, 5/259, 89.
London Chronicle, Thursday, July 25 to Saturday, July 27, 1776
London [July 27].
Yesterday an account was received that the following ships are abso-
lutely taken by two Provincial privateers, called the Revenge and Montgom-
ery, viz. the brig Heyiry, Blyth, from Barbadoes to Halifax, taken the 28th
of May, laden with rum; the Rover, Hun[t]er, from Antigua to Dublin,
taken the 13th of June, laden with ditto; The Isabella, Kirk, from ditto, for
ditto, taken the 13th of June, loaded with rum; the Harlequin, Goodwin,
from Nevis to ditto, taken the 2d of July, loaded with sugar and rum; the
Devonshire, Fisher, from Antigua to ditto, taken the 1st of July, laden with
St. John’s Harbor, Antigua
508
EUROPEAN THEATRE
rum; the Polly, Lear, from ditto to London, taken the 2d of July, loaded
with sugar and rum, in lat. 34.55. Ion. 53.36.1
Capt. [Christopher] Stephenson arrived in town yesterday, and gives
us the following account of the capture of his ship the Lady Juliana, from
Jamaica to London, in company with the Reynolds, Capt. [Keylock] Rus-
den, from ditto for ditto, and the Juno, Capt. [Samuel] Marsden, from
ditto, for Bristol. “On the 9th and 12th of May last they were attacked by
two American privateers off the Matanzas, bearing S.S.E. and that the Rey-
nolds, Rusden, was taken by the American privateer [Congress'], Capt.
Henry [ sic George McAroy] , mounting six three pounders, and ten swivels,
on the 9th of May; and Lady Juliana, Stevenson, and Juno, Marsden, were
taken by the Chance, Capt. [John] Adams, who mounted four six pound-
ers, and ten swivels, the 12th; that the Provincials put the captains and
passengers on board a Spanish vessel that was leaky, who carried them into
[New] Providence, where the captains purchased a vessel, called the Balti-
more, which is since arrived at Plymouth.”2
The amount of the cargoes of the prizes lately taken by the American
privateers, we are informed, is equal to the sum of 140,000 1.
Capt. Williamson, of the Frances, who was taken with the Jamaica
ships by the Provincial privateers, was told while on board her, that several
privateers were cruizing in the Gulph and windward passage for the home-
ward bound Jamaica ships.3
1. The American privateers, taking these six vessels, were the Revenge, a Massachusetts sloop,
Captain Joseph White, and Montgomery, a Rhode Island sloop. Captain Daniel Bucklin.
2. The captors of the Lady Juliana, Reynolds and Juno, were Pennsylvania privateer sloops.
3. The Frances had been taken by the Revenge and Montgomery, but was released, “being a
Guineaman, in Ballast, and since arrived at Dover,” Public Advertiser, London, July 27,
1776.
Silas Deane to the Committee of Secret Correspondence1
[Extract] [Paris, July 27, 1776] 2
Mons. Chaumont, a very wealthy person, and intendant for providing
clothes, etc. for the French army, has offered me a credit on account of the
Colonies to the amount of one million of livres, which, I have accepted. I
have in treaty another credit, which joined to this, will purchase the articles
directed in my instructions; the credit will be until May next, before which
I hope remittances will be made. I have purchased of said M. Chaumont a
quantity of saltpeter at ten sous, or five and one-fourth per cent., in order
that Captain Morgan might not return empty.
As soon as I have given the orders for dispatching him and settled
some other matters here I design for Dunkirk, to ship the Indian goods,
which I hope may arrive in season for the winter supply, though I leave you
to consider my situation, with only about six or seven thousand pounds to
complete a contract of forty, and the bills for my private expenses being
protested, obliged to support myself out of that capital, which I labor to do
with all the economy in my power. Dr. Bancroft is returned to London, and
JULY 1776
509
by him I wrote to Monsieur Gamier, and agreed on a mode of correspond-
ence. I think your remittances in armed vessels will be much the best
method, and I have ordered Captain Morgan’s sloop to be armed; and
should she arrive safe, recommend him as one I am confident will serve the
Colonies with great zeal and fidelity; and I have had some experience of the
goodness of his temper and his abilities. Mr. Seymour, his mate, is also de-
serving of encouragement as a good seaman and of undaunted resolution. I
am not without hopes of obtaining liberty for the armed vessels of the
LTnited Colonies to dispose of their prizes in the ports of this kingdom, and
also for arming and fitting out vessels of war directly from hence; but I will
not venture on this until I see what effect my last memoir may have, the
substance of which is to show the danger to France and Spain if they per-
mit Great Britain to keep so enormous a force in America and to recover
the dominion of the Colonies; also how fully it is in their power to prevent
it, and by that means deprive Great Britain of the principal source of her
wealth and force, even without hazarding a war of any consequence in point
of danger.
This memoir, which takes several sheets, I am unable to send you a
copy of, as I have no one to assist me, and must make out several copies for
the persons to whom they are to be delivered. I was directed to apply for
arms and clothes for twenty-five thousand men, and for one hundred field
pieces, with ammunition and stores in proportion. This I wished to get of
the ministry direct, but they evaded it, and I am now in treaty for procur-
ing them, through the agency of Monsieur Chaumont and Monsieur Beau-
marchais, on a credit of eight months from the time of their delivery. If I
effect this, as I undoubtedly shall, I must rely on the remittances being
made this fall and winter without fail, or the credit of the Colonies must
suffer. If I can get the arms out of the magazines and the field pieces here I
hope for a much longer credit; but if we send to Sweden for the brass can-
non, the credit will not be lengthened beyond that. Some new improvements
have lately been made in this branch, consequently the cannon now manu-
factured will be preferable to those of former construction. Some engineers
here assert that iron is preferable to brass— that is, wrought iron— out of
which the pieces may be made lighter and to a better purpose. Considering
the want of these pieces and the plenty of iron in America, the experiment
might, I think, be made without delay. I am still in hopes of procuring an
admission of the article of tobacco directly from America, but the Farmers
General will not offer equivalent to the risk.
Without intelligence from April to this time leaves me quite uncertain
and extremely anxious about the line of conduct now pursuing by Congress,
and consequently, I cannot, without further intelligence and instructions,
proceed in my negotiations either with safety or honor. The resolution of
Congress of the 15th of May is not considered by the ministry as a declara-
tion of independence, but only a previous step, and until this decisive step is
taken I can do little more to any purpose. This taken, I dare pledge myself
the United Colonies may obtain all the countenance and assistance they
510
EUROPEAN THEATRE
wish for in the most open and public manner and the most unlimited credit
with the merchants of this kingdom. I must, therefore, urge this measure, if
not already taken, and that the declaration be in the most full and explicit
terms.
Merchants here would speculate deeply in the American trade could
they be insured at any premium within bounds. I wish to know if offices are
already open, and I would suggest that if the Congress would take the in-
surance under their own direction, it would give it such a proportionably
greater credit, that supplies would most certainly be obtained in plenty. I
shall be able to secure a private interview with the Spanish ambassador and
shall present him my memorial, and am in a train which I think will carry
it quite to the fountain head.
Thus I have in a minute, possibly a tedious, detail mentioned every
thing material on my mind which has occurred since my arrival, and submit
the whole to the wisdom and candor of the honorable Congress, observing
that I have gone to the extent of my instructions, and though I have been
successful beyond my expectations, yet I have but been laboring principally
to set certain great wheels in motion, which still want something more deci-
sive on my part, and I am confident of all that is wanting to set them so ef-
fectually moving as to roll the burden and calamities of war from our doors
back with aggravated ruin on its authors, which, if I can be the means of
effecting, the world may bestow the rest of its honors on whom it pleases; I
shall be contented, the extent of my most ambitious hopes thus accom-
plished.
. . . M. Dubourg has continued to render me every assistance in his
power; to be particular would swell this letter beyond all bounds. His abili-
ties and connections are of the first style in this kingdom, and his zeal for
the cause of the United Colonies is to be described only by saying that at
times it is in danger of urging him beyond both; in short, I am every way
deeply indebted to him personally for bringing me acquainted with agreea-
ble persons of rank and character, and on account of my honored constitu-
ents for assisting me to make such a favorable beginning and progress in
my business. I know not how affluent he may be, but as he has really for
some time devoted himself to assist in this negotiation, I am confident some-
thing honorable will be thought of for him. I have complimented him by
asking of him his portrait to be sent to his and my friends in America in my
private capacity, mentioning our mutual friend Dr. Franklin. This I found
so agreeable, that I am confident some such distinction would be more ac-
ceptable than more lucrative rewards. Dr. B[ancroft]. took pains to collect
all the political publications of the last year for me and brought them with
him; he was at considerable expense in his journey; I sent him from Bor-
deaux a bill of thirty pounds and paid his expenses in my lodgings here. At
parting I desired him to keep an account, and when the money was ex-
pended to inform me. This gentleman is certainly capable of giving as good,
if not the best, intelligence of any man in Great Britain, as he is closely con-
nected with the most respectable of the minority in both houses, not partic-
JULY 1776
511
ularly obnoxious to the majority, and for his abilities, they are too well
known to Dr. Franklin to need any attempt to do them justice in a
letter. . . .
Silas Deane
1. Wharton, ed., Revolutionary Diplomatic Correspondence, II, 119-22.
2. The date of this section of Deane’s long letter, begun July 20, is approximated.
28 July (Sunday)
Arthur Lee to Silas Deane1
[Extract] [London] July 28th
... It seems necessary to me that we shoud have an interview to set-
tle a plan with more safety than can be done by Letter, even in Cypher. For
this purpose I woud come to you immediately, but that it being now in the
middle of our Law Circuit, my quitting it abruptly woud be remarkd. That
will be over the 10th of next month; when I will set out to meet you, unless
you shoud think it improper. I have inclosed you a Cypher for greater
safety, 8c beg you will answer me as soon as possible inclosing it to Mr Ald-
erman [William] Lee No 33 great tower Hill, London. If you have no
objection to my coming, be so good as to hire for me a convenient private
Lodging near you, to be enterd the 15th of the month 8c continued in weekly.
Let me know the House, street 8c Quarter, that I may drive to it immedi-
ately because enquiries are always made about those who come to the Ho-
tels. I woud have it taken in the name of Mr Jackson. I beg too that you
will mention precisely where you lodge, that I may find you without inquir-
ies which are dangerous.
Permit me to warn you against any communication whatsoever with
english, Scots or Americans, here or with you, until you are very well as-
surd of their characters, 8c with the middle of the three never. . . .
If you should have an opportunity of writing to — before I see you,
caution them against Sir James Jay, Dennis DeBardt, Mr [John] Langdon
formerly Delegate from N. Hampshire, Paul Wentworth, 8c William Molle-
son a Maryland Mercht with whom Mr [Matthew] Tilghman, a Delegate
for Maryland corresponds without knowing that his intelligence goes di-
rectly to Administration. Col. Mercer too, who is always with ministerial
people shoud not be trusted. I have good reason to fear that Joseph Reed in
Philadelphia is a dangerous man. In these times it is necessary to obstain
from trusting those of whom there is the least suspicion. The Scale is coming
so near to a ballance, that a little treachery may turn it to our destruction,
8c the ruin of public Liberty.
Adieu
1. Stevens, ed., Facsimiles, No. 467.
512
EUROPEAN THEATRE
“Extract of a Letter from Portsmouth, dated July 28. 5,1
This morning sailed from Spithead, the Perseus frigate, Capt. [George
Keith] Elphinston, with all the transports and victuallers under her convoy
for America.
1. London Chronicle, July 27 to July 30, 1776.
Letter from Plymouth1
[Extract] July 28
I send this purposely to inform you, that this Morning arrived here a
Coaster, the Master of which declares, that Yesterday he met with a Top-
sham Pilot-boat, who told him, that between the Start and Torbay he met
with an American Privateer, mounting twelve Carriage Guns, spread a
great deal of Canvas, full of Men, and is painted Black. He asked the Pilot
many Questions; and among the rest, what East or West Indiamen were ex-
pected. When I first heard it, I did not believe it, but sent a Person to the
Captain of the Coaster, who confirmed the above Account, so that I believe
it true, and would have you make it public at Lloyd’s, Sec.
1. Public Advertiser, London, August 5, 1776.
29 July
Public Advertiser , Monday, July 29, 1776
London, July 29.
The ni,ne English Ships, mentioned in Saturday’s Paper, were all taken
by two Provincial Privateers, with the greatest Ease, after they had been
convoyed 150 Leagues from the Ports they respectively sailed from, and left
by the Men of War under a Supposition that they were totally out of Dan-
ger. The privateers which took them were but thinly manned, and weakly
armed. One carried ten and the other twelve Guns. Several of the Ships had
a greater Number, but (which is very extraordinary) no Powder on board,
the Governors of the Places they sailed from not allowing any to be shipped
for fear enough should not remain with them to defend their Situations in
Case of an Attack, which was something more than probable.1
A petition is preparing by the West India Merchants, to be laid before
the Admiralty, praying there Lordships to appoint Cruizers and Convoys
for the better Protection of their Trade.
The certain advice received on Friday of nine sail of ships being taken
by the American privateers, have raised the insurance on all Jamaica ships,
and ships from the West-India islands 20 per cent, more than it was before;
and many of the underwriters even refuse to enter their names on a policy;
for they look upon it a very hazardous venture, as there are a vast number
of privateers out to intercept our homeward bound West-India ships.
1* There were ten vessels named, and this refers to the seven taken by the privateers Revenge,
12, and Montgomery, 10 guns.
JULY 1776
513
30 July
London Gazette , Saturday, July 27 to Tuesday, July 30, 1776
Admiralty-Office [London] , July 30.
By Letters received from Captain Douglas, of His Majesty’s Ship Isis,
dated at Quebec the 26th and 27th of last Month, it appears, That immedi-
ately after raising the Siege of Quebec, of which he gave an Account in his
Letters of the 8th and 15th of May, every proper Measure was taken to fa-
cilitate the farther Operations against the Rebels, by sending down the
River all the Pilots which could be procured to bring up the Transports that
were daily expected with General Burgoyne from England and Ireland;
and, that no Time might be lost on their Arrival, he had provided Pilots for
the upper River, and placed Frigates and Armed Vessels in proper Stations
to assist and escort them; and also, lest the Transports should be prevented
by contrary Winds from sailing up the River, he had stationed Vessels with
Provisions at proper Places, for the Use of the Troops, if they should be
obliged to disembark and march by Land. By these Dispositions, all the
Transports with Troops which had Pilots on Board, proceeded up the River
without stopping at Quebec, and arrived at Three Rivers Time enough to
defeat the Rebels, and afterwards drive them from St. John’s and all their
Posts below Lake Champlain. Captain Douglas in the same Letter says, that
the prudent and spirited Behaviour of Captain [Henry] Harvey, of the
Martin Sloop, cannot be too much commended; and that the Zeal, Vigour,
and Unanimity, of His Majesty’s Servants on both Elements were scarcely
equalled on any other Occasion within his Remembrance. He also writes
that he was, in Concert with General Carleton, considering upon a proper
Establishment for Armed Vessels to be employed on the Lakes Champlain
and Ontario, and in contriving the most expeditious Means of getting them,
with other Craft on the said Lakes, in order to the better accelerating the
Passage of the Army; and that Captain Harvey, of the Martin, was return-
ing to Sorel, in order to examine into the Means of floating between Camels
(as is practised in Russia and Holland) through the Rapids of Chamble into
Lake Champlain, the Six Armed Vessels, one of which was already arrived
from England, and the others hourly expected.
By a Letter received from Vice-Admiral Young, dated at Antigua the
31st of May last, it appears, that Captain [Henry] Bryne, of His Majesty’s
Ship the Hind, which had been sent on Service to St. Augustine in the Prov-
ince of Georgia, having Intelligence that the Rebels were fitting Armed Ves-
sels in the adjacent Rivers, and being at Anchor off Sunbury River, he
ordered Lieutenant [Alexander] Ellis, of the Hinchinbrooke Armed
Schooner, with the ship’s Tender and Boats, mann’d and arm’d, to proceed
over the Bar, where they set on Fire a Brig that was loading, and a Ship on
the Stocks, intended by the Rebels for a Privateer to carry 20 Guns. It fur-
ther appears from the Admiral’s aforementioned Letter, that since the Ac-
count transmitted in his Letter of the 3d of March, and published in the Ga-
514
EUROPEAN THEATRE
zette of the 8th of last Month, the Cruizers under his Command had seized
Seventeen more Ships and Vessels, either belonging to or employed in
carrying on a Trade with His Majesty s Rebellious Subjects in North Amer-
ica.
Public Advertiser , Tuesday, July 30, 1776
London, July 30.
When the Advice arrived on Friday last, relative to the Captures made
on our Shipping by the Americans, all the West-India Merchants immedi-
ately locked up their Warehouses, as not knowing what Value to set on Rum
and Sugar, and the other Commodities produced in the American Islands.
Penet & Pliarne to Silas Deane1
Nantes, 30 July 1776.
Sir, I could not sooner send you the enclosed samples of the same cloth
which I have sent to the Continent. I can deliver one hundred thousand
ells of this material in different colors at 5#. 2 6#. 7# per ell in French money.
You will not be able to judge the quality and beauty of this cloth from the
samples alone, but they will show you the colors.
We have also twenty thousand wool blankets available from 4# to 6#
each.
I can supply you with all the items and I assure you that you cannot
expect such good quality, low prices and immediate service from anyone
else in Europe but our firm.
I have just made arrangements for guns. I can send you 30 thousand
for 12# or 13# apiece, similar to those which I have sent to the Congress
and which are quite reliable. Again, I renew my offers to be of service
and I hope, Sir, that you will have enough confidence in our Nantes firm to
give it the preference of your trade, since we are already trusted by the
Continent and we have six vessels directed to our firm sailing for the account
of private persons from the Northern provinces and which we are going to
load with such articles.
I have received orders to have uniforms made for the regiments of some
provinces, which I shall do immediately.
If you wish to deal with our Nantes firm for your supplies, I beg you
to let me know by the first mail so that I may make other arrangements if it
is not convenient for you. Two ships are to get under way any time and if
you wish to have a few things sent there, I beg you to let me know.
In Bordeaux, our office is in the hands of Recules de Basmarin & Raim-
baux. My associate M Gruel wrote to them. They will have the honour to
offer you their services. You can trust them fully. It is a wealthy firm in
that city.
JULY 1776
515
Allow me, Sir, to warn you about the Irish and Scottish firms in Bor-
deaux, or any other places in the kingdom. I have good ground for com-
plaining about them. They are our worst enemies.
I am also advising you that I refused the guns which you saw in Paris.
They tried to deceive me and make me pay twice as much for them as they
are worth. It is scandalous: they wanted them to be loaded without allowing
me to see them. But I did not do it and refused them. It would have been
disloyal and deceitful to the Congress if I had shipped such weapons. I have
a factory which supplies me with as many as I want and which charges me
half as much for much better weapons. I have the honor to be with the most
sincere consideration, Sir, [&c.]
Pliarne Penet & Co.
1. Silas Deane Papers, ConnHS.
2. Francs.
31 July
Public Advertiser, Wednesday, July 31, 1776
London, July 31.
A private Letter from Philadelphia, which came by the Way of Ireland,
says, that the General Congress have sent Agents to Genoa, and other
Ports, to purchase Ships of War from 40 to 80 Guns;1 and have ordered, in
every Port they have, large Ships to be built as fast as possible, as they in-
tend next Spring to have a very powerful Fleet.
1. Appearance of this fanciful item undoubtedly prompted the following spurious paragraph,
which appeared in the Public Advertiser , London, on August 2:
The following is taken from a Letter received by a Merchant in the City, which
came by the Way of France from Philadelphia, dated June 1. ‘The 28th ult.
arrived in this Port three Ships Genoese built, which mounted 64, 56, and 48
Guns each. They are named the Defence , Cumberland, and Supreme. Each
Vessel is provided with close Quarters, and boarding Nets, &c.’
Public Advertiser, Saturday, August 3, 1776
Canterbury, July 31.
On Monday [July 29] about Twelve o’Clock, a Sloop arrived in the
Downs, having on board Capt. Risden [Keylock Rusden] , and a Part of his
Crew, his Ship and Cargo being taken by a small Provincial Privateer the
latter End of May, at the Mouth of the Gulph of Florida;1 the Captain
being put on Shore, had, by the Assistance of some Friends, purchased the
above Sloop, in which he returned to England.
1. Rusden was master of the ship Reynolds taken by the Pennsylvania privateers Congress and
Chance .
516
EUROPEAN THEATRE
George Ross and James Hodges to Philip Stephens1
(c°py)
Sir, Sloop Yankey Off Dover July 31st 1776.
We beg you will acquaint the Rt Hble the Lords Commissrs of the Ad-
miralty, that the Ship Zachary Bailly from Jamaica bound to London, and
Creighton from Antigua for America (with Rum for the Use of His Maj-
esty’s Forces) whereof we were Masters, was taken by the Privateer Yan-
key [Yankee} of Boston, Henry Johnson Commander, of Nine four Pound-
ers, Sixteen Swivels and forty three Men; the former was taken the
[blank] June in Lat: 29°. 54. No Longe. 70°. 30 W. the latter the 26th of
the same Month in Lat: 31°. 00 Longe in 68°. 30 W. —
We were taken on board the Yankey with eight of Our CrewTs, with Mr
Rd Rouse Master’s Mate & three Seamen belonging to His Majts Ship Exper-
iment, who had been Passengers in the Creighton 8c a few days after
parted Company with the Prizes, each to make the best of their way to some
Port in the Massachusets Bay. But on the 3d of July then in Lat: 36°. 40 N.
8c Long 65.00 W. We embraced a favorable opportunity to seize Capt John-
son 8c the Centinels upon the Quarter Deck, and with the assistance of Our
People got Command of the Deck without Bloodshed; Immediately after
taking the Vessel discovered two Sloops in chace of us, which we suppose
were American Privateers, being greatly inferior in number to the Prison-
ers on board 8c unable to fight all our Guns, declined an Engagement 8c bore
away for England.
We cannot help expressing our apprehension, about the safety of the
Jamaica Ships, having seen several American Cruizers in their track.
Upon our arrival in London shall Personally wait upon you to be Hon-
ored with their Lordships Commands relative to the Privateer 8c her Crew,
they act under the Commission of the President of their Congress; The
Flag a Pine tree in a White Field, with the Inscription Appeal to Heaven.
We have the Honour to be with great Respect Sir, [8cc.]
Geo: Ross James Hodges
Inclosed is a List of the Prisoners on board the Sloop Yankey when taken2
[Enclosure]
JULY 1776
517
A List of the Crew of the Privateer Yankey, Henry Johnson Commander,
when taken.
No Men’s Names.
Quality. What Country - Native
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
Henry Johnson
Elip[hale]t Downour3
Abijah Keys -
Nathl Stone
Wm Whitmarsh
Josh Rockwell
Benjn Tippell
Danl Kelly
Jno Kelly
Benjn Buckskine
Thos Battson
James Long
Jno Pearson
David Hall
Jno Cockran
Wm Sowerby
Archd Hunter
Wm Broadway
Chas Grant
Danl Sparrahawke
Timo Chein
Walter Hogg
Jno Anderson
2 Negro Slaves
Commander - "
Surgeon -
A
Gunner
Boatswain
>
of America.
of Great Britain
& Ireland.
1. PRO, State Papers, 42/49, 78b, 78c.
2. On this date Stephens sent a copy of the letter and enclosure to Lord George Germain. Ibid
78a.
3. Dr. Eliphalet Downer.
“Extract of a letter from Dover, July 3 1.”1 2
The Zachary Bayley, from Jamaica for London; and the Creighton,
from Antigua, with rum for the army, were taken by the Yankee privateer,
Captain Johnson, carrying nine four pounders, 16 swivels, and 43 men. The
prizes were sent to New England, and the masters together with a midship-
man of the Experiment man of war, who was a passenger, and eleven sea-
men, were taken on board the privateer. On the third of July they seized the
privateer, without bloodshed, and have brought her to Dover. They were
chased by two sloops, whom they imagined to be American privateers, but
durst not engage them because of the number of prisoners they had on
board.
Captain Johnson (the American commander of the privateer) com-
plained of the illiberal treatment he received, by being insulted frequently
518
EUROPEAN THEATRE
while at sea, calling him by the most opprobrious names, and threatening
him with the cruellest and most savage punishments, and also for suffering
many people to come on board after the privateer arrived in the river, to in-
sult him in the grossest terms, though he was then a prisoner; and when his
brother came to see him, after a three years absence, they were not permit-
ted to talk together one minute in private.
The prisoners on board the Yankee privateer, having petitioned not to
be close confined, but that they might be put to some employment, upon
which it was agreed that they should be placed on board the guardships.
The vessel was afterwards ordered to be sold, and the money to be given to
the captors.
1. Almon, ed.. Remembrancer, III, 237.
Lord Stormont to Lord Weymouth1
Most Secret
No 57 Paris July 31. 1776
My Lord As great Latitude is left me, in the Execution of the orders
transmitted me, in Yr Lordships Letter No 29, 2 and as the Business is of
considerable Nicety, as well as Importance, I will venture to state to Your
Lordship, what has occurred to me upon it, after turning it much in
Thoughts, and weighing it with all the Attention I can. — The objections to
an unfavourable answer, are too obvious to be dwelt upon, and that in the
present moment, we should receive such an answer as we wish, is more than
I can bring myself to expect; Besides the desire, this Court naturally have,
to protract the American War, till it waste our strength and Treasure,
which desire, must make them averse to anything, that tends to damp the
Hopes of the Rebels, They think My Lord, that France is a Gainer, by the
Trade, she is beginning to carry on with America, and in a great commer-
cial, and Natural View, would as much wish to wound the Act of Naviga-
tion, as we must always wish, to keep that valuable act entire. To
strengthen this general reasoning, I must add, that I have been, more than
once, informed, that the leading Opinion in the french Cabinet is, that they
should give us friendly Professions, but should avoid any Step, that can
tend to discourage the Rebels; that they should in a Word, lie by, wait the
event, and take Council from it. I have been informed too, that the giving
a declaration in writing, that they would not suffer the Rebels, to be sup-
plied with Ammunition, was by some of the french King’s Ministers, con-
sidered as an oversight. — Your Lord Ship remembers, that, that Declara-
tion was given me, upon my first shewing M de Vergennes, an Office Ld
Grantham8 had past to M Grimaldi,4 and that Ministers answer to his
Lordship; and then, passing an office of a Simular Nature, and conceived al-
most in the same Words. Perhaps My Lord, the same Method Might Succeed
again. If Spain, whose Trade with the American Rebels, is much less Con-
siderable, than that of France, could be brought to give such a Prohibition,
as Portugal has given; this Court might perhaps in that case, be induced to
JULY 1776
519
follow the Example of their Ally; tho they would, I doubt, not follow that, of
a Court so closely connected with us as Portugal, who must consider our
Prosperity, as inseparable from her own.
I can assure Your Lordship, that the Naval Preparations, carrying on
in the Different Ports of France, are as they ought to be, the object of my
Constant attention. I am not at present, able to add any thing very Material,
to the Accounts I have already sent you. The Intelligence, which I gave
your Lordship by the last Messenger, and gave it as very doubtful, I am
now convinced is Not true. No orders have been given, to slacken these
Preparations, The more probable opinion is, that they have been quickened
— Upon the first arrival of the News from Spain, Monsr D’Aranda,5 as I
am positively assured, went both to Monsieur de Maurepas, and M. de Sar-
tines, and insisted Strongly, upon the Necessity of carrying on all these
naval Preparations with double Vigour, and pressed much for orders to be
sent to the different Ports.
It seems to me very doubtful, whether his Request was complied with. I
have been again informed, from pretty good authority, that he held the
Language I mentioned in my Letter No 55, He has since changed his Tune,
and now says, that M de Maurepas, and he, reasoned differently at first, but
that at last, that Minister came over to his Opinion; But this Language may
be artificial. — I am inclined to think My Lord, that if any orders were sent
in consequence of his application, it was only par Maniere d’ acquit , and
that this Portugal Business, has made no alteration in the Plan of this
Court which is, to go on with these Preparations, as fast as the funds, allot-
ted for that service, will permit. There must, as I have already observed to
Yr Lordship, soon be a Diminution, of the Activity with which they are car-
ried on, unless the four additional Millions, M de Sartines demands, can be
found. This will be the more difficult, as their Treasury is certainly at a low
Ebb at present, and no body imagines, that M Clugny’s Management will in-
crease the Revenue.
There are Letters from the Neighbourhood of Toulon which say, that
the Preparations there, are carrying on with uncommon Activity; upon the
strength of these Letters, and of the Reports that are so prevalent here,
(where War has been much talked of, since the first News from Spain) a
foreign Minister, with whom I am very intimate, spoke to M de Vergennes
Yesterday, and pressed him home — He said, “That in Consequence, of
what His Excellency had been pleased to tell him some time ago, He had as-
sured his Court, that the present sentiments of France, were perfectly pa-
cific; and that the Naval Preparations she was making had no hostile View,
But that now, that he heard so much, from various Quarters, of the Activ-
ity, and Vigour, with which these Preparations were carrying on, He took
the Liberty to ask him again, whether they were going to make any Arma-
ment. He added, that he had no Right to expect to be let into Secrets, but
that armaments could not long be concealed, and he was persuaded His Ex-
cellency had too much friendship for him, to expose him to the disgrace, of
giving his Court false Information, upon so essential a Point. [”] M de
520
EUROPEAN THEATRE
Vergennes answered him, with every appearance of openess, and Sincerity,
begged him, not to credit the Reports of Paris, which would certainly mis-
lead him, said, that what they were doing in their Ports, should not be
called “des Preparatifs” , c’etoit seulement des Mesures de Surete, et de Pre-
voiance.[”\ He added, that he was very sensible, that any armament, in
the present Moment, would give an Alarm, but assured him most positively,
that no armament was making, no armament was intended.
What adds Credit to these assurances, for the Truth of which, both M.
Maurepas and M. de Vergennes, have repeatedly pledged themselves, is, the
moderation with which they have certainly acted, in this Portugal Business.
Such Conduct is, I think, a strong Earnest of their pacific Intentions, had
they meant or wished a War, they would have inflamed, instead of Mollify-
ing the Resentment of Spain. Tho’ I think it my Duty, to state things exactly
as I see them, and upon that principle, represent the present French Minis-
try, as friends to Peace, Yet I am very far from meaning to say any thing,
that could tend, to lull us into security, having ever been persuaded, that
our only real Safety, against such a Rival who will always wish, if she does
not Meditate Revenge, is, that which we derive from our own Vigilance,
and superior Naval Strength. I am with great truth and regard My Lord
[Sec.]
Stormont
1. PRO, State Papers, 78/299.
2. See under July 26.
3. British Ambassador to Spain.
4. Spanish Minister of State.
5. Spanish Ambassador to France who brought news of the disputes along the Spanish-Portuguese
border.
1 Aug.
Lords Commissioners, Admiralty, to Captain James Orrok,
H.M. Sloop Hazard , Leith1
Whereas we have received information that several Vessels belonging
to His Majesty’s Rebellious Subjects in North America, have arrived in the
Ports of Holland Sc other Northern States; And whereas there is reason to
believe that some of them will attempt to return to North America, North
about with Cargoes of Gun Powder Sc Ammunition, for the use of the Reb-
els; You are hereby required 8c directed, forthwith to proceed with the
Sloop you command, together with the Alarm Cutter (whose Commander is
directed to follow your Orders) and Cruize off Fair Island, between the
Isles of Orkney Sc Shetland, stretching occasionally to the Northward of the
latter, and diligently to look out for, and use your best endeavours to inter-
cept, and seize, all such Vessels as you may fall in with belonging to His
Majesty’s said Rebellious Colonies, bringing them into Port to be proceeded
against as the Law directs.
AUGUST 1776
521
If the Alarm Cutter is not at Leith, you will send the inclosed Order2
for her Commander to Dundee (where he is to call for Orders) with such
directions as you may judge proper to give him respecting his joining you.
You are to continue upon this Service for one Month, and at the expira-
tion thereof, proceed to the Isles of Shetland yourself, in the Sloop, and send
Lieut Wardlaw, in the Cutter, to the Isles of Orkney, in order to raise as
many Voluntier Seamen Sc Seafaring Men for His Majesty’s Fleet as you
shall respectively be able, in the course of a Week or ten Days, and then re-
pair to Leith, and put them on board any Tender that may be there to be
brought to the Nore, giving us an Account of your Arrival Sc proceedings.
You are then to proceed to your Cruizing Station between St Abbs-
head Sc Cromarty, and Cruize agreeable to former Orders, directing the
Lieutenant of the Cutter to do the like. Given &c, 1st. Augt 1776.
Sandwich J Buller H Palliser
By &c G. J.
1. PRO, Admiralty 2/101, 255-57.
2. Ibid.
Lords Commissioners, Admiralty, to Lieutenant James Gordon,
H.M.S. Boulogne } Spithead1
Whereas Lord George Germain, One of His Majts Principal Secretaries
of State, hath desired that an Officer and sixty Recruits which are at pres-
ent assembled at Portsmouth, in readiness to embark for North America,
may be carried thither in the Ship you command, You are hereby required
and directed to receive the said Officer and Recruits on board, and with the
first opportunity of Wind and Weather proceed to Sea, and make the best of
your way to Halifax in Nova Scotia, where on your arrival you are to land
them - Having so done and delivered the Ship and the Stores with which
she is laden, into the charge of the proper Officers, and disposed of the Super-
numeraries in such manner as the Commander in Chief of His Majts Ships
there, for the time being shall direct, You are to return to England by the
first opportunity, sending Us an account of your arrival and proceedings
You are to victual the Officer and Recruits abovemention’d in like man-
ner as Land Forces are usually victualled, during their continuance on
board Given under our Hands the 1st Augt 1776
Sandwich C: Spencer H. Palliser
By command of their Lordships PS
By Express at 4. P.M.
1. PRO, Admiralty 2/101, 250-51.
Public Advertiser , Thursday, August 1, 1776
London, August 1.
Yesterday Morning arrived in the River the Baltimore , Capt. Bennett,
from New Providence, which ship brought home Capt. Stevens [Christo-
522
EUROPEAN THEATRE
pher Stephenson] of the Lady Juliana, and Capt. Rusdan, [Keylock
Rusden] of the Reynolds, Jamaica Ships, which were taken by the Provin-
cial Privateers.
George Ross to Philip Stephens1
Sir Sloop Yankee August 1st 1776 —
I beg the favor you will acquaint the Right Honble The Lords Commis-
sioners of the Adrnty that I arrived at our Moorings below Ratcliff Cross
with the Privateer Sloop Yankee Inclosed you will receive the Captains
Commission and Instructions and shou’d be glad to be Honored with their
Lordships directions relative to the Disposal of the Prisoners and Vessel I
have the Honor to be Sir [&c.]
George Ross2
1. PRO, State Papers, 42/49, 79b.
2. Stephens forwarded a copy of this letter and enclosures to Lord Germain. Ibid., 79a.
2 Aug.
M. Garnier to Vergennes1
[Extract] London, 2 August 1776
You know, My lord, that Lord Weymouth mentioned our armaments
only once and without pressing the matter. The more lightly he treated this
matter, the more concerned he was, as I realized. Since then, he did not
mention it to me any more. The other Ministers never spoke to me about it.
Silence in such delicate matters is always suspicious; consequently I am
more attentive than ever to all the movements of the English Navy. I had
the honor to inform you previously that four Line of Battle Ships had been
newly commissioned to serve as Guardships; orders have been given for six
more to be commissioned for the same purpose, to wit, the Sandwich, 90,
and St. Alban, 64, for Portsmouth; the Queen , 90, and the Bienfaisant, 64,
for Plymouth; the Prince George, 90, and the Augusta, 64, for Chatham. A
large quantity of cables, masts and rigging are being sent to Halifax. Three
new Frigates are building. Finally, we have intelligence from Plymouth
that the Belleisle of 64 is destined for the East Indies; that the Sloop Spy
which was brought to this port by Sailors belonging to the Yachts in Dept-
ford, formed her crew with detachments from Guardships with the addition
of 20 Marines, and that she sailed on the 25th of last month for Newfound-
land. You will also recall, My lord, the information I had the honor to send
you with respect to 50 Vessels being furnished with arms to transport sup-
plies to America. The Government also purchased a large Vessel called
Union from the India Company. She received the name of Elephant and is
being equipped with 16 guns to sail for America.
I can only see one reason behind all these maritime preparations. They
are preparing here a large armament in case it should be needed. Among
AUGUST 1776
523
the Ships being brought to seaworthy condition, two are in want of repair
and will necessarily require time. Furthermore, men are needed for their
crews, and at the moment they are in America. Thus, this fleet should not be
ready to put to sea before the end of this year, and this only with the help of
an impressment. But if it should take place on any pretext, the most sudden
and vigorous course on our part, My lord, if I may express my opinion, is
that which will ensure our safety.
. . . But of all these preparations, I must confess that I [am] most
concerned with the least noticeable one. I am speaking of the expedition of
the Sloop Spy to Newfoundland. The Squadron which is cruising in that Sea
left a long time ago and I cannot imagine why this Ship should be sent at
this time. But our weak condition in this part of the world, the importance
for England to get hold of our best sailors early at the beginning of a war,
the ease with which it can be done and our unfortunate experience in the
past will always give me great cause to worry. It may be also that our Cor-
respondent in Plymouth is ill-informed because the Office of the Navy indi-
cated her destination as America. I am doing my best to find out the truth
about the destination of this Sloop and the real purpose of her mission.2
The Frigates Perseus and Richmond left Portsmouth on the 30th of
last month with 15 transports loaded with recruits, war ammunition and
victuals for America.
1. AMAE, Correspondance Politique, Angleterre, vol. 517, LC Photocopy.
2. The Sloop Spy, Captain William Shackerly, was ordered with dispatches to Newfoundland on
July 11, PRO, Admiralty 2/101, 233.
Silas Deane to the Committee of Secret Correspondence1
[Extract] [Paris] August 22
I should have sent this off earlier, but delayed on account of hearing
something more directly, if I might depend on certain articles for which I
was in treaty; I am now assured I may, and the whole will be ready to ship
in all the month of October. My next labor will be to obtain a convoy, which
I do not despair of, though it is a delicate question, and I have only sounded
at a distance, yet I have no doubt of obtaining one, at least off the coast of
Europe, and the articles will be shipped as for the West India Islands. I pro-
pose arming and well manning the vessels in which these articles shall be
embarked, and I advise again the sending all remittances to Europe in
armed vessels. The probability of meeting with English merchants is well
worth the risk. I hope that it will be considered that one hundred field
pieces, and arms, clothing, and accoutrements, with military stores for
twenty-five thousand men, is a large affair; and that, although I am prom-
ised any credit, yet as they must be paid for, the sooner the better, if to be
done without too great a risk.
A considerable part of these articles are now on hand, and orders are
issued for the others by the contractors this day. I prefer Bordeaux to any
524
EUROPEAN THEATRE
other port for shipping them from, but the remittances must be made to
several, on which I will give you my opinion in my next.
1. Wharton, ed., Revolutionary Diplomatic Correspondence, II, 122-23.
2. Continuation of letter begun July 20, 1776.
3 Aug.
Public Advertiser , Saturday, August 3, 1776
London, August 3.
Yesterday Morning Insurance on Ships from Jamaica for London was
done at 20 1. and from the Leeward Islands at 15 per Cent.
Penet 8c Pliarne to Nicholas and John Brown, Providence1
Gentn Nantes 3d. August 1776
We have Reed the honor of your first letter of the 23d April By Capt
[Gideon] Crawford, who arrived at Nantes In the Ship happy Return ,2 we
have made the Best Returns we Could of his Cargo. However we have not
Sold to such advantage as we could have wish’d, but we hope nevertheless
you will find your account in it, 8c that you will be Entirely Satisfied with
the Merchadize we Send you in Return, which Consist of such Articles as
the Capt Demanded of us. you may be Assured they are of the first Qual-
ity 8c the Lowest prices having Obtaind them from the first hands.
The Invoice Annexed will Inform you the Sales of your Fish Oil Whale
Oil 8c Staves, you will Also find a State of the Cargo Remitted him, the price
Charges 8c Commission. Another of your Vessells to our address Capt saml
Avery In the Ship Sally 3 Laden with Refind Fish Oil, Common Oil 8c whale
Oil 8c Staves, we hope to dispose of his Cargo Immediately 8c Dispatch him
with the goods he may Demand we Shall be pleasd to hear of his Safe ar-
rival with you.
We pray the Lord to Bless him 8c Preserve him from Our Cruel
Ennemys, As We understand by your Letter you Intend to Send us Vessells
this Winter, herewith you have account of Necessary Cargo, Tobacco, Rice,
Indigo, Bees Wax undressd Deer Skins, Fox Skins, Beaver Skins with all
Kinds of Furrs that you may have - hemp, Salt Beef, Iron In Barrs — Fish
Oil, Sperm Oil, a quantity of Staves for Sugar Hhds the Largest you may
have
We have agreed or Contracted with the fermiers General of France for
Twenty thousand Tons Tobacco. Consequently have power to Enter it
Freely in our port of Nantes, if you Can furnish us the whole quantity, it is
the Best Cargo you Can Send us, if not, Bees Wax, Rice 8c Furrs. On Each
of these Articles I mention you may Speculate with Safety 8c be Sure they
will Come to good market In France. In few days we shall dispatch 2 Ves-
sells to our address from Virginia, also a Vessell we have Load[e]d for the
Congress. I do not purpose to Come to your Colonies before the End of your
AUGUST 1776
525
War, my presence in France is much needed for the Operation of Business
for the Continent my Place of Residence is at Nantes, it is the most Advan-
tageous port of any in France for your Ships a River that Extends 150
Leagues into the Kingdom which Facilitates the Circulation of any Mer-
chandize whatsoever, In Consequence Large purchases are made of Every
kind of Merchandize, these are the Reasons I would Engage you to give
this port the preference for your Ships, 8c that of Mr James Gruel, Island
Feydeaux at Nantes.4 It is one of the Best houses of this port, 8c with whom
you may safely Confide your Interests, it is Likewise the Only house that
has power to Expedite yr Vessells Thus Gentn you may address them all
your Vessels 8c those of your friends whenever they Come Recommended
from you, you may be Assured that all those that Come to our Address, will
be dispatch’d Imdtly, 8c we will Serve them as no other Vessell will be — We
have the Facility to procure you all kind of Goods that you may need Dry
Goods or Warlike Stores
I Can give you no Account of the Sentiments of France, Concerning
your War, I will acquaint you Only, be assured that you do not want
Friends here, 8c that they will not let you want for any thing. We Will put
you in a Condition to Support yourselves against your Ennemys, we are In
daily Expectation, 8c In hopes to Forward good Tidings to the Honorable
Congress.
How does Our good Capt Wm Rhodes of Providce give my Compts to
him 8c our dear Professor who speaks French, I pray you Remit this Let-
ter to Mr [Nicholas] Cooke. We have the honor to be most Perfectly
[Sec.]
Pliarne Penet 8c Co
P.S We Expect Warlike Stores. 8c Quantity Cloths, Linens, 8c Blankets 8cc
In order to Dispatch Vessells as quick as possible that they may Return to
you before winter is Over I would recommend you Mr Pliarnes Son, if he
Should need any thing, he will draw on me — I pray you forward all my Let-
ters to their Several addresses -
1. Nicholas Brown Papers, JCBL.
2. See Volume 4, 1215-16 and 1481.
3. See Volume 4, 1482.
4. Gruel wrote a lengthy letter to the Browns this date enclosing an invoice of goods shipped
on board the Happy Return for her return passage, and explaining why whale oil
would not sell in France. He noted that bees wax, timber, staves, rice and flour “are the
articles which will yield the most profit.” Nicholas Brown Papers, JCBL.
Penet 8c Pliarne to Benjamin Franklin 1
Sir, At Nantes the 3 August 1776 -
We have the Honour to write you by Capn Crawford of Rhode Island
that Mr [Nicholas] Brown of Providence consign’d to us at Nants, whoom
we have dispatched with a Cargo of Powder Muskets salt peter Sec a, who
promis’d to deliver you this.
View of the Port of Bordeaux.
AUGUST 1776
527
I had the honour to inform you in May last at my arrival in Europe of
the success of my opperations, and of the advantageous dispositions I met
with, now I will inform you have embarked in your ship the Hancock a
Cargo of Muskets Saltpeter Powder Tin Lead 8cca amounting to 60 or 70
thousand Livers, which sum only M. Schweighauzer could pay us. We are
forced Sir to acquaint you that all the Houses you have in spain and Portu-
gal use you very 111 and make no remittances to Nantes, we have now in our
stores Goods ready to send you to the amount of Forty thousand Guineas,
but two of your Ships have arrived here from Cadiz in Ballast one is the
Hancok and the other the Adams, the last brought no money, We askd Mr
Schweighauzer if he would answer for the Cargo which we were desirous to
deliver to the Capn on his paying us when he should have money of yours in
his hands, he told us he could not take that on himself, notwithstanding
Sir as we have the greatest Confidence in you and the Honourable Congress,
we shall immediatly dispatch this Vessell with a Cargo of Ammunition, pro-
vided however we can obtain from Manufactorers, the credit we require,
and we beg you will send us remittances by the first oppertunity, we request
it less on our own Account than by the desire we have of serving so respect-
able a Nation as yours, you may depend on our willingness to do every thing
in our Power for your assistance.
I have seen Mr Dean formerly a Member of your secret Committy as
well as Mr Morriss’ brother2 we have offer’d them our services at Paris, we
carry on our buisness seperately without communicating our Opperations to
one another, if our house can be useful to them they may dispose of it.
Several Vessells have been consign’d to us from Rhode Island and
Virginia they have been dispatched in few Days with good Cargos and
we can flatter Ourselves that all Vessells consign’d to us will meet with
equal dispatch as we have taken our measures in consequence.
We have obtain’d a written Permission for twenty thousand hogds of
tobaco, by on recipt of this Congress may remit us what quantity they
please and we will warrant their admition in our Ports.
If you have any yellow Wax, Rice and Furs they are articles on which
you might obtain great Profits.
We hope Sir, that Congress will have sufficient Great Confidence in us
to consign directly to us their Vessells loaded with your Produce, we can
safely warrant and assure you that we can dispose annually of those four
Articles to the Amount of Fifteen Millions this Currency, and send you in
return immediatly on the arrival of the ships any quantity and kind of
Merchandize you may require.
We have now at our disposal and in our Manufactorys, Cloth for your
soldiers and Blankets of a good quality and Cheap, you may inquire of Mr
Brown of Providence to whom we have remitted some.
If Mr Dean applies to us for his opperations he shall be served
immediatly if not he will find the difference, the name and Direction of
our House at Nantes is Mr Jques Gruel Isle feydeau at Nantes, one of the
best in the Place and in which you may place an entire confidence. I recom-
528
EUROPEAN THEATRE
mend it to you as the fittest house for your Operations, and will serve you
with all possible exactitude. I take the Liberty to recommend M Pliarne to
you and beg you will let him have what money he may want and Congress
may take his Draughts on me for the amount.
Will you be pleased to assure the Members of the Honourable the Con-
gress — Secret Committy and all those I have the honour to be acquainted
with of my Zeal, and of the desire I have of procuring them all possible
assistance I dare flatter myself that I shall more and more merit their
Confidence, 8c have no other Interest than to oblige your Nation, support
Liberty and sacrifice myself for your Country as which I regard as my own,
such are my Sentiments and those of my Freinds who are concern’d with me.
My Presence in France is too necessary, being obliged to transact the
secret affairs myself, to permit me to return to the Continent before the
End of the Warr, unless you think proper I should go sooner, my residence
is at Nants at the House of M. Jques Gruel Mercht it is the most advanta-
geous Port in France for your ships, its River runs 150 Leagues into the
heart of the Kingdom and facilitates the transport of all kind of Goods,
consequently there are large purchases made in this City of all kinds,
which induced me to fix on it as the fittest for your affairs, here you may
send all your ships, I will be answerable for the disposal of their Cargos,
if you send to Bordeaux Direct to Mesrs Recule de Basmarin 8c Raim-
baux, at Cadiz to Mesrs Deiaville Brothers, with orders to advise Mr Jques
Gruel at the arrival of each ship Consign’d to them, so that they may dis-
pose of the Cargos and their produce to satisfie your demands.
Mistrust the Irish and scotch houses in Europe. I have reasons to give
you this Caution — send no more ships to Lisbon.
Pliarne, Penet 8c Co
I have the Honour to write to General Washington, I ask him a favour
would you be pleased to sollicit it for me, I shall think my self happy to
merit it, that is that he would grant me the title and Commission without
sallary, of his first Aid de Camp, that I may have the Honour to wear the
uniform and the Ribbon they have when I shall have the pleasure to appear
before, I shall be greatly obliged to you if you can send me this Commission,
Pardon my importunity, but I am too much attached to your Nation not to
be [illegible] I shall deserve, and may be given to me with all Confidence.
Make yourself easy Sir I can not say more by this, we are all your
Freinds and will give you prooffs of it, Four Persons which I send will
soon be with you, two of which are of Distinction and of great Merit, who
will deliver you my Letters themselves, I could not intrust them to any one
else as they are of great advantage and importance to you I have the Hon-
our to be with Respect Sir [8cc.]
r . renei sc c^o
P S. I have the honour to observe, fear nothing as to Warlike Amunition I
will furnish all you may want, in as large quantitys as you can require as
well as Cannon, I labour with your Freind Mr Dubourg to whom I have
AUGUST 1776
529
not yet deliverd your Letter having left it with my Effects in holland where
I landed, I shall send it to him soon.
I beg Mr Franklin would inform Congress that we shall have besides
the above mentioned Amunition a quantity of Cloths, Linnen - Blanketts
8cca so as to dispatch the ships as soon as they arrive, that you may have
them with you before the Winter.
Penet 8c Co
1. Henry Laurens Papers, SCHS.
2. Thomas Morris, a half brother of Robert Morris.
Letter from Cadiz1
[Extract] August 3.
There have arrived here within this week past seven of our merchant-
men from the Havanna: One of these vessels brought two English Sailors,
being part of twenty-two British Sailors belonging to three vessels of their
nation, who were taken off the island of Cuba on their homeward-bound
passage from Jamaica by two American privateers, who gave the above
twenty- two men leave either to go to America, or be put on shore; the latter
of which they chose; and having a boat given them, arrived safe in it on the
island of Cuba.2 The twenty others are expected here in the next ships that
arrive from thence.
1. London Chronicle, September 5 to September 7, 1776.
2. Seamen from the ships Lady Juliana, Reynolds and Juno, taken by the Pennsylvania
privateer sloops Congress and Chance. See Volume 5.
4 Aug. (Sunday)
Letter from Bordeaux1
August 4
Three vessels from New York, and one from Philadelphia, have come
into the Garrone within these last twenty days; the order of the Court of
Lisbon2 has done us the favour of their visits, and they are no unwelcome
guests, as they either bring cash or very saleable commodities.
1. London Chronicle, August 29 to August 31, 1776.
2. Denying the use of Portuguese ports to American ships.
5 Aug.
“Humanitas” [William Lee] to the Lord Mayor
of London1
My Lord: London, August 5, 1776.
I was last week on board the American privateer called the Yankee ,
commanded by Captain [Henry] Johnson, and lately brought into this port
530
EUROPEAN THEATRE
by Captain [George] Ross, who commanded one of the West-India sugar
ships, taken by the privateer in July last; and, as an Englishman, I wish
your Lordship, who is so happily placed at the head of this great city
(justly famed for its great humanity even to its enemies,) would be pleased
to go likewise, or send proper persons, to see the truly shocking, and, I may
say, barbarous and miserable condition of the unfortunate American pris-
oners, who, however criminal they may be thought to have been, are deserv-
ing of pity, and entitled to common humanity.
They are twenty-five in number, and all inhumanly shut close down,
like wild beasts, in a small stinking apartment in the hold of a sloop, about
seventy tons burden, without a breath of air, in this sultry season, but what
they receive through a small grating over head, the openings in which are
not more than two inches square in any part, and through which the sun
beats intensely hot all day; only two or three being permitted to come on
deck at a time; and then they are exposed in the open sun, which is reflected
from the decks and water like a burning glass.
I do not at all exaggerate, my Lord: I speak the truth; and the re-
semblance that this barbarity bears to the memorable black-hole, at Cal-
cutta, as a gentleman present on Saturday observed, strikes every one at the
sight. All England ought to know that the same game is now acting upon
the Thames on board this privateer, that all the world cried out against at
the mention of in India, some years ago, as practised on Captain Hallowell
and others of the King’s good subjects.
The putrid streams issuing from the hole are so hot and offensive, that
one cannot, without the utmost danger, breathe over it; and I should not be
at all surprised if it should cause a plague to spread. The miserable
wretches below look like persons in a hot bath, panting, sweating and faint-
ing for want of air; and the Surgeon declares that they must all soon perish
in that situation, especially as they are almost all in a sickly state with bil-
ious disorders.
The Captain and Surgeon, it is true, have the liberty of the cabin, (if it
deserves the name of a cabin,) and make no complaints on their own ac-
count; they are both sensible, well-behaved young men, and can give a very
good account of themselves, having no signs of fear, and being supported by
a consciousness of the justice of their cause. They are men of character, of
good families in New-England, and highly respected in their different occu-
pations; but being stripped of their all by the burning of towns and other
destructive measures of the present unnatural war, were forced to take the
disagreeable method of making reprisals, to maintain themselves and their
children, rather than starve.
Numbers of gentlemen, and friends of Government, who were on board
at the same time, will confirm the truth of this my representation, being
very sensibly touched themselves at the horrid sight.
English prisoners taken by the Americans have been treated with the
most remarkable tenderness and generosity, as numbers who are safely re-
turned to England most freely confess, to the honour of our brethem in the
AUGUST 1776
531
Colonies. And it is a fact, which can be well attested in London, that this
very Surgeon on board the privateer, after the battle of Lexington, April
10, 1775, for many days voluntarily and generously, without fee or reward,
employed himself in dressing the King’s wounded soldiers, (who but an
hour before would have shot him, if they could have come at him,) and in
making a collection for their refreshment, of wine, linen, money, &c., in the
town where he lived. This is a real fact, of which the most ample testimony
may be had.2
The capture of the privateer was solely owing to the ill-judged lenity
and brotherly kindness of Captain Johnson, who, not considering his Eng-
lish prisoners in the same light that he would Frenchmen or Spaniards, put
them under no sort of confinement, but permitted them to walk the decks as
freely as his own people, at all times. Taking advantage of this indulgence,
the prisoners one day, watching their opportunity when most of the priva-
teer’s people were below and asleep, shut down the hatches, and making all
fast, had immediate possession of the vessel without using any force.
I shall conclude with saying, that though this letter is addressed to
your Lordship, I hope that all who may read it, and have any influence, will
do all in their power to gain the necessary relief; and it is humbly appre-
hended that the well disposed, who are blessed with affluence, could not bet-
ter bestow their bounty than upon these poor objects. Vegetables and ripe
fruits of all kinds, with porter, &c., must be very useful, as well as the
means to procure other necessaries. The privateer lies opposite to Rat-
cliffe-Cross, a mile and a half below the Tower, and by asking for Captain
Johnson admittance may be obtained.
Humanitas.
We have been informed, since the receipt of the above letter, that the
crew of the American privateer the Yankee , were yesterday morning, at
half-past three o’clock, conveyed on board a vessel, and carried down the
river, to be secured in Dover Castle.
We hear that a petition will be presented to the Secretary of State for
the American Department, by the merchants, to cause the Captain of the
Yankee privateer to be kept in custody to answer to them for the property
he has illegally taken, he being the sole owner of the privateer, and the
prizes of course will be sold in America for his account and emolument.
1. Peter Force, comp., American Archives , Fifth Series (Washington, 1837-1843) , I, 754—55.
Hereafter cited as Force, comp., American Archives.
2. Dr. Eliphalet Downer served as a voluntary surgeon at Lexington and Concord, and from
May to December, 1775 as surgeon in William Heath’s Massachusetts Regiment. Francis
B. Heitman, Historical Register of Officers of the Continental Army During the War of
the Revolution, April 1775 to December 1783 (Washington, 1914) , 203.
Public Advertiser , Monday, August 5, 1776
London, August 5.
It is said Capt. Stephenson, Commander of the Ship Lady Juliana,
which was taken by the Provincials, was coming Home with his Lady,
532
EUROPEAN THEATRE
whom he had married Abroad, and had received a considerable Fortune
with her, the Whole of which was seized by the Provincials.
By a private Letter received in Town from Philadelphia, dated June
28, we find that two Ships had arrived from Holland, and four more were
hourly expected, all laden with Dutch Effects; and that four Vessels under
foreign Colours, cleared at the Isle of Wight, and laden with valuable Car-
goes, were also expected.
“Extract of a Letter from Portsmouth, Aug. 5.”1
This day sailed down to St. Helen’s the Pembroke man of war, and the
Bologne frigate, there to wait for a fair wind for America. - Went out of
harbour to Spithead the Centaur man of war, having been docked.
1. London Chronicle, August 3 to August 6, 1776.
6 Aug.
Philip Stephens to Vice Admiral James Young, Antigua1
Sir 6h August 1776
I have received and communicated to my Lords Commissioners of the
Admiralty your three Letters of the 13h and 31st. May and 1st June,2 with
their respective Inclosures giving an account of your proceedings with the
Squadron under your Command and of your having caused the Brigantine
you have purchased to be commissioned and called the Endeavour, and ap-
pointed Lieutenant Francis Tinsley from the Seaford to command her, and
Mr George Anson Byron to be Lieutenant of the Seaford in his room and in
return I am to acquaint you that their Lordships will confirm the said Com-
missions when presented to them for that purpose, and that the Report of
the condition and valuation of the Brigantine you have purchased is sent to
the Navy Board to remain as a Voucher in their Office. I am &c
P: S:
Duplicate by the Packet 4th Sept.
1. PRO, Admiralty 2/552, 370-71.
2. See Volume 5.
Public Advertiser, Tuesday, August 6, 1776
London [August 6] .
Admiral Gayton’s Order for the Merchantmen to rendezvous at Blue
Fields, and to be convoyed from thence an hundred and fifty Leagues on
their Passage to England, was certainly communicated to the Provincials,
as the Ships which were taken were met with by the Privateers, not twenty
four Hours after they were quitted by the Men of War.
There being so many of our Ships of War on the American Coast, some
are in Hopes that on their receiving Advice of the Capture of the nine West
AUGUST 1776
533
Indiamen by the Provincial Privateers, and of their being carried into some
of their Ports, a bold Stroke would be struck in order to retake them: Their
Cargoes are so valuable, and so much of it falls as Prize Money to the Cap-
tors, our Tars it is thought will run any Lengths to accomplish it. It is true
they have not as yet attempted any Thing of this Kind, but they never had
an Object equal to a West India Ship loaded, worth 10,000 1. Sterling.
On Sunday the Officers and Seamen, brought Prisoners on board the
Yankee Privateer (lying in Limehouse Hole) were shipped on board the
Justitia Transport Ship, in order to their working on the Thames. A Corre-
spondent wishes to know, “if these People are not sentenced without a
Trial?” It is true that they have been declared Rebels; but it has not been
customary to condemn Rebels, but by the Verdict of a Jury; at least it was
not so in the Reign of George the Second: But our whole System of Politics
seems to be reversed, and what was Law thirty Years ago, is not so now; or,
perhaps, adds our Correspondent, the Distinction is made between Scotch
and American Rebels; and if so, we shall cease to wonder when we consider
the Operation of the over-ruling Influence.
“It is an ill wind that blows no one Good.” When the above Seamen
were removed, it was permitted for any Person to come on board, and many
Hundreds gratified their Curiosity, to the great Emolument of a number of
Waterman, who kept embarking and debarking their Customers for Hours.
The Place was a perfect Fair. The above Yankie Privateer is a tight-built
Vessel, admirably adapted for swift Sailing, and carries twelve Guns on one
Deck. She lies very low in Water.
Dr. Barbeu Dubourg to Vergennes 1
[Extract] Paris, 6 August 1776
I beg you to send suitable orders to the General Director of the Docks
in Nantes so that he will not stand in the way or cause difficulties with re-
gard to the embarkation of War ammunition by M. Penet in Nantes. This
Director, by the name of M. de Guerton, is a very honest men, but he needs
to be warned because the embarkation is urgent.2
1. AMAE, Correspondance Politique, Angleterre, vol. 517, LC Photocopy.
2. In response to this request M. de Clugny, Controller General of Finance, assured Vergennes
that orders were being issued to place no obstacle “in the way of the armament which
you are having prepared at Nantes for America.” Stevens, ed., Facsimiles, No. 1344.
7 Aug.
Philip Stephens to Vice Admiral James Young, Antigua1
Sir 7 Augst 1776
I have received your Letter of the 20th of May,2 enclosing the Commis-
sion you had signed for Lieut Wm Young to be Commander of the Pomona
upon the Vacancies occasion’d by the dismission of Captn Gordon from the
534
EUROPEAN THEATRE
Argo , and desiring for the reasons therein given, that it may be confirm d,
And having laid the same before my Lords Commrs of the Admty I have it
in command from their Lordships to acquaint you that they do not think fit
to depart from the Resolution which Mr Jackson in his Letter of the 20th
Feby informed you they had come to upon that matter and I am farther to
acquaint you that as by the appointment of Lieut Windsor to be 1st Lieut of
the Portland Lieut Young ought to have succeeded him as 2d Lieut of that
Ship, the Commissions you have given to Lieut Swinney to be 2nd 8c Lieut
Drummond to be 3rd Lieuts of her 8c to Mr Luck to be 2nd Lieut of the
Argo in the room of Lieut Drummond, being irregular, cannot be confirmed,
and that if Lieut Young does not think proper to take a Commission as 2nd
Lieut of the Portland which as I have observed before he ought to have
had, their Lordships will fill up the vacancy’s that may be occasioned
thereby, and send out Commission’s - for that purpose, when they hear far-
ther from you. I have the honor to be 8cc
P S
Duplicate by the Packet 4th Septr
1. PRO, Admiralty 2/552, 373.
2. See Volume 5, 177-78.
Public Advertiser , Wednesday, August 7, 1776
London [August 7] .
By another Letter from Glasgow we are informed, that the Oxford
Transport from Clyde, with Part of the 42d Regiment, has been taken by
the Provincials. As she was standing in for Boston a Vessel with 16 Guns
bore down upon her, took out all the Officers and Arms, and put some of
their own Sailors on board to navigate her. The Highlanders were no sooner
out of Sight of the Privateer than they compelled their new Masters to alter
their Course, and swore they would put every one of them to Death, unless
they either carried them to Lord Dunmore, or to some other Place where
they might meet with some Ship or Ships of War belonging to his Majesty;
but unfortunately for these brave Fellows, a small Sloop with a few Swivels
took them a second Time, and they now languish in Captivity at Williams-
burgh. — The same Letters add, that it was confidently reported that two
other Transports, with Part of Fraser’s Highlanders, were taken also.1
We hear from Bourdeaux, that a very considerable American trade is
carried on there, and has continued since the beginning of the present dis-
putes with our Colonies. About 15 days ago, a fine Bermudian sloop sailed
for Philadelphia, having 20 tone of gunpowder on board.
1. This was the first news received in England of the capture of the Oxford by the Continental
brig Andrew Doria, and the recapture by Captain James Barron in an armed pilot boat
out of Hampton, Virginia. See Volume 5.
AUGUST 1776
535
8 Aug.
Lords Commissioners, Admiralty, to Lieutenant William Bacon R. N.,
Plymouth 1
Whereas we think fit that you shall be employed to raise Voluntier Sea-
men Sc Landmen at Waterford for the Service of His Majesty’s Fleet in the
room of Lieut Cunningham, You are hereby required Sc directed to repair
forthwith to that place, Sc in the execution thereof to observe the following
Instructions Vizt
1st
You are to hire a proper Room for a Rendezvous Sc to apply yourself
with the utmost diligence to the aforesaid Service causing Bills to be
printed Sc stuck up inviting such Voluntiers to repair thereto Sc taking care
not to receive any but who are of strong Bodies Sc in Health the Seamen not
under Eighteen or above Fifty Sc the Landmen not under Eighteen or above
Twenty five Years of Age.
2d
You are to procure a good unemployed Petty Officer to assist you Sc
to pay him Wages as a Midshipman of a 4th Rate for the time you shall em-
ploy him Sc to allow him One Shilling Sc Sixpence a Day for his subsistence.
3d
You are to subsist such Voluntiers as you may procure at the Rate of
Six Pence a Day each Sc when you shall have a sufficient number You are to
send them round from time to time together with their Chests Sc Bedding to
Portsmouth in the Adventure Tender Sc Swallow Tender which ever hap-
pens to be in the way, the former under the command of Lt Haynes & the
latter under the command of Lt Hodgson: taking care to transmit to the
Commander of His Majts Ships Sc Vessels at Portsmouth a List of their
Names with the Days of their respective Entries that they may be borne for
Wages accordingly on the Books of the Ships wherein they may be ap-
pointed to serve
4th
You are to draw upon the Navy Board for such Money as you shall
have occasion for, to carry on this Service, And when it shall be over to de-
liver to that Board an account of your disbursements making Affadavit at
the foot thereof in the following form Vizt
This Deponent maketh Oath that
The Sum charged against each particular Article in the foregoing
Account was expended for the purpose mentioned in such Article
Sc no other.
5th
You are not to fail to transmit to our Secretary every Week so as to ar-
rive at our Office on a Monday an Account under your own Hand of the
536
EUROPEAN THEATRE
Number of Voluntiers you may have raised distinguishing therein how
many you may have procured in the whole 8c how many since the Account
immediately preceeding. And also how many you may have sent round 8c
when, And Lastly
For your care 8c pains in the execution of this Service you will be al-
low’d Five Shillings a Day during the time you shall be employed thereon,
besides two Shillings 8c Six Pence a Day for your own subsistence 8c nine
Pence a Mile Travelling Charges for your repairing to, and returning from
the place you are hereby appointed to proceed to, both which last mentioned
Allowances you are to charge in your Account of Disbursements. Given 8cc 8
Augt 1776
J Buller H. Penton H. Palliser
By 8cc PS
1. PRO, Admiralty 2/101, 263-65.
Philip Stephens to Vice Admiral James Young, Antigua1
Sir, 8th Augt 1776.
My Lords Commrs of the Admty having received a Letter of this date
from Mr Knox, Secretary to Lord Geo. Germain, informing them that his
Lordship has received Intelligence that a large Schooner, called the Gunti-
canute, one Gregg Master, is now taking in at Amsterdam a Cargo of large
Cordage, proper for rigging Ships of War, 8c proposed to be cleared out for
the Island of St Eustatia, but that the said Cargo is for the Account of the
Congress, and intended to be conveyed to North America, from the said Is-
land in smaller Vessels, the better to elude the Vigilance of His Majesty’s
Ships; I am commanded by their Lordships to send you herewith a Copy of
the said Letter for your Inforamtion; And am 8cc
P. S.
By the Packet.
Duplicate by the Packet 4th Septr
1. PRO, Admiralty 2/552, 379-80.
Public Advertiser , Thursday, August 8, 1776
London [August 8] .
The Yankee Privateer, taken from the Americans, we are informed, is
going to be fitted as a Tender to carry the Seamen, that enter at the Houses
of Rendezvous, to the Ships of War at the different Sea Ports.
Sunday Morning at Three o’clock twenty of the Prisoners taken in the
hankie Privateer were conveyed by Water to be lodged in Dover Castle.
Among these twenty there are only three Native Americans, and those are
all New England Men. It was mentioned in a former Paragraph, that the
I ankie Privateer mounted twelve Guns; but the Fact is, that she is pierced
for twelve, and mounts only eight, which are called Six Pounders, but are
AUGUST 1776
537
only Four. She has six Swivels, and two Cohorns, and being no bigger than
a large sailing Boat, she appears to be one combined Picture of the Instru-
ments of Death. The American Colours on board her are sent to his Maj-
esty, in Consequence of Orders received from the Admiralty.
9 Aug.
Philip Stephens to Vice Admiral Clark Gayton, Jamaica1
Sir, [Admiralty Office] 9th August 1776.
My Lords Commissioners of the Admiralty having thought it may be
proper for the Ship, which you shall appoint for the Octor 8c Deer Convoys,
to proceed with the said Convoy to England instead of the limits mentioned
in their Lordships directions of the 17th of February last; I am commanded
by their Lordships to signify their direction to you to order the Ship you
shall appoint for the said Convoy to proceed with them to England accord-
ingly; directing her Captain to repair to Spithead and wait there for fur-
ther Orders, their Lordships intending to send out another Ship to replace
her. I am 8cca
Php Stephens.2
[Endorsed] Sent the same day by Express to Falmouth to go by the
Packet. Vide Letter to the Agent for Packets at Falmouth in Com.
L[ette]r Bo [ok].
Duplicates of the above Letters to the Downes. Vide Letter to Mr Benja-
min at Deal to forward them by the first Ships going to those Places.
1. PRO, Admiralty 2/1333, LC Photocopy.
2. Ibid., similar order was sent this date to Vice Admiral Young at Antigua.
T. Brett to William Knox1
Sir, Navy Office 9th Augt 1776.
The Owners of the following Store Ships that are to proceed with the
Cloathing to No America, have undertaken to provide them with the Guns
8c Swivels expressed against their Names, with ten rounds of Powder to
each Vizt —
Mellish for Quebec — Six — 3 pounders — 6 Swivels
Catherine
Richmond
| for Genl Howe’s Army — 6 . . 3 pounders — 6 Do
New Castle
Jane
I Halifax — Four
3 Pounders. .4 Swivels
Which are as many as the Ships can well mount 8c make use of to ad-
vantage. They will be loaded 8c ready to proceed from Deptford by the 12th
Inst
1. PRO, Colonial Office, 5/259, 92-93. Brett was Commissioner of the Navy Board.
538
EUROPEAN THEATRE
Public Advertiser , Friday, August 9, 1776
London [August 9] .
A vessel that is arrived at Weymouth from St. Cas[t], brings advice,
that two armed American vessels were lying there, to take in some powder,
balls and arms; and, it is supposed, that one of them is the vessel which was
seen by the master of a fishing boat at the mouth of the Channel a few days
ago.
“Extract of a Letter from Paris, August 9.”1
Orders are sent to all the sea-ports in this kingdom, that such frigates
of war, from 32 to 36 guns, as shall henceforth be built in any ports of
France, be lengthened ten feet by the keel, and breadth in proportion, by
which they will be enabled to carry on one deck, a weight of metal equal to
the lower tier of an English fifty gun ship.
1. London Chronicle, August 20 to August 22, 1776.
12 Aug.
London Chronicle , Saturday, August 10 to Tuesday, August 13, 1776
Admiralty Office, August 12
By a letter received this day from Vice Admiral Lord Shuldham, dated
Staten Island, near New York, the 8th of July last, it appears that his Lord-
ship arrived there on the 3d of that month with his Majesty’s ships under
his Command, and the whole fleet of transports, victuallers and storeships
under his convoy, without any loss or separation; that his Majesty’s troops
under the command of General Howe were landed on that day and the next,
upon Staten Island, without any opposition or interruption, the inhabitants
having immediately on the troops landing surrendered, and put themselves
under the protection of his Majesty’s arms; . . .
The Arrival of Lord Howe, and the reinforcement under Commodore
Hotham, were daily expected at Staten Island. Lord Shuldham having sta-
tioned his cruizers in the properest manner to fall in with and direct them
thither.
Public Advertiser , Monday, August 12, 1776
London [August 12].
The West India Ships, lately taken by the Americans, will, it is said, oc-
casion a pathetic Remonstrance, shortly to be presented at St. James’s.
The Method by which the Yankey Privateer was taken was as follows:
Capt. Johnson (of the Yankey ) [James] Hodges, and [George] Ross1
were sitting together in the Cabbin, when Johnson having inadvertently
laid down his Cutlass, Ross and Hodges took the Advantage of it, one com-
AUGUST 1776
539
ing behind Capt. Johnson, seized and threw him down, while the other got
Possession of the Cutlass. The Guard stationed on the Quarter-deck at the
same Time laid down his Cutlass to go forward, one of Ross’s or Hodges’s
People (who had been let into the Conspiracy) immediately seized it and
gave the Alarm; on which either Ross or Hodges ran up on the Quarter-
deck, and got Possession of the Arm-Chest before the Privateer’s Men and
those of the Merchantmen (who were at large and unconfined, though then
down in the Hold) could get upon the main Deck. One of the Americans
took up a Scrubbing-brush, and advancing to the Quarter-deck, he was told
by the Man possessed of the Cutlass, that if he came a Step farther, his
Head should be cut off. The Privateer’s Men thus finding the Quarter-deck
and their Arms all in Possession of their Adversaries, and their Captain a
Prisoner in the Cabbin, submitted without farther Resistance, being prom-
ised good Treatment, and to be landed as soon as possible in some Part of
America, and then to be at Liberty to go where they pleased. So far from
this Promise being complied with, the Men were put in Irons, and closely
confined in the Hold of the Privateer, and all of them brought into the River
Thames; since which they were, in the Night of Saturday last, hurried into
a Man of War’s Tender, and smuggled to some Place of Confinement, but
where is not yet certainly known.
Capt. Johnson complained of the illiberal Behaviour and cruel Usage
he suffered, by being insulted frequently while at Sea, calling him by the
most opprobrious Names, and threatening him with the cruellest and most
Savage Punishments, and also for suffering many People to come on board
after they arrived in the River, to insult him in the basest and grossest
Terms, though he was then a Prisoner; and when his Brother came to see
him after a three Years Absence, they would not permit them to talk to-
gether one Minute in private
1. Masters respectively of the ships Zachariah Bayley and Creighton.
14 Aug.
Public Advertiser , Tuesday, August 20, 1776
Edinburgh, Aug. 14. We are desired from good Authority to contra-
dict a Paragraph in last Night’s Edinburgh Advertiser , mentioning Sir
William Erskine’s being taken by an American Privateer with the Money of
the 71st Regiment. This is without any Foundation, as he sailed on board
the Ocean , a Ship of 18 Carriage Guns, and proceeds entirely upon the Sup-
position of his having been on board the Venus , Capt. Wilson, which, with
the Crawford Capt. M’Lean, was taken and carried into Boston: On board
the first was Capt. Fraser’s Company, and Captain M’Leod with his Com-
pany on board the other. Upon their Arrival off Cape Ann, they were at-
tacked by four Privateers, whom they fought a considerable Time, and
obliged them to sheer off. They then went into Nantasket Road, in Expecta-
tion of finding the Men of War; but, in place thereof, were surrounded by a
540
EUROPEAN THEATRE
great Number of armed Schooners, who, with the Assistance of the Priva-
teers formerly beat off, carried them into Boston.1
A Sailor who came home with the Howe transport, which arrived on
Sunday at Greenock, in 25 Days from Halifax, gives the above Account. He
went out with the Mayflower ; of Whitehaven, Capt. Crosbie, having on
board Capt. Aeneas M’Intosh’s Company of the 71st. . . . On their Way to
Halifax from Boston, they were attacked by a Privateer of 10 Carriage and
six Swivel Guns, whom they fought for seven Glasses, and were on the
Point of being taken, when a Man of War came in Sight, and relieved
them.2
The Mermaid , Capt. Yoward, which sailed from Clyde with 120 of
Fraser’s Highlanders, fell in on the 10th of June, off Cape Ann, with an
American Privateer, mounting 10 Six-pounders, and 14 Swivels. An En-
gagement ensued, which continued four Hours and a Half, when the Priva-
teer sheered off. It is not known how many on board the Privateer were
killed, but it was imagined the Musquetry of the Soldiers (who behaved ex-
ceedingly well) did great Execution, as the Ships were within Pistol Shot
for two Hours of the Engagement. Capt. Yoward, one Seaman, and three
Soldiers, were wounded on board the Mermaid; they afterwards proceeded
for Boston, but found that the Provincials had erected a Battery upon an Is-
land, and had driven all the Men of War and Ships from Boston Bay. The
Mermaid arrived safe at Halifax the 23d of June.3
1. This is a woefully garbled account. The Venus was not captured; the Crawford was taken
along with the Oxford, on May 29, 1776, by the Continental brig Andrew Doria; and
the engagement in Boston harbor was fought by the transports George and Annabella.
2. The man of war was H. M. Sloop Hope.
3. This attack was made by one of Washington’s schooners out of Salem.
Wooldridge Sc Kelly to the Lords Commissioners, British Treasury 1
Crescent [London] Augt 14. 1776.
To The Right Honorable The Lords Commissioners of
His Majestys Treasury.
The Memorial of Messieurs Wooldridge & Kelly of the
City of London Merchants.
Humbly Sheweth
That your Lordships Memorialists are the Owners of a Ship called the
Molly, Daniel Lawrence Mastr who sailed from Baltimore in the Province
of Maryland in the month of February last, with a very valuable Cargo of
Wheat, Flour, Sc Staves for Falmouth 8c a market, but the Ship meeting
with several delays in the river Patapsico was there Seized Sc detained by an
Armed Vessell in the service of Government, that soon after that Seizure
she was retaken by an Armed Ship in the Service of the Americans, Sc being
by them liberated, She proceeded on her Voyage in the begining of the
Month of March last but in getting out of the River she was again Seized by
AUGUST 1776
541
a Tender belonging to the Liverpool Man of War, who carried her to Lord
Dunmore in Virginia when His Lordship appointed Commissioners to try
her, which Commissioners acquitted her. And that after her acquital His
Lordship thought proper to detain her for the Service of Government. Your
Lordships Memorialists further beg leave to represent that the said Ship 8c
her Cargo has cost them more than Eight Thousand pounds Sterling which
sum they wuld have received some months ago had the Ship been permitted
to have proceeded on her Voyage which was strictly within the Intention of
the Act Passed in the last Sessions of Parliament for “Restraining the
Trade 8cc”
They therefore most humbly Pray that your Lordships will be pleased
to order immediate payment to be made to them for the said Ship 8c her
Cargoe without [which] your Memorialists will inevitably be ruined as
they and their Predecessors Messrs Kelly Lott 8c Co have what is to them,
an Immense Sum due to them from the Colonies, besides a very considerable
property in the Provinces of New York, New Jersey 8c Pensyl vania.
Your Lordships Memorialists beg leave to annex the original Invoice,
bill of Lading, Commissioners Acquital of the Ship 8c her Cargo, with the
protest 8cc in order to illucidate the facts to your Lordships. And your Lord-
ships will therefore be pleased to direct such relief to your Memorialists as
to your Lordships may seem meet, and your Memorialists as in Duty bound
will ever Pray, Sec.
[Endorsed] Reed 14th Augt 1776 — Read same day. prepare W[arran]t 8c
Minute Done Read 20 Deer 1776 — write to the Petrs 8c Minute
Done
1. Fisher Transcripts, Treasury Board, vol. 3, MdHS.
British Admiralty Board Report to Lord George Germain1
Admty Office [London] 14th Augt 1776
Stations of Three line of Battle Ships 8c one hundred Fifty two Frigates
now in Commission
East Indies 8c going thither
No of Ships
7.
Jamaica
7.*
Leeward Islands
7.
Mediterranean
5.
North America 1
54.
Going thither or there J
30.
Newfoundland
14.
Africa 8c other foreign Cruizers
9.
Home Cruizers
14.
In Port fitting 8c unappropriated
8.
155.
542
EUROPEAN THEATRE
#To which may be added
Armed Vessels purchased
by Vice Adml Gay ton
1. PRO, Colonial Office, 5/125, 25.
4.
Total 159.
British Naval Reinforcements for America1
Admty Office [London] 14 Augt 1776.
List of His Majesty’s Ships on their way, or that have already joined Lord
Howe, exclusive of those contained in the last Accounts received from
North America.
Rate
Guns
Ships
When Sailed.
Observations.
6
28
Actaeon
1775
29 Deer
Bb
Thunder
17 Feb. 76
from Cork.
29 Deer
6
28
Solebay
23 Feb. 76
from Cork.
31 Deer
Sailed with, or follow’d Sir Peter
>
Parker.
•
28
Active
12 Feb. 76
from Cork.
9 Jan. 1776
•
28
T riton
12 Feb.
from Cork.
16 Mar.
For Quebec.
•
28
C ary s fort
20 Mar. ]
5.
32
Pearl
8 April
from Cork.
21 Mar.
With the Regiments from Ire-
land to Quebec.
•
32
Flora
8 Apl from
Cork.
2 April
•
32
Blonde
29 Do from
Greenock.
7 April ]
With the Highlanders.
With the 1st Division of Bruns-
•
32
Juno
Do J
wick Troops for Quebec.
4
50
Preston
6 May j With Commo [William] Hoth-
5
32
Emerald
Do
am.
5
32
Brune
1776
6 May
•
44
Rainbow
Do
Bb.
8
Carcass
Do
-Sailed with Como Hotham
HS
20
Jersey
Do
FS
—
Strombolo
Do
AUGUST 1776
543
6
28
T artar
8. Do
With the Speke Hospital Ship,
Victuallers 8c Storeships to
Quebec.
3
64
Eagle
11. Do
Lord Howe.
5
32
Repulse
26 Do
With the remainder of the 1st
Division of Hessians to Genl
Howe
•
32
Amazon
26 June 1 With the 2d Division of the
6
24
Garland
Do J
Brunswickers for Quebec
•
20
Daphne
4 July
With Burgoynes Light Dragoons
to Genl Howe.
•
20
Galatea
5 Do
To join Lord Howe
5
32
32
20
Diamond
Ambuscade
Unicorn
20 Do
Do
Do
With 2d Division of the Hessians
•
6
>■
to Genl Howe
5
32
Lark
24 Do
With Army Victuallers [to]
Halifax.
6
20
Perseus
30 Do
With Recruits to Genl. Howe
•
20
Camilla
Sailed 8th
Augt but put
back again to
Plymouth.
"To join Lord Howe
Rate.
Ships.
Abstract.
3
1
4
1
5
12
6
12
Bombs
2
Hosl. Ships 1
Fireships 1
^0~
1. PRO, Colonial Office, 5/125, 26.
Public Advertiser , Wednesday, August 14, 1776
London [August 14].
Captain Groves, of the Tyne Packet, who is arrived at Falmouth from
Jamaica, was obliged to work up as far as Cape Nichola Mole, to get what
Information he could of the American Privateers; when he was informed
that a great many American Vessels were cruizing about the Windward
Passage; in particular that two large armed Vessels were cruizing near
Crooked Island, viz. a Brig mounting 16 Guns and 80 Men, and a Sloop with
14 Guns and 70 Men. Captain Groves met with a Sloop off Bermuda, which
544
EUROPEAN THEATRE
he took to be an American, but out-sailed her, and afterwards met with a
French Merchant Ship from Porto Prince, who had been boarded by an
American Privateer of 16 Guns and 160 Men, who plundered him, and wan-
tonly fired six Shots before he came up to him. They enquired of the
Frenchman what West Indiamen he had met with, but the Captain refused
to tell him.
15 Aug.
Intelligence from Ireland1
Corke, Aug. 15.
A Gentleman who left Alicant the Beginning of last Month, informs us,
that there were then two large Philadelphia Ships in that Harbour, loading
with Salt and some other Articles that the Americans have now great Occa-
sion for.
1. Public Advertiser, London, August 31, 1776.
Lords Commissioners, Admiralty, to L^rd George Germain1
My Lord, Admiralty Office 15th August 1776.
Your Lordship having in your letter of the 9th inst. signified to Us His
Majesty’s Pleasure that the Ships which have been ordered to be provided
to carry the Regimental Cloathing to North America, should be sufficiently
manned and armed to defend themselves against any of the Rebel Cruizers
in case of Separating from their Convoy, we gave the necessary Directions
thereupon to the Navy Board; 8c They having in return, by their Letter of
the 12th instant, sent us a List of the Ships taken up for the Service above-
mentioned, with their force, and acquainted Us that, if those Ships are not
judged to be of sufficient Strength to defend themselves against the Rebel
Cruizers, they have reason to believe that Others capable of mounting Guns
sufficient to make a better defence, cannot be procurred in time, We send
Your Lordship herewith a Copy of the said Letter for His Majesty’s Infor-
mation, and beg leave to observe that if it be His Majesty’s Pleasure that
other Ships of greater force be taken up for this Service, the Season will be
so far spent that it will be impracticable for the Ship destined to Quebec,2
and very precarious for those bound to New York and Halifax to make
their Passage this Year, But that if it be His Majesty’s Pleasure that the
Ships which have been already provided, and have nearly (tho’ it is to be la-
mented so late) taken in their Loading, should proceed on their Voyages,
care will be taken to appoint sufficient Convoys for them, and to put trusty
Sea Officers on board each of them, the better to guard against their sepa-
rating from their Convoy, 8c to direct their Proceedings, and defend them if
attacked in case of Separation. We are 8cc
Sandwich. H. Penton. H: Palliser.
1. PRO, Colonial Office, 5/259, 95-96.
2. The ship Mellish.
The Rio-lit Hon\Ie The EARL of
Sandwich
546
EUROPEAN THEATRE
Philip Stephens to Commodore Thomas Mackenzie, Chatham 1
Sir 15 Augst 1776
My Lords Commissioners of the Admty having on the 3d of this Month
directed that the Crew of an American Armed Vessel called the Yankee
which had been seized Sc brought into the River, should be receiv’d on board
the Ardent, then at Blackstakes Sc kept & Victualled there til farther orders.
I am now commanded by their Lordships to signify their direction to you to
order the Ten Men named in the Margin2 Part of Crew of the said Vessel,
to be put on board the Vulture Sloop Sc then to direct her Captain to proceed
with them to Spithead Sc dispose of them as the Commanding Officer there
shall direct3 victualling them while on board the Sloop in like manner as
her complement, Sc taking particular care they do not make their escape;
Sc having so done to remain at Spithead til farther Order.
It is also their Lordships farther directions that you cause the remain-
der of the Crew of the said Armed Vessel to be sent on board the Mars at
Blackstakes, where they are to be kept Sc Victualled in like manner as on
board the Ardent until the Beaver Sloop arrives at the Nore, when you are
to cause them to be put on board her Sc carried to Spithead (when she pro-
ceeds thither) in like manner as those Ordered to be sent by the Vulture,
except Henry Johnson the Commander Sc Eliza Downour [Eliphalet
Downer] the Surgeon of the said Vessel, who are to be continued ordered on
board the Mars ’til farther Orders.
You will receive their Lordships Order in form for what is above di-
rected, when they next meet this being sent to save time I am Sec.
P. S
1. PRO, Admiralty 2/552, 404-06.
2. The men listed in the margin were: “Abijah Keys, Nathl Stone, Willm Witmarsh, Josh
Bockwell, Benja Tippels, Danl Kelly, David Hall, Willm Sowerby, Archd Hunter, Wm
Broadway.”
3. Senior Officer at Portsmouth, Captain Mark Milbanke, R. N., was ordered to transfer the
prisoners on board H. M. S. Barfleur upon arrival. PRO, Admiralty 2/552, 408.
Public Advertiser, Thursday, August 15, 1776
London [August 15].
The Yankee Privateer, with her Guns and all her Stores, is ordered to
be sold immediately, that the Purchase Money may be divided amongst those
Persons who took her, as most of them want to go to Sea, but wait to re-
ceive their Dividends.
16 Aug.
Lord Suffolk to the Lords Commissioners, Admiralty1
My Lords, St James’s August 16th 1776.
I am directed to signify to Your Lordships The King’s Commands that
Henry Johnson, El. Downour, David Hall, and John Cochran, who acted as
AUGUST 1776
547
Officers aboard the Rebel Privateer call’d the Yankee of Boston, be properly
secured for the present aboard such Vessel belonging to His Majesty as
your Lordships may find most convenient. But with regard to the Crew,
consisting of 17. Men Sc 2 Negro Slaves, His Majesty in his Clemency has no
Objection to their being received aboard some Ship of War. It would how-
ever be most expedient to dispose of them in some Vessel employed in the
East Indies, or, if not, in the Mediterranean Station, as they will be under
constant Temptation to desert in the Hopes of obtaining in North America
a Share of the valuable Plunder which their Vessel had collected [and] sent
to New England. I am &c.
Suffolk.
1. PRO, State Papers, 42/49, 80.
Philip Stephens to Commodore Thomas Mackenzie, Chatham1
Sir, 16 Augt 1776.
Have communicated to my Lords Commrs of the Admty your letter of
the 14 Inst informing them that the American Prisoners who are on board
the Ardent Sc order’d to be sent on board the Mars , are in a very dirty Con-
dition, owing to their not having any Beds or Cloaths to shift themselves,
which may bring on a contageous Disorder, and endanger the Health of the
Ships Company; And I am commanded by their Lordships to signify their
direction to you, to order a Bed, a Jacket Sc two Shirts to be delivered to
each of the said Prisoners, who are in need of those Articles, and any other
that may be absolutely necessary for keeping them Clean Sc wholesome,
transmitting an Account of the particulars issued to them, that Orders may
be given for the same being allowed on the Ships Books. I am Sec
P. S.
1. PRO, Admiralty 2/552, 411.
M. Garnier to Vergennes1
[Extract] London, 16 August 1776
It is only natural as you have observed, My lord, that the work in our
Ports determined the Court of London to increase the number of Guard-
ships. But it would not be if they resorted to the impressment, and if this
measure should take place the time for negotiatons would be passed and we
should begin to act.
I have the honor to send you herewith, My lord, the translation of the
Act of 4 July whereby the Colonies declared their independence under the
title of United States of America. Others besides myself will better appre-
ciate the motives upon which this declaration rests. The fact itself is what
seems to interest us most. It is caught between two Armies and in sight of a
formidable fleet that the Colonies declared war against Great Britain; be-
548
EUROPEAN THEATRE
cause it is the Act that was meant by the declaration of war. We must
admit, My lord, that this is quite far from the idea of immediate submission
which the Government always entertained and which it considered as the
unavoidable result of the display of its forces.
1. AMAE, Correspondance Politique, Angleterre, vol. 517, LC Photocopy.
Public Advertiser, Friday, August 16, 1776
London [August 16].
Yesterday George Ross, Master of a Vessel in the Merchants Service,
was brought before the Lord Mayor, in the Council Chamber, Guildhall,
being charged with a Breach of the Peace against Mr. Alderman [William]
Lee, upon the Royal Exchange, and threatening “to do for him in another
Place.”1 His Conduct appearing to have been exceedingly outrageous, he
was bound over in a Recognizance of One Thousand Pounds, and two Sure-
ties in Five Hundred Pounds each, to appear next Sessions at the Old Bailey.
It appeared on the Evidence that his Assault on Mr. Lee was entirely un-
provoked on the Part of the Alderman, who had never seen him before; and
there appeared sufficient Reason to suspect that a very dark Design was in-
tended against Mr. Lee. It was proved that the Treatment of the Prisoner [s]
brought into the River in the Yankee Privateer was literally as stated in
a Letter addressed to the Lord Mayor, signed “Humanitas,” and published
in the Ledger on Monday the 5th of this Month. That Capt. [James]
Hodges’s Humanity and Kindness to the Prisoners was uniform and lauda-
ble. Capt. Winn, who was present the whole Time that Mr. Alderman Lee
was with the American Prisoners, and heard all their Conversation, de-
clared, before the Lord Mayor, that the Conversation stated to have passed
by a Writer, under the Signature of “Plain Truth,” in the Gazeteer of
Wednesday last, was totally false.
1. Ross had assaulted Lee “by running his fist in his face.” London Chronicle, August 13 to
August 15, 1776.
Lord George Germain to the Lords Commissioners, Admiralty1
My Lords, Whitehall [London] 16th August 1776.
Having had the honor to lay before The King the Copy of Vice Admiral
Lord Shuldham’s Letter to your Lordships of the 16th of April, transmitted
to me in your Letter of the 7th of June, in which he acquaints your Lord-
ships that upon quitting the Harbour of Boston with the Fleet, he had sta-
tioned a Squadron of His Majesty’s Ships in Nantasket Road, under the
command of Captain [Francis] Banks of the Renown, for the purpose as
he expresses it, “of intercepting and sending to Halifax the Ships with the
Supplies ordered to Boston, and which would consequently be Ignorant of
the removal of the Fleet and Army;” And having also laid before His Maj-
esty the Disposition of the Ships under Lord Shuldham’s command, dated
6th July last, transmitted in Your Lordships Letter of the 14th Instant,
AUGUST 1776
549
from which it appears that His Majesty’s Ships Renown and Milford , the
Hope Sloop and Halifax Brigantine were then stationed in Boston Bay.
His Majesty remarked, with much Surprize, that in the account given
by General Howe in his Letter to me of the 7th of July, of the Capture of
two Transports with part of the Highland Regiments onboard, those Trans-
ports are said to have been carried into Boston, without having been inter-
cepted by any of His Majesty’s Ships; That other accounts from different
quarters represent that Harbour as an Asylum for the Rebel Cruizers and
their Prizes, And that the late Advices from Halifax mention the arrival
there of the Renown and Milford , two of the Ships stated by Lord Shuld-
ham to be cruizing in the Bay of Boston.
His Majesty was therefore pleased to command me to signify to your
Lordships His Majesty’s Pleasure, that you do direct Lord Howe to inquire
into the Truth of these Facts, and into the conduct of the Officers command-
ing such of His Majesty’s Ships as have been stationed in Nantasket Road,
or appointed to Cruize in the Bay of Boston since the Evacuation of that
Town by the Army, and to report the same to your Lordships for His Maj-
esty’s Information.
I am further commanded to signify to your Lordships His Majesty’s
Pleasure that Lord Howe be also directed to inquire into, and report to your
Lordships, for His Majesty’s Information, the Causes which so long oper-
ated to prevent the Station of a small Squadron of His Majesty’s Ships in
the Delaware Bay, agreeable to what was signified to Your Lordships by the
Earl of Dartmouth, by His Majesty’s command, in his Lordship’s Letter of
the 7th July 1775; And what were the Motives which induced the removal
of His Majesty’s Ships Roebuck and Liverpool from that River, when at
length it had been thought fit to station them there, by which an Opportu-
nity was afforded to a large number of the Rebel Ships to sail from thence
without Interruption, and for bringing in Supplies of all Sorts of Ammuni-
tion and other Necessaries of which the Rebels stood so much in need. - I
am &c
Geo: Germain.2
1. PRO, Colonial Office, 5/125, 29.
2. On August 31, the Admiralty sent a copy of Germain’s letter to Howe directing the Admiral
to report on the question raised by the King. PRO, Admiralty 2/552, 474-75.
M. Garnier to Vergennes1
[Extract] London, 16th August 1776.
I omitted, in my despatch of today, to inform you that Lord Suffolk
yesterday told the Prince de Messerano that the quantity of supplies that
the Americans draw from abroad is prodigious, and that he believed that it
all came from the Dutch. He has not mentioned us since his little attempt
with me. But if he is careful with us, he makes up for it with those poor
Dutchmen, to whom they speak in a high tone here, and at the Hague, so I
am told. Indeed, it must be admitted, that these Dutch browse in all pas-
550
EUROPEAN THEATRE
tures. Count Welderen has just left for Holland, on leave, which will
protect him from the storm for a time.
1. Stevens, ed., Facsimiles, No. 891.
Beaumarchais to Vergennes1
[Extract] [Paris] Friday 16th August 1776.
... I have seen the Controller General, the Farmers General, Mr
Deane; everything is arranged. Mr Deane is persuaded that the vessels in
question are coming only in order to furnish him with funds by the sale of
their cargoes of salted fish. Another deputy and friend from Maryland has
just arrived from Holland.2 He very quickly brought him to me. These gen-
tlemen are sending from Paris a courier3 by way of Bordeaux for Con-
gress, in a sloop, an excellent sailer. . . .
1. Stevens, ed.. Facsimiles, No. 1347.
2. William Carmichael of Maryland was not “another deputy.”
3. William McCreery.
17 Aug.
Philip Stephens to Commodore Thomas Mackenzie, Chatham1
Sir 17 Augst 1776
Instead of David Hall one of the Crew of the Yankee armed Vessel,
when you were directed, by my Letter of the 15th instant, to cause to be put
on board the Vulture Sloop to be carried round to Spithead, I am com-
manded by my Lords Commissrs of the Admty to signify their direction to
you to cause Charles Grant, one other of the Crew of the said arm’d Vessel,
to be put on board the Vulture Sloop for the purpose abovementioned 8c that
the said David Hall be put on board the Mars 8c kept 8c victualled there until
farther Order, taking care that he be not permitted to go on shore, or suf-
fer’d to make his escape. I am 8cc —
PS
1. PRO, Admiralty 2/552, 412.
Public Advertiser, Saturday, August 17, 1776
London [August 17].
The Lords of the Admiralty have sent Notice to the West India Mer-
chants, that they have received Advice from Admiral Gayton, at Jamaica,
of a Convoy being appointed to come to England with the July Fleet; that
the Admiral had purchased Armed Vessels; that Admiral Young, at the
Leeward Islands, was likewise purchasing Armed Vessels; and that their
Lordships have ordered Armed Vessels to be purchased here, all which are
intended to be sent as a further Reinforcement to the West India Squad-
AUGUST 1776
551
rons; that Expresses are sent to the West Indies with Orders that the late
Convoys of this Year come the whole Voyage; and that Ships of War are
sent from England to Cruize in the Track of the homeward bound West
India Ships.
The Lady Juliana , Stevenson [Christopher Stephenson], is carried
into Salem; the Reynolds , [Keylock] Rusden, into Dartmouth; the True
Blue , , into Newport; the Juno [Samuel] Marsden, into Philadelphia;
a large Ship with 200 Hogsheads of Sugar, Sec. and three or four other West
Indiamen, Names unknown, into Marthas Vineyard; and a large West In-
diaman into Long Island.
18 Aug. (Sunday)
Beaumarchais to the Committee of Secret Correspondence
of the Continental Congress 1
Gentlemen: Paris, August 18, 1776
The respectful esteem that I bear towards that brave people who so
well defend their liberty under your conduct has induced me to form a plan
concurring in this great work, by establishing an extensive commercial
house, solely for the purpose of serving you in Europe, there to supply you
with necessaries of every sort, to furnish you expeditiously and certainly
with all articles — clothes, linens, powder, ammunition, muskets, cannon, or
even gold for the payment of your troops, and in general every thing that
can be useful for the honorable war in which you are engaged. Your depu-
ties, gentlemen, will find in me a sure friend, an asylum in my house, money
in my coffers, and every means of facilitating their operations, whether of a
public or secret nature. I will, if possible, remove all obstacles that may op-
pose your wishes from the politics of Europe.
At this very time, and without waiting for any answer from you, I
have procured for you about two hundred pieces of brass cannon, four
pounders, which will be sent to you by the nearest way, two hundred thou-
sand pounds of cannon powder, twenty thousand excellent fusils, some
brass mortars, bombs, cannon balls, bayonets, platines, clothes, linens, etc.,
for the clothing of your troops, and lead for musket balls. An officer of the
greatest merit for artillery and genius, accompanied by lieutenants, officers,
artillerists, cannoniers, Sec., whom we think necessary for the service, will
go for Philadelphia, even before you have received my first dispatches. This
gentleman is one of the greatest presents that my attachment can offer you.
Your deputy, Mr. Deane, agrees with me in the treatment which he thinks
suitable to his office; and I have found the power of this deputy sufficient
that I should prevail with this officer to depart under the sole engagement of
the deputy respecting him, the terms of which I have not the least doubt but
Congress will comply with.2 The secrecy necessary in some part of the oper-
ation which I have undertaken for your service requires also, on your part,
a formal resolution that all the vessels and their demands should be con-
552
EUROPEAN THEATRE
stantly directed to our house alone, in order that there may be no idle chat-
tering or time lost — two things that are the ruin of affairs. You will advise
me what the vessels contain which you shall send into our ports. I shall
choose so much of their loading, in return for what I have sent, as shall be
suitable to me when I have not been able beforehand to inform you of the
cargoes which I wish. I shall facilitate to you the loading, sale and disposal
of the rest. For instance, five American vessels have just arrived in the port
of Bordeaux, laden with salt fish. Though this merchandise, coming from
strangers, is prohibited in our ports, yet as soon as your deputy had told me
that these vessels were sent to him by you to raise money from the sale for
aiding him in his purchases in Europe, I took so much care that I secretly
obtained from the Farmers General an order for landing it without any no-
tice being taken of it. I could even, if the case had so happened, have taken
on my own account these cargoes of salted fish, though it is no way useful to
me, and charged myself with its sale and disposal, to simplify the operation
and lessen the embarrassments of the merchants and of your deputy.
I shall have a correspondent in each of our seaport towns, who, on the
arrival of your vessels, shall wait on the captains, and offer every service in
my power. He will receive their letters, bills of lading, and transmit the
whole to me. Even things which you may wish to arrive safely in any coun-
try in Europe, after having conferred about them with your deputy, I shall
cause to be kept in some secure place. Even the answers shall go with great
punctuality through me, and this way will save much anxiety and many de-
lays. I request of you, gentlemen, to send me next spring, if it is possible for
you, ten or twelve thousand hogsheads, or more, if you can, of tobacco from
Virginia of the best quality.
You very well understand that my commerce with you is carried on in
Europe; that it is in the ports of Europe I make and take returns. However
well-bottomed my house may be and however I may have appropriated
many millions to your trade alone, yet it would be impossible for me to sup-
port it if all the dangers of the sea, of exports and imports, were not en-
tirely at your risk. Whenever you choose to receive my goods in any of our
windward or leeward islands you have only to inform me of it, and my cor-
respondents shall be there according to your orders, and then you shall have
no augmentation of price but of freight and insurance. But the risk of being
taken by your enemies still remains with you, according to the declaration
rendered incontestible by the measures I shall take by your deputy himself.
This deputy should receive, as soon as possible, full power and authority to
accept what I shall deliver to him, to receive my accounts, examine them,
make payments thereupon, or enter into engagements which you shall be
bound to ratify as the head of that brave people to whom I am devoted; in
short, always to treat about your interests immediately with me.
Notwithstanding the open opposition which the King of France, his
ministers, and the agents of administration show, and ought to show, to ev-
erything that carries the least appearance of violating foreign treaties and
the internal ordinances of the kingdom, I dare promise to you, gentlemen,
AUGUST 1776
553
that my indefatigable zeal shall never be wanting to clear up difficulties,
soften prohibitions, and, in short, facilitate all operations of a commerce
which my advantage, much less than yours, has made me undertake with
you. What I have just informed you of is only a general sketch, subject to
all the augmentations and restrictions which events may point out to us.
One thing can never vary or diminish: it is the avowed and ardent de-
sire I have of serving you to the utmost of my power. You will recollect my
signature, that one of your friends in London, some time ago, informed you
of my favorable disposition towards you and my attachment to your inter-
ests. Look upon my house, then, gentlemen, from henceforward as the chief
of all useful operations to you in Europe, and my person as one of the most
zealous partisans of your cause, the soul of your success, and a man most
deeply impressed with respectful esteem, with which I have the honor to be,
Roderique Hortalez 8c Co.
P.S. — I add here, to conclude, that every American vessel, though not
immediately armed or loaded by you, will be entitled to my good offices in
this country; but yours, particularly addressed to my house, will receive a
particular preference from me. I ought also to intimate to you, gentlemen,
that from the nature of my connection it is to be wished you would use dis-
cretion even in the accounts that you give to the general Congress. Every-
thing that passes in your great assemblies is known, I cannot tell how, at
the court of Great Britain. Some indiscreet or perfidious citizen sends an
exact account of your proceedings to the palace of St. James. In times of
great exigency Rome had a dictator; and in a state of danger, the more the
executive power is brought to a point, the more certain will be its effect, and
there will be less to fear from indiscretion. It is to your wisdom, gentlemen,
that I make this remark; if it seems to you just and well planned, look upon
it as a new mark of my ardor for your rising Republic.
R. H. 8c Co.
1. Wharton, ed., Revolutionary Diplomatic Correspondence , II, 129-31.
2. The ordnance expert, M. Philip Charles Baptiste Trouson du Coudray, had requested Major
General rank in the Continental Army.
Silas Deane to the Committee of Secret Correspondence1
[Extract] [Paris, August 18, 1776]
... If a few of our cruisers should venture on this coast they might do
very well, as they would find protection in the harbors of this kingdom.
Coming ostensibly for the purpose only of commerce or otherwise no ques-
tions would be asked, and they might wait until an opportunity offered (of
which they might be minutely informed) , and then strike something to the
purpose. I give this hint to individuals rather than to the honorable Con-
gress as a body. The bearer, Mr. [William] McCreary, has obliged me by
copying my memoir, which I sent herewith. It has had a great run among
the ministers of this and some other courts in a private way. M. Beau-
marchais writes by this opportunity; he has shown me his letter, and I have
554
EUROPEAN THEATRE
agreed in general to the contents, not understanding any exclusive privilege
for his house. Everything he says, writes, or does is in reality the action of
the ministry; for that a man should but a few months since confine himself
from his creditors, and now, on this occasion, be able to advance half a mil-
lion, is so extraordinary, that it ceases to be a mystery. . . .
1. Wharton, ed.. Revolutionary Diplomatic Correspondence , II, 126-27.
19 Aug.
“Extract of a Letter from the Chief Mate of a West Indiaman,
to his Father in Newcastle, dated London, August 19.”1
I had the misfortune to be taken by the Yankee privateer, when bound
to the head quarters, loaded with rum for the fleet and the army, from An-
tigua to New York. In lat. 36.40. long. 74.50. west, the said privateer, in the
grey of the morning, gave chace, and got along side us about nine o’clock.
We had but 2 four pounders and 12 shot, and gave 11 of them; the
other gun lost the fore-truck, or wheel, and we could not get it to bear; and
he being close along side, his guns loaded with round crop bar and canester
shot, that we were obliged to strike and hoist the boat out, and go on board
with the Captain and papers; the people were all detained, as also the Cap-
tain; and their people sent on board our ship, and some more of ours were
sent in the second boat, I being one of the number.
They had taken one three-decker before they took us, she was from Ja-
maica, with sugar and rum, for London; and three days after parted with
the two ships, they having orders to make the best of their way for Boston,
Marble-head, or Cape Ann. We soon ran them out of sight with the priva-
teer. We having been eight days on board as prisoners, concerted measures
to rise, and take her from them, which we accomplished, without lives lost
on either side. We went in search of our own ships, but fell in with two
American privateers, which made us bear up, and make all the sail we could
to get from them; for if they had taken us, we should have expected nothing
but death, but we were determined to fight to the last man, and would have
sunk her rather than been taken.
We had a fair wind all the way to London, and fetched all the prisoners
here with us, which were 25; and of us 14, officers included. After we were
masters for 20 days and nights we durst not go off the deck for fear of a re-
volt from them. We did not put any in irons, but one, and that was for his
impertinence. She is a fine sloop, mounts 9 four-pounders, 16 swivels, and
two cohorns.2
1. London Chronicle, August 31 to September 3, 1776.
2. The narrator was the mate of the ship Creighton.
AUGUST 1776
555
Silas Deane to Beaumarchais1
Sir, Paris, August 19th, 1776.
Since the stores and goods have been engaged and getting ready, I have
made inquiry of several merchants respecting the charter of vessels for
America generally, without mentioning what their cargoes should consist
of, and have written in the same way to some of my correspondents, and in
the whole, I find I shall not be able to provide them as early as is necessary
at any rate, and I fear not without making their destination and object too
public. You will recollect that I mentioned my apprehensions of this subject
some days since, and now propose (if consistent with your other engage-
ments,) that you would take the procuring of the vessels necessary on you,
at least, as far as to be security for the payment of their charter. It gives
me pain to put this additional trouble and expence on you, but I know that
you think nothing within your power is too great to be undertaken for the
service of the United Colonies of America, whose grateful acknowledg-
ments must equal, though they can never exceed your generous exertions in
their favor at this critical and important period of their affairs. These ves-
sels will return with cargoes on your account, which, with what will proba-
bly arrive from other remittances, will enable you to proceed to the greatest
extent in executing the great and liberal plan you have proposed. I shall do
myself the honor of waiting on you to-morrow morning on this and other
affairs; mean time I am, with the utmost respect and attachment, Sir [8cc.]
Silas Deane.
1. State Papers, House Document No. Ill, appendix, 15th Congress, 1st session 26, NA.
Marquis de Grimaldi to Prince Masserano1
Your Excellency: After warning me that he did so of his own accord and
without orders from his Court, the English Ambassador spoke to me about
the frequency with which ships of his Colonies come to our Ports and carry
on their usual trade. He indicated how convenient it would be to issue or-
ders forbidding this assistance, as the Portuguese Ministry has now done
with respect to that Kingdom. I replied to him saying that I believed that
very few came; that they were regarded here as subjects of Great Britain,
because it was not possible to tell which were of one party and which of an-
other; that they came in pursuit of a legal, long-established trade; that it
did not seem usual to hinder it, above all when they did not carry or seek in
exchange goods that England objected to. I recalled to him that the British
Cabinet had rejected a proposal Your Excellency made to them last year to
turn away from Port Egmond again certain American vessels which, it was
supposed, had come there without the sovereign’s knowledge. The rejection
was based on the position that it would insult the English flag, a thing that
would serve the Nation very badly. Lastly, not being able to persuade me
that the ships might present themselves under an unknown flag, nor having
556
EUROPEAN THEATRE
any evidence of it, he said he would make the appropriate reports. I advise
Your Excellency for your information and God grant Your Excellency
[&c.]
San Ildefonse, 19 August 1776.2
Marquis de Grimaldi
1. AHN, Estado, Legajo 4281, 11-12, LC Photocopy. Masserano was Spanish ambassador to
Great Britain, Grimaldi was Minister of State.
2. This date the British ambassador, Lord Grantham, wrote Lord Weymouth, Secretary of
State for the Southern Department, to advise of his conversation with Grimaldi.
Sparks Transcripts, Lord Grantham, I, 10-12, HU.
20 Aug.
Public Advertiser , Tuesday, August 20, 1776
London [August 20] .
The Americans are believed at last to have made a lucky Hit. A Vessel
from Cadiz, laden with Dollars on Merchants Account, to the Value of
150,000 1. is missing, supposed to have been taken by two Provincial Priva-
teers, which had been obliged to quit the Tagus, on the late Edict of his Por-
tuguese Majesty. Thirty per Cent was Yesterday offered upon the said Ves-
sel, to the Insurers, and refused.
London Chronicle, Saturday, August 17 to Tuesday, August 20, 1776
London [August 20] .
A sailor who came home with the Howe transport, which arrived on
Sunday se’nnight at Greenock, in 25 days from Halifax, gives the above ac-
count. He went out with the Mayflower , of Whitehaven, Capt. Crosbie, hav-
ing on board Capt. Aenaes M’Intosh’s company of the 71st. An old man and
his two sons came out in a fishing-boat, and informed them of the evacua-
tion of Boston, and the capture of the said two vessels.1 On their way to
Halifax from Boston they were attacked by a privateer of ten carriage and
six swivel guns, whom they fought for seven glasses, and were on the point
of being taken, when a man of war came in sight, and relieved them.
1. See Volume 5.
Pierre Penet to Dr. Barbeu Dubourg1
Intercepted. Nantes 20 August 1776.
In answer to the favour of your last letter and to the information
which you desire to have about the trade which could be engaged in with the
Colonies of the North; the point is that the houses which are desirous to in-
terest themselves in this business shall be capable of making advances, or
shall have sufficient credit to supply the goods to me at terms of 6 and 8
months. I should then find means to make some shipments which might
amount to a million and more per annum.
AUGUST 1776
557
According to the plan which I have formed, we should have no risk to
run. The goods will be insured and, from the manner in which I shall give
the orders for their sale, I am sure that it will give us, all expenses paid, a
considerable profit.
An experiment may be made in the first place with a sum of 200 or 300
thousand livres. It is a good business and one which should be followed up if
it be desired to carry it through, and which no one else will be able to under-
take.
If that suits you, and if I am assured of the arrangements and condi-
tions, I shall let you know the articles which it will be necessary to supply to
me either at Nantes or at Bordeaux. I feel flattered that you have antici-
pated my ideas: for I ought to arrange this speculation with some Dutch
houses. I shall however await your reply.
As regards the private provisions which I have to make on the Conti-
nent you know that that is a matter between ourselves. I have houses all
over Europe where I have credit sufficient to meet the demands which I
make and for this purpose I have no need, although it is a matter of many
millions, of any funds or advances. I have the honour Sec.
[P.S.] According to the news which I have just received from London, I
am notified that the King of England has lately proposed peace to the
Americans.
I learn at the same time by a captain arriving from Cadiz who has spo-
ken with a captain from New England that Lord Dunmore has been taken
prisoner by General [Charles] Lee with 3,000 of his troops.2
From another quarter I learn that the General Congress has issued a
declaration in all the Provinces of the Thirteen United Colonies of Liberty
and Independence. God grant that this news be true!
I shall have the honour to send you some furs. I am informed that there
are some arrived at Bordeaux, where there are nine or ten insurgent ships.
1. Stevens, ed., Facsimiles, No. 578.
2. Not so.
21 Aug.
Minutes of the British Navy Board1
[London] Wednesday 21st: Augst. 1776
Write to Mr [John] Wilkinson to provide another Master Sc Mate for
the Mellish Transport, the present ones having declared that in case of her
being attacked on her passage to America, they would not defend her, Sc to
cause her to be properly provided with Match.
1. PRO, Admiralty 106/2594.
558
EUROPEAN THEATRE
Lord George Townshend to Lord George Germain1
My Lord Lord [Jeffrey] Amherst having already given you his opinion
whilst I was in the Country, upon the subject of your Lordship s letter of
the 7th of this month, respecting Convoy 8c Arming the Ordnance Vessels, I
have nothing to add but my perfect concurrence; that according to the expe-
rience I have had in the service, that the best method of transporting the
most essential & interesting Stores to the Army 8c Navy upon the American
Station, is by conveying them in 40 Gun-Ships. — The upper tier of which I
apprehend to be superior to any Rebel Privateer, 8c at the same time great
Stowage 8c room for many Recruits, for the Swivels 8c small Arms might
be afforded. — Probably 2 or 4 forty Gun Ships might convey all the
Stores of the most interesting nature to their Destination with the utmost
security. The annual Recruits of Artillery 8c the Officers destined for this
service might be so timed, as to strengthen the Crews 8c lessen the number
of Sailors.
Our Spades, Pickaxes, Felling-axes, Gun Carriages and many Stores
known by the name of petty Emptions might be hazarded in Ships of infe-
rior Force. But my Lord I speak this with great deference to another De-
partment, which is the best judge how far such Ships can, in the circum-
stances of Affairs be applied to this service; certainly very important in its
nature, and which unless the Ordnance is possitively directed to act upon a
more enlarged Plan than they seem hitherto to have understood themselves
as charged with, they will find great difficulty to execute.
On the other hand my Lord, if it shall not be judged expedient that
these Ordnance Stores should be conveyed by Men of War, I hope His Maj-
esty’s Orders will be signified to me by your Lordship “that the Ordnance
Ships carrying Ordnance and Stores be sufficiently armed 8c manned
against the Rebel Cruizers” will be extended so as to enable the Ordnance to
hire or build Ships of greater force, than seems at present to be understood
to be within this Department.
As the Ordnance cannot know what is the American’s Naval Force;
whether skulking Privateers or Vessels cruizing in company, the only secu-
rity seems to be in stout Vessels, fitted for close Quarters, and with a proper
number of Guns 8c Men, for which I hope your Lordship’s instructions.
It will be necessary in this case, to take our Guns from the Naval
Stores, to be replaced for the Navy as soon as possible.
I beg leave to trouble your Lordship with an Extract of His Majesty’s
Instructions for the Ordnance, by which you will judge of the distinction
between the Land 8c Sea Service in that Department — and I also trouble
your Lordship with the Orders I have given in consequence of the Direc-
tions I received this day — untill His Majesty’s pleasure be further
Known. I am My Lord [8cc.]
Townshend
Portman Square 21st August 1776
1. PRO, Colonial Office, 5/162, 585-87. Townshend was Master General of Ordnance.
AUGUST 1776
559
London Chronicle , Tuesday, August 20 to Thursday, August 22, 1776
London [August 21].
Yesterday the Mercury , Spencer, an American prize, arrived in the
river; the people are ordered to be taken out, and put on board a man of
war.
Captain Roger Wills, R.N., to Philip Stephens1
Sir Spithead 21st August 1776
Please to acquaint my Lords Commissioners of the Admiralty that this
day I arrived with his Majesties Sloop the Ranger under my Command at
Spithead, in pursuance of Commodor Sir Peter Parker’s Order, from
South Carolina, in a leaky condition; having on board Captain [Charles]
Hope charged with dispatches from the Commodore, and Generl Clintons
Secretary charged with his dispatches. — I sail’d from the Bar of Charles
Town the 15th of July, and in my track on the 20th in the Lattd of 35° 18'
N. Longd from the Bar 8° 46' Et I fell in with a Trading Sloop belonging to
the Rebels, from Ocrecock in North Carolina, bound to Cape Nicholas Mole,
laden with Tobacco, and Lumber, to purchase in returne arms, Powder, or
Saltpetre. I seiz’d her, exchanged the Prisoners and Order’d the prize to
proceed to the first port in England. The Master informs me that it was re-
ported in North Carolina, that Arm’d Vessels were Intended to be sent to
cruze, to intercept the Homeward bound Trade, off the Western Islands. —
On the 27th it blowing very fresh with thick rainy weather and a great Sea;
at 6 o’Clock in the Morning in the Lattd of 39° 20' N Longd. from Carolina
19° Et saw a Sail to the westward standing after us, Coming up very fast,
on which I immediately Clear’d for Action, at \/2 past 7 she Came near us,
on which I hoisted the Colours and fir’d a shot at her, she hoisted a Rebel
flag at her topmast head (being a Sloop of 12 Carriage guns) and return’d
a shot, we exchanged several shot; as the Sea run very heigh our Carriage
guns was mostly under water, and rendered almost useless. I keepd to the
leeward of her that I might be able if possable to make use of the weather
guns, which I did between whiles. She made frequent attempts to get to lee-
ward of us, which I as often prevented at i/2 past 8 she hauld the wind and
made sail from us. I chaced her, but she being very clean, out saild us con-
siderably. I therefore thought it most prudent to proceed on my proper
course, having the above dispatches on board. I am Sir [&c.]
Rr Wills
Agreeable to My Lords Commisrs of the Admiralty’s directions to me, I
delivered their Commission to Mr Charles Loggie appointing him Lieuten-
ant of his Majesties Sloop the Ranger, on the 29 of March and was Sworn by
Sir Peter Parker the 3d of June
Inclosed is the state and Condition of his Majesties Sloop under my
Command.
560
EUROPEAN THEATRE
Endorsed 21 Aug 1776 Spithead Captn Wills of the Ranger Rx same
day by Captn Hope [Note on back] 22 Aug Own rect 8c approve of his
proceedings
1. PRO, Admiralty 1/2672, 9, 4.
“Extract of a Letter from Portsmouth, Aug. 21.”1
This Morning arrived at Spithead his Majesty’s Sloop Ranger, Captain
Willis, from Charles-Town, with Dispatches from Sir Peter Parker, which
were intrusted to the Care of the Hon. Captain [Charles] Hope, who imme-
diately set out Express for the Secretary’s Office. ’Tis reported here that
the Bristol Man of War, with some other of our Fleet, met with great Dam-
age in passing a Fort in Charles-Town River, and that red-hot Shot were
fired into the Ships. The Bristol was on fire twice in one Day: that Captain
[John] Morris, who commanded her, was killed, and that about 200 Men
were killed and wounded. His Majesty’s Ship Acteon is entirely lost on a
Shoal; three of our Ships ran on Shore, which occasioned great Slaughter
on board them. They were about to sail from Charles-Town when this Ac-
count came away.
1. Public Advertiser , London, August 23, 1776.
Lord Stormont to Lord Weymouth1
[Extract]
Very Secret Paris August 21. 1776.
The very material Intelligence communicated to me by the Kings Com-
mand in Your Lordship’s most confidential Letter of the 18th Inst agrees,
as You will have observed, in several Respects with the imperfect accounts
I have from time to time transmitted, particularly in my Letter No 53.
in which I mentioned by Name Messrs chaumont & DuBourg. I am per-
suaded that the Person whom I there called Pennet is the Monsieur Pinette
your Lordship mentions, He was called to me by the Name I gave him in
my Letter and represented as a German Merchant, but my Information
came from People of a lower Class with whom such Inacuracies are very
frequent. I am likewise persuaded that Mr Deane is the Person that was
mentioned to me by the name of Dana and think it very likely that He came
in Company with Nathan Rumsey. . . . and may intend to return to Amer-
ica together in that Vessel now waiting at Bordeaux of which I gave Your
Lordship a Description, and which perhaps may deserve to be watched: as
it would I think be of some Importance to seize Mr Deane.
There is one Part of the Intelligence Your Lordship has received which
I own, I am at a Loss to comprehend. That Beaumarchais should be recom-
mended as an active hustling Man, and ready for this or any similar Busi-
ness I can easily conceive, but I do not understand how He who has neither
Money nor Credit could offer to credit the Americans, to the amount of
three Millions of Livres unless this Court have secretly engaged some Mer-
chants or adventurers here to risk that Sum.
1. Stevens, ed., Facsimiles t No. 1350.
AUGUST 1776
561
22 Aug.
Precis Prepared for George III of Events Leading to the
Expedition Against the Southern Colonies1
[London, August 21 to August 22]
On the 21st of August 1776, Lord George Germain received another
Dispatch from Genl Clinton, dated July 8th in which he says that it ap-
peared by Letters, which he had reed from Genl. Howe that he was not ex-
pected or called upon for any immediate assistance on the opening of the
Campaign. That he [had] not named either the time or place of joining
him, but rather seemed, on the contrary, to intimate his wishes that some
operations might take place to the Southward, 8c had pointed out Charles-
town as an object of importance. That upon these grounds, 8c upon receiv-
ing Intelligence, that the Works erected by the Rebels on Sullivan’s Island,
were in an imperfect 8c unfinished state, he was induced to acquiesce in a
proposal made by the Commodore to attempt the Reduction of that Fortress
by a Coup de Main — That he thought it possible, at the same time that it
might be followed by consequences of immediate advantage to His Majes-
ty’s Service, not intending at that season of the year, to have proceeded fur-
ther than Sullivan’s Island — That with this view they sailed from Cape
Fear on the 31st May, and were joined on their passage by the Ranger
Sloop of War, by which he reed Lord Geo. Germain’s Dispatch of the 3d
March which has been already stated; and thinking upon a consideration of
that Dispatch, that the object in view came within the description of those
pointed out therein, he resolved to proceed — That the passage from Cape
Fear was attended with great difficulty, 8c delays That upon a considera-
tion of the whole 8c Lord Cornwallis agreeing with him in opinion, he re-
solved as the best means of co-operating with the Fleet, to take possession
of Long Island, which was represented to communicate with Sullivan’s Is-
land, by a Ford passable at low-water, 8c with the Main by Creeks navigable
for boats of draught. That this object was effected, and the whole Force as-
sembled on Long Island on the 18th June, except a few Recruits, who were
left on board the Transports for deception — That his first business after
landing was to examine the Ford, which, to his unspeakable mortification, he
found to be 7 feet at love water, instead of 18 inches as had been reported,
so that his Operations upon Long Island, were limited 8c confined — for
altho’ his situation was an object of jealousy both to Sullivan’s Island 8c to
the Main, yet as he had not boats for more than 6 or 700 Men, he was re-
duced to one attack without being able to favour that by any diversion on
the other — That he acquainted the Commodore with this discovery, 8c with
his apprehension that he should not be able with his Troops to take that
share in the attack upon the Fort, he was once in hopes to have done; assur-
ing him however than whenever he should think to begin his attack, he
would make every possible diversion in his favor, or send him 2 Battalions
to act on his side, in case he & the Genl Officers appointed to command
562
EUROPEAN THEATRE
them, should be of opinion they could be protected in their landing 8c em-
ployed to advantage — That in answer to this, it seemed to be understood
that he should give the best support he could, 8c they only waited for a Wind
to begin the attack — That at that time the Rebels had an Intienchment 8c
Battery on the point of Sullivan’s Island, where he intended to have landed,
from which he thought they might be dislodged by the light Ordnance he
had on shore; but unfavourable Winds having prevented the Fleet from
making the attack for 4 days, the Rebels removed from their station 8c took
up some very strong ground 500 yds back, with a more extended Front —
That this Post having very great advantage in point of situation 8c being de-
fended by 4 or 5000 Men, he thought it could not be attempted without a
manifest sacrifice of his Troops and accordingly had it in contemplation to
make an attempt on Hederal’s Point upon the Main, by making a landing
within 3 miles of it — That he made a request to the Commodore, that some
Frigates might be directed to co-operate with him in that attempt, to which
he assented; but as his movements depended in great measure upon those of
the Fleet, it was impossible to decide positively upon any plan — That
about 7 o’clock on the 28th June the Fleet was discovered going upon the at-
tack of the Fort on Sullivan’s Island; but as when they brought up they did
not appear to be within such a distance as to avail themselves of their fire
from their tops, grapeshot, or musketry, he was apprehensive no impres-
sion would be made upon the Battery, 8c he likewise saw, that the 3 Frigates
supposed to have been destined to cut off the Rebel communication with
Hederal’s Point 8c favour his attack upon it, were aground, immediately
after the 4 leading Ships had taken their stations. That during the Attack
he made every diversion by cannonade while the sands were uncovered —
That small armed Vessels were ordered to proceed towards the Point of
Sullivan’s Island, but that they all got aground — That the Troops were dis-
posed of in such a manner as to be a portee to attempt the landing, either on
Sullivan’s Island or the Main as circumstances, during the attack, should
make necessary. That the Cannonade of the Fleet continued without any fa-
vourable appearances ’till night — That upon an expectation that it would
be renewed in the morning he made the best dispositions he could, of the
small Ordnance he could collect, to enable him if necessary whilst the tide
suited to have made one effort on Sullivan’s Island, an Attempt however
contrary to every Military Principle, 8c justifiable only in a case of the suc-
cess of the Fleet or of its distress, to support the one or relieve the other —
That at day break finding, to his great concern, that the Fleet had retired 8c
that there was no intention of renewing the Attack, he proposed to the
Commodore to proceed as soon as possible, to the Northward and that they
should sail in a few days for New York.
On the 22d of August the Lords of the Admiralty communicated to
Lord Geo: Germain, a copy of a Dispatch from Sir Peter Parker to Mr. Ste-
phens dated Bristol - in 5 fathom hole within Charles Town Bar, the 9th
July 1776, in which he says, that the Sphynx 8c Pensacola Packet, having
on the 26th May returned from reconnoitering Charles Town, the Engi-
AUGUST 1776
563
neers Report of the state of the Fortifications and the Works carrying on,
added to an Account Genl Clinton had reed that the Troops would not be
wanted so soon as he expected, having made an attempt on that place advis-
able, the Fleet on the 30th May, got over the Bar at Cape Fear, 8c on the 1st
of June anchored off Bull’s Bay — That on the 2d of June the Ranger Sc Dele-
gate went to sound the North end of Sullivan’s Island Sc Long Island, as
far as the Rattle Snake, 8c next day from the northward of the Rattlesnake
to the northward of Long Island — That on the 4th of June the whole Fleet
except the Ranger, anchored off Charles Town Bar — That on the 5th the
Delegate, covered by the Friendship, sounded the Bar, 8c laid down buoys
preparatory to the intended entrance of the harbour on the next day by the
Frigates — That on the 6th Capt Willis was directed to place the Ranger, St
Lawrence and Friendship , where Genl Clinton thought proper — That on
the 7th the Bristol's assistance being judged necessary, 8c it being the opin-
ion of the Captains, Masters 8c Pilots, that if she were brought to 17 Feet 6
Inches, she might be got over the Bar, orders were immediately given for
her guns to be taken out, and the ship lightened for that purpose; 8c the
same day all the Frigates, 8c most of the Transports got over into 5 fathom
hole — That on the 10th the Bristol got over the Bar with some difficulty —
That on the 15th the Captains were given the Arrangements for the Attack
of the Batteries on Sullivan’s Island, 8c the General was informed the next
day by letter, that the Ships were ready — That on the 21st signal was
made to unmoor, to cause a diversion, tho’ the Wind was contrary, it being
imagined that the Troops were engaging the Rebels at the northend of Sul-
livan’s Island — That this Day the General fixed on Sunday the 23d for the
joint attack — That on the 23d June, a private signal was made to the Gen-
eral, that the Ships would go on the attack at one o’clock, but the Wind com-
ing contrary the signal was hauled down at 1 1 o’Clock. That on the 25th the
Experiment arrived 8c came over the Bar the next day, when a new ar-
rangement was made for the attack. That on the 27th the Wind being flat-
tering the private signal was made to the General 8c the Ships got under
weigh but were obliged to Anchor, the Wind flying suddenly round to the
northward. That on the 28th of June at half past 9. Genl Clinton was in-
formed by signal, that the ships would go on the attack. At half an hour
after 10 the signal was made for weighing, and about a quarter after
Eleven they brought up against the Fort. That Coll James in the Thunder
Bomb, covered by the Friendship threw several shells a little before and
during the Engagement in a very good direction — That the Sphynx, Ac-
taeon Sc Syren, which were to have gone to the Westward, to prevent the
Fireships, or other Vessels from annoying the ships engaged, Sc to cut off
the Retreat of the Rebels when driven from their Works ran aground thro’
the ignorance of the Pilots, from whence the Sphynx Sc Syren got off in a
few hours, but the Act [a] eon remained fast ’till the next morning when
she was set on fire by her own crew to prevent her falling into the Enemies
hands — That during the time of their being abreast of the Fort, which was
10 hours, a brisk fire was kept up by the Ships, with intervals, Sc they had
564
EUROPEAN THEATRE
the satisfaction, after being engaged 2 hours, to oblige the Rebels to slacken
their fire very much, 8c to drive large parties of them several times out of
the Fort, which were replaced by others from the Main. That the Forts
were totally silenced 8c evacuated near an hour 8c half but the Rebels finding
that our Army could not take possession, about 6 o’clock a considerable
Body of theirs re-entered the Fort, and renewed the firing from 2 or 3 guns,
the rest being as supposed dismounted — That about 9 o’clock, it being very
dark, great part of their Ammunition expended, the people fatigued, the
tide of Ebb almost done no prospect from the Eastward, and no possibility
of their being of any further service, the ships were ordered to withdraw to
their former moorings — That their Lordships will see plainly by this Ac-
count that if the Troops could have co-operated on this Attack, His Majesty
would have been in possession of Sullivan’s Island — But he begs leave here
to be clearly understood lest it should be imagined that he means to throw
even the most distant reflexion on the Army — for that he should not dis-
charge his conscience were he not to acknowledge, that such was his opinion
of The King’s Troops, from the General to the private Soldier that after he
had been engaged some hours 8c perceived that The King’s Troops had not
got a footing on the North end of Sullivan’s Island, he was perfectly satis-
fied, that the landing was impracticable, 8c that the attempt would have
been the destruction of many brave men, without the least probability of
success — And that this he is certain will appear to be the case when Genl
Clinton represents his situation — He then, after giving an Acct of the State
of The Ships, of the number of Men killed 8c wounded, 8c of the behaviour of
the Officers 8c Men upon the occasion, concludes with acquainting, that all
the Regiments will be reembarked in a few days — That the first Brigade will
sail in a day or two under convoy for New York 8c that the Bristol 8c Exper-
iment, will, he hopes, soon follow with the remainder.
1. PRO, Colonial Office, 5/232.
William Knox, Under Secretary of State, to Lord Dartmouth 1
My dear Lord [London] 22 Augt 1776
I hoped to have been able to send your Lordship a more pleasing ac-
count of our Southern Expedition than is contained in the inclosed precis It
is well however the Troops have not suffered by the climate which I dreaded
more than the fire of the Rebels, tho’ that has done no small execution on
board the Ships. Not a Man on the Quarter Deck of Sir Parker’s Ship at the
beginning of the attack, that was not either killed or wounded before the
end of it. The worst consequence of this failure will be the shewing the Reb-
els where their strength lies and how they may foil us again in the winter
tho’ our strength be greater. They were seen to hang up a man upon a Tree
behind the Fort, before they could prevail on a Party to return to the Guns.
We have no Account or even guess at their loss. All our hopes are now fixed
on General Howe, a cheque at New York would undoe us all, God Grant he
AUGUST 1776
565
may wait for his reinforcement before he attempts any thing, and then I
think they will not wait for him. I am ever Your Lordships [8cc.]
Will: Knox
1. PRO, Dartmouth Manuscripts, NCDAH Transcript.
Philip Stephens to William Knox1
Sir, Admiralty Office, 22d Augt 1776.
Having laid before my Lords Commissioners of the Admiralty your
Billet, with the Papers which accompanied it, from Mr [Hans] Stanley,
Secretary to the Commrs of the Customs, in relation to the Snow Peter,2
bound from Santa Cruz in the West Indies to Amsterdam, which is detained
at Cowes, on Suspicion of belonging to His Majesty’s rebellious Subjects in
North America, Their Lordships directed Mr Seddon, Solicitor for the Af-
fairs of the Admiralty, to take the Opinions of three eminent Council re-
specting the Same, which he having accordingly done, I am Commanded by
their Lordships to send herewith Copies of the said Opinions, and to ac-
quaint you, for the Information of Lord George Germain, that they have
given Directions to Mr Seddon to proceed against the said Snow as a Droit
of Admiralty. I am 8cc
Php Stephens
1. PRO, Colonial Office, 5/259, 98-99.
2. Ibid., 87, “Whitehall 2d August 1776. Mr Knox presents his Compliments to Mr Stephens,
and, in addition to the Papers formerly transmitted respecting the Sloop Peter, sends
him the inclosed Letter from Mr Stanley & Protest of the Master.”
Captain Charles Hope, R.N., to Philip Stephens1
Sir
Inclosed I have the honour to send you an Order Sr Peter Parker was
pleased to give me on the third of last June appointing me to the Command
of the Friendship Armed Ship, which I am to beg you will be pleased to
move their Lordships for confirmation.
I likewise send you inclosed Sr Peter Parkers order for my proceeding
to England in His Majesty’s Sloop Ranger with his dispatches with which I
arrived at Spithead Yesterday Morning the 21 of August and I have the
honour to be Sr [&c.]
Cs Hope
[London] August 22d 1776
[Endorsed] 22 Augt to be confirmed
1. PRO, Admiralty 1/1902, 23, 1.
566
EUROPEAN THEATRE
Robert Earl to the Lords Commissioners, British Customs 1
Honble Sirs
Yesterday arrived at Spithead His Majestys Sloop Ranger Captn Wills
from South Carolina with an Express; and in the Afternoon on the proper
officers examining the Baggage of a Gentleman who came Passenger they
found Eighty Letters, which in Obedience to your Order of the 24th Febru-
ary, we forwarded (in a Box) by the Coach last Night under the Seals of
office Addressed to your Honors
This Ship left South Carolina the 15th Ulto and brings an Account
that His Majestys Ships, Bristol , Experiment, Actaeon , Siren, Solebay, Ac-
tive and Sphinx under the Command of Sir Peter Parker, attempted on the
28th June last, to get over the Bar of Charles Town River with intent to
land the Troops on Sullivans Island In this Attempt, some of the Ships
particularly the Bristol and Actaeon grounded on the Bar by which they be-
came exposed for a considerable time to the continual fire of a Fort erected
by the Rebels to annoy any Shipping making such Attempt; whereby the
Bristol was much shattered, and the Actaeon so Circumstanced, that Sir
Peter ordered her to be set on Fire which was done, and She soon after-
wards blew up -
Captain [John] Morris of the Bristol lost his Arm & died soon After-
ward — Captain [Alexander] Scott of the Experiment likewise lost an
Arm, but is in a fair way to recover Lieutenant Pike of the Active was
killed — The Bristol had two Masts Shot away. The following is the best
Account we can collect of the Numbers Killed and Wounded Vizt
killed
Wounded
Bristol
41
71
Experiment
23
54
Solebay
1
8
Active
1
3
66
136
We are with great Respect Honble Sirs [&c.]
Rob1 Earl in the absence of
Coll [ecto]r W: Stiles
Custom H. [Portsmouth] 22 Augt 1776 -
1. PRO, Colonial Office, 5/148. Earl was deputy collector of customs at Portsmouth.
Memoir of Silas Deane to the French Ministry1
Memoire
In the Instructions given Mr Deane by the honorable Committee of Secrecy
for the Congress of the United Colonies in North America he is among
other Things charged to sollicit for a Credit for “Cloathing & Arms for
Twenty five Thousand Men, with a suitable Quantity of Ammunition, and
One hundred Field pieces” which Article closes, with saying [“]that the
AUGUST 1776
567
whole if granted or obtained, would make a Cargo that it might be well to
secure by a Convoy of Two or Three Shipps of Warr.”
These Articles are now engaged but, Great Brittain depending more on pre-
venting supplies to the Colonies of the means of Defence, than on their for-
midable Armaments, have taken, and will pursue every measure, both of
Negotiation, 8c Warr to deprive the United Colonies of necessary supplies
of Cloathing, & Stores for Warr.
The safe Arrival of these stores, is of the last importance, 8c in some
sense the Fate of the United Colonies depends upon it.
The Time for their Arrival, will be in November, or December, when
the Campaign on the part of the Army of Great Brittain, unaccustomed to
the Severities of that Climate, must be closed; And it is easy to forsee that
it must be in one of the following Situations, if Victorious, and successful in
every Attempt, they will be in possession of New York, Albany, and thence
of the Water courses into Canada, of Long Island and some part of the Jer-
sies, the late opening of the Campaign will not admit of more considering
the Nature of the Country, should they meet with no defeats, 8c the season
will call their Attention to such Winter Quarters, where they may be most
secure from the Forces of the United Colonies, 8c best receive reinforce-
ments from Europe.
On the other hand if the Army of the United Colonies are victorious
that of Great Brittain must remain shut up in Staten Island under worse
Circumstances than they were last Year in Boston, or return to Hallifax, or
what in such Case is much the most probable winter in the West Indies.
In either case the Arrival of this Supply at this Time will be of the ut-
most importance to the Army of the United Colonies.
If unfortunate their Spirits will be newhred, and defying the inclem-
ency of the Season to which they are habituated, they will rally and their
Enemy having no Advantage of fortified Towns to shelter them they will
with ease regain all they lost in the Summer, 8c pursuing the Blow wholly
drive the British Forces from the Continent.
If fortunate, 8c the British Forces situated in one of the above places
one of which on such an Event must be their Situation this supply will ena-
ble them to drive them off finally 8c prevent their Return, several other Con-
siderations need not be particularized, they are seen at once by a supposi-
tion of those Stores being intercepted to prevent which the most prudent &
effectual Measur[es] must be taken.
The Stores if Shipped in French Bottoms will be safe on the open Sea,
at least they ought to be so, & the Vessels have a right of entering the Ports
of North America to refit or repair, under cover of which they might be
landed, many other ways may be taken to effect the same purpose without
Violation of the Laws of Commerce, But, inter Arma silent Leges , 8c We
have no hopes in this Case to be an exception to this general Rule, But after
every other precaution, must be prepared to oppose Force to Force; in the
doing which, the United Colonies would by no means pursue, or wish to
have such Measures pursued, as might involve France in a Warr, solely on
their Account.
568
EUROPEAN THEATRE
But as the United Colonies, have declared themselves Free, and inde-
pendant States, and have declared open Warr with Great Brittain, if this
Commerce with the United Colonies, considered in Connection, with other
important Objects, should be deem’d deserving Support, & protection,
France has the same Right to support & protect it, as a Commerce with the
United Colonies of holland, if at Warr with Great Brittain, and for Great
Brittain to forbid such a Commerce at the risque of a Warr, is in one Word
to Assume the right of prescribing Laws to France, which watever he[r]
inclination prompts on this head her present Resources, & desperate Situa-
tion will never imbolden her to Attempt.
In considering this Subject, several Methods have been thought of,
some of which may possibly meet with Approbation, & prove effectual, or
some one different may be formed from these hints
1st It is humbly submitted, whether, at this Critical period it will not be
judged the true policy of France, to have a Fleet of Observation, in the
American seas, and should such a Fleet be sent out, whither these
Stores might not be sent under its Convoy untill they arrived in those
seas, & on that Coast.
2d Should this measure not be adopted, or should such Fleet Sail too late
for this purpose whither permission might not be obtained for pur-
chasing or hiring Three, or Four Frigates as a Convoy, to Sail as for
the West Indies under French Colors, but if on entering any harbor in
America they should be under the Necessity of Contending, it may be
done under the Colors of the United Colonies.
3d Should this be thought unadviseable, Whither it would be permitted to
hire Frigates of individuals for this purpose, observing strictly such
Regulations as shall be prescribed for avoiding every Thing that might
justify a rupture between the Two Nations.
The Loss of these Stores by Capture would be every way of bad Conse-
quence though it would add but little, comparatively to the Strength of the
Enemy, yet the Loss to the United Colonies must be doubly great heightned
by so discouraging an Accident, at so critical a period of their Affairs.
These Thoughts are humbly Submitted only by adding, that many
American Seamen may now be engaged in the Ports of Great Brittain, &
Ireland, who are detained there from going direct for America, but would
be permitted to ship themselves for Holland, or France, and who must oth-
erways from Necessity, be soon reduced to enter the British Service.
Paris August 22d 1776 —
1. Stevens, ed., Facsimiles, No. 580. Appended to the Memoir is a note in French summarizing
its contents, which in translation reads:
1776 August 22. Note of contents of the memoire. In the instructions given
by the American Congress to Mr Deane, he is, amongst other things, charged
to solicit, upon credit, accoutrements and arms for 25,000 men with suitable
amount of ammunition and 100 field guns. And when France shall have granted
the whole, a cargo would be formed which might come under convoy of two
or thiee men of war. The carrying out of this instruction is contingent upon
the several events which may happen during the war which Congress will have
to maintain against England.
AUGUST 1776
569
23 Aug.
M. Garnier to Vergennes1
[Extract] London, 23 August 1776
. . . The Warship Pembroke and the Frigate Bologna , both old vessels
destined to serve as hookers in Halifax, are ready to sail from the road of
Portsmouth. They are loaded with masts and all kinds of rigging for the
Fleet in America and they are also to convoy a few Transports for the serv-
ice of the Army. They are presently loading two large merchantmen in
Deptford which are also supposed to carry rigging to Halifax.
I had the honor to inform you previously that General Clinton was to
have received at Cape Fear orders to rejoin General Howe without attempt-
ing anything against the Southern Provinces, and you will have read, My
lord, that General Howe’s last letters indicated he was awaiting as a matter
of fact the arrival of the Army Corps under the command of General Clin-
ton. The original orders to this last General authorized him to attempt an
expedition either in Virginia or in the Carolina if he could see any interest-
ing advantage to it, otherwise to join with the main part of the army. As
soon as it was learned here that Sir Parker’s Squadron with the troops des-
tined to operate under Mr. Clinton’s command had been scattered, it was
thought that the moment to make an attack against the South had slipped
by, and positive orders to join, with General Howe were sent to him. Unfor-
tunately those orders did not reach him, and this small Army Corps com-
posed of about four thousand men made an attempt against Charles Town,
the Capital of South Carolina. Sir Parker’s Squadron, after passing the bar
which is at the opening of the river, attacked batteries located on the Island
of Sullivan. It was necessary to destroy them in order to make possible the
disembarkement of the troops; but, unable to approach the batteries close
enough to reduce them to silence because of the lack of depth of the water,
he was subjected to such a running fire that after an obstinate engagement
which lasted a few hours, he was forced to give up. This did not take place
without losses on his side. His flagship the Bristol of 50 guns was badly
damaged. The Captain on board was killed. There were besides 40 men
killed and _7J_ wounded. The Experiment, also of 50 guns, suffered a great
deal. There were 24 men killed and 72 wounded, among these the Captain
who lost his arm and, from what is said, cannot get over it. The Frigates
Active and Solebay had two men killed and three wounded. The Frigates
Syrene and Sphynx ran aground and were set afloat again with the greatest
difficulties. It was not the same for the Acteon a new Frigate of 28 guns and
built with especially hardened wood through a preparation which I once
procured for M. de Boynes. They had to blow her up for fear that she fell
into the hands of the enemy, and you can, My lord, scratch her out of the
table.2 The Captain of this Frigate came as a passenger on the Corvette
Ranger which arrived with this news in Portsmouth on the 21st, The pecu-
liar thing about all this is that the batteries that worked so well were com-
570
EUROPEAN THEATRE
posed of 40 guns from the Foudroyant, the beautiful ship which we lost so
unfortunately during the last war. Since they use only iron guns on their
Ships, they had sent these guns which were made of cast-iron to South Car-
olina. I have this information from Colonel Keene, one of the Lords at the
Colonial Office. The whole affair must have taken place on the 26th or the
27th of June. Its lack of success determined Sir [Peter] Parker to join
with Lord Howe. But the poor condition of his Ships does not promise much
speed in his navigation. The Vessel that brought this news had sailed on the
6th of July. I shall not fail to send you, My lord, whatever particulars the
Government will deem proper to publish about it. Lord Sandwich tried to
justify Sir [Peter] Parker, but the other Ministers blame the conduct of
this Admiral claiming on the one hand that even the success of the expedi-
tion was unnecessary, and on the other hand, that at least he should have
been better acquainted with the depth of the river before proceeding.3
1. AMAE, Correspondance Politique, Angleterre, vol. 517, LC Photocopy.
2. The list dated June 21, 1776, enclosed in Gamier to Vergennes, June 24.
3. In a letter of August 27 to Vergennes, Gamier added: “How can it be that the English knew
this coast so poorly?”
Public Advertiser , Friday, August 23, 1776
London, August 23.
The Americans have such a Number of Privateers at Sea, that scarce a
Ship has arrived from the West India Islands but has been chaced by them.
The Fame, Moore, from Barbadoes, is safe arrived at Dublin, after
being chaced on his Voyage by two American Privateers, both which she
out-sailed.
The Neptune, from Antigua, for Corke, with the St. Peter, from St.
Vincent’s for Liverpool, and the Friendship, from Grenada to London, were
all taken by an American Privateer in Lat. 3 1.1 *
The Albion, Hogg, from Dominica, who is arrived at Cork, was three
days after she sailed chaced by an American privateer five hours, but one of
his Majesty’s frigates appearing in sight, obliged the privateer to give over
the chace and sheer off. The frigate afterwards gave chace to the privateer,
but whether she came up with her or not is unknown, as the Albion pro-
ceeded on her voyage.
There are now missing of the fleet which came under convoy of the An-
telope man of war, four ships from Jamaica, and one from Barbadoes; and
it is generally supposed they are taken by some American privateers.
1. These three vessels were taken between July 11 and July 15, by the Continental ship Re-
prisal, Captain Lambert Wickes. See Volume 5 and William Bell Clark, Lambert
Wickes Sea Raider and Diplomat (New Haven, 1932) .
AUGUST 1776
571
24 Aug.
Philip Stephens to the British Navy Board 1
Gentn 24 Augst 1776.
I have received Sc read to my Lords Commrs of the Admty your three
Letters, Vizt two of the 6th Sc one of the 7th Inst representing that Lord
Dunmore has appointed Robt Simonton, Niel Jameson, Sc Thos. Wilson to
measure and certify to you the Tonnage of all Transports taken up on Gov-
ernment Service at Virginia, and also to Certify the value of such as have,
or may be taken by the Enemy; And that Messrs Dunlop Sc Wilson have ap-
plied to you to be paid the Value Sc Freight of the Sloop Edward hired by
his Lordship, but since taken by the Rebels; also for the freight of the Sloop
Fincastle which was likewise hired by his Lordship, and desiring in your
said Letters to receive their Lordships directions thereupon, And my Lords
having taken the same into their Consideration; I am commanded by them
to acquaint you that as they have not received any Command, from His
Majesty respecting the hire of these Vessels they do not think themselves
authorized to give any directions for the Payment thereof. I am &c
P. S.
1. PRO, Admiralty 2/552, 439.
Public Advertiser , Saturday, August 24, 1776
London [August 24] .
Bunker’s Hill and Carolina Bar are cant Terms of British Disgrace;
they are to England what Cannae was to Rome.
The following is a List of the Killed and Wounded on Board the Fleet
at South Carolina.
Guns
Killed
Wounded
Bristol, of
50
40
71
Experiment,
50
24
54
Solebay,
28
- 1
0
Active,
28
- 1
66
3
128
The Acteon, of 28 Guns, running on Shore, the Crew set Fire to her
and left her.
The Sphynx and Syren were on Shore, but got off.
Sir Peter Parker, with such of his Fleet as were able to sail, together
with General Clinton and the Troops under his Command, left Carolina the
16th of July, and proceed [ed] for Staten Island to join the Howes.
Amonest the Slain on board the Bristol, Man of War, are said to be one
O
Lieutenant, three Midshipmen, and a Quarter Gunner.
572
EUROPEAN THEATRE
Vergennes to M. Garnier1
[Extract] Versailles, 24 August 1776
Its quite possible, Sir, that contraband leaves our ports for the Colo-
nies. On our shore, it is only merchandise; at sea, we do not meddle with it
unless it is under the protection of our flag and in destination to our posses-
sions. However, I believe that the Dutch take better advantage of this op-
portunity than we do; they are more skillful than our merchants.
1. AMAE, Correspondance Politique, Angleterre, vol. 517, LC Photocopy.
“Extract of a letter from Bordeaux, 24 August I776.”1
The French ship Marianne arrived yesterday in this port from St.
Marc. She had disembarked there 4 captains and seven English sailors
whom a Bostonian Privateer, armed with 12 guns and a crew of 90, had
asked her to take on board after meeting her at sea. They relate that this
Privateer had already captured 1 1 prizes, that most of the sailors had
joined their party and that they, the captains, and all those who wished to
remain loyal to the King of England were left without difficulty on each
neutral vessel they met at sea.
They do not know where this privateer sent her prizes. They praise the
Captain who allowed them to take their personal effects and who returned
4000# to one of them because he did not find them entered on the consign-
ment of the ships and thought therefore they belonged to him. If we are to
believe these officers, the Americans have 64 vessels mounting from 10 to 36
guns, most of which are cruising off the Eastern part of the Newfoundland
bank. They form their crews there. They stop all fishermen and sink the
vessels. They find men easily because they treat them well and they may
rely upon them because it is not in their interest to be caught by the Eng-
lish, besides their fondness for looting. &ca.
1. AMAE, Correspondance Politique, Angleterre, vol. 517, LC Photocopy.
27 Aug.
London Chronicle, Saturday, August 24 to Tuesday, August 27, 1776
London [August 27] .
The Pomona sloop of war, Capt. , has taken a brig from Statia, said
to be bound to Holland, and carried her into St. Kitts, the Captain and Mate
are Americans, the Sailors Dutchmen. On board her some powder was
found stowed among sugars, and sundry other articles for the Americans.
One of the sailors being in liquor confessed they were bound to America and
not to Holland.
AUGUST 1776
573
28 Aug.
Lords Commissioners, Admiralty, to Naval Officers in Home Waters 1
The King having been pleased by His Order in Council of the 21. of Au-
gust 1776, to order, require prohibit and command, That no Person or Per-
sons whomsoever (except the Master General, Lieut General or Principal
Officers of the Ordnance for His Majesty’s Service) do at any time during
the space of three Months, to commence from the 23d day of the Month
abovemention’d, presume to transport into any parts of this Kingdom, or
carry Coastwise any Gunpowder, Saltpetre or any sort of Arms or Ammu-
nition, or ship or lade any Gunpowder, Saltpetre or any sort of Arms or
Ammunition, on board any Ship or Vessel, in order to transporting the
same beyond the Seas, or carrying the same Coastwise, except in the cases
comprized within His Majesty’s Orders in Council of the 13th and 27th of
October, & the 6th and 22d of November 1775. and of the 5th & 19th of Feb-
ruary last, without leave or permission in that behalf first obtained from
His Majesty or His Privy Council, upon pain of incurring and suffering the
respective Forfeitures and Penalties inflicted by an Act pass’d in the 29th
Year of His late Majesty’s Reign intituled “An Act to empower His Maj-
esty to prohibit the exportation of Saltpetre, and to enforce the Law for em-
powering His Majesty to prohibit the exportation of Gunpowder, or any
sort of Arms and Ammunition; and also to empower His Majesty to re-
strain the carrying Coastwise of Saltpetre, Gunpowder, or any sort of Arms
or Ammunition’’ We send you herewith a printed Copy of His Majesty’s
said Order in Council of the 21st August 1776, and do hereby most strictly
require and direct you to use your best endeavours to intercept, seize, and
bring into Port during the time therein specified, all Ships Se Vessels what-
soever having on board Gunpowder, Saltpetre or any sort of Arms or Am-
munition, in order to transporting the same beyond the Seas or carrying the
same Coastwise, without leave or permission in that behalf first obtained
from His Majesty or His Privy Council, except in the cases comprized
within His Majesty’s abovemention’d Orders in Council of the 13th and
27th of October and 6th and 22d of November 1775. and of the 5th and 19th
of February last printed Copies of which are also sent you herewith; and
also excepting such Ships and Vessels as shall be laden with Gunpowder,
Saltpetre, Arms or Ammunition for His Majts Service, by the Master Gen-
eral, Lieut. General or Principal Officers of the Ordnance. Given Sec. the
28th August 1776
To The respective Flag Officers
Captains Sc Commanders of His
Majts. Ships and Vessels.
Sandwich H. Penton H. Palliser
By Sec. G. J.
See the List on the other side2
1. PRO, Admiralty 2/101, 288-91.
2. The order was addressed to Vice Admirals Sir James Douglas and John Amherst, at Ports-
mouth and Plymouth, respectively, and to sixty captains and commanders based on the
naval ports in England and Ireland.
574
EUROPEAN THEATRE
Lords Commissioners, Admiralty, to Lord George Germain1
My Lord, Admiralty Office 28th Augt 1776
Your Lordship having in your Letter of the 24th Instant acquainted us
that you have signified to the Master General of the Ordnance His Majes-
ty’s Commands that no Ordnance or Stores should be sent to America on-
board any Vessel that did not sail with Convoy, and was not sufficiently
manned 8c armed to defend herself against any of the Rebel Cruizers in case
of Separation from the Convoy;2 and Your Lordship having at the same
time inclosed to us, by His Majesty’s Command, a Copy of the Letter you
have received from Lord Townshend, and an Extract of one which you have
received from Lord [Jeffrey] Amherst, in consequence thereof, and signi-
fied to us His Majesty’s Pleasure, that we should take the same into our
Consideration, and acquaint Your Lordship, for His Majesty’s Information,
whether what is therein proposed can be complied with consistent with the
other important Services under our Direction: We have in obedience to His
Majesty’s Commands maturely considered the Propositions contained in the
Copy 8c Extract of the Letters abovementioned, Vizt
1st, That Ordnance Stores of the most interesting nature be conveyed to
the Place of their Destination in America in Forty Gun Ships, for which
Purpose two or four might probably be sufficient; or
2dly, That the Master General of the Ordnance be empowered to hire or
build Ships of greater force than seems at present to be understood to be
within his Department, to be fitted with close Quarters and with a proper
Number of Guns 8c Men, in which case it is represented to be necessary to
take Guns from the Naval Stores to be replaced as soon as possible.
With respect to the first Proposition We are to acquaint Your Lord-
ship, for His Majesty’s Information, that all His Majesty’s Ships of forty
Guns are now employed in America, except the Launceston which is con-
demned 8c can never go to Sea.
That if His Majesty had more Forty Gun Ships, or other Frigates, than
what are now employed, they would all be wanted for the Protection of the
various Branches of Trade, and for carrying on the American War; which,
by what now appears to us, requires as many Frigates as the late War with
France 8c Spain.
That if Men of War were fit to carry out Stores of any kind, they would
of course be employed in our own Department for that Purpose, for Provi-
sions 8c Stores; but as this Method is not practiced by us, from our Knowl-
edge that it would be perverting them from their proper use as Ships of
War; we must, in the strongest manner, represent to His Majesty against
their being employed in any other Department.
With respect to the second Proposition, we are not competent Judges of
the Expediency of building Ships by the Ordnance, unless it was intended
that they should be built in His Majesty’s Yards; which we must object to,
as there is as much Business in hand in the several Yards as can possibly be
AUGUST 1776
575
executed by all the Artificers that can be procured; but we humbly conceive
that the Ordnance may procure armed Ships, more suitable for the purpose
of carrying Stores than Men of War; as has been done by that Branch of
His Majesty’s Government which has taken care of the Victualling of the
Army in America.
And as to the employing the Guns, appropriated to the Service of the
Navy, to other purposes, we humbly apprehend, that the Ordnance is to fur-
nish Artillery, not only for all the Ships actually on the List of His Majes-
ty’s Navy, but for such as may hereafter be added thereto upon any Emer-
gency, and that as we have ordered many new Ships to be built, it will be
attended with very fatal Consequences if their Guns are not in readiness for
them. We are &ca.
Sandwich H Penton H Palliser
1. PRO, Colonial Office, 5/259, 99-102.
2. This agitation for greater protection of ordnance vessels probably resulted from capture of
the powder ship Hope by James Mugford, in Washington’s schooner Franklin. See
Volume 5.
Lords Commissioners, Admiralty, to Captain John Lewis Gidoin,
H.M.S. Richmond , Spithead1
Whereas it is of great consequence to His Majestys
Service that the Transports named in the Margin, the former
being laden with Cloathing, the latter having on board
Mellish Recruits for His Majts Regiments of Foot in Canada should
King George be safely convoyed to Quebec, You are hereby required
& directed to take the said Transports under your Con-
voy 8c proceed to Sea with the first opportunity of Wind 8c
Weather 8c make the best of your way with them to Quebec
accordingly taking all possible care yourself 8c giving the
most positive Orders to their Masters respectively that they
do not loose Company with you. And whereas we have di-
rected the Navy Board to appoint Mr Horsenail a Midship-
man of the Navy to go on board the Mellish with Instruc-
tions to superintend the navigating her to explain to her
Master the Convoy Instructions 8c Signals, and in case of
separation to Direct the Ships proceedings agreable to the
Rendezvous 8c Orders you may give him 8c in conjunction
with the Officer commanding the Troops put on board her, to
assist in defending her against the Cruizers of the Rebels in
case she should be attacked, You are farther required 8c di-
rected to give Mr Horsenail such additional Instructions as
you shall judge proper for the purposes aforementioned 8c to
lend to the Mellish from the Ship you command a careful dil-
igent Petty Officer to assist Mr Horsenail in executing the
duty with which he is charged, which Petty Officer will be
paid by the Navy Board an Allowance to make up his pres-
576
EUROPEAN THEATRE
ent Pay equal to four Shillings a Day from the time he shall
be so employed.2
Having seen the said Transport Ships safe to Quebec
you are to make the best of your way to join Vice Adml Lord
Howe at Sandy Hook, or wherever you may learn his Lord-
ship is, and upon joining him deliver the inclosed Packet to
him & follow his orders for your further proceedings.
Given Sec 28th Augt 17763
By Sec PS
J. Buller H. Penton H. Palliser
1. PRO, Admiralty 2/101, 281-82.
2. It is interesting to note that the Mellish was the first ship to whom the Lords of the
Admiralty sent a midshipman and a petty officer for additional protection against rebel
cruisers, and became the first ship, so reinforced, to be taken by one of the said “rebel
cruisers,’’ the Continental ship Alfred , Captain John Paul Jones. Before sailing the
master of the Mellish had made an affidavit “to defend her in case of being attacked.”
Ibid., 106/2594.
3. Similar orders were sent this date to Captain James Feattus, H. M. Sloop Vulture at Spithead,
to convoy storeships and victualers to Halifax and then report to Admiral Howe at
New York. Convoy was also to include H. M. Sloop Hunter. Ibid., 2/101, 284-85.
“Extract of a Letter from Bourdeaux, Aug. 28.”1
The Count de Marbeuf, Capt. Lochee, from Martinique, who is ar-
rived in the Garonne, spoke on her passage with an American privateer,
which had a prize in company. Three gentlemen and a lady from on board
her, by leave from their captors, took a passage to Europe with Capt. Lo-
chee, and are safe arrived here. Four English sailors also, with the master
of the prize, were suffered to come home in the Count de Marbeuf , the pri-
vateer having more prisoners than she could well manage, and being on that
account glad of the opportunity to getting rid of them. The gentlemen and
lady are sent out for Paris, as is the master of the ship, which I think they
say came from Antigua, and the sailors mean to take a passage home in a
sloop lading here for London.
1. London Chronicle, September 10 to September 12, 1776.
29 Aug.
“Extract of a Letter from Lord Geo: Germain to Lord Viscount
Townshend Dated 29th August 1776. ”1
I am Commanded by the King to signify to your Lordship His Majes-
ty’s Pleasure that you do direct the Board of Ordnance to provide such
Armed Ships, for the Conveyance of Ordnance and Ordnance Stores to
America, as their Lordships suggest to be the most suitable for the purpose
in like manner as has been done by that Branch of His Majesty’s Govern-
ment, which has the Charge of Victualling the Army in America, taking es-
pecial Care that no Ship be employed in this Service that is not provided
with at least 12 Carriage Guns 9 and 6 Pounders, and a Complement of Men
AUGUST 1776
577
equal in Number to Three to each Gun; That Accommodation be made for
the Reception of a Party of Recruits; That She sail with Convoy, and that
it be stipulated in the Charter Party, that two Naval Officers be received on
board, who are to direct her Course, and regulate her Proceedings.2
1. PRO, Admiralty 1/4012.
2. Accompanying this letter is an undated memorandum entitled: “Extract of Contracts for
Armed Ordnance Transports.” It reads:
The Lord T ownshend to be fitted to carry not less than Twenty 9 Pounders
and 6 Six Pounder Carriage guns to have 3 Men to a Gun —
The Lord Amherst to be fitted in the same manner.
The Unity to be fitted to carry 2-9 Pounders. 12-6 Pounders - 3 Men
to a Gun
The Richmond to be fitted to carry 2-9 Pounders & 10 - 6 Pounders -
3 Men to a Gun
Sixty Rounds of Powder & Shot allowed for each Gun.
Two Naval Officers to be received and accommodated on board each Ship
who are to direct the Course of the Ships and Regulate the proceedings during
the continuance of the said Ships in His Majesty’s Service.
That in case the said Ships shall during their Continuance in His Majesty’s
Service be Attacked by any of the Rebel Cruizers or Pirates that the Masters,
& Men shall to the utmost of their Power Aid and Assist in Working and
Defending the Ships against such Rebell Cruizers or Pirates.
The Damage Sustained in Action to be paid for, and the Ships if Burnt,
Taken or Destroyed, if shall appear to a Court Martial or upon any other Legal
Examination that the Master 8c Men made the utmost Defence They were able,
but not otherwise. -
30 Aug.
Public Advertiser, Friday, August 30, 1776
London [August 30] .
A Letter from Capt. Morgan of the Unity Transport, arrived at Hali-
fax, says, “ . . . Off the Isle of Sable, early in the Morning, we saw a
Schooner, which seemed inclined to speak with us; about Noon she was only
Half a Mile from us, when she fired a Shot to bring us too; she had hoisted
no Colours notwithstanding she fired a Shot; we were surprized at this, and
could therefore hardly think she was one of our armed Schooners, as the Of-
ficer would certainly know his Duty better; we accordingly brought too, but
took Care also to get all the Soldiers up, and in Arms, and had them all
ready under the Quarter-deck, and out of Sight; she ran under our Stern,
and bade us strike to the Congress; on which having four Guns abaft, (all
we had on board) we complimented her with a Couple; she then kept on our
Bow, and seemed inclined to board us, our Soldiers immediately went for-
ward, and gave them such a Discharge of small Arms, that she found she
had caught a Tartar. I believe we killed them five Men at this Fire. She then
shot a-head of us, in order, I believe, to consider what to do; the Determina-
tion was to leave us, which they did by steering away South, whilst we kept
on for Halifax Harbour, not having suffered the least Hurt. The Schooner
had ten Guns, and I believe upwards of fifty Hands. [”]
578
EUROPEAN THEATRE
A Gentleman is just arrived from Bermuda, and has brought with him
a Virginia Gazette, which mentions, that the Goods of the West-India Ships,
lately taken being sold, the Owners of the Privateers shared 5000 1. each,
and each Sailor had for his Share 500 1. It also adds, that this great Success
has infused into most a Spirit for Privateering; and they are fitting out a
great Number, in Hopes of picking up many of the next West-India Fleet.
“Extract of a Letter from the Hague, Aug. 30. 5,1
It is said that the States General having received information, that the
English have again taken a Dutch vessel from St. Eustatia, under pretence
of her being laden with ammunition, 8cc. for America; they immediately
sent orders to the Charge d’Affaires from [ sic at] the Court of London, to
make the necessary complaints to the British government on that subject,
that the above-mentioned prize be given up; and it is reported that their
High Mightinesses have requested Sir Joseph Yorke to use his endeavours,
that the said vessel be returned, and the owners indemnified for the loss
they have sustained by its detention.
1. London Chronicle, September 3 to September 5, 1776.
31 Aug.
“Extract of a Letter from Lancaster, Aug. 3 1.”1
Arrived the Portland , Dickinson, from Grenada and St. Kitt’s. She
sailed the 7th of July in Company with 25 Sail under Convoy of the Hinde
Man of War, who left them the 16th in Lat. 27.36, and on the 24th was
taken by the Diamond of Rhode Island, mounting 6 Carriage and 2 wooden
Guns,2 and 32 Men: They took the Captain and first Mate from the Port-
land, and put on board her the Lieutenant of the Privateer and 12 Men be-
longing to the Jane, of Bristol, whom they had taken two Days before; the
Privateer then went in Chace of two others. In the Night Mr. Dickinson and
the second Mate took Command of the Portland, and brought her in here.
1. Public Advertiser, London, September 5, 1776.
2. Rhode Island privateer sloop Diamond, Captain William Chace.
“Extract of a Letter from Bristol, Aug. 3 1.”1
Accounts were received Yesterday, that the St. James, of this Port,
from Jamaica, that has been missing and was supposed to be foundered,
was taken by a Provincial Privateer. The Privateer convoying her to an
American Port, was closely pursued by the Sphynx Man of War, and to pre-
vent the St. James being retaken, she ran her on shore. The Man of War se-
cured the People and some Part of her Cargo, and then set fire to the Vessel,
to hinder her falling again into the Hands of the Provincials.
1. Public Advertiser, London, September 3, 1776.
AUGUST 1776
579
Lords Commissioners, Admiralty, to Captain James Hawker,
H.M.S. Mermaid, Spithead1
Cloathing Ships
Catherine
Richmond.
Navy Victuallers
Aurora
Neptune
Martha & Mary
Prince William
Newmarket
Two Friends
Thetis
Betsey
Venus
Union
Thomas & Betsy
Neptune (2d)
Samuel
Nancy
Lord Howe (late
the King of Naples)
Whereas it is of the greatest consequence to His
Majesty’s Service that the two Ships named in the
Margin, which are laden with Cloathing for the use of
the Army under General Howe, & the fifteen Victual-
lers also named in the Margin, laden with Provisions
for the use of the Fleet under the command of Vice
Admiral Lord Howe, should be safely convoy’d to
New York; You are hereby required and directed, as
soon as the said Ships are assembled at Spithead to
take them under your convoy and proceed to Sea with
the first opportunity of Wind and Weather, and make
the best of your way with them to New York accord-
ingly, taking all possible care yourself, and giving the
most possitive Orders to their Masters respectively, that
they do not lose Company with you.
And whereas we have directed the Navy Board to
appoint Lieut Henry Colins and Mr William Essing-
ton a Midshipman of the Navy to go on board the
Catherine Cloathing Ship, Lieut Robert McEvoy 8c
Mr Richard Rouse Mate of the Experiment to go on
board the Richmond Cloathing Ship, with Instruc-
tions to superintend the navigating them, to explain
to their Masters the Convoy Instructions and Signals,
and in case of separation to direct the Ships proceed-
ings agreable to the Rendezvous and Orders you may
give them, and in conjunction with the Officers com-
manding the Troops put on board them, to assist in
defending them against the Cruizers of the Rebels in
case they should be attack’d; You are hereby further
required and directed to give Lieuts Colins 8c McEvoy
such additional Instructions as you shall judge proper
for the purposes aforemention’d.
Having seen the said Ships in safety and joined
Vice Adml Lord Howe at New York, you are to de-
liver the inclosed Packet to his Lordship 8c put your-
self under his command, and follow his Orders for
your further proceedings
The Elephant Storeship commanded by Lieut
Benjn Bechinoe which is lading Naval Stores in the
River for the use of the Fleet under the command of
Vice Adml Lord Howe, being intended to proceed in
Company with the Mermaid to New York, in case she
can be got round to Spithead before you are ready
580
EUROPEAN THEATRE
[to] sail from thence, you are to take the said Store-
ship under your command (Lieut Bechinoe being di-
rected to obey your Orders) in case she arrives at
Spithead in time, but you are not to wait for her after
you are ready to sail.2
And in case there should be at Spithead any
other Ships or Vessels than those beforemention d
bound to North America whose Masters are ready 8c
willing to accompany you, you are to take them also
under your Convoy and see them in safety as far as
your way and their’s may lay together. Given 8cc. the
3 It Augt. 1776.
Sandwich H. Penton H. Palliser
By 8cc.
1. PRO, Admiralty 2/101, 292-93.
2. Lieutenant Benjamin Bechinoe, H. M. Storeship Elephant, was directed to await further
orders at Spithead if upon arrival he found that the Mermaid and convoy had sailed.
Ibid., 297.
Philip Stephens to Vice Admiral Richard Lord Howe1
My Lord 31st August 1776
My Lords Commissioners of the Admiralty having received three Let-
ters from Captain Douglas of the Isis dated at Quebec the 24h and 25h of
May, and 27th of June last, giving an account of the appointment of officers
which he had made to His Majesty’s Ships in the River St Lawrence since
those mentioned in his Letters of the 8h and 15h of May2 ( a Copy of my
answer to which has already been sent to your Lordship) I am commanded
by their Lordships to send you herewith Extracts of so much of the three
first mentioned Letters as relate to the appointments aforementioned, and
to acquaint you that my Lords are pleased to leave it to your Lordship to
confirm those appointments (except that which has been made upon the ab-
sence of Lieutenant McEvoy who is to return to the Isis ) or to appoint such
other Persons in their room as your Lordship shall judge proper. I have the
honor to be 8cc
P: S:
P: S:
I had almost forgot to acquaint your Lordship that my Lords have promo-
ted Lieut Fooke (mentioned in Captain Douglas’s Letter of the 24th of May)
to be Commander of the Favorite Sloop. P: S:
1. PRO, Admiralty 2/552, 478-79.
2. For Douglas’ letters see Volumes 4 and 5.
Lords Commissioners, Admiralty, to Vice Admiral Clark Gayton 1
Whereas you have represented to Us by your Letter of the 2d July
last, that the Racehorse Sloop which you had then purchased, and a Brig
AUGUST 1776
581
which you had then order’d to be purchas’d, in consequence of our Order of
the 14th Feby last, are very fine Vessels and capable of being employ’d as
Sloops bearing a Master & Commander; You are therefore hereby required
and directed, to employ them as Sloops instead of Cutters (We having di-
rected them to be register’d as such, on the List of the Royal Navy, the for-
mer by the Name of the Racehorse , and the latter by that of the Badger ,
with a complement of eighty Men each) and you are to appoint a Com-
mander, a Lieutenant, and Warrant Officers, and to order a Complement of
eighty Men, including the said Officers, to be borne on each of them accord-
ingly. Given Sec. the 3 It Augt 1776.
Sandwich H. Penton
To Clark Gay ton Esq.
Vice Admiral of the White & Commr
in Chief of His Majts Ships Sc Vessels
at Jamaica By Sec. P.S.
By Express 4th Septr
Duplicate, Sent to Mr Benjamin at Deal, to go by the 1
first Ship from the Downes 8th Septr sign’d
1. PRO, Admiralty 2/101, 295.
London Chronicle , Thursday, August 29 to Saturday, August 31, 1776
London [August 31J.
The Mary, Capt. Morvile, from Tortola for Liverpool, with sugar and
rum, was taken about the 26th of July last, in Lat. 31, by an American pri-
vateer, mounting 12 guns, and 120 men, who put some of her people on
board, and sent them with the above ship to Rhode Island.
H. Palliser
Sandwich
C. Spencer
H. Palliser
Lieutenant St. Alban Roy, R.N, to Commodore George Mackenzie 1
Copy Mars Sheerness 31st Augt 1776
Sir I am to acquaint you that upon mustering the American Prisoners
this Morning Henry Johnson the Master of the Privateer [Yankee\ was
found missing; and whether he has swam on shore or been drowned in the
Night, I can not pretend to account for, as no Boat belonging to the Ship
was out, or any Boat been near the Ship since mustering them last Night at
9. oClock. I am &c.
S1 Albn Roy
2d Lieut Mars
1. PRO, State Papers, 42/49, 81c.
Ships Engaged by the British Ordnance Department for America1
582
EUROPEAN THEATRE
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Since these is Engaged
The Townshend formerly the Salisbury an East India man - Mounts 20 . . 9 Pounders . . & 6 . . 6 Pounders, can
take from one to two hundred . . this was the only ship of such force to be had on any terms Recruits besides
1. PRO, Colonial Office, 5/162, 329.
AUGUST 1776
583
Gabriel de Sartine to M. d’Argout 1
Versailles [31] August 17762
I have received, Sir, your letters Nos. 119 and 122 dated 31 July3 and 7
August in which you reported the engagement in sight of St. Pierre Road
between H.B.M. frigate Shark, Captain Chapman, and the American cor-
vette le Reprise [ Reprisal ] Captain Lambert Wickes, as well as the re-
quest made to you by M. Chapman to the effect that the King’s frigate be al-
lowed to seize the Bostonian frigate in St. Pierre Road. His Majesty to
whom I reported this matter approved your refusal and the reply you made
to Vice admiral Young. The King is convinced that in all cases you will up-
hold with the same dignity the honor of his arms and that you will never
tolerate any violence or insults towards a vessel which would have re-
quested the protection of the forts of the Colony whose command was en-
trusted to you, or which would be anchored under the protection of the guns
of the said Colony or sailing within their range.
But His Majesty, while wishing to protect the right of sanctuary in his
ports and roads, does not intend to favor openly the Insurgents in such a
pointed way that it would provoke objections on the part of Great Britain:
consequently, His Majesty disapproves the assurance you gave to M.
Bingham, deputy of the Secret Committee of Congress, that you would sup-
port as much as it was within your power the interest of the Insurgents.
You believed that you were justified to do so because of the instructions
which M. [Thomas] Dorves, Captain of V aigrette, had been ordered to
communicate to you. But there is nothing in these orders that could warrant
stretching their meaning as you did, Sir; you did not grasp the spirit of the
Instructions. I directed therein the Commanders of His Majesty’s frigates
to grant the protection of the Flag to the Insurgent Vessels that would come
and request it: it is the law of Nations and the right of Sovereigns; but the
said Commanders are enjoined by the same Instructions not to move in any
way towards the Insurgent Vessels, but to wait until circumstances brought
them close enough so that they could ask for the King’s protection and not to
facilitate through their own manoeuvres those which the said Vessels might
make in order to approach His Majesty’s ships. You can see, Sir, that these
Instructions do not show that His Majesty wishes to support the Insurgents
openly; the King is only determined not to tolerate any attempt against the
respect to which his Flag is entitled. These Instructions therefore do not au-
thorise you to promise the envoy of the Secret Committee of Congress that
you will support with all your power the interest of the Insurgents; by fol-
lowing these Instructions to the letter, you were merely to dissimulate the
trade negotiations that this person might have opened, and by grasping the
spirit behind these Instructions you were to facilitate secretly as much as it
was within your power, but without making any formal declarations to the
envoy, the various items which the congress had requested. You must adjust
your line of conduct towards the Insurgents, Sir, according to this principle
and avoid provoking the objections that Great Britain would have a right to
584
EUROPEAN THEATRE
make if His Majesty granted open protection to the Insurgents and supplied
them with assistance in order to strengthen their resistance.
Since you have not sent me, Sir, the copy of the reply you made to the
envoy of Congress, I suppose4 that it was made by word of mouth only and
that it will be easy to have him look upon the drawing which he will be able
to make at Martinique of the items requested by Congress as a trade opera-
tion from Nation to Nation and not as an open assistance which France is
granting to the Insurgents.
His Majesty has chosen, Sir, to impute to an excess of zeal the pos-
itive assurances which you gave to the envoy thinking it was in your power
to do so. The King recommends that you use great circumspection and
counts no less on our caution and firmness. I have the honor to be with sin-
cere attachment Sec.
1. AN, Marine, B i, 134, 110-11, LC Photocopy.
2. The date is approximated. A letter dated August 7, from Martinique, could scarcely have
reached Versailles any sooner than the end of August.
3. See Volume 5, 1317-19.
4. In the margin Sartine added, “I hope.”
1 Sept. (Sunday)
Statement of Benjamin Almy, First Lieutenant of the
Rhode Island Privateer Sloop Diamond 1
Benjamin Almy Aged 51 Sc upwards born at Newport Rhode Island first
Lieutenant on board the Diamond Sloop Privateer belonging to Providence
William Chase Captain Mounted 8. 6 four Pounders 8c 2. 3 Pounders 10
Swivells Sc 44 Men, went to Newport to fit out sailed from thence the 12th
July, the 22d took the Ship Jane of Bristol loaded with Sugars from Domin-
ica in Lat. 33.21. Met with the Portland the 24th in Lat: 33.20 came up with
the Portland the Morning of the 24th about Eight, Haled her when she
struck. The Privateer had then about 32 or 33 Hands on board — Almy was
put on board with about 13 or 14 Bristol Men with directions to give Chace
to Leeward after the Privateer which was in Chace of 5 Sail to the
Leeward Believe they might see the Privateer next Morning but not cer-
tain when the Crew thought they were out of the way of the Privateer they
determined to sail for England and he submitted to it.
Benja Almy2
[Lancaster] 1st Septr 1776
1. PRO, State Papers, 42/49, 82c.
2. Philip Stephens was advised this date that prize master Almy “is now in safe Custody in his
Majts Goal the Castle at Lancaster.” Ibid., 82b.
Stiniftre et Secretaire <
( %’pa/ Icme/it Je la <3/1 arm e
586
EUROPEAN THEATRE
2 Sept.
Maryland Governor Robert Eden’s Report1
London, September 2. Governor Eden arrived in London from Mary-
land, but last from Virginia, which he left on the 6th of August. He came in
a transport.
Baltimore is fortified with 60 pieces of cannon, 9 pounders. Almost
every town is fortified.
The Virginia convention desired the Maryland convention to seize the
person of Governor Eden. The Continental Congress requested they would
send him to them. Instead of complying with either, they desired the Gover-
nor would go on board one of the King’s ships; and the president of the con-
vention, and others, attended him to the water side. He went on board the
Fowey. While the ship was lying off the coast, some persons of the province
went on board her also. The Convention desired the Captain to send those
persons ashore. He said they had taken refuge on board his ship, and there-
fore he could not: upon which the convention declared the truce was bro-
ken, and detained a part of Governor Eden’s baggage, which had not been
put on board with him. Their delegates in the Continental Congress, who
had been instructed to vote against independency, and having so voted, had
withdrawn from the Congress, were desired to return to the Congress, and
act as they thought best for the interest of their country. They accordingly
returned to Philadelphia, and acceded, in form, to the vote of independency.
1. Almon, ed., Remembrancer, III, 261.
Public Advertiser, Monday, September 2, 1776
London [September 2] .
The Reward, Bailie, from Tortola to London, was taken by an Ameri-
can Privateer near Bermudas: The Captain and Passengers were landed at
Bourdeaux.1
1. Taken by the Pennsylvania privateer Hancock. See John Langdon to Bayard, Craig & Co.,
August 7, 1776.
4 Sept.
London Chronicle, Tuesday, September 3 to Thursday,
September 5, 1776
London [September 4] .
By advices from Naples we learn, that the court has given orders to the
maritime places throughout that kingdom for all American ships, which
shall attempt to anchor in their ports, to depart in forty-eight hours, and
forbidding all Neapolitan vessels from trading under any pretence what-
soever to any part of America; at the same time to furnish all ships belong-
ing to his Britannic Majesty that should come near their ports with what
provisions or any other things they may be in want of.
SEPTEMBER 1776
587
Lord Stormont to Lord Weymouth1
[Extract]
Secret Paris September 4th 1776.
. . . The Naval Preparations certainly continue, and as I am informed,
a Resolution is taken, to send a Fleet into the french West Indies early in
the Spring M. Dennery, who was upon the point of leaving St Domingo,
when he received orders to remain there another Year, has consented to
stay. Your Lordship knows, that he is a Man of Ability, and of an active,
enterprizing Spirit, and much connected, with that Party, whose Intentions
are so hostile to us.
I learnt the other Day, that there is an officer now at la Rochelle, called
Chambel, or some such name, who during M de Choiseuils Ministry, was
sent several times by him to North America. He is a Protestant and has
L’ordre du Merite. as he has no Business at Rochelle, it is very poisible, that
he meditates a nother Journey to America. By the account I have of him, he
is a dangerous Man, and was employed as such, by the Duke of Choiseuil,
who not only foretold all the Troubles in America, which he prides himself
up [on], but contributed all he could, to the accomplishment of his
Prediction. . . .
[Endorsed] Paris 4 Septr 1776 Lord Stormont (No 70) Secret R by
Express from Dover one Inclosure
1. PRO, State Papers, 78/299.
5 Sept.
Philip Stephens to Vice Admiral Clark Gayton, Jamaica1
Sir 5h September 1776
Lord George Germain, one of His Majesty’s Principal Secretaries of
State having acquainted my Lords Commissioners of the Admiralty that the
St Andrew, Captain McMe[is], and, the Mangam Captain McKenzie two
Merchant Ships belonging to Messrs. Clark and Milligen laden with ammu-
nition and Goods suitable for the India Trade, are ready to sail from hence
for Pensacola, but in their way thither are to touch at Jamaica; and it being
apprehended that the latter part of the Voyage will be attended with their
greatest danger from the Rebel Cruizers his Lordship hath desired you may
be apprized of the great value and Importance of these Ships, and that you
might be instructed to afford them such Convoy from Jamaica to Pensacola
as the Service committed to your direction will allow of; I have it in com-
mand from their Lordships to acquaint you with the Substance of Lord
George Germain’s said Letter, and to signify their direction to you to ap-
point a sufficient Convoy to see the said two Ships in safety from Jamaica to
Pensacola accordingly I am Sec
P: S:
By the Packet
1. PRO, Admiralty 2/552, 488-89.
588
EUROPEAN THEATRE
Philip Stephens to Captain Charles Douglas, R.N.1
Sir 5h September 1776
I have this Day received and communicated to my Lords Commissrs of
the Admiralty your Letter of the 21st of July last, giving an account of
your proceedings from the 27h of June to that time, and in return I have
the satisfaction to acquaint you their Lordships approve thereof.
As the Beaver Sloop could not be got ready in time to proceed to
Quebec this Season, their Lordships have judged it expedient to appoint an-
other Captain to her in the room of Captain Nunn, but as they observe by
your Letter of the 27h of June that you have ordered him to command upon
the Lake Ontario, they are pleased to direct me to send you the Commission
which they had signed for him to be Commander of the Beaver, which you
will please to deliver to him, as it establishes him in the rank of Commander
and will enable him to carry on the Service abovementioned with greater
authority; a Service on which their Lordship’s approve of his being em-
ployed so long as it may be necessary, or, until Lord Howe may think
proper to order him to return to England. I am 8cc
P: S:
Capt Douglas, Isis, Senior Officer, Quebec.
(By the Richmond)
1. PRO, Admiralty 2/552, 492.
Sir John Hart to Thomas Farr1
Sir, Lisbon, Sept. 5.
I think it proper to acquaint you, that a North American privateer
sloop is now cruising on the coasts of this kingdom; she has already taken
on the 1st instant, at a few leagues N.W. of cape St. Vincents, the brigan-
tine Mary and James, of London, last from Falmouth, with a rich cargo,
and sent away the captain with six of his men, who landed at Setuval and
bring this account. They learned farther from the privateer’s people, that
four other American privateers were now at sea between the Western Is-
lands and Portugal; that she had already made on these coasts five other
prizes; and proposed, with a rashness that will not I trust go unpunished, to
try a cruize on the Mediterranean coasts of Spain.
I send you this advice, to the end you may take the best precautions in
your power for the security of the British trade within your jurisdiction;
and am, Sir, [&c.]
John Hart.
P. S. It appears by express just received from Algarve, that of the masters
of the vessels taken, three of them put on shore at Algarve prove to be as
follows: Gregory Potbury, of the brig Sarah Anna, from Exeter for Gibral-
tar and Malaga; William Carter, of the snow Lively, from Chester for
Genoa; Wm. Davis, of the brig Good Intent, from Newcastle for Gibraltar.
SEPTEMBER 1776
589
The Guinea vessel blown up was the Africa , of Bristol, Capt. [John]
Baker.
1. London Chronicle, September 26 to September 28, 1776. Hart was Consul General at Lisbon,
Farr was Mayor of Bristol.
6 Sept.
Diary of John Bragg of Whitehaven, England1
9mo: 6: [17] 76 Henry Fleming arrived from Virginia with a Vessel 8c crew,
passengers, 8cc — all being banished out of that Country that durst pretend to
be friends to Government — his only Child died on the passage had 31
days passage
1. WPL.
Lord Sandwich to George III1
Admiralty Sept 6. 1776.
Lord Sandwich has the honour to inform your Majesty that finding no
trace of the Glasgow transport in this office, (except one of that name that
could not possibly be with Sir Peter Parker) he desired Sir Hugh Palliser to
write to Captain Hope for what information he could give relative to the
vessel that was taken by the Rebels in Carolina.
Lord Sandwich takes the liberty to trouble your Majesty with Sir
Hugh Pallissers note covering Capt: Hopes answer, by which it seems
plainly to appear that the Company of Highlanders taken in the Glasgow
did not belong to any Regiment in your Majesty’s service.
Since writing the above Lord Sandwich has found a list of transports
(which he sends herewith) in which the Glasgow Packett is named, and ap-
pears to be hired in America, 8c to have gone to the Southward with General
Clinton; and Captain Hope is this moment come to Ld Sandwich 8c tells
him, that the company was, he is pretty sure, raised by General Clinton,
commanded by a Mr Campbell, 8c composed chiefly of some Americans that
were taken at Sea by the Syren man of war, and some deserters, 8c that he is
positive they belonged to no Regiment.2
1. Fortescue, ed., Correspondence of George III, III, 390.
2. According to the Public Advertiser, March 12, 1776, when General Clinton sailed from New
York in February he was accompanied by two transports, “the Kitty, Thompson, of
Liverpoole, and Glasgow Packet, Potterfeild; the former with Regulars, and the latter
with Recruits.” Captain Charles Hope, R. N., who arrived in London, August 21, with
dispatches from Sir Peter Parker, was the officer who cleared up the mystery for Lord
Sandwich, ibid., August 26, 1776.
Philip Stephens to Vice Admiral Molyneux Shuldham1
My Lord [Admiralty Office, London] 6th Septr 1776
I am to acknowledge the receipt of your Lordships Letters of the 6 8c 8
July, the former enclosing the Disposition of the Squadron under your Com-
590
EUROPEAN THEATRE
mand 8c the State 8c Condition of those Ships from which You had been able
to collect them — the latter giving an account of your arrival at Staten Is-
land on the 3d of that Month with the Ships, Transports, Victuallers 8c
Storeships under their Convoy 8c of your having disembarked the Troops
under the Command of General Howe without Opposition or Interruption
both which Letters I received Sc have communicated to my Lords Commrs
of the Admty.
I am also to acquaint your Lordship I received your letter without
date2 from Staten Island enclosing a Copy of a Letter you had received
from Captn Bellew of the Leverpool Sc informing their Lordships of your
having appointed Mr Rd Hinchley 2 Lieut of that Ship in the room of Lieut
Boger taken Prisoner by the rebels. I am Sec
PS
By the Mermaid
1. PRO, Admiralty 2/552, 502.
2. Ibid., 1/484, a copy of the letter dated July 6, 1776. For Shuldham’s letter see Volume 5.
Philip Stephens to Vice Admiral Richard Lord Howe1
My Lord 6 Sept 1776
My Lords Commrs of the Admty having been informed that there are
three American Vessels at Bourdeaux loading with Arms, Salt Petre 8c
Cloathing for a Considerable Number of Men, two of which will be ready to
sail in October 8c the other in Novembr for America 8c that one American
Vessel sailed from Bourdeaux about three Weeks agoe with the like Cargoe,
8c was to touch at Bermuda for intelligence, and it is supposed will send her
Cargoe from thence to the Continent in small Vessels; And their Lordships
being also informed that the Continental Congress will have at Sea 22 Frig-
ates from 44 to 20 Guns in the course of the ensuing Winter which are to
cruize in Squadrons, and range about the West India Islands;2 I am com-
manded by their Lordships to acquaint you therewith, And, as the inter-
cepting the four ships abovementioned wou’d greatly distress the Army of
the Rebels 8c hurt their Credit, to recommend it to your Lordships to station
some of the Ships of your Squadron in such manner as you may Judge most
likely to answer that end, 8c also to find out, if possible whether the Intelli-
gence respecting the Rebel Cruizers is well founded, And if it is, to use your
best Endeavours to take or destroy them. I am 8cc
PS
By the Mermaid
1. PRO, Admiralty 2/552, 499-500.
2. Ibid., 495, similar alerts about Continental frigates were sent to Admirals Gay ton at Jamaica
and Young at Antigua.
SEPTEMBER 1776
591
Philip Stephens to Vice Admiral James Young1
Sir 6 Septr. 1776
I have communicated to my Lords Commrs of the Admty your Letter
of the 1st July last,2 informing them of the Death of Robt Christian Esqr
late Judge of the Vice Admty of Antigua; & recommending Edward Byam
Esqr of that Island to succeed him in that Employment; And I am com-
manded to acquaint you that their Lordships have been pleased to appoint
Mr Byam accordingly. I am &c—
PS
Vice Adi Young at Antigua — Sent to Mr Benjamin at Deal to forward by
the first ship.
Duplicate by the Packet 3d Octr 1776
1. PRO, Admiralty 2/552, 496-97.
2. See Volume 5, 868.
M. Garnier to Vergennes 1
[Extract] London 6 Sept 1776
... in the ports, work is proceeding with the utmost haste on the con-
struction, repair and outfitting of the vessels whose commissioning has been
ordered. The number of these last has just been increased by three ships of
74 guns, to wit, the Invi[ri]cible , the Elizabeth, and the Prince of Wales.
The Admiralty’s order specifies that they are to stand guard duty in the
ports. Since ships of this firepower can be directed only against us, the only
question remaining to be answered is whether these preparations are offen-
sive or defensive: that is, whether England is merely keeping pace with her
neighboring powers. You, Monseigneur, are inclined to the latter hypothe-
sis; and I confess that I too shall be so inclined, so long as I do not see im-
pressment put into effect. If this measure is used, I shall be convinced that
these people are no longer bluffing and that we have really become their
prime target. Thereupon I shall consider war inevitable and shall turn all
my thoughts in that direction, rejecting all speculation to the contrary as
useless and likely only to lead me into error.
I am keenly aware, Monseigneur, how important it would be for the
King’s Service to be informed in advance of the British Council’s decision
on this matter. I very much doubt that any firm one has as yet been taken;
and the trouble is that in such cases, cause is swiftly followed by effect.
Since the slightest rumor of impressment causes all seamen to take flight,
the Government is always extremely careful not to reveal its intention.
Very little time is required to have orders signed by the principal magis-
trate of each locality and to prepare some lighters or other small vessels
suitable for carrying them out; proclamation and execution are performed
at one and the same time. At sea, even this formality is unnecessary.
Under Admiralty orders, the King’s ships simply stop merchant vessels
and seize most of their crews. . . . But neither should we think that im-
592
EUROPEAN THEATRE
pressment will take effect quickly enough to provide any great attack forces
here. Although the secrecy of the operation may procure a large number of
men at the outset, progress soon slows down when the alarm is spread. Fur-
thermore, the fleets are never more poorly manned than by impressment,
which always catches many more landsmen than mariners. The greatest
source of manpower would be that of seamen from coaling vessels, who
number about twelve thousand. But since the subsistence of London de-
pends on them, they would not be taken except in dire extremity. . . .
There is in [Portsmouth] at present a fleet of 25 transport vessels,
some for Halifax and some for Quebec. This fleet will sail with the first fa-
vorable wind, escorted by the frigates Richmond and Mermaid and the
sloops Vulture and Hunter. In six weeks from now there will scarcely be a
frigate fit for commissioning left in the ports. The same is true of corvettes.
As soon as one is built, she is put into commission. The sloop Dispatch at
Deptford, and one called the Swift at Portsmouth are cases in point. They
are barely launched, and their commissioning has already been ordered. De-
spite the considerable number of these frigates and corvettes, which may be
regarded as the Navy’s light troops and which are all being employed in
America, American privateers continue to capture prizes rather frequently.
. . . I have no doubt that these privateers will appear in the Channel this
winter and will make themselves very troublesome to English shipping.
1. AMAE, Correspondance Politique, Angleterre, vol. 518, LC Photocopy.
Public Advertiser , Friday, September 6, 1776
London [September 6] .
Notice from the Admiralty is stuck up in Lloyd’s Coffee-house, that
the Leeward Island Fleet was to sail the 1st of August, and is to be con-
voyed to England by the Argo Frigate.
No Convoy is appointed for the outward-bound Ships to the West In-
dies, all of them having taken on board an additional Number of Hands and
Guns, in order to defend themselves, should they meet with any of the Pro-
vincial Privateers.
7 Sept.
Letter from Dublin1
[Extract] Sept. 7
A Vessel belonging to this City arrived last Thursday from Antigua;
the Master and Owner of which I am well acquainted with; the Master in-
formed me, that, after he had left Antigua about four Days, he was chased
by an American Privateer of 16 Carriage Guns, which Vessel soon came up
with him; she proved to be the Surprizal of Philadelphia, Captain Weeks,
Commander,2 who obliged Captain Cathrow (the Name of my Friend) to
SEPTEMBER 1776
593
come on board his Ship, and bring his Bills of Lading, Register, and several
other Papers, by which it appearing the Vessel and Cargo were entirely
Irish Property, the Master of the Privateer immediately discharged him
without the smallest Injury.3 I hope they may continue these Favours; it
being by some thought incredible; the Master Yesterday made Oath before
our Chief Magistrate of the Facts, which Affidavit I have just read.
1. Public Advertiser, London, September 17, 1776.
2. The Continental ship Reprisal, Captain Lambert Wickes.
3. Almon, ed.. Remembrancer, III, 268, provides another account of this incident:
The Dutchess of Leinster, belonging to Dublin, arrived there from Antigua,
Sept. 3, with rum, in six weeks and four days. The Captain says that in latitude
20, and longitude 60, he was chaced and boarded by the Surprizal privateer,
belonging to Philadelphia, Capt. Weeks, of 16 guns; that being carried on board
the privateer, on examining his papers, the vessel and cargo being found Irish
property, the Captain of the privateer said, that he would not distress him, be-
cause he was sure the Irish would not distress them. After keeping him on
board for about half an hour, he gave Him up the vessel and cargo, and wished
him a safe passage. There were on board the privateer, Captain Robinson, of
the Neptune of Irvine, from Antigua, with rum; a Captain belonging to London
from Grenada; and a Captain belonging to Bristol, from St. Kitts, all prisoners,
and their vessels sent to North America, because they were British property.
Philip Stephens to the British Navy Board 1
Gentn 7th September 1776
My Lords Commissrs. of the Admiralty having received a Letter from
Sir Stanier Porten, Secretary to Lord Weymouth, respecting an application
from the Sieur Havre of Havre, to Lord Stormont His Majesty’s Ambassa-
dor at Paris, to be reimbursed the Expences incurred by the reception of 13
English Seamen on board his Ship the Robust Benoist Master, lately ar-
rived at Havre, the said Men having been in a forcible manner put on board
that Ship in her Voyage from Martinico by a Rebel Privateer called the
Rover Captain Rosseter of Boston;2 I am commanded by their Lordships to
send you the said Letter with its Inclosures, and to signify their direction to
you to take the same into your consideration, and to report what allowance
you conceive it may be proper to make for the Subsistance of these Men,
and in what manner it should be paid; and with your Report you will please
to return the said Letter and its inclosures to Sec
P: S:
1. PRO, Admiralty 2/552, 510-11.
2. The Massachusetts privateer sloop Rover, Captain Simon Forrester.
Philip Stephens to Vice Admiral Richard Lord Howe, New York 1
My Lord 7h September 1776
In my Letter to your Lordship of the 23d of July by
the Perseus I informed your Lordship of every occur-
rence necessary for your knowledge up to that time.
594
EUROPEAN THEATRE
Mellish
Newcastle Jane
Catharine
Richmond
Mellish
Newcastle Jane
Catharine
Clothing Ship
Richmond
Clothing Ship
I have now the honor to acquaint your Lordship
that my Lords thinking it might afford protection to
the Homeward bound Trade from the West Indies if a
Ship was stationed off the Island of Bermuda, have or-
dered Captain [Samuel] Clayton (who commands the
Camilla in the absence of Captain [Charles] Phipps) to
cruize off that Island for one Month for that purpose,
and to look out for and to use his best endeavours to
take or destroy any of the Rebel Cruizers that may in-
fest those parts and at the expiration of that time to
proceed to join your Lordship at New York, and she
sailed from Plymouth under these Orders on the 20h of
last Month.
The Pembroke and Boulogne which, as I have al-
ready informed your Lordship, have been fitted, the for-
mer as a Hulk, and the latter for Harbour Service at
Halifax, sailed for that place from St Helens the 22d ul-
timo.
The four Ships named in the Margin have been
taken up to carry out the Clothing for the Armies serv-
ing in North America; and it being of the utmost conse-
quence to the King’s Service that the said Ships should
arrive in safety at the places of their respective destina-
tions, My Lords have ordered them to be manned and
armed that they may defend themselves in case they
should by accident lose their Convoy and be attacked by
any of the Rebel Cruizers And for their greater secu-
rity an Officer and 20 Soldiers are embarked on board
each of them. Their Lordships have also directed the
Navy Board to appoint the undermentioned Lieuten-
ants and Midshipmen to go on board these Ships as
against their Names expressed, Vizt
Mr Horsenail Midshipman and another Midshipman to
be lent from the Richmond
Mr William Ingram Meek Mids. and another Midship-
man to be lent from the Vulture.
Lieut Henry Colins
Mr William Essington Mids.
Lieut Robert McEvoy
Mr Rouse Mate of the Experiment with Instruc-
tions to superintend the Navigating them, to explain to
their Masters the Convoy Instructions and Signals and
in case of separation to direct the Ships proceeding
agreeable to the Rendezvous and Orders that may be
SEPTEMBER 1776
595
General Howe
Arte mesa
Euphrates
A urora
Neptune
Martha & Mary
Prince William
Newmarket
Two Friends
Thetis
Betsey
Venus
Unicorn
Thomas & Betsey
Neptune (2d)
Samuel
Nancy
Lord Howe
(late the King
of Naples)
given them by the Captains of the Convoys, and in con-
junction with the Officers commanding the Troops put
on board them, to assist in defending them in case of
being attacked.
Their Lordships have ordered the Captain of the
Richmond to take the Mellish one of the said Clothing
Ships under his Convoy, together with the King George
Transport having on board Recruits for the Army in
Canada, and proceed with them to Quebec and having
seen them in safety thither to proceed to join your
Lordship at New York.
The Captain of the Vulture hath also orders to take
the Hunter under his Command and in conjunction with
her Convoy the Newcastle Jane another of the said
Clothing Ships to Halifax, He is likewise to take under
his Convoy the Success Increase laden with Naval Stores
and the three Victuallers named in the Margin for the
use of the Fleet under your Lordships Command, and
having seen them in safety to Halifax, to proceed to-
gether with the Hunter , to join your Lordship at New
York.
The Captain of the Mermaid by whom your Lord-
ship will receive this hath orders to convoy the Catha-
rine and Richmond , the two remaining Ships with
Clothing on board, to New York, The Mermaid will also
take under her Convoy the Fifteen Victuallers named in
the Margin laden with Provisions for the use of the
Fleet in America which Victuallers with the three be-
forementioned take the whole proportion of Provisions
mentioned in my former Letters; and if the Elephant
Storeship, which is now lading Naval Stores in the
Thames can be got round to Spithead in time she will
also accompany the Mermaid
I am further to acquaint your Lordship that for the
greater security of the Success Increase Naval Store-
ship Their Lordships have ordered the Navy Board to
appoint Mr Fortunatus Wright a Midshipman to go on
board her with similar Instructions to those given the
Officers commanding the 4 Clothing Ships: They have
also ordered a Subaltern Officer and 20 Marines to be
put on board of her, who are upon her arrival at Hali-
fax to be landed to serve in the Battalion a shore.
It being intended that Lieutenant McEvoy of the
Isis and Mr Rouse Masters Mate of the Experiment ,
should repair on board the Ships to which they respec-
tively belong, and that Lieutenant Colins and the other
Petty Officers abovementioned should return to England
EUROPEAN THEATRE
after they have performed the Service aforementioned,
I have it in command from my Lords to desire your
Lordship will give the necessary orders for that pur-
pose.
Their Lordships have ordered 60 Landmen to be
sent to your Lordship by the Ships named in the Margin
in the proportion against each Ship expressed to be dis-
tributed on board the Squadron towards compleating
their Complements in such proportions as your Lord-
ship shall judge proper.
I have only to add that their Lordships have or-
dered the Commissioners of the Victualling to provide
130 Tons of Sour Krout for the use of the Squadron
under your Lordships command, and that it will be sent
out to you as soon as possible. I have the honor to be Sec.
P: S:
(By the Mermaid)
Duplicates sent 24 Octr 1776 by Major Cuyler
1. PRO, Admiralty 2/552, 512-17.
Philip Stephens to Commodore Sir Peter Parker, New York1
Sir 7h September 1776
I received by the way of Halifax on the 22d July your Letter of the 19h
May, giving an account of your proceedings and arrival at Cape Fear, and
on the 21st of last Month, by Captain Hope your Letter of the 9h July, giv-
ing a further account of your proceedings and attack of the Fort which the
Rebels have erected on Sullivans Island within the Bar of Charles Town
In return to which their Lordships command me to acquaint you, that
they cannot too much commend the gallant behaviour of His Majesty’s
Ships employed against that Fort but that they must at the same time la-
ment the loss of so many brave Officers and Men, and that the Courage
shewn upon that occasion was not attended with the Success it deserved. I
am 8cc
P: S:
P. S: Their Lordships have confirmed the appointment of Captain
[Charles] Hope to the Rank of a Commander in His Majesty’s Navy.
By the Mermaid
1. PRO, Admiralty 2/552, 508-09.
Philip Stephens to Vice Admiral James Young, Leeward
Islands1
Sir, [Admiralty Office] 7th Septemr 1776.
The West India Merchants have applied to my Lords Commissioners of
the Admiralty for a Convoy to the outward bound Trade, which will proba-
596
Camilla - 15
Richmond - 25
Mermaid - 20
SEPTEMBER 1776
597
bly be ready to sail from Spithead about the middle of next Month; I am
commanded by their Lordships to acquaint you that a Convoy will be ap-
pointed to see the Trade in safety to the Leeward Islands at that time
accordingly. I am &ca.
Php Stephens
[Endorsed] Vice Adml Gayton, Jamaica — Jamaica
[Second endorsement] Sent in a Pub. Letter of this date to Mr Bell at Fal-
mouth to be forwarded by the Pacquet.
1. PRO, Admiralty 2/1333, LC Photocopy.
Public Advertiser , Saturday, September 7, 1776
London [September 7] .
The Yankey Privateer was condemned last Wednesday at Doctor’s-
Commons, as a legal Prize to the Captors.
The Information is melancholy for Trade; but we are assured by one of
the first West-India Merchants in this Metropolis, that more than thirty of
our Ships, employed in that Branch of Commerce, are taken by the Ameri-
cans.
Count de Aranda to Marquis de Grimaldi 1
[Extract]
Most Excellent Sir: From the two million livres tournois appropriated by
both Courts to help the English Colonies in America, the following mate-
rials are now being shipped to them
216 bronze cannons
209 gun carriages
27 mortars
28 mortar beds
12,826 bombs
51,134 round shot
300 thousand weight of gunpowder
30,000 rifles with bayonets
4,000 tents
30,000 suits of clothing
Paris, 7 September 1776
1. AHN, Estado, Legajo 4072, Section 1, LC Photocopy.
10 Sept.
M. Garnier to Vergennes1
[Extract] [London] 10 September 1776
... I beg you to recall, Monseigneur, Lord Sandwich’s remark of a
few months ago to the Naval Commissioner of Portsmouth concerning a
commissioning during the summer: that it was to show the neighboring
Powers that despite all the forces being employed in America, England still
had enough left to defend herself at home.
598
EUROPEAN THEATRE
I had the honor of informing you earlier about a large ship called the
Elephant which the government has purchased for commissioning as a war-
ship. She is now receiving her guns and will come down the Thames within a
few days. The Admiralty has just purchased another ship of 300 tons called
the Brilliant which it is also going to commission. All this is for lack of
frigates, of which there are scarcely any left here, so many of them being
used up by the war in America. However large the number of such ships
employed as escorts may be, it is far from sufficient, as you can judge, Mon-
seigneur, from the daily losses being suffered by the West Indies trade. In-
surance on the safe return of ships in this trade, which never went above
six percent during the last war, stands at eighteen today. The British Isles
are short of foodstuffs, timber, Sec., and colonists are losing about thirty
percent because of rising costs of operation.
... So there we have it: preparations for continuing the war in
America, and a large fleet in Europe to restrain us. Seen in this light every-
thing becomes clear. From any viewpoint whatsoever, the only possible con-
clusion seems to be that the situation calls for the greatest precautions on
our part. . . .
We have no news from Staten Island except that on the 17th of July
last, Lord Howe had not yet arrived there.2 You will recall, Monseigneur,
that he sailed from Halifax on June 23d.
With the Court’s consent, I have established over the past few years
the practice of reclaiming French seamen from aboard English warships;
and just now I have requested and obtained from Lord Sandwich the free-
dom of one Tabey, a Breton sailor who was on board the Royal Oak at
Portsmouth. As soon as he arrives here, I shall provide him with what he
needs to return to France.
1. AMAE, Correspondance Politique, Angleterre, vol. 518, LC Photocopy.
2. Garnier’s information was incorrect. Lord Howe had arrived off Staten Island on July 12,
1776, Tatum, ed., Serle’s Journal, 28.
11 Sept.
Public Advertiser, Wednesday, September 11, 1776
London [September 11].
A Letter from Jamaica says, that the Seamen taken in the Provincial
Merchantmen, are suffered to enter into the Navy, but those taken in their
Privateers, are confined till Orders are received from England for the Dis-
posal of them.
The Anne transport, Capt. Dennistoun, from Clyde, with 120 of the
light infantry from Frazer’s Highlanders, was on the 8th of June taken by
three American privateers, and carried into Marblehead, without firing a
gun, notwithstanding she had six carriage guns on board. The command-
ing officer of the Highlanders was Hamilton Maxwell.1 — Glasgow Journal.
1. See Volume 5.
SEPTEMBER 1776
599
London Chronicle , Tuesday, September 10 to Thursday,
September 12, 1776
London [September 11].
A Letter from a Merchant in Hamburgh to his father in Edinburgh,
dated Aug. 27, says, “There are now two American vessels here, which are
the first that have come this year. They are loading with Osnaburghs and
other necessaries for the Americans. I have had a good deal of conversation
with the owner of one of them, who says, it is clearly his opinion that an ac-
comodation would take place if Lord Howe had powers to treat with the
congress. He adds, that the Americans have been all along well supplied
with every necessary, but does not mention through what channel.
12 Sept.
London Chronicle , Tuesday, September 10 to Thursday,
September 12, 1776
London [September 12].
The Heart of Oak , Capt. Collins, one of the West India fleet, was at-
tacked by a small American privateer, with whom (having six three pound-
ers on board) he kept a running fight till night came on, and then escaped
by changing his course, and is here safe arrived.
14 Sept.
Vergennes to M. Garnier1
[Extract] Versailles 14 Sept 1776
We have reports to the effect that Admiral Howe has at last joined his
brother at Staten Island; but the same reports assure us that the General
and the Admiral have made no move as yet against New York. . . .
You will find enclosed, Sir, a copy of the statement made to the Admi-
ralty of Bordeaux by Capt. du Brocq, arriving from Santo Domingo. From
this document you will see what acts of violence English ships cruising in
American waters are continuing to commit against our vessels. It is most
important that we have this stopped, for it is sowing fear and dismay
among our traders. The Court of London should scarcely refuse to heed our
complaints, since it has been assuring us at every turn of its fairness, its
love of peace and its desire to avoid anything which might in any way en-
danger peace. It is the King’s wish, Sir, not only that you urge the English
ministers to give the sternest and most explicit orders to the officers com-
manding Great Britain’s ships, but also that you officially request the pun-
ishment of M. Judd, commanding the frigate Anteloppe, and of M. Young,
captain of the Fremony [ Pomona ].2 The conduct of these two officers is too
600
EUROPEAN THEATRE
clearly contrary to the intentions of their Sovereign for the latter not [to]
express his displeasure or for him to let them go unpunished.
1. AMAE, Correspondance Politique, Angleterre, vol. 518, LC Photocopy.
2. Captain William Judd, commanding the Antelope, was on the Jamaica station, and Lieu-
tenant William Young, temporary commander of the Pomona, was in the Leeward
Islands squadron.
16 Sept.
Public Advertiser, Monday, September 16, 1776
London [September 16].
Authentic Account of the Fate of the Scotch Expedition from Clyde.
Sailed and embarked from Clyde in April last, with the 42d and 71st regi-
ments.
Arrived.
Brilliant, Capt. M’Pherson, Col. Stirling on board.
Thomas, Robertson, Major Murray ditto.
Thames, Moodie, Major Grant ditto.
Minerva, Dunlop, Major M’Pherson ditto.
Peggy No. 1, Eason, Capt. Grahame ditto.
Bowman, Taylor, Capt. Erskine ditto.
Neptune, M’Gurdie, Capt. M’Intosh ditto.
Clementina, Crawford, Major M’Donald ditto.
Bristol, Orr, General’s company ditto.
Experiment, Orr, Capt. Angus M’Intosh ditto.
Jeany, Muir, Capt. Dun, Chisholm ditto.
Peggy No. 2, Foster, Capt. Laurie’s company ditto.
Mayflower, Crosbie, Capt. Eneas M’Intosh ditto.
Missing.
Flora frigate.
Houstoun, M’Liesh, Capt. Mackenzie ditto.
Henry and Joseph, Tickell, Adjutant and Quarter Master ditto.
Globe, Harrison, the hospital ditto.
Columbus, Bell, Sir William Erskine ditto.
William, Lyon, Captain M’Pherson ditto.
Mermaid, Ewart, Capt. Peter Campbell ditto.
Annabella, Leitch, Capt. Colin M’Kenzie ditto.
Ocean, Ewing, Capt. J. Campbell’s company ditto.
Royal Exchange, Ritchie, Major Lamond ditto.
Metham, Johnston, Capt. Chas. Cameron ditto.
Glencairn , Hunter, Capt. Munro ditto.
Caledonia, M’Liesh, Capt. Porterfields comp, ditto.
Lord Howe, Park, Capt. Laur. Campbell ditto.
Friends , Fisher, a store ship, with part of the first battalion ditto.
Glasgow, Smith, the hospital ditto.
SEPTEMBER 1776
601
Taken.
Oxford, Stewart, Capt. Smith ditto.
Venus, Wilson, Capt. Simon Fraser ditto.
Anne, Denniston, Capt. Hamilton Maxwell ditto.
Crawford, Maclean, Capt. Norman M’Leod ditto.
George, Bog, Col. Archibald Campbell ditto.
Total. - Arrived 13, - Missing 15, besides the frigate - Taken 5.
From their having sailed so early as April, it is inferred that the miss-
ing ships (though the account has not been received) are all taken.1
1. The supposition that the fifteen missing ships were all taken was incorrect. Two only were
taken, the Annabella and the Lord Howe. Also, the Venus, listed as taken, arrived
safely in Halifax.
17 Sept.
Lords Commissioners, Admiralty, to Lord George Germain1
My Lord, Admiralty Office 17th Sepr 1776
Having received from Vice Admiral Young Commander in chief of His
Majesty’s Ships & Vessels at the leeward Islands in his letter of the 31st
July last,2 the particulars of an Action between the Shark Sloop and an
American armed Ship3 together with the Copies of the Correspondence
which passed between the Captain of the Shark and the Governor of Mar-
tinico respecting the same, We send your Lordship herewith Copies of the
Admiral’s letter, and of those therein referred to, for His Majesty’s Infor-
mation, & are 8cc
Sandwich. Lisbume. H. Palliser.
1. PRO, Colonial Office, 5/259, 110.
2. See Volume 5, 1317.
3. The Continental ship Reprisal, Captain Lambert Wickes.
“A LETTER FROM THE HAGUE, SEPT. 17.”1
Sir Joseph Yorke has made application to the States of Holland to for-
bid the Americans entering any of their ports in the West-Indies, and also
the carrying on any trade whatsoever with them. The answer given to Sir
Joseph is said to be this, that Holland only considered itself as a commercial
country, and that any check to its trade must be severely felt by its inhabit-
ants; that the West-Indies received great part of their support from the
Continent of America, which it would be very ill policy in them to put a stop
to, and indeed would be almost impossible, as hardly any commands would
tie a people down when they were in want of provisions; and that Sir Jo-
seph might assure his court, that they had hitherto, and would still continue
to prevent any military stores being furnished to the Americans from any
part of the dominions belonging to the states. — Their present trade with
the Americans is exceedingly beneficial to them.
1. Almon, ed.. Remembrancer, III, 278. Yorke was British representative at The Hague.
602
EUROPEAN THEATRE
Silas Deane to Robert Morris1
Dear Sir: Bordeaux, September 17, 1776.
I shall send you in October clothing for twenty thousand men, thirty
thousand fusils, one hundred tons of powder, two hundred brass cannon,
twenty four brass mortars, with shells, shot, lead, etc. in proportion. I am to
advise you that if in future you will give commissions to seize Portuguese
ships you may depend on the friendship and alliance of Spain.2 Let me urge
this measure. Much may be got, nothing can be lost by it. Increase, at all
events, your navy. I will procure, if commissioned, any quantity of sail cloth
and cordage. A general war is undoubtedly at hand in Europe, and conse-
quently America will be safe if you baffle the arts and arms of the two
Howes through the summer. Every one here is in your favor. Adieu. I will
write you again next week.
Silas Deane.
1. Wharton, ed., Revolutionary Diplomatic Correspondence , II, 148.
2. War against Portugal was Beaumarchais’ idea. He urged this “unexpected and bold meas-
ure” in a letter to the Committee of Secret Correspondence on September 15. Ibid.,
146-47.
18 Sept.
Custom House Declaration of Cargo on Board the British
Brigantine Countess of Eglington1
Know Ye that James Wilson 8c Son James Miller John Wallace James
Brown William Sterling 8c Sons and Alexander Taylor have this day en-
tered outwards with us to be shipped on Board the Countess of Eglinton of
Irvine Robert Reid Master for Antigua Fifty Seven Bales, one hundred and
ten Boxes, Thirty four Casks, two Chests and five Trunks containing one
thousand four hundred and fifty pounds Haberdashery, three Hundred 8c
sixty eight Square Yards of printed Linnen Excise Duty paid P Cert-
ificate] : one thousand two hundred 8c twenty three Pounds wrought tanned
leather Shoes Nine Dozen 8c Six pairs Womens Callimanco Shoes containing
thirty eight Pounds wrought tanned leather, four thousand five hundred 8c
thirteen Pounds Green Glass bottles Excise Duty paid Pr two Certificates,
Thirty nine Barrells and two firkins Strong Ale Excise Duty paid Pr Cert:
six thousand seven hundred 8c ninety seven Pounds Tallow Candles Excise
Duty paid Pr Cert. Twenty four hundred Weight refined Sugar British
Manifacture, One thousand one hundred peices containing Sixty seven thou-
sand and twenty eight Yards British Bounty Linnen Two hundred and
thirty two peices Containing seven thousand four hundred and twenty one
Yards Irish Bounty Linnen, three hundred 8c thirty nine Peices containing
Four thousand four hundred 8c eighty eight yards British Striptd 8c Check’d
linnen Two hundred 8c seven firkins Containing one hundred 8c three
Hundred Weight Irish salted Butter Imported here Duty free pr Affidavite
one hundred 8c twenty six Gallons Portugal Wine Duties Inwards paid at
SEPTEMBER 1776
603
Aberdeen as unfitted for Sale by William Brebner & Co the 7th 16th Sc 21st
August 1775 out of the Thetis of Aberdeen William Spark Mastr from
Oporto Pr Certificate from Aberdeen Dated 24th Ultimo Loose Two
Hundred Sc ten Bundles Iron Hoops containing one thousand Pounds
Wrought Iron British — 2
Given at the Custom House under our hands & Seals of Office this
eighteenth September 1776 and in the sixteenth Year of his Majes-
tys Reign
Ed Penman D Coan
Pollock Campbell D Comptr
1. Records of the Court of Appeals in Cases of Capture, No. 9, the Countess of Eglington,
Jones, Claimant v. Babcock, NA.
2. Since this ship was captured by American privateers in November, 1776, the cargo is of par-
ticular interest.
Lord Stormont to Lord Weymouth1
[Extract]
Secret No 78 Paris Sepr 18th 1776
I have already observed to Your Lordship, that there now prevails here
a pretty general opinion, that the public Tranquillity will not continue long,
and that this unhappy Business will bring on a War in which Great Brit-
tain and France will soon find themselves involved2
It begins to be whispered, that a large body of Troops has rece’d orders
to march to the Coast of Britany, others Say that the orders are only for the
Troops to hold themselves in Readiness to March. As far as I have Yet been
able to Trace this Report, it seems to me My Lord to take its Rise, from the
orders given to the Six Battalions which are designed for the French West
India Islands. The sending this Reinforcement seems to be a fixt Measure,
and the Reason given for it is, That at a time when our Colonies are in a
flame, and when there is so much reason to apprehend a War in South
America, Every Principle of Prudence, and self Preservation, calls upon
France to put Her Colonies in a proper posture of Defence. This may be the
real Truth, but as Your Lordship sees better than I do, it may likewise be a
Colour for the most Insidious, and Dangerous Designs. At the same time
that I throw out this general, and very obvious Reflexion, I must add, that it
rests wholly upon vague suspicion, and on that Caution and mistrust that
naturally lead me to think of the worst that can happen, where so much is
at Stake.
1. PRO, State Papers, 78/299.
2. The Spanish-Portuguese border dispute.
604
EUROPEAN THEATRE
19 Sept.
“Armed Ships taken into His Majesty’s Service by the Board
of Ordnance to Transport Stores and Men to America Sc
the West Indies.”1
Guns
Sailors
Recruits
The Lord Townshend is
ready & therefore proposed
for Halifax
J
20-9 Pdrs
> 6—6 Pdrs
12 Swivels
► 78
60.
The Lord Amherst for Ja-
maica & PensaCola j
20—9 Poundrs'
6—6 Poundrs
12 Swivels
>
78
60.
The Unity
for Antigua
2—9 Poundrs'
14—6 Poundrs
10 Swivels
48
60.
The Richmond
for the Ceded
2—9 Poundrs'
> 10—6 Poundrs
36
40.
Islands
8 Swivels
NB — The Two first Ships can take many more Recruits if Necessary:
The above Numbers are what Lord Amherst thinks may be ready.
John Boddington
Office of Ordnance 19 Septr 1776.
1. PRO, Colonial Office, 5/162, 649.
Lord Grantham to Lord Weymouth1
No. 45 [Madrid] 19th September 1776
I am well informed that orders have been sent to the several Ports for
an account of the American vessels which have put into them, and the re-
turns will probably be soon made; in the mean time I enclose to Your Lord-
ship the advices which I have received from Cadiz and Malaga on that sub-
ject. This intelligence will undoubtedly affect the Spanish, as well as our
commerce, and ought to point out to this Court the propriety, even the ne-
cessity of cooperating with His Majesty in crushing as much as possible, the
success of the American vessels.
1. Sparks Transcripts, Lord Grantham, I, 12-13, HU.
20 Sept.
Lords Commissioners, Admiralty, to Lieutenant Benjamin Bechinoe,
H.M. Storeship Elephant , Portsmouth1
You are hereby required and directed, to receive on board the Store-
ship you command such Medicines Sc Stores for the use of the Naval Hospi-
SEPTEMBER 1776
605
tals in North America, likewise such Bedding for the Marines serving
there, as the Commissioners for taking care of Sick and Hurt Seamen may
have to send thither, provided they arrive at Portsmouth in time, and de-
liver them upon your arrival in North America, agreable to their consign-
ments. Given Sec. the 20th Septr 1776.
Sandwich Palmerston Lisbume.
By Sec G. J.
1. PRO, Admiralty 2/101, 310.
Dr. Edward Bancroft to Silas Deane1
[Extract]
. . . You will see by the Papers that a Total end is put to Lord Dun-
more’s Piratical Depredations; many hundreds of the Whites Sc Negroes
which he had assembled being cut of [f] by sickness; above twenty of his
Vessels taken or burnt, and the rest all dispersed & removed from that part
of the Continent. So may the Enemies of America always prosper. The dis-
tresses of Barbadoes have extorted a very Lamentable Petition from the
people of that Island, and a Gentleman is arrived here from Bermudas with
a Memorial stating the incapacity of that Island to subsist without Provi-
sions from the United Colonies, and intimating that if the Bermudians are
not permitted to Bring Provisions from thence without interruption from
British Cruizers, it will be necessary for them to ask both Subsistence Sc
Protection from the Congress. . . .
From Quebec I hear that all attempts to Transport the Vessels sent out
from hence, over the Falls of Chamblee in to Lake Champlain (by the help
of Machines called Cammels) have proved fruitless, and that early in
August it was found necessary to build Vessels on the Lake to Convoy Bur-
goyne’s Army to Crownpoint, and that for this purpose all the Ship Carpen-
ters in Canada were called together; and as this business will doubtless em-
ploy them until winter, we may, I think, make ourselves easy respecting the
Operations in that Province. . . .
London, Fryday Evening [Sept. 20, 1776],
Endorsed, London, Sept. 1776. E. B. Esqr. Letter reed, at Paris, Sept. 25,
1776.
1. “The Deane Papers," Collections of the Neiu-York Historical Society, I, 249-52.
Public Advertiser , Friday, September 20, 1776
London [September 20] .
There were no Accounts received Yesterday at Two o’Clock of any of
the Ships which came Part of the Way under Convoy of the Argo Man of
War, but parted the Beginning of August. The Insurance runs very high
upon them.1
1. The Argo had arrived at Portsmouth on September 15. The Public Advertiser, September 21,
added: “The Prince of Wales, Captain Beales, from St. Kitt’s (one of the Argo’s Convoy)
is arrived at Plymouth. She is the second of the Fleet arrived. There are twelve still
wanting."
SEPTEMBER 1776
607
“Copy of a Letter from Capt. Braithwaite, of the Hampden
Packet Boat, dated Falmouth, Sept. 20. M1
Sept. 5, I received the Mail, and sailed from Lisbon, with the wind to
the northward. I received as passengers, Mr. Scot, Mr. Fisher, and Mr.
Smith, and, as distressed subjects, Capt. Thomas Moor, his Mate, and five of
his people, being the Master and part of the crew of the Mary and James , of
Falmouth, bound from London to Salerno, Naples, and Messina, but last
from Falmouth, having sailed from thence the 20th of August, with a cargo
worth between 20,000 1. and 30,000 1. and was taken the 1st inst. on the
coast of Portugal, 14 leagues N.W. from Cape St. Vincent, (in sight of
Mount Chigo) by an American privateer of eight carriage guns, and a num-
ber of swivels, commanded by Simon Forester, an Irishman, well known at
Lisbon and Falmouth. The privateer was sloop rigged, and called the
Rover; it being little wind, and rowing with twelve oars, she soon came up
with Capt. Moor. She had taken before six sail on the coast, whose people
she landed at Faro. The 22d of August a Guineaman, from Bristol, John
Baker, Master, engaged her, but blew up in the action, and only three men
saved out of 28. They stripped Capt. Moor and his people of every thing,
and even threatened their lives, and sent the prize directly for America; the
next day, being about eight leagues from Cape Spichell, they gave Capt.
Moor his boat, in which he reached Setuval that night. The Captain of the
privateer would not tell what place he belonged to,2 but said there were 150
sail of them fitted out of different ports of America. The people told Capt.
Moor they belonged to Salem, and that several more had sailed from thence
for the coast of Spain and Portugal.
(Signed) T. P. Braithwaite.
1. London Chronicle, September 21 to September 24. Under the latter date line, the printer
added: “From the above information, the Merchants and Under-writers propose an
immediate application to the Lords of the Admiralty for regular convoys.”
2. The Rover was a Massachusetts privateer sloop. See Volume 5.
Jose de Galvez to the Governor of Havana1
[Extract]
. . . This background2 has led the King to consider the matter; and reflect-
ing that closing his Ports to the Americans will be followed by their decla-
ration of enmity toward Spain, and by the seizure of our ships on all the
Seas indiscriminately, leaving us without the least expedient for a repara-
tion or even to punish this attack: His Majesty has decided that these same
Americans be admitted cordially into Spanish Ports, although they may be
flying their own Flag instead of the British one, and that if the English
Court protest against it, let it see that the King cannot abandon the Com-
merce of his Subjects to such risks when it is certain that [neither] His
British Majesty nor his Ministry would feel compelled to indemnify the
damage which the rebellious Colonials would cause us.
608
EUROPEAN THEATRE
For myself I have already notified Our Governors in utmost confidence
on how to welcome and treat the vessels of the English Colonies in Spanish
Ports, advising them that if an American privateer enter with a captured
ship of any Nation, it must not be prevented from doing so, supposing that
the prize vessel is flying the same Flag as the capturing ship, and that on
equal terms an English privateer entering with an American prize must not
be molested.
. . . although they [orders to West Indies ports] generally prohibit access
to friendly or enemy Foreigners, it should be understood that the Ameri-
cans with their own Flag or with any prize must be welcomed and treated
in cases of urgency and known need with the same hospitality which would
be extended to the English or the French.
All of which I advise Your Lordship by Order of the King so that you
dispose at once what is suitable for complying in the Ports of your Jurisdic-
tion in specific cases and with the idea that it is the Royal wish of His Maj-
esty to give haven to Colonial vessels out of hospitality, but not permit them
to sell goods or any Trade, and only to make repairs and buy necessities,
paying the amount in coin, banknotes, or Negro Slaves. . . .
San Ildefonso 20 September 1776
1. AGI, Papeles de Cuba, Legajo 1227, LC Photocopy.
2. Suggestion by British ambassador: “. . . how welcome it would be to his Sovereign to hear
that American vessels have been denied entry to the ports of Spain, as had just been
ordered in Portugal, considering them rebel Subjects of a friendly Power.” Ibid.
22 Sept. (Sunday)
“Extract of a Letter from Bristol, Sept. 22.
Captain Graves, of the Elinor, is arrived here from Barbadoes, which
Place he left the 19th of August, and says, that before he sailed a Vessel ar-
rived from Bermudas; the Master of which told him that the Captain of a
Privateer that had put in there to heave down his Ship said, that he had
taken among other Vessels a Captain Craig, from Liverpoole. The Black
River, Currie, sailed the 20th of July from Dominica for Bristol: On the 2d
of August, in Lat. 31. Long 63. was taken by the Enterprize Privateer, Cap-
tain [James] Campbell, of Baltimore, in Maryland, who had taken the
Lancashire, Jones, from Jamaica to Liverpool; a Brig from ditto to England,
and a Brig from St. Croix to Guernsey; a Sloop of Dartmouth from Bar-
badoes to Newfoundland, and had taken the James, Higgins, from Antigua
to Lancaster, on board of whom the Privateer put the Mate of the Black
River, and several Men; the Mate and Part of the People rose upon the
Provincials, retook her, and brought her into Bristol. They afterwards fell in
with the Tender belonging to the Nautilus Sloop of War which was at Ber-
mudas, and put on board a Prize Master, and four of the Privateers Men.2
The Privateer intended going on the Coast of Portugal in the Winter. The
Privateer had taken a Sloop belonging to Tortola for Newfoundland, which
they gave up to the Captain, and put on board her twenty-four Seamen, and
SEPTEMBER 1776
609
a Mr. Wilcock, a Passenger of the James. The Privateer was a Schooner of
eight Guns, and had sixty Men when she came out, and rowed with Oars.
1. Public Advertiser , London, October 1, 1776.
2. See Journal of H. M. Sloop Nautilus, August 22, 1776.
Vergennes to M. de Clugny1
[Extract] Versailles, 22nd September 1776
. . . The importations from America will place in our ports the provi-
sions and goods which England used to carry to the other nations of Europe.
Re-exportation will offer to merchants a vast and fresh field for lucra-
tive speculation, the success of which appears assured; and will go to dimin-
ish that kind of trade which formed one of the most important branches of
the advantages which England reaped from America.
... I do not think that it is necessary to free the American goods
from all duties. The favor which they deserve to experience in the present
juncture is doubtless great, and you know that I think we should grant
them great facilities, but we must distinguish between those which may be
advantageous and those which might serve as a precedent in the future. It
is important, from the beginning of this trade, to establish a basis fit to be
preserved when events shall have consolidated the independence of the Colo-
nies, and when their trade with us shall have taken a free and regular
course. If we grant them total exemption now, this kindness would become
bitterness when the necessity arrived to subject them to prestations and
curtail the total exemption to which she would be accustomed, and as we
should then have more competitors than now, the effect of this return to our
principles might be dangerous.
I do not indulge, Sir, in all the details which this discusson might re-
quire; your knowledge will supply them; what I have just said will suffice to
make you feel the motive which induced me to think that it is important to
impose a duty of some sort on the importations from America: but I am at
the same time of opinion that such duty should be as moderate as possible,
that the Americans should be ranked with the most favoured nation, or be
subjected to a single and fixed duty of 3%, for example. . . .
. . . Everyone must shut his eyes to the exportation of munitions and
implements of war, and the registers must not contain any item nor any in-
dication of this connivance, entire liberty being left to the Americans to
load and export as they please the articles in question.
1. Stevens, ed., Facsimiles, No. 1365.
“Extract of a Letter from Seville, Sept. 22, 1776.”1
For these several Days past we have had Advice here of two Provincial
Privateers, mounting 10 and 14 Guns each, cruizing about this Port; and we
are very well informed, that they have taken two or three Vessels on this
Coast. We expect to hear of the Privaters being taken by some of the Eng-
610
EUROPEAN THEATRE
lish Men of War, as two are on the look-out for them, and will certainly
take them, if they can but once get sight of them.
1. Public Advertiser, London, October 17, 1776.
23 Sept.
Letter from Cork1
[Extract] Corke, Sept. 23.
The Diana , Captain Maybury, with Rum from St. Vincent’s for this
Port, and two other Vessels, were lately taken by an American Sloop of 10
Carriage Guns. The Prizes were sent for Boston, and 15 of their Crews put
on board a French Ship, who landed them at Havre. The Captain of the
Sloop is an Irishman, who had lost his Property, and his Vessel made a
Prize of by an English Man of War, when trading in full Security; and on
his Return to America, he procured the Command of this Sloop in order to
cruize against the Nation that had stripped him of his All, and he had no
Resource left but Retaliation.
1. Public Advertiser, London, October 8, 1776.
Public Advertiser, Monday, September 23, 1776
London [September 23] .
Two Transports (Victuallers) which had been sent to the Madeiras for
Wine, for the Use of the Fleet and Army in America, are supposed to be
taken by the Provincials, no Account having been received of them.
The following is an Extract of a Letter from Captain Hamilton Max-
well, who was taken with his Company of Highlanders, on board the Anne
Transport. “The Ship Anne was chased by three Privateers a whole Day,
near the Coast of America, but outsailed them. Next Morning the Ship was
becalmed, and the Privateers, by Favour of their Oars, rowed up, two under
her Stern, and one upon her Bow, by which the Anne's Guns could not
bear; but indeed she had only two Carriage Guns, and two Swivels put on
Carriages for Show. A Council of War was held, and it was resolved to sur-
render. I desire you will represent these Facts.”1
1. See Public Advertiser, September 11, 1776.
London Chronicle, Saturday, September 21 to Tuesday,
September 24, 1776
London [September 23] .
The Hero, Strivens, which was said to be taken by a Provincial priva-
teer some time ago, is safe arrived off Beachy-Head. She saw the Royal Ex-
change, Bowden, fired at and brought to, supposed by a Provincial privateer.1
1. The Royal Exchange was taken by the Continental ship Columbus, Captain Abraham
Whipple, and carried into Portsmouth, New Hampshire.
SEPTEMBER 1776
611
24 Sept.
Public Advertiser, Tuesday, September 24, 1776
London [September 24] .
The Prizes taken from the Americans by his Majesty’s Cruizers since
the late Act are computed to amount to the Value of 30,000 1. But those of
English Property taken by the Provincial Privateers are already known to
amount to six Times that Sum, besides many Ships which are missing, and
’tis feared have shared the same Fate.
Capt. [Francis] Banks who hoists a Broad Pendant, was left to guard
Boston Harbour; but the Provincials finding a convenient Opportunity to
open a Battery upon his Ships, compelled him to retreat; for which it is said
a Court Martial has been held on that Officer.1
1. No court martial was held, but the Admiralty demanded an explanation through Lord Howe.
London Chronicle , Saturday, September 21 to Tuesday,
September 24, 1776
London [September 24] .
The Hester, Crombie, from St. Kitt’s to London, is taken by the Colum-
bus, an American privateer of 30 guns.1
The Bee, , from the Leeward Islands to Lancaster, (one of the
Argo's convoy) being the second, is taken by the Columbus, an American
privateer.
1. Columbus was a 24 gun ship.
Andrew Frazer to Sir Stanier Porten1
[Extract] Dunkirk 24 Septr 1776.
Captain Johnston [Henry Johnson] of the Yankee Privateer, who
made his Escape from some Ship in the River, was lately at this Place, and
after staying a few Days, went, I was told, further up the Country.
1. PRO, Colonial Office, 5/140, 5.
25 Sept.
Philip Stephens to Lieutenant General and
Principal Officers of the Ordnance1
Gentn 25h September 1776
My Lords Commrs of the Admiralty having been informed that a Rebel
Privatier has lately cruized off the Coast of Portugal, and made several Cap-
tures; I am commanded by their Lordships to acquaint you therewith and to
enquire whether you have any Storeships destined to Gibraltar or Portma-
612
EUROPEAN THEATRE
hon, and in case you have, the time when they will be ready to sail from
Spithead, that a Convoy may be provided for them. I am Sec
P: S:
1. PRO, Admiralty 2/553, 19.
Public Advertiser , Wednesday, September 25, 1776
London [September 25] .
’Tis hardly possible to express the Consternation at New Lloyd’s Cof-
fee-House, on Monday, at the Arrival of the News of the taking the seven
Straits-men by the Rover Privateer; many a long Face was seen, and very
few inclinable to do Business, unless upon very good Policies.
Monday after the Publication of the News of the taking the Straights-
men by the Rover Privateer, many Policies were offered on homeward-
bound Ships from Leghorn, Genoa, &c. but nothing was done on account of
the very great Premium demanded.
Captain Dunlop, of the Margaret, who is arrived at Milford from St.
Croix, was taken on his Passage by an American Privateer near the Bermu-
das, which, after keeping him' for several Days, released him, and is sup-
posed to be gone after some of the Leeward Island Fleet, which he had some
Intelligence of.
The Complaints raised against the Captain of the Argo Frigate are en-
tirely groundless, as it appears from some Passengers arrived in Part of the
Fleet, that the Separation of the Fleet from the Convoy was intirely the
Will of the Masters of the Ships, who thinking themselves out of all Danger,
would no longer be under any Restraint, but each would make the best of
his Way.
Lord Stormont to Lord Weymouth1
[Extract]
Most Confidential Paris Septr 25 1776
Mr Cyrus [Silas] Deane who in some Companies calls himself a Na-
tive of Bermudas but who is well known here to be a North American and a
Secret agent for the Congress is certainly in constant intercourse with
Beaumarchais who was lately not worth a shilling but has now Millions at
his Command. He keeps a Table and entertains Deane and other Ameri-
cans and friends to their cause. He is likewise, as I am well assured, in reg-
ular Correspondence with Mr. [John] Wilkes. Their Letters are not
trusted to the Post but sent by Private Hands. When I learnt this I imme-
diately suspected that Wilkes is not the only Person in England with whom
Beaumarchais Corresponds. My Suspicion is right, there are several other
Persons, I do not yet know their Names, but hope to get them soon. . . .
Mr. Deane received Letters of Importance from the Congress by the
Ship that arrived at Nantes from Philadelphia the beginning of this Month.
He gave out a few days ago that He was going to Geneva, but He is still at
SEPTEMBER 1776
613
Paris, and constantly endeavouring to engage some of the Many French of-
ficers M. de St. Germain reformed to join the Rebel army. He bribes high
and has engaged several. Some have refused. This Court cannot be a
stranger to these Manoeuvres of Deane, and no doubt is glad to wink at
them . . .
1. Stevens, ed., Facsimiles, No. 1366.
26 Sept.
London Chronicle, Tuesday, September 24 to Thursday,
September 26, 1776
London [September 26] .
Extract of a Letter from Capt. Moore, late Commander of the Mary
and James , dated from on Board the Hampden Packet Boat, arrived at Fal-
mouth.
“You will be surprised at hearing from me in this part of the world,
the reason you will see by the protest handed to you. I was taken by a priva-
teer called the Rover, a sloop of eight carriage guns and 14 swivels; when
she left America she had on board 80 men, but when they took me they had
only 38. The Captain’s name is Simon Thomson [sic Simon Forrester] ;
where she belonged to; I could not learn from them. They appeared more
like pirates than any thing else. They had taken six vessels before mine,
but I do not remember any of their names; she had also an engagement
with a snow belonging to Bristol, Capt. Bates, which blew up after fight-
ing six hours; only three of the crew were saved out of 26, 1 two of whom
were landed on the coast of Algarve, with three masters of vessels and
their crews, and the others entered on board the privateer. There were
men of different nations on board her; but the captain and major part of
the crew were Irish.”
1. London Chronicle, October 24 to October 26, 1776, the snow Africa. The men saved were
Richard Smith, James Lindsey, and James Taylor.
27 Sept.
Prince Masserano to Marquis de Grimald1
London, 27 September 1776
In reply to Your Excellency’s letter of the Ninth of this month in
which you informed me of what transpired between the Spanish brigantine
La Vierge du Carmel on her return to Cadiz from Havana, and a British
frigate commanded by Captain Maximillian Jacobs,2 I shall inform Your
Excellency that I conveyed my protests to Mylord Suffolk at the conference.
He replied that he had given the clearest and most positive orders in order
to avoid any similar difficulties. I replied that the officers ought to be pun-
ished most severely for the simple reason that they could not pretend to be
614
EUROPEAN THEATRE
ignorant of them. Mylord was surprised that the frigate had fired a round-
shot. I said to him that doubtless our brigantine had resisted the search, as
she had every right to, and I reminded him of the steps I had taken here as a
precaution before the ships of war left their ports with orders to stop the
Americans. I added that if the brigantine had been stronger, she would
have answered the British frigate with a cannon shot, and that the two ves-
sels might have engaged in an action which perhaps might have produced
unfortunate consequences. They will result one day from the arrogance of
the British officers, if they are not restrained, for in time of peace one does
not search the vessels of a friendly Power, nor open their mail packets. He
told me that the Americans were resorting to so many subterfuges in order
to arrive at their ends that the officers of their Navy were at a loss as to
what to do. I answered that in a packet of paper there could hardly be any
powder or shot, and that several days earlier His Majesty had ordered me
to tell the British Minister that he had given the most rigorous orders pro-
hibiting the supply of munitions of war to the rebels. He replied they
were very satisfied with the good faith of our King, and that they had many
proofs of it, and that the assurances given to Mylord Grantham were con-
sistent with my manner of explanation here.
I said to him that I served only to carry out the orders of the King
whom I knew was very desirous of maintaining good harmony with Eng-
land. He replied to me in this manner:
With you who are my friend, I can explain myself differently
than with anyone else. Your Excellency sees our situation and that
we do not desire war with anyone. But if our success in America
were such as we would hope, with the experience that we have at
present, we would find ourselves in a position to make a firmer and
more solid general peace than exists today, for the good of all
monarchies.
I answered that this hope for a more solid peace between Spain and
England would bring pleasure to the King who thinks likewise and who
wishes only to keep that which he possesses without seeing it usurped by
anyone.
Reflecting on this type of overture to which I only accord as much trust
as it deserves, I do not know who caused it, whether the fear of seeing our-
selves armed and the desire to remove from ourselves the fear of seeing
them invade our possessions in America with the troops that they have in
the Colonies, or the desire to give me to understand that they are not in a
position to be able to support Portugal and that they will not support her,
even if they were to succeed in America. I perceive these two motives there,
but I do not know the one upon which to lay stress. But I still believe that
we must remain armed and await events.
I shall finish this dispatch by telling Your Excellency that Mylord
Suffolk promised me to deliver my note to Mylord Weymouth, the one which
SEPTEMBER 1776
615
I gave him containing the names of the Captains of the brigantine and the
frigate in order that he might make a report to His Britannic Majesty.
1. AMAE, Correspondance Politique, Angleterre, vol. 518, LC Photocopy.
2. Captain Maximilian Jacobs, commanding H. M. Frigate Amazon. This copy of the letter,
in French, was sent to Vergennes.
Giambattista Pizzoni to his Government in Venice 1
[Extract] London, 27 Sep 1776
... I shall have the honor of reporting for the knowledge of Your Ex-
cellencies that the daring of the Americans has gone so far as to affront
Great Britain even in its own channels and to capture its ships trading with
Portugal, Africa, and Italy. . . . insurance [rates] which were one and a
half percent jumped to ten and ten and a half percent, and are staying
there. . . .
1 . Papers of the Senate, ASV.
Public Advertiser , Friday, September 27, 1776
London [September 27] .
Insurance to and from the Straits has got up to Five Guineas Pre-
mium; Eight Guineas were offered on one Vessel homeward-bound, and re-
fused. The Prices of Rice, Indigo, Sugar, Leather, and several other Articles
usually imported from America, are raised within these two Years Twenty
per Cent.
London Chronicle , Thursday, September 26 to Saturday,
September 28, 1776
London [September 27] .
Yesterday in consequence of an application made by the West India
merchants the day before to the Lords of the Admiralty, notice was sent
from the Admiralty to Lloyd’s coffee-house, acquainting the merchants that
a convoy would sail from Spithead the first fair wind after the 20th of Octo-
ber, only waiting 48 hours for the ships from the Downs, for all the West
India islands The convoy will consist of four ships of war.
Notice was also sent that a convoy would sail from Corke in December.
“Extract of a letter from Plymouth Dock,
dated Sept. 27, 1776.”1
Arrived here last Monday the Brig, Samuel , from Nantz, in thirty-two
Days [sic], bound to Petersburgh, belonging to Stockton, the Master’s
name Watson; he says that when he left Nantz, there were no less than
twelve or fourteen Ships, Brigs, Schooners, &c. in that Port, belonging to
different Ports in America, loading with Military Stores, Sec. They bring
616
EUROPEAN THEATRE
Wheat and Flour in exchange. The Day he sailed, a large Ship, Burthen 400
Tons, left the same Port, bound to America, called the Hancock and Adams ,
commanded by one Smith, who was cautious in mentioning what Part of
America he was bound to, or what his Cargo consisted of. Capt. Watson was
several Times in Company with him, but could learn no Intelligence that
was material. The Day before he sailed, he was examined by Order of the
Commandant of the Port, when a Quantity of contraband Stores was found
on board of him, which he was obliged to re-land; but the same Night they
were re-shipped again, with a great deal more. The Mate of the above Brig
was on board of the American, when he took on board 2000 Stands of Arms,
321 Barrels of Gunpowder, and 70 Barrels of Saltpetre, besides many other
Implements of War, this Vessel had but a few Swivels on board, and might
have been taken by the smallest Cruizer in our Service. Not one of the Yan-
kees seemed calculated to make any Resistance, but depended entirely on
Dame Fortune.
The above Account was confirmed by the Mate of the Samuel , (who
was the Master’s Son) the Carpenter of her, and two of her Hands; they
were all examined by the Principal Officers of this Port, and every one of
them agreed exactly with the Master’s Report. The Matter told me, that
his Mate and People knew much more of the Affair than he did, they being
often among the small Vessels, and very conversant with the American Crews,
the Masters of which Vessels were quite open, and no way reserved in trans-
acting their Business, speaking publicly of what they were to load with, and
where they were bound to. A Schooner and Sloop had almost compleated
their Cargoes, and would sail in a few Days after the English Vessel’s De-
parture. The French seemed to take little or no Notice of their Proceedings,
only now and then inspecting a Vessel to keep up Appearances. In fact, the
Captain, Mate, and Crew of the Samuel, declare, that the Business of the
Americans was transacted with a Degree of Barefacedness, that none, but
People well pleased with their Company, could overlook. They affirm like-
wise, that a ten Gun Sloop could take twenty such Vessels for the Resistance
they could make. Undoubtedly a few Cruizers off Cape Finisterre, would
pick up Numbers of those Adventurers, with very little Trouble. The
Hancock and Adam’s Cargo was reported to be worth 35000 Pounds Sterling.
1. Public Advertiser, London, October 3, 1776.
“Extract of a Letter from Bourdeaux Dated
27th September 1776”1
There have been several Vessels here from America some of whom We
have reason to believe found means, though contrary to the Orders of Gov-
ernment, to procure Military stores and we believe some of them picked up
Sailors of different Nations who were allured by the prospect of making
their Fortunes in the American Service. There are at present only two
American Vessels in this Port, both Sloops of New York built in the Ber-
muda Fashion, one of them of about 110 Tons with two Decks called the Lu-
SEPTEMBER 1776
617
cretia John Saly Master. The other single decked pierced for carrying ten
Guns called the Samuel John Hutchins Master. These Vessels have yet got no
Loading and it is impossible to say when they may part it is said they are
waiting for dry Goods. All the American Vessels that have come here have
brought Flour, Lumber, Potatoes and a few furs; We are strongly of opinion
that the Ships said to be taken off the Coast of Portugal by an American
Privateer were taken by some of the American ships that went from hence as
one or two of them had a Number of Guns in the Hold and picked up
straggling Sailors, which with what the other Ships could spare them these
were sufficient to take any Merchantman unprovided.
1. PRO, Colonial Office, 5/254, 101, 102.
28 Sept.
Lord George Germain to Lord George Townshend1
My Lord, Whitehall, 28th September 1776
The late advices from Virginia representing the Earl of Dunmore’s Sit-
uation to be so much changed from what it was at the time his Lordship
transmitted the Demand of Military Stores inclosed in my letter to your
Lordship of the 18th of April, that his Lordship has it not in his power to
carry on any Military Operations against the Rebels in that Province, and
there is good ground to suppose he has been obliged to quit his Government,
and retire to the Army under General Howe, his Lordship, consequently,
can have no occasion for the supply of Military Stores contained in that De-
mand; I have, therefore, received his Majesty’s Command to recall the orders
contained in my said letter to your Lordship of the 18th April, directing the
sending out the said Military Stores to Virginia and your Lordship will be
pleased to give the necessary directions for preventing the Embarkation of
any part thereof, or for the relanding of the same in case any part has been
embarked. I am 8cca
Geo: Germain./.
I. PRO, Colonial Office, 5/162, 665.
Penet 8c Pliarne to Nicholas and John Brown1
Gentln [Names] Sepr 28. 1776 —
The Above is Copy of our last,2 since which have not had the Pleasure
of hearing from you, this now Serves to Inform you that we this day dis-
patched your Schooner Sally Capt [Samuel] Avery, and by whom You will
receive the Invoice 8c Sales of her Cargo, we are extreemly mortified that
the duty on Oils are So grait, and which we where Oblig’d to pay on those
reed by your two Vessels we Came this day from making Some Arrange-
ments for the demunition of the Duty, which we Expect to reduce to One
third of what we paid before, as we shall make your Oils pass under the
618
EUROPEAN THEATRE
name of a kind of Oil that pays the lowest duty here; we hope to Obtain
that favr from the Farmer Generals of France; but will beg you to keep
that a Secret, not being Willing to let any One here but Us enjoy that Priv-
eledge (which we shall Obtain with much pain) and only those that Come
from your part There arrived here the 19th Inst Mr Nichols from Nan-
tucket loaded with Oil, who we are in hopes Will put the Cargo in our hands
and who we expect shall enjoy that Benefiet. We think Gentlemen that you
Will be Content with our Transactions, as we every day are able to do bet-
ter — hope you Will continue to Send Vessels to Us here, and Also recom-
end your friends — You Will be kind enough to Send me About Six Boxes
of SpermaCeti Candles, by the first Vessels you Send here —
We have nothing new to Write you I am Every day ocupied afour-
nishing the Congress 8c Others of your provinces with Amunitions. -
Mr Dean from the Province of Connecticut^ lately member of the Se-
cret Committe at Phia is at Parris, Also the Brother of Mr Robert Morris
and Several Others, one Says, they are your Ministers in France. We Shall
See at the end of your War which of Us all has render’d the most servis to
the Contnnent. I flatter mySelf that one will be content with my Transac-
tions, also with the Prices of the Merchandize I sent them, where the Dif-
ference will soon be Scene I am under no Other Doubt but of having All
Merchandize upon the best Terms possable, and that you May Injoy the Be-
nefeit thereon for we are Content with the Commisn of 2 pCt the friendship
8c the of Obliging your Nation is more agreeable to Us than all the
Benefe [i] ts in the world. -
In case you Shall think of sending any thing to Bordeaux I take the
Liberty of recomending to you the House of Messrs Reculide Bamarein 8c
Raimbeaux who we think will do your Buisness better than Any Other
House there can do. In the interum we Remain with much Respect - Gen-
tlemen [Sec.]
Pliarne Penet 8c Co
1. Nicholas Brown Papers, JCBL.
2. Letter of August 19, 1776, Letters to the Governor, 1776, R.I. Arch.
29 Sept. (Sunday)
Intelligence from the Admiralty for George III1
Mr Roberts, who was charged with these Dispatches,2 says, that a day
or two before he left Sandy Hook, vizt the 20th of August, the Ships which
were in the North River returned to the Fleet, having been almost con-
stantly attacked with Gun-Boats Sec, Sc having expended almost all their am-
munition - The Rebels had nearly effected the stopping the Passage of the
River to prevent the Return of the Ships3 - They did not return ’til after he
had received these Dispatches - He adds that most of the Hessian Troops
were re-embarked
SEPTEMBER 1776
619
Admty Office 29 Sepr 1776 — i/2 past 6 o'clock A.M.
1. Fortescue, ed., Correspondence of George III , III, 394-95.
2. The dispatch of Admiral Howe, dated August 14, 1776, sent by the Sandwich Packet, PRO,
Admiralty 1 /487.
3. H. M. S. Phoenix and H. M. S. Rose.
30 Sept.
Philip Stephens to Vice Admiral Sir James Douglas,
Portsmouth1
Sir 30th Septr 1776
The Earl of Suffolk one of His Majts Principal Secretaries of State
having signified to my Lords Commrs of the Admty that His Majesty in His
Clemency has no objection to the Crew, consisting of seventeen Men and
two Negro Slaves late belonging to the Rebel Privatier call’d the Yankee of
Boston being received on board some Ship of War & recommended their
being disposed of on board One employed in the East Indies; I am com-
manded by their Lordships to signify their direction to you to order the
above Crew on board the Rippon to serve as part of her Complement, caus-
ing an equal Number of Men to be discharged from her into other Ships
that want Men to make room for them if you find it to be necessary. I am 8cc
P S
1. PRO, Admiralty 2/553, 31.
Activities of the Massachusetts Privateer Rover 1
[September 30] 2
Names of the three English Vessels taken by the American Privateer
Sloop, Rover , Captain Simon Forrester, belonging to Salem. —
1 The Brigantine, Sarah Ann , Captain Gregory Potbury, from Exeter
to Gibraltar & Malaga with Provisions and bale Goods, taken the 24th Au-
gust about 12 Leagues from the Rock of Lisbon. N.B. This Vessel had the
Garrison Oatmeal on board.
2 The Snow, Lively, Captain William Carter, from Chester to Genoa
with Lead and Coals, taken the 28th August about 8 Leagues from Lagos.
3 The Brigantine, Good Intent, Captain Wm Davis, from New Castle,
with Coals to Gibraltar, taken on the same Day 28th August near the
other. NB. This Vessel had the Garrison Coals on board sent by the Con-
tractors.
NB. At the time that these two last Vessels, were passing, the said Priva-
teer was in Lagoss Bay near Cape St Vincent, watering, and on seeing them
went up to them, leaving her Casks on Shore, which on the next day she
went to fetch.
620
EUROPEAN THEATRE
Besides the above named Vessels, there was a Ship of 220 Tons, coming
from Bristol, bound to the Coast of Guinea, named the African , Captain
Thomas Baker, which after being engaged upwards of 5 hours on the 22d
August about 30 Leagues off the Rock of Lisbon, was unfortunately blown
up, and out of 28 Men on board, only three were saved.
For the Honble Board of Ordnance
1. PRO, Admiralty 1/4012.
2. The date is approximated. A brief account of the capture of the three vessels appeared in
the Public Advertiser , London, September 30, and the blowing up of Captain Baker’s
ship in the same newspaper on September 24.
Sir
Captain David Pryce, R.N., to Philip Stephens1
I beg you would please to Inform Their Lordships that I Arrived at
Dover Last Satturday at 10 at Night In the Princess Roy all Jamaica Ship
Late Captn Duthie She was taken by the Rebbells and Retakeing Again by
his Majesties Ship Milford and Carried into Hallifax from which place I
have been five weeks last Friday —
The Ship Nevis Coffin and a Brig from Nevis was Retaken by His Maj-
esties Ship Liverpoll and Carried into Hallifax they were to have Saild with
us Under Co[n]voy of the Hope Captn [George] Dawson but were in
want of Seamen I am Sir [&c.]
Davd Pryce
[Dover] 30 Septbr 1776 —
1. PRO, Admiralty 1/2303, 4, 2.
‘‘Extract of a Letter from Dover, Sept. 30. ”x
Saturday passed by here two ships from Philadelphia, and one armed
transport from America, with an American privateer which she had taken;
the wind blowing very hard, they did not stay for a pilot. Yesterday a
Dutch ship put 16 sailors on shore here, being part of the crews of the fol-
lowing ships, viz. the Anne brig of Liverpool, Capt. Wise, from St. Vin-
cent's, taken the 1st of September in lat. 36, long. 35, by an American priva-
teer of ten guns and 14 swivels; a brig belonging to Corke, from Grenada,
commanded by Captain Casey (the name of the privateer that took the
above was the Revenge , belonging to Rhode Island) and the—, from To-
bago, bound to London, taken by a schooner of 10 guns. All the crews of the
above ships (except the 16 landed here) it is said entered into the service of
the Congress.
1. London Chronicle , October 3 to October 5, 1776.
SEPTEMBER 1776
621
Gabriel de Sartine to M. d’Argout, Governor of Martinique1
[Extract] Versailles, 30 September 1776
You informed me in your letter No 120 of the arrival of Capt. [Thomas]
Dorves2 who did likewise on his own. I approve your attitude in insisting
that he cruise to windward as prescribed by his instructions. His protest
was only made on the grounds that he could not have remained at sea as
constantly as he would have desired; I am convinced that he has not neg-
lected anything in executing his instructions as exactly as circumstances
permitted. The Corvette La Favorite commanded by Lieutenant de Kersen
who will give you my packets will cruise to leeward of Martinique. I have
the honor to be with sincere attachment, Sir &c.
1. AN, Marine, B4, 134, 122, LC Photocopy.
2. Commanding the French frigate L’ Aigrette.
Gabrlel de Sartine to the Commanders of three Sloops of War
Ordered to the West Indies 1
to Captain de Rosnevet commanding the Corvette La Curieuse in Brest,
bound for Santo Domingo.
Lieutenant de Kersen commanding the Corvette La Favorite in Brest,
bound for Martinique.
Lieutenant Dussault commanding the Corvette Le Rossignol in Brest,
bound for Guadeloupe.
Versailles, 30 September 1776
if the wind is
You will find enclosed herewith, Sir, a packet containing the particular
instructions which will determine your line of conduct in the mission which
H.M. [His Majesty] has entrusted to you. As soon as you receive my let-
St. Domingo
ter you will get under way and set sail for < Martinique
Guadeloupe
favorable; but you will open this packet only after you have passed the
Tropic and you will keep secret the instructions it contains. Each time that
you will want to communicate to me Intelligence relative to the object of
these instructions, you will use two envelopes, the first one marked For You
Only. You will show your instructions to the Commandant of the Colony
where you will be stationed and you will prepare with him all the operations
with respect to your mission. I have the honor 8cc.
1. AN, Marine, B4, 134, 119, LC Photocopy.
Gabriel de Sartine to Captain Thomas Dorves, Frigate L’ Aigrette 1
Versailles, 30 September 1776
I have received, Sir, your letter dated 9 August in which you announce
your arrival at Fort Royal, Martinique, and your departure from this port
622
EUROPEAN THEATRE
in order to establish your cruise to windward of the Island. I am convinced
that you will fulfill this mission with all the care of which you are capable.
The corvette La Favorite, commanded by Lieutenant de Kersen, which is
taking my packets to Martinique, will cruise to leeward of this Island.
1. AN, Marine, B4, 134, 116, LC Photocopy.
Marquis de Grimaldi to Prince Masserano1
[Extract]
... In said Letter [Masserano’s of September 6] and in the one num-
bered 343 dated 10 September, Y. E. communicates the maritime arma-
ments increasing in those [British] Ports, 36 ships of the line having been
ordered thus far for readying. Y. E. has reason to mistrust such extraordi-
nary and expensive measures, which that Power would not take without se-
rious motives in circumstances of great pressure exerted on it, as they are
not suitable steps for its visible object of persistently subjecting its Colo-
nies. The King knows indeed that it is needless to recommend to Y. E. the
activity and watchfulness required by the goal of learning the intentions of
that Ministry [British] . . .
San Ildefonso 30 September 1776
1. AHN, Estado, Legajo 4281, Section 1, LC Photocopy.
1 Oct,
Philip Stephens to Vice Admiral Sir James Douglas, Portsmouth 1
Sir: 1st Octr 1776
Vice Adml Amherst having informed my Lords Commissioners of the
Admiralty that a Schooner Prize called the Molly taken by the Galatea is ar-
rived at Plymouth and their Lordships having directed him to send the
Masters Mate and People belonging to that Ship, who came in the Prize to
Spithead by the Beaver Sloop; I am commanded by their Lordships to ac-
quaint you therewith, and to signify their direction to you to order the said
Persons to be born on board the Barfleur til an opportunity Offers of send-
ing them to their proper Ship. I am Sec
P: S.
1. PRO, Admiralty 2/553, 36.
Silas Deane to the Committee of Secret Correspondence
of the Continental Congress 1
[Extract] Paris, October 1, 1776
. . . For Heaven’s sake, if you mean to have any connection with this
kingdom [France], be more assiduous in getting your letters here. I know
not where the blame lies, but it must be heavy somewhere, when vessels are
OCTOBER 1776
623
suffered to sail from Philadelphia and other ports quite down to the middle
of August without a single line. This circumstance was urged against my
assertions, and was near proving a mortal stab to my whole proceedings. . . .
. . . The stores are collecting, and I hope will be embarked by the mid-
dle of this month; if later, I shall incline to send them to Martinique, on ac-
count of the season. It is consistent with a political letter to urge the remit-
tance of the fourteen thousand hogsheads of tobacco wrote for formerly in
part payment of those stores; if you make it twenty, the public will be the
gainers as the article is rising fajst; in Holland, seven stivers 10 lb. and
must be in proportion here. You are desired by no means to forget Ber-
muda; if you should, Great Britain will seize it this winter, or France on
the first rupture ... As your navy is increasing, will you commission me
to send you duck for twenty or thirty sail? I can procure it for you to the
northward on very good terms, and you have on hand the produce wanted to
pay for it with. Have you granted commissions against the Portuguese? All
the friends to America in Europe call loudly for such a measure.
Would you have universal commerce, commission some person to visit
every kingdom on the continent that can hold any commerce with America.
Among them by no means forget Prussia. Grain will be in demand in this
kingdom and in the south of Europe. Permit me again to urge an increase
of the navy. Great Britain is calling in her Mediterranean passes, to expose
us to the Algerines. I propose applying to this court on that subject. . . .
P.S. — An agent from Barbadoes is arrived in London to represent their
distress; another from Bermuda, with a declaration to the ministry of the
necessity of their being supplied with provisions from the Colonies, and
saying that, if not permitted, they must ask the protection of the Congress.
I have to urge your sending to me either a general power for the pur-
pose, or a number of blank commissions for vessels of war. It is an object of
the last importance, for in this time of peace between the nations of Europe
I can be acquainted with the time of every vessel’s sailing either from Eng-
land or Portugal, and by dispatching little vessels armed from hence, and to
appearance property of the subjects of the United States of America, to
seize them while unsuspicious on this coast, and to stand directly for Amer-
ica with them, great reprisals may be made; and persons of the first prop-
erty have already solicited me on the occasion; indeed, they have such an
opinion of my power that they have offered to engage in such an adventure
if I would authorize them with my name; but this might as yet be rather
dangerous. It is certainly, however, a very practicable and safe plan to arm
a ship here as if for the coast of Africa or the West Indies, wait until some
ship of value is sailing from England or Portugal, slip out at once and carry
them on to America. When arrived, the armed vessel increases your navy
and the prize supplies the country.
It is of importance, as I have mentioned in my former letters, to have
some one deputed and empowered to treat with the King of Prussia. I am
acquainted with his agent here, and have already through him received
some queries and proposals respecting American commerce, to which I am
624
EUROPEAN THEATRE
preparing a reply. I have also an acquaintance with the agent of the
Grand Duke of Tuscany, who proposes fixing a commerce between the
United States and Leghorn, but has not as yet given me his particular
thoughts. France and Spain are naturally our allies; the Italian States
want our flour and some other articles; Prussia, ever pursuing her own in-
terests, needs but be informed of some facts relative to America’s increas-
ing commerce to favor us; Holland will pursue its system, now fixed, of
never quarreling with any one on any occasion whatever. In this view is
seen at once the power we ought to apply to and gain a good acquaintance
with. Let me again urge you on the subject of tobacco. Receive also from me
one hint further. It is this: Should you apportion a certain tract of the
western land, to be divided at the close of this war among the officers and
soldiers serving in it and make a generous allotment, it would, I think, have
a good effect in America, as the poorest soldiers would then be fighting lit-
erally for a freehold; and in Europe it would operate beyond any pecuniary
offers. I have no time to enlarge on the thought, but may take it up hereaf-
ter; if I do not, it is an obvious one, and, if capable of execution, you can
manage it to the best advantage.
1. Wharton, ed.. Revolutionary Diplomatic Correspondence , II, 153-57.
2 Oct.
Lords Commissioners, Admiralty, to Captain Thomas Fitzherbert,
H. M. S. Raisonable, Plymouth1
Whereas the Secret Committee of the East India Company
have applied to Us for Convoy to the four homeward bound
East India Ships named in the Margin, which are now on
their Passage from the East Indies, and in order to shew the
Tract usually pursued by their Ships at this Season of the
Year, have transmitted to Us, the Journals of four of their
Ships, also named in the Margin, together with an Extract
from the Journals of their Ships arrived this Year, shewing
the Longitude they make in crossing the Line, and in the
Lattitude of 15d and 39d North; And whereas we think fit
that you shall proceed to Sea in His Majesty’s Ship under
your command to look out for, and convoy the said four
homeward bound Ships to England; You are hereby required
and directed to put to Sea accordingly with the first opportu-
nity of Wind and Weather, and make the best of your way to
the Island of Fayal, where you are to use the utmost dispatch
in taking on board three Months Wine for the Use of the
Ships Company; And having so done, You are to proceed
from thence to the Westward as far as the Meridian of the Is-
land of Coroo, and then to the Southward, until you arrive in
the Lattitude of 15d No unless you shall sooner fall in with the
Talbot
Stafford
Hampshire
Grenville.
Colnbrooke
Devonshire
Resolution
A If red.
OCTOBER 1776
625
said East India Ships which you are diligently to look out for,
keeping for that purpose as nearly as may be in the Tract you
shall judge, from a careful perusal of the abovemention’d
Journals 8c Extracts (which will herewith be delivered to
you) they will most probably pursue. When you arrive in the
Lattitude of 15d No You are to cruize in that Lattitude for 14.
days, unless you fall in with the India Ships sooner, and then
return, as near as you can, in the same tract, till you come
into the Lattitude of the Island of Coroo; And if you shall not
then have met with any of the said Ships, you are to make
Cape Finisterre, and thence proceed to Plymouth, and wait
for further Orders.
If you fall in with any of the Company’s Ships above-
mention’d, you are to take them under your Convoy, and make
the best of your way with them to Plymouth; unless from the
Information you may receive from their Captains there
should be a probability of your falling in with more of the
said Ships, in which case, you are to cruize for such a time,
and on such a Station, as in your discretion 8c judgement you
may think most likely for meeting with them.
If you should fall in with two of the abovemention’d
Ships, or with the Talbot alone, which is supposed to be the
most valuable Ship of the four, You are then to return with
them, or her to England, without waiting for any others, un-
less there is a great probability of meeting with them in a few
days.
But as from private Letters lately received, there is
ground to believe that the Grenville may have been loaden
from Madrass, in which case, she will be equally rich in her
Cargo as the Talbot, You are therefore upon falling in with
only one of those Ships, to wait a few days longer for the
other, notwithstanding what is directed by the foregoing
Clause, unless you shall be furnish’d with Intelligence that the
Grenville has not been loaden from Madrass.
While you are employed in this Service you are carefully
to look out for any Ships or Vessels belonging to His Majes-
ty’s Rebellious Colonies in North America, and to use your
best endeavours to take or destroy such of them as you may
fall in with.
Upon your return to Plymouth, you are to acquaint Our
Secretary for Our Information with your arrival 8c proceed-
ings, and at the same time return the beforemention’d Jour-
nals of the East India Ships. Given Sec. the 2d Octr 1776. —
Sandwich Palmerston H. Palliser
By Sec. P.S. By a Messenger 3. oClock P M.
1. PRO, Admiralty 2/101, 317-20.
626
EUROPEAN THEATRE
Lords Commissioners, Admiralty, to Captain George Young,
H. M. Sloop Cormorant , Portsmouth 1
[Extract]
Whereas we intend that His Majts Sloop under your command shall
proceed to the East Indies but that before she goes thither she should cruize
for some time off the Coasts of Spain 8c Portugal for the protection of the
Trade of His Majts Subjects and to look out for any Privateers belonging to
His Majts rebellious Colonies infesting those parts, You are hereby re-
quired 8c directed to proceed to Sea with the first opportunity of Wind 8c
Weather and Cruize for Ten Days from Five to Fifteen Leagues West from
Cape Finisterre, diligently looking out for any Rebel Privateers that may be
Cruizing thereabouts or any other Vessels belonging to the rebellious Colo-
nies and use your best endeavours to take or destroy such of them as you
may fall in with.
At the expiration of that time You are to proceed off Cape Roxant 8c
Cruise Ten Days from Five to Fifteen Leagues West from that Cape: And
then proceed off Cape St Vincents 8c Cruize Ten Days, also from Five to
Fifteen Leagues West from that Cape, for the purposes abovementioned at
the expiration of which time you are to make the best of your way to the Is-
land of Madeira to complete Your Water 8c take on board such a quantity of
Wine as may be necessary for the use of the Sloops Company. . . .
Given 8cc 2d Octr 1776
1. PRO, Admiralty 2/101, 322-23.
Public Advertiser, Wednesday, October 2, 1776
London, October 2.
The Devonshire, Fisher, from Antigua to Ireland, who was taken by an
American, is retaken by the Liverpool Man of War, and carried into
Halifax.1
The Peccary, Cleveland, from Tobago to London, is taken by an Ameri-
can Privateer2
George, Boog; Anna Bolla [sfc Annabella], Walker; Crawford,
M’Lean; Oxford, Stewart; Ann, Donnison; and Lord Howe, Park, from
Clyde, with Troops for New York, are all taken by the Americans.3
The Freedom, [Robert] Wallace, from Granada, is arrived in the
River, after being taken by the Independent Privateer. The said Privateer
has taken the Ann, Duncan, from Dominica, and the Maria, Hall, from St.
Vincent’s, both for London, and the Dove, Cunningham, from St. Eustatia
to Amsterdam.
The Malaga, Chione, a Transport, from New York, after being sepa-
rated from the Fleet, took an American Vessel loaded with Flour, Tobacco
and Staves, bound from Philadelphia to Martinico, and carried her into
Halifax.
1. Retaken August 3, 1776, off Cape Ann.
OCTOBER 1776
627
2. The ship Pecary, Brehold Cleveland, master, was taken by the Massachusetts privateer
schooner Warren, Captain William Coas.
3. These were the six transports, carrying Scottish troops, which were taken in late May and
June. See Volume 5.
“Extract of an authentic Letter from Captain Underwood,
dated Lisbon, Oct. 2.”1
On the 6th of September last we sailed from Plymouth for this port
with bale goods, and met with little interruption till we arrived off the Rock
of Lisbon (though we saw two vessels in the Bay of Biscay, which we
judged to be American privateers, and though they gave chace we soon lost
sight of them) when we made a sail which bore directly down upon us, and
proved, as we expected, an American sloop privateer, mounting eight
guns, having a stern of her a brig which we judged to be a prize; we
crouded all our sail, but she gained upon us, and was within gun shot, when
a large ship appeared on our larboard quarter, upon which the privateer
hauled her wind, and bore away with crouded sails. The ship that thus
timely appeared in our favour was a Portuguese frigate of 40 guns, sent out
to cruise against three privateers that infest the coast, one of which she had
taken. We arrived after this safe in the Tagus, where there were many
English ships waiting for convoy.
1. London Chronicle, October 26 to October 29, 1776.
John Emerson to Silas Deane1
Bilboa Octr 2d 1776
- Capt John Lee of a Letter of Marque Schooner of eight Carriage 8c 14
swivel Gunns, belonging to my Friends Jackson, Tracy 8c Tracy of Newbury
Port2 (New England) arived here the Evening before last — On his pas-
sage he made Prize of 5 British Vessels and sent them back to America, one
of them was a Transport ship mounted with 16 Carriage Gunns besides
swivels 8c 18 Hands — Some of his Prizes are valuable: He brought in here
the Masters of two of them, who have entered their Protests — A Person
here who from motives of Intrest is inimical to America, has made use of
those Masters Names to Petition the Commissary of the Marine Depart-
ment here to stop the Vessel which he has accordingly done. In this Petition
they represented Capt Lee to be a Pirate, although he is not treated as such
here, but he is obliged to wait here for the determination of the Court of
Madrid — I am not Knowing of any person being appointed Agent there
since the Coloines have declared themselves Independant States — If there
should be one there I must beg your influence with him in Capt. Lee’s fa-
vour. — The matter will go forward, from hence properly represented by our
good Friends Messrs Jos. Gardoqui 8c Sons as well as by the Commissary
who Transmits in his proceedings a Copy of Capt Lee’s commission 8c in-
structions. - I am Sir [Sec.]
Extract Jn° Emerson
1. Stevens, ed., Facsimiles , No. 587.
628
EUROPEAN THEATRE
2. According to the Massachusetts bond, John Lee commanded the privateer schooner Hawke,
commissioned August 10, 1776, and mounting only six guns with a crew of thirty, Mass.
Arch., vol. 6, 77, 80.
3 Oct.
Philip Stephens to Vice Admiral James Young1
Sir 3d October 1776
I have communicated to my Lords Commrs of the Admiralty your Let-
ter of the 12 august last with its Inclosures, informing them that the Hind
having struck the Ground coming into English Harbour which occasioned
her to leak much, you had ordered her to be hove down to be examined as to
the Damages she had received; and that having met with another Brigan-
tine which, in a careful Survey, was reported to be fit to be made an armed
Vessel you had ordered her to be purchased and the Naval Officer at An-
tigua Yard to draw Bills on the Navy Board for £ 750 Sterling the ap-
praised Valuation of her, and had caused her to be commissioned and called
the Pelican and appointed Lieutenant John Plummer Ardesoif from the
Hind to command her and also Mr Billy Douglas to be Lieutenant of the
Hind in his room; and in return I am commanded by their Lordships to ac-
quaint you, that an Extract of so much of your said Letter relative to the
said Vessel is sent to the Navy Board for their information, together with
the Report of her Condition and, valuation to remain as a Voucher in their
Office. I am Sec
P: S:
By the Packet same day
1. PRO, Admiralty 2/553, 46-47.
Philip Stephens to Vice Admiral James Young1
Sir 3d October 1776
I received on the 16h past by the Argo your Letter of the 24h of July
last and immediately laid the same with its Inclosures before my Lords
Commrs of the Admiralty
Their Lordships were greatly pleased to see, in your former Letter of
the 1st of July that it was your intention to send the Argo to England with
the Trade which were to sail in August and immediately communicated it to
the Merchants concerned in that Trade that they might, regulate their In-
surances accordingly, You will therefore readily conceive how much their
Lordships were surprized and concerned to find by the Copy of the Argo’s
Orders in the Inclosures abovementioned that instead of sending her to
England with the Trade, you had left her Captain at liberty to part from
them in the Latitude of 38° No and leave them to shift for themselves,
which he accordingly did, and came to Spithead without one of them; a pro-
ceedure which has given great disgust to the Merchants and very justly, as it
OCTOBER 1776
629
endangered their property and affected many of them in the Re-insurances
they were obliged to make upon the occasion
Their Lordships cannot conceive what could induce you to depart from
your original intention, so well founded respecting the Convoy abovemen-
tioned But to guard against any thing of that kind hereafter, they com-
mand me to signify their direction to you not to fail for the future in sending
the Convoys home with the Trade to England
I have only to add that I received by the Conveyance abovementioned
your Letter of the 31st of July relative to the Action which the Shark Sloop
had with an american Armed Vessel near the Island of Martinico, and hav-
ing laid the same with its Inclosures before their Lordships, Copies thereof
were immediately transmitted to the Secretary of State for His Majesty’s
Information. I am 8cc
P: S:
By the Packet
1. PRO, Admiralty 2/553, 47-49.
“Extract of a Letter from the Hague, Oct. 3.”1
As the Placart which was published by the States General last year,
prohibiting their subjects to carry arms or ammunition to the rebels in
America expired a few days ago, his Excellency Sir Joseph Yorke presented
a memorial this morning to their High Mightinesses, to desire a renewal of
that Placart for another year, which it is not doubted will be complied with.
1. London Chronicle, October 5 to October 8, 1776.
Lord Stormont to Lord Weymouth1
[Extract]
Most Confidential Paris Octr. 3 1776
. . . Not long ago Doctor [Benjamin] Franklin in a Letter to a french
Gentleman with whom he corresponds from time to time upon Philosophical
subjects, took occasion to say with that insidious subtlety of which he has
given so many proofs, that as soon as the Independency of america was se-
cured Her first object would be to open a great Trade with France and such
as would be highly advantageous to both Nations.
1. PRO State Papers, 78/300.
4 Oct.
Philip Stephens to Sir Stanier Porten1
Sir 4th Octr 1776
Having laid before my Lords Commissrs of the Admty your Letter of
the 6th instant with the Papers accompanying it relative to an Application
from the Sieur Havre of Havre, to Lord Stormant His Majesty’s Ambassa-
630
EUROPEAN THEATRE
dor at Paris to be reimbursed the Expences incurred by the reception of
thirteen English Seamen on board his Ship Robust _, Benoist Master, lately
arrived at Havre, the said Men having been in a forcible manner put on
board that Ship in her Voyage from Martinico by a Rebel Privatier called
the Rover Captn Rosseter of Boston: Their Lordships transmitted the said
Letter and Papers to the Navy Board and directed them to take the same
into their Consideration and to report what allowance they conceived it may
be proper to make for the Subsistence of these Men, and in what manner it
should be paid, Which that Board having done, I am commanded by their
Lordships to send you herewith a Copy of their Report thereupon and at the
same time to let you know, for Lord Weymouth’s Information, that the
Navy Board are directed to make an allowance of Six Pence a day for the
Subsistence of Each of the said Men while on board the Robust. As also for
the time it shall appear they have been, or may be subsisted on shore to such
Person as shall be appointed to receive the same upon proper Certificates
being produced for that purpose.
The same Allowance will likewise be made for their passage to Eng-
land whether it be in an English or Foreign Ship: And therefore if they are
still at Havre, my Lords hope that Lord Stormont will be desired to take
measures for sending them to England as soon as conveniently may. I am
Sec
P. S.
1. PRO, Admiralty 2/553, 50-51.
M. Garnier to Vergennes1
[Extract]
No. 57 London, 4 October, 1776
My Lord, I have received dispatch number 38 with which you honored
me, dated the 28th of the month.
You are now sure that there was no action on Long Island before the
20th of August. Our news extends no further. It is very possible and much
to be hoped that later news will arrive in France sooner than here.
Starting from the time of the arrival of the Hessians on Staten Island
August 12 and calculating the time necessary as much to refresh troops
tired from a long crossing as to arrange all of the campaign equipment so
as to be under canvas upon unloading, it is not thought that any large ac-
tion can occur before the month of September. It is probable that General
Howe will want to start off with all of his strength, and in this case, 20 days
are not too much for him to prepare for action. You will even see later, My
Lord, that this is not enough to execute the plan of attack upon which it is
said that the English general has decided.
Never has such a small island had so many ships assembled around it.
At the departure of the last ship, there were no fewer than 500 sail there.
Many people, upon hearing this, flatter themselves that the very view of
this fleet will throw the enemy army into fear and confusion.
Dutch Conception of the British Landing at New York.
632
EUROPEAN THEATRE
However, it does not appear that General Howe himself judges the sit-
uation in this way, since his last letter no longer makes any mention of the
hopes he had in the preceding one about the favorable disposition of part of
the colonies and of the numerous partisans of the Government. The troops
have arrived and he now concerns himself only with the means of starting
the operations of the campaign without loss of time.
The Americans can form no obstacle to it. Not yet having any fleet,
they are necessarily on the defensive. It is even generally expected that, un-
able to resist such a large army of regular troops supported by a numerous
fleet, they will be chased out of New York. The object of the English gen-
eral is not to buy this victory too dearly. To do this, he intends to force
them to abandon their fortifications without striking a blow, and here is the
plan of operations which people are giving. Lord Cornwallis with a de-
tached corps is supposed to go around Long Island, enter the Sound, and
land at New Rochelle. This operation would require time, for many differ-
ent winds are required to execute it. General Clinton will land on Long Is-
land to carry the American outposts, and General Howe with the main part
of the army is supposed to go up the Hudson to land in the area called
West-Chester at a point corresponding, as much as possible, with the land-
ing point of Lord Cornwallis on the other part of the coast. The two frig-
ates which had sailed up the Hudson river, from which they were chased,
yet stayed there long enough to reconnoiter the state of the defenses of this
coast and make a satisfactory inventory of them.
And so there is the American army surrounded from everywhere and
obliged to leave its fortifications to fight, that is, to be completely defeated.
No one is examining whether General Howe would be exposing himself to
being taken between two camps, for all the enemy forces are not shut up in
the dead end of New York.
Such are, My Lord, the ideas upon which those persons who have not
lost the habit of underestimating the enemy are nourishing themselves.
The first event can destroy all these conjectures, and we are awaiting
any event with impatience. Other people assure everyone that the fate of
New York must have been decided August 22nd. But I hardly pay attention
anymore to these day to day conjectures and I will only believe well and
duly witnessed facts. One certain one is that the American privateers have
already in the course of this campaign gotten hold of 38 merchant ships re-
turning to the West Indies. The last three, of whom we got word today,
were taken by a privateer called the Revenge .2 The price of insurance for
ships coming from Jamaica is 20 Guineas p 0/0 and 18 for those coming
back from the other Islands.
The lack of provisions which is starting to be felt in Canada forced
General Carleton to free his prisoners, who numbered about 800. He also
sent off the Indians who had sided with him, saying that he did not want to
wage a war of that kind. The Government, which looks askance at this ma-
neuver, feels that he took too much upon himself on this occasion. Provi-
sions and munitions are being sent to Quebec without let-up. One hundred
OCTOBER 1776
633
thousand pounds sterling have just been sent off to the same destination on
a ship named the Union . Although it is armed with 16 cannons and eight
swivel guns, they are not only insuring it, but giving 3 p 0/0 bonus.
A merchant of Bordeaux writes to his correspondent here that there are
presently in that port 6 American vessels which arrived with cargoes of
flour and which are preparing to arm in order to cruise at the entrance to
the Channel.
... I had a trustworthy person ask the Comptroller of the Navy if
there was any intention of impressing sailors soon, and he answered that
there was no question of this. The secretary of the Admiralty, to whom the
same question was put by one of the main ship constructors answered that
no use would be made of this recourse for the American war and that be-
fore considering Pressing he had to construct several more vessels of 74
guns for the Admiralty.
1. AMAE, Correspondance Politique Angleterre vol. 518, LC Photocopy.
2. The Massachusetts privateer sloop Revenge, Captain Joseph White.
Marquis de Grimaldi to Prince Masserano1
[Extract] London, 4 October 1776
. . . Even admitting that Gen Howe might take possession of New York
this year, he could not drive inland, and the only difference in the situation
of the Regiments which were confined to Boston by the Rebels last winter is
that they now have more ships to control the sea and receive the provisions
sent to them here. . . .
It is said that Gens Carleton and Burgoyne have written from Canada
that the Provincials have those Lakes covered with very well armed vessels;
that those being readied to ferry the Royal Troops are few and not as good
as the Provincial ones; that for this reason they must turn back and retreat
to Quebec to obtain provisions. . . .
This trade is suffering from the many prizes the Americans have taken
lately. It is said that an Irish Pirate chased seven English ships back to the
shores of Spain and Portugal. More than 30 recently loaded English ships
have fallen into Rebel hands. For this reason all merchant ships are arming
and taking double crews, which makes it difficult to find seamen for war
vessels. . . .
1. AHN, Estado, Legajo 4281, Section 2, LC Photocopy.
5 Oct.
Public Advertiser , Saturday, October 5, 1776
London [October 5].
The Princess Royal, from Jamaica, Captain Duthie, which was taken
by one of the American Cruizers, and re-taken by his Majesty’s Ship Mil-
ford, and carried into Halifax the 28th of September [sic July], is arrived
off Dover.
634
EUROPEAN THEATRE
Letter from Exeter1
Exeter, (England) , Oct. 5. The ship Bee, Captain Wallace, of Top-
sham, was, on his return from the Grenades, met, and taken by an Ameri-
can privateer. On Captain Wallace’s being carried aboard the privateer;
he told the Captain his was the last vessel an American should have
taken. On being asked for what reason, he replied, that his owner had
kept him at home for twelve months, because he would not lett his vessel as
a transport against the Americans. The American, doubting the truth of
this relation, said, he thought Wallace endeavoured to impose on him, and if
he found it so, would punish him severly for it; but sending an officer on
board the capture to interrogate the men separately on the subject, and hav-
ing the Captain’s story confirmed by their united accounts he credited it,
and said, although the vessel was then his, he would return ship and cargo,
only supplying himself with such things as he wanted, and taking 50 bags
of Cocoa, 20i/£ casks and a pipe of Madeira wine, discharged Wallace, wish-
ing him a good voyage.
1. Almon, ed.. Remembrancer, IV, 160-61.
AMERICAN THEATRE
From September 1, 1116, to October 31, 1116
WwMm.
■'//' V
AMERICAN THEATRE
From September 1, 1776, to October 31, 1776
SUMMARY
After the retreat from Long Island, Washington could not hold New
York City, and the Continental Army fell back to defensive positions at
Harlem Heights. Shortly after the withdrawal a devastating fire swept
through the city.
Admiral Howe’s domination of the waters surrounding Manhattan Is-
land allowed British men-of-war to make probing missions in strength up
the rivers, and to land troops at places of their choice. It soon became ap-
parent that the enemy’s intent was to cut off Washington from the rear thus
preventing retreat northward or into New Jersey.
Farther to the north the contest for control of Lake Champlain reached
a climax in the bitterly fought fleet battle off Valcour Island beginning on
1 1 October. The American squadron, commanded by General Benedict
Arnold, was shattered. Crown Point was abandoned, and the remnants of
Arnold’s force reached Fort Ticonderoga. The vital lake route for the
present was held by the British, but Sir Guy Carleton acknowledged that the
“advanced season of the year” would cause him to retire to Canada for
winter quarters. In defeat, Arnold had bought precious time which was to
affect events at Saratoga the following year.
The new Continental Navy frigates were in various stages of construc-
tion, outfitting, or readying for sea. Seamen and cannon remained high on
the shortage list. Privateering was on the upswing, and the lure of rich prize
money contributed to the dearth of seamen for the Continental service.
Great concern was felt for the two Continental frigates building at Pough-
keepsie after British warships breached the obstructions in the Hudson
River.
Some vessels of the original Hopkins’ fleet were cruising, and the names
of John Paul Jones and Nicholas Biddle were being heard more frequently
as successful prize takers. On 10 October Congress fixed the seniority list for
Continental Navy captains.
A quickening of State Navy activity was also much in evidence. And, in
the West Indies, friction between the British and French intensified as the
islands became increasingly significant depots for American supplies.
637
638
AMERICAN THEATRE
1 Sept. (Sunday)
James Lyon to the Massachusetts General Court1
[Extract] [Machias] Sept. [1] 1776. 2
I earnestly request you to send one of your frigates, or two or three of your
ablest privateers to take the ship that infests our coasts, 8c clear the way for
fishermen 8c coasters; 8c then perhaps some generous persons may be dis-
posed to send us bread 8c take some of our lumber. I ask for a small army to
subdue Nova Scotia, or at least that some person or persons, may have leave
to raise men, 8c go against that Province, at their own risque. I believe men
enough might be found in this county, who would chearfully undertake it,
without any assistance from Government. The people this way are so very
anxious about this matter, that they would go in whale boats rather than
not go. Provided they might call what they took their own in common with
the good people of that Province. I confess, I am so avaricious, that I would
go with the utmost chearfulness. I hope, however, I should have some nobler
view, for I think it our duty to relieve our distressed brethren, 8c bestow
upon them the same glorious priviledges, which we enjoy, if possible, 8c to
deprive our enemies, especially those on this Continent, of their power to
hurt us. With these views the Committee of this place were petitioned for
leave to go against that Province. And had our request been granted, in all
probability, that Country had now been intirely ours, 8c vast quantities of
provision would have been cut off from our enemies. . . .
1. James Phinney Baxter, ed., Documentary History of the State of Maine (Portland, 1910),
XIV, 379, 383-84, 385.
2. The date is approximated. This letter, accompanied by one from Major Francis dated
August 28, reached Watertown on September 10. It must, therefore, have been written
in Machias about the first of the month.
Major Joseph Ward to George Washington1
[Extract] Boston 1 September 1776
I am sorry to inform your Excellency that Captain [William] Burke in
the armed Schooner Warren on the twenty sixth of August was taken by a
British Frigate about ten leagues without this Bay. Captain Ayers [John
Ayres] in the armed Schooner Lynch was in Company with the Warren but
made his escape, and brought this intelligence.
1. Washington Papers, LC.
Journal of the Rhode Island Sloop Independence ,
Captain Jabez Whipple1
Remarks On Sunday Septr I 1776.
att 6 AM Saw 5 Sail to Windard att 10 Do Saw 3 Sail to Leward
Standing to the Southard Spoke With one of them out of
Nantucitt 10 Days Nantucett Island Bore W by S. 18 Legaues
SEPTEMBER 1776
639
Destent, Wind Being head Stood to Southward Lattr Part Still
In Company with the Brigg and Fishing men all Well on Bord
[Observation 41.38]
This Fust Part Pleasent Weither Smuth Sea Still in Compeny
with Brigg, the wind Enclines to the Westward
1. Independence Journal, RIHS.
Commodore Esek Hopkins to the Continental Marine Committee 1
Gentlemen Providence Septr 1st 1776
I stoppd at Newhaven on Wednesday, and found the Brig Hampden
near ready for the Sea as Mr Lawrence inform’d me all but Men and
Officers which she had none - Captn [Hoysteed] Hacker had not got
there I left Orders for him when he came, to get as many men as would be
sufficient and come with the Brig to New London - I came to New London
thursday Morning, did not find Mr [Nathaniel] Shaw at home but learn’d
that the Schooner and Bomb Brig were both Sold with all their Stores2 —
So that at present I do not know of any Vessel that can be had that will an-
swer - How Mr Shaw came to Sell them and their Stores, or by whose Or-
ders I can’t tell - I likewise found the Cabot was gone out on a Cruise. She
had been gone out about a Week, and have no knowledge how long she is to
Cruise nor by what authority Captn [Elisha] Hinman could undertake to
go out, as he had my Orders when I left New London for Philadelphia not
to go to Sea without he receiv’d Orders from the Marine Committee or from
me - 3
I came here yesterday — have not yet seen Captn Saltonstall, but hear
the Alfred is about five miles below with about forty Men including Officers
onboard — having Spared Some to Captn Biddle, and a Number to Captn
Whipple, who sail’d on a Cruise in four days after he got home, with One
hundred & Seventy eight Men onboard
As soon as I get a little over the Fatigue of my Journey, shall set my-
self about Manning the Alfred - Should be glad to know when I get her
ready whether I may Send her out under the Command of her Lieutenant
Mr Jonathan Pitcher, who I believe to be a prudent Capable Man - Should
be glad of your Sentiments to know whether you approve of Captn Hin-
man’s Sailing with the Cabot > as I believe he has gone without Orders from
any Person - Mr [George] House who you appointed Lieutt of the Brig
Hampden is gone out in the Columbus — If you think proper to appoint Mr
Walter Spooner a second Lieutenant, that he may act as first until House
gets onboard, I believe it will be best for the Service - I am Gentlemn
[&c.]
E.H -
P S. I hear a Sloop of Dunmores is carried into the Eastward by one of
there Privateers loaded with Tobacco -
1. Hopkins Letter Book, RIHS.
640
AMERICAN THEATRE
2. Schooner Hawke and bomb brig Bolton. See Volume 4.
3. Governor Trumbull and Nathaniel Shaw had urged Hinman to sail. See William James
Morgan, Captains to the Northward (Barre, Mass., 1959), 61.
Master’s Log of H. M. Brig Halifax 1
Remarks off Flushing Bay Long Isld Sound
Sunday Septr 1st 1776
4 [A. M.] Mod and Fair sent the Boats as Before -2 they Found in a
Store belonging to Frans Lewis one of the Rebel Congress
19500 Wt of Tea and a Great Quantity of English and Scotch
Goods
10 [A. M.] Boats Empd getting do on Board - pr Order of Captn [James]
Ferguson3
Light Breezes and Fair W. at i/2 past 1 Weighd and Turnd up
to the Brune and Niger and Come too wt the Bt Br Veerd to Vs
of a Cable. - at 6 Weighd and Run down to Whitestone and
Came too abreast of Lewis’s House -
1. PRO, Admiralty 52/1775.
2. The boats had been employed the previous day in taking off cattle.
3. Commanding H.M.S. Brune.
Diary of Lieutenant Jabez Fitch1
[New York Harbor] Sund: Septr: 1st: In the Morning the Ship Lord
Rockford Commanded by one Capt Lambert, hail’d along side of the Pas-
ciftc , & the Prisoners were all Remov’d into her; where we soon found our-
selves more crowded than we were in the other Ship (this not being more
than half so Large) yet on some ac[coun]ts: we were much better accom-
modated than in the Pacific: . . . soon After we went on Board the Lord
Rockford , She hove up, & some time this Day she fell down below the Nar-
rows, among the Shipping from whence the Late Landing of the Troops at
Flat Bush was performed; here we turnd in this Night; I rested but very
Indifferent.2
1. Sabine, ed., Fitch’s Diary.
2. Ibid., 35, Lieutenant Fitch was captured during the Battle of Long Island, and sent on
board the transport ship Pacific.
Master’s Log of H. M. S. Roebuck1
September 1776 Governors Isld N E B W i/4 mile
Sunday 1st AM. at 1 1 was fire’d on again from the Island2 got under
way in Order to Anchor close to the Battery but was
order’d by the admiral to Drop farther from it, at noon
Anchor’d in 10 fath. Governors Island ENE i/2 a mile
1. PRO, Admiralty 52/1965.
2. Governors Island in New York harbor.
SEPTEMBER 1776
641
“Muster Roll of the [Pennsylvania] Accommodation Sloop
Hetty , Henry Hoover Mas’r, from Aug. 1 to Sep. 1, 1776.”1
[Extract]
No. Mens Names.
1 Henry Hoover,
2 Daniel Morris,
3 John Thornton,
Station.
Masr
Steward,
Clerk to all
the Fire Fleet.
Time pay
commenc’d.
Augst 1,
do.
do.
Monthly pay.
£500
3 15 0
6 0 0
I do certify on honour, That the Officers, Non Commission’d Officers
and Privates, belonging to the Accommodation Sloop Hetty under my Com-
mand are bona fide engaged in the Naval Service of the Province of Penn-
sylvania, 8c receive pay according to the time mentioned, & the rank they
hold in this Roll.
Henry Hoover
This Muster, taken from Aug. 1st to Sepr 1st, 1776, on board the Ac-
commodation Sloop Hetty , commanded by Henry Hoover, of the Naval force
in the Service of the Province of Pennsylvania. One Master, One Steward, 8c
One Clerk.
Lod’k Sprogell, M. M.
1. Pennsylvania Archives, 1st series, V, 16.
Captain James Nicholson to the Maryland Council of Safety 1
Gentlem Baltimore Septr 1st 1776
The bearer Mr Morris waits on you, with an Application to have Mr
[Gilbert] Middletons privateer2 Stop’d and examined for 4 Desirtors from
the Frigate,3 Circumstances are very strong that they are, or will be on-
board her, for the particulars of which refer to him, this I hope you’ll think
necessary, for should there not be an example made of those, if to be found,
30 odd likewise from the Eastern Shore, I expect will leave her in the same
manner
I have sent three Craft from this to wait your orders to get A Load of
Coal. The first two went before I expected or shoud have W[r]ote by them,
& the last was out of the way
The Resolution return’d here Yesterday, the Officer says by your
direction The Defence has required so much Caulking, that I do not expect
she can be down before the last of the Week, I am fiting 8c Victualing her
Sufficiently to proceed to Sea, should you think proper to order her. I have
found great difficulties in geting her about two Months Salt provisions and
as I did not use your order in Philadelphia for that purpose (for the reason
refer to Messrs Chace [Samuel Chase] 8c [William] Paca) you’ll please
642
AMERICAN THEATRE
to send by Mr [George] Turnbull £d14. one Month [s] pay* which shall
apply to pay the Ships Necessary disbursments. I am Gentlem [&c.]
James Nicholson
1. Red Book, XII, Md. Arch.
2. Maryland privateer schooner Montgomery , commissioned September 5, 1776.
3. Continental frigate Virginia.
Woolsey 8c Salmon to John Pringle, Philadelphia1
Dr Sir [Baltimore, September 1, 1776]
We wrote you the 27th last Month to which refer. Since have Reed your
favrs of the 24th 8c 27th Augt and note the Contents 8c Shall do as you Di-
rect about Jones Bill as yet we have not got you a Small Vessell Neither
is there any probabillity of getting a Master for them nor yet for the Brig,
however we Expect a Sloop every day here 8c its probable we Shall buy her
for you tho we Know not where we Can get a master for her, Ridly is so
farr Engge’d that we think he Cannot get off. tho the Brig had like to tempt
him if you think of Loading the Brig you may Determin now as none of
those people applyed to purchase her but you must Send a Master for her.
however that will be no loss as we Can yet have her loaded 8c Rigged with-
out a Capt Sailors we also have. Russells Boat is Charterd to go out again 8c
you may become an adventurer in her She goes from your place let us
Know how much gold you will put in her, 8c what goods you will Ship at
Statia beside. Will you advance us fifty pounds in Statia if you do we will
allow you for it as much as your use Should please let us Know and how
much you will Expect for it here. A privateer Just lanched here will Carry
fourteen Guns we think we Could get you half a Share if you like it let
us Know, if you will be of any Service to S. Woolsey you will oblige us
much we wish he Could get Released and to his family tell him G. W.
will write him Soon, Please to buy from Russell for us Some of the
Nutmeggs Say 12 lb we hope that when the Prize Ship is Sold you will
be able to buy us Some Sugar as low as three pounds Indeed G. W. Se[e]
Some Sold in Barrells when he was up at £3.10.0 so we think the prize
must make it lower we have reserved but four Hhds of Country Rum for
you the[y] not being all Sold as we Intended to make up this Difecincey of
the W. I. Rum only Nine Hhds left of that and when we Ship Some for you
we think the rest will sell we have not yet Heard from Dixon nor Seen his
boat nor have we been able to get a boat for you yet however the first boat
we Can get, which we think will be soon we Shall load with Rum Sugar 8c
Coffee for you to run. we now Inclose you C. Hughs bond 8c we wish
neaver to have any More business to do with him as he Does not Under-
stand when he is well treated We are Sir [8cc.]
Woolsey 8c Salmon
1. Woolsey & Salmon Letter Book, LC.
SEPTEMBER 1776
643
Bill Against the Prize Schooner Betsy 1
1776
Schooner Betsy
Dr
Septr - To Cash paid John Lynch for Schooner Betsy then
lying High on Dry Land at Low water, the Tide Ebbing
from Sc flowing into her— P[e]r Bill of Sale— Jno Lynch
bought her of Carey who came in her from Dunmores
Fleet - Sc Carey who was Seized by Colo[ne]l Forrest with
the Vessell had Liberty from the Council of Safety to sell
her -
> f 65
To money paid for getting her off— New planking her Bot- 1
tom— repairs & Materials Vizt: - as per particulars -
To Provisions for a Week found for the Carpenters Sc Seamen j
before they went to Board & Liquor found them f
To Old Sails and many Materials found for repa[i]ring the
Vessells Sails to equip her which are not Charged in my Ac- L
count -
57.15.10
To Richard Masons Labour - Expences Sc attendance in get-
ting her off, purchasing, fitting and repairing her not Charged
in my Account
>
T o many artic [a] Is Omitted -
To Interest for Outlay of purchase Money and Repairs Sc
Materials -
To Salvage Sc Expences Attending Court— fees Sec -
[Endorsed] the above provided the Vessell is decreed to
Guy -
1. Admiralty Court Papers, 1776-1781, Box 1, Folder 1, Md. Arch.
Lieutenant Colonel Robert Bisset to Governor Patrick Tonyn 1
Sir
I this minute received your letter to Andrew Turnbul: This Informa-
tion is very alarming especially with regard to Doctor TurnbuEs people, a
great many of whom woud certainly Join them [the Americans] ; And the
Plantations have neither arms nor ammunition, either to defend themselves
or to endeavour to prevent their landing at Smyrnea -
They can only come in with boats as our Barr has not water enough for
the Draught of any Private [er] which must be built sharp for sailing; So
that I think our Plantations not in great danger, as we can get our Negroes
out of the Way. — If such an event shoud happen most probably those that
joined them of the Smyrnea settlements, woud endeavour to plunder our
Plantations: — However I have great confidence in the badness of our bar,
which I hope will deterr them from attempting anything here. I shall sett
644
AMERICAN THEATRE
out immediatly for Smyrnea 8c will make the best disposition I can for the
defence of the Place, by arming those we can trust 8c disarming the sus-
pected, — I shall accquaint all the Plantations and put them on their Guard.
We are much obliged to Your Excellcy for this early information,
which shows your attention to the good of the Province 8c the security of
the Property of the settlers. I have the honour to be with Great respect
[8cc.]
Rob Bisset
Palmerina Sepr 1st 1776.
[First endorsement] Col - Bisset 1st Sepr 76 Rd - 2d Sepr
[Second endorsement] Colonel Bisset to Governor Tonyn In Govr Ton-
yn’s (No 23) of 8th Septr 1776.
1. PRO, Colonial Office, 5/556, 771-74.
Andrew Turnbull to Arthur Gordon1
(Copy) Smyrnea Septr 1st 1776 —
Sir. Yours of the 29th of last Month came to hand this morning by the
Govrs Express— I cannot help being a good deal alarmed at this bold stroke
of the American Privateer, particularly as the Govrs letter informs me that
she is come Southd and has Warner the Pilot on Board— If she should make
her appearance of [f] this Barr I will and can easily secret our Negroes by
sending them down the Indian River or back into the woods, but cannot say
what might [be] the consequence regarding the white people, as there is a
good number of them at present a little discontented, and I am fully per-
swaded would Join the Rebels immediately on their landing at Smyrnea— I
therefore beg you and Mr Penman would make application to the Govr and
Commanding Officer at St Augustine to reinforce the party here with a few
more men if it is eight or ten only, for it is absolutely necessary, if it was
for no other end but keep our own people a little more in awe— If this can-
not be done I see plainly they will grow very insolent and unruly from the
Georgians being so successful in their excursions in this Province.
[Endorsed] Copy. Extract of a letter from Mr Andrew Turnbull to Arthur
Gordon Esqr In Govr. Tonyn’s (No. 23) of 8th Septr 1776
1 . PRO, Colonial Office, 5 /556, 767-70.
St. George Tucker to Thomas Nelson1
[Extract] [Bermuda, September 1, 1776] 2
On the 22d of Augst a Brigantine belonging to Dr Campbell of Virga
which had been detained by Lord Dunmore for several Months 8c was dis-
missed by him on his leaving Virginia (with a number of other Vessels)
was taken in sight of this Island by Capt: Biddel [Nicholas Biddle] of the
Continental Brigantine Andrew Doria. Lord Dunmore on dismissing the
Brig having given her a Pass to avoid being taken by the British Vessels of
SEPTEMBER 1776
645
War Capt: Biddle considered her as a prize— but not thinking the vessel
worth sending to the Continent to be condemned took off a considerable
Quantity of household furniture Sc other Effects which had been put on
board by the Dr’s Clerk when Norfolk was burnt (the Dr himself then
being at Wmsburg) agreeably to the enclosed Account— the Saylors with a
Wantoness which those people are generally apt to exercise on such Occa-
sions destroyed many other Pieces of furniture such as Desks, Dressing Ta-
bles, Chests of Drawers 8cca which are not inserted in this Account, and
then dismissed the Brig — 3
The Character which Dr Campbell supported in Virga and the Conduct
which in the present disputes between Great Britain & America he has uni-
formly observed I flatter myself will justify me in observing that he has
ever demonstrated himself to be the friend of that Country where he has re-
sided for many Years with universal Esteem— The Convention of Virginia
were sensible of this and acquitted him honourably of the charge which was
brought agt him . . .
After this summary state of Facts, I presume you will be of Opinion
that the Dr’s Property was by no means to be considered as subject to conti-
nental Confiscation, since he cou’d be considered in no other point of view
but as a friend to America. This Loss added to his former, in the Destruc-
tion of Norfolk, to the Amt of above £10,000 falls extreemly heavy on a
Man whose Misfortunes were unmeritted as inevitable — Permit me then,
sir, to sollicit your friendly Interposition in his Behalf in Congress in order
to procure such a Compensation for his Loss as that honourable Body shall
think reasonable upon Consideration of the Circumstances of his Case. . . .
1. Tucker-Coleman Papers, Earl Gregg Swem Library, CWM.
2. Ibid., date of letter and the recipient established by the text of an accompanying letter to
John Page of Virginia.
3. The brig Maria, John Marshall, master, bound for Bermuda. William Bell Clark, Captain
Dauntless, the Story of Nicholas Biddle of the Continental Navy (Baton Rouge, 1949),
146-47. Hereafter cited as Clark, Captain Dauntless.
Journal of H. M. S. Seaford, Captain John Colpoys1
August 1776
Saturday 31st
September
Sunday 1st
At Sea Latite in 26:02 North
At 5 A M hoisted a boat out Sc sent her on board a Schooner
from Surinam bound to Newberry. Sent a Petty Officer Sc
Six hands on board her took her hands Out. At 10 A M
made Sail, parted Company with the Prize.
Light breezs Sc fair Wr
at 6 P M Saw a Sail to the NE
At 5 A M Saw a Sail to the No wd gave chace, at 12 A M
hoisted a boat out Sc sent on board the chace, proved to be a
Sloop from Newburry to St Cruiz [pu]t an Officer and 5
Men on board & took her hands out.
1. PRO, Admiralty 51/880.
646
AMERICAN THEATRE
2 Sept.
Condemnation in Vice Admiralty Court of the Prize Sloop Sally 1
Nova Scotia Court! Cause.
of Vice Admiralty J Henry Bellew Esqr Commander of his Majesty’s Ship of
War Liverpool V.S. a Sloop call’d the Sally and Cargo.
Tuesday 13th j Libel Filed and entered order made thereon as on file.—
Augst 1776. J
Hugh Goold Purser of his Majesty’s Ship Liverpool
being duly Sworne deposeth that on or about the 27 day
of July last Captain Bellew in the said Ship took the
Sloop Sally at Sea off of Nantucket Shoals Loaded with
Bale Goods from Hamburg, that the Papers found on
Board were given by the Deponant to William Nesbitt
Esqr his Majesty’s Attorney General. That the said
Sloop [ sic ship] at present is at Head Quarters near
New York. - (Sign’d) Hugh Goold
Thomas Mullock mate of the Sloop Sally being duly
Sworne Confirms the above deposition, and says she was
bound for New York, but her Papers Cleared her out
for St Eustatia
Monday 2d Septr
1776 -
Thomas Mullock
Sworne before me this 16th day Augst 1776.
before me Charles Morris junr Regr -
Papers filed as on file
Court open’d by makeing Proclamation as usual Procla-
> mation again made for all Claimers to appear 8c assert
their Claims 8c Defend their Rights to the Cargo of the
Sloop Sally none appeard The Advocate General
then moved for a Decree which was pronounc’d as on
file whereby the Cargo of the said Sloop was Condemn’d
as Lawfull Prize to the Captors thereof - 2
Court Adjourn’d without Day in this Cause -
1. Vice Admiralty Register, vol. 5, 1769-1777, N. S. Arch.
2. Ibid., this date the sloop Swan, schooner Neptune, and a brigantine, name unknown, were
also declared lawful prizes of H. M. S. Liverpool.
Acts and Resolves of the Massachusetts General Court1
[Watertown] Monday Sept 2d 1776.
Petition of Jona Eddy, Wm How, 8c Zebulon Rowe for themselves 8c
Friends in the County of Cumberland Nova Scotia, setting forth - That the
Enemy are repairing the Forts in that Province to the great detriment of
the Inhabitants in sd County, whch can be of no other End, but to keep the
Inhabitants in Subjection to their Tyrannical Measures, 8cc That the far
greater part of the People at Nova Scotia are greatly concerned about it, 8c
SEPTEMBER 1776
647
has been the cause of many to leave their Estates to be Confiscated, Sc come
over to this State, and will cause many more to leave their Homes unless
they Can have some supplies, and Assistance. That if they could be sup-
plied with Necessaries, such as provisions, and Ammunition with a small
number to join their Bretheren there, they Could destroy their Enemies
Forts, Sc Relieve their Bretheren by Permission from this Hon: Court for so
doing, or in any other way Sec.
Resolved, That the Commissary General be, Sc he hereby is Directed to
Deliver to Jona Eddy, William Howe, Sc Zebulon Rowe, Two hundred
pounds weight of Gunpowder five hundred weight of Musket Ball, three
hundred Gun flints, Sc twenty barrels of Pork taking their Obligation to be
Accountable for the same, when Called for by Order of this Court.
Whereas by a Resolve past by the General Court the 29th April last,
the Officers of Vessells in the Colony Sea service, were allowed to inlist
Men out of the Companies raised for the defence of the Sea Coasts, and the
Officers of the said Companies were thereby directed to permit any of their
Men to Inlist into the Colony, Sc Continental Sea service only, and to Inlist
others to supply vacancies occasion’d thereby as soon as may be.
And whereas such Liberty or allowance, which was the [re] given to
the Officers of Vessells in the Colonial, Sc Continentall Service, has been
found to be very detrimental; having weakened, Sc very much Exposed to
the En[e]my, many of our Harbors, Sc Towns on the sea Coasts; And many
of the Officers of the Sea Coast Companies, after much expence of Time, Sc
Money to raise their Companies have had their Men taken from them, to
their great loss Sc damage, 8c thereby been discourag’d from further recruit-
ing; and some parts of the Sea Coasts may if this practice is allowed, be left
destitute of all defence, Sc thereby become a Harbor for our Enemys, which
would not only further distress our Trade, but involve us in many other dif-
ficulties. - Therefore —
Resolved, that the aforesaid Resolve of the 29th April, be Sc is hereby
discontinued & made null, Sc Void.
In Council Resolved, that a Committee of suitable persons be appointed
immediately to repair to the State of New Hampshire, Sc apply to the Gov-
ernment there, Sc if practicable, with the Loan of as many Cannon as can be
spared from this State, to effect the fixing out the Continental Ship now
under the direction of Mr [John] Langdon, and to take immediate meas-
ures that such number of Cannon, Sc other necessaries, as without distress-
ing this State may be lent to the Continent, may be safely, Sc expeditiously
transported to Portsmouth - This Ship to be fixed out for the purpose of At-
tacking the Milford or other Ships of War distressing our Coasts - And in
case said Ship can within any reasonable time be equipt for the Sea -
Resolved, that two, or more Colony Arm’d Vessels be directed to Act in
Concert with her - and that the Comtee be, Sc hereby are empowered, to en-
gage as many Sea Coast Soldiers, East of Boston, as may incline to enter
for said Service, and in general to do every thing necessary for effecting the
aforesaid purpose - And that the pay of the Sea Coast men continue, in Ad-
648
AMERICAN THEATRE
dition to the Emoluments of the Sea Service - the sd Cannon, 8c other Arti-
cles that may be lent as aforesaid to be returned as soon as the Cruise shall
be over, or as soon as they shall be called for by this Governmt
In the House of Representatives Read 8c Accepted 8c Oliver Wendell
Esqr 8c Capt George Williams with such as the Honl Board shall join are
apptd a Comtee for the purpose therein mention’d -
In Council. Read 8c Concurr’d 8c Benja Greenleaf Esqr is joined. -
1. Mass. Arch., vol. 35, 190, 195, 196.
Petition for Commission for Eleazer Giles to Command the
Massachusetts Privateer Brigantine Retaliation 1
To the Honble the Council of the State of Massachusetts Bay, the Petition
of Josiah Batchelder jr 8c Co Humbly Sheweth,
That your Petitioners have fitted out 8c Acquipted the Brigt Calld the
Retaliation, for a Privateer, to Cruize on the Enemies of the United States
of America, and having conformed to all the Resolves 8c Regulations of the
Honble the Grand American Congress, 8c of the General Court of this State
Relative to fitting out private Ships of War Humbly pray that your Hon-
nors would be pleased to Commisionate the within Named Persons, with
full Power to proceed on Their Cruize 8cc and your Petitioners as in duty
Bound Shall Ever pray, in behalf of himself 8c Co
Jos1 Batchelder Jr
An Account of the Brigt Retaliation Stores 8c Appurtinances as Fol-
io we th—vizt -
Brigt Retaliation about Seventy five tons
Ten Carriage Guns from four to two pounders
Nine Swiv[e]l Guns—
Josiah Batchelder junr 8c Co of Beverly Owners
Eleazer Giles— Captain
Thomas Stephens junr first Lieut
John Procter junr Second Lieut
Seventy Men -
Fifty Barrils Beef 8c Pork
Four thousand wt Bread
Four Quintalls Fish
Six Jarrs Oyl
ten Bushels Potatoes
five hundred wt Powder
Eighty wt Musket Balls
four hundred Cannon [Shot]
Twenty five Small arms
Thirty Cutlasses -
Ten La[nc] es
SEPTEMBER 1776
649
These May Certify that the above is a True Acct of the Brigantine Called
the Retaliation to Gether with her Stores Appurtinances & Acquipment
&c. Beverly Septr 2d 1 776.— 2
Jos1 Batchelder Jr
[Endorsed] In Council [Watertown] Sept 4[th] 1776 Read & Ordered that
the Above mentioned Eleazer Giles be commissionated as Comr of the Brigt
Retaliation he complying with the Resolves of Congress -
Samuel Adams Secry
1. Mass, Arch., vol. 165, 204, 205.
2. Ibid., 198, on September 2 the Council issued a commission to Isaac Soames of the privateer
sloop Union owned by John Winthrop, Jr. of Boston.
Journal of H.M.S. Liverpool , Captain Henry Bellew1
Septr 1776 C: Codd N W 6 Leags
Sunday 1 First and latter fresh Breezes and hazey midle modr and
Clear at 3 PM gave chace to a sail No ward - at 5 carried
away Fore Topmast studding si yard. Fired at the chace. brot
too found her a Schooner from old York to the West Indies
with Lumber empd getting part of her cargo onbd Prize in
Co
Mondy 2 Modr Breezes took all the sails Rigging 8cc out of the Schooner
and set her on Fire
1. PRO, Admiralty 51/548.
Journal of the Rhode Island Sloop Independence ,
Captain Jabez Whipple1
Remarks on Monday Septr 2. 1776
Middle Part Fresh Breeses a 12 A M Crost The Great Ripp
at 6 A M Made the Land Bareing West Distance 3 Leagues In
8 Fathem Warter Sowtheble Head Makes Very hie One Part
Markes Likes Scrub Oakes the other Part White Sand Saw 3
Wind Miles A Cross the Low Land & Saw the Town Land
Making Longger then It Is Lade Down a Sandy Poynt Mak-
ing for 3 Homaks [hummocks]
Latter Part Plesant All Hands Well on Board
The Fust Part Pleasant Weither Smuth Sea
At 6 P M, Came to Ancher In Company With one Franch Sloop
one Prise Brigg Belonging to the Cab bath2 and our one Prise
Brigg,
1. Independence Journal, RIHS.
2. Continental brig Cabot.
650
AMERICAN THEATRE
Commodore Esek Hopkins to George Washington1
Sir Providence Septr 2nd 1776 -
I am Order’d by the Marine Committee to get the Valuation of the
Stores that I brought from New Providence, and as part of them was sent
to New york by your Order should be glad you would Order Mr [Henry]
Knox, or some other of your Officers to put a Value on them, and order them
to transmit such Valuation to me as soon as Convenient —
Sir Should be extremely oblig’d to you if you have Settled a Cartell
with Admiral or General Howe, if you would endeavour to get one Mr
Henry Hawkings, who was taken out of the Sloop L’ amiable Marie Peter
Douville Master the 20th May last, off Shrewsberry Inlet near Sandy Hook,
and I believe is now onboard the Phoenix , and I hear acts as a common
hand - he is young man and a near kinsman of mine, and his Father and
Mother are very A[n]xious to get him Exchang’d.
I can send a Prisoner of almost any Rank that may [be] required for
him.
Your assistance in this matter will very much oblige Sir [8cc.]
E. H.
1. Hopkins Letter Book, RIHS.
Commodore Esek Hopkins to Lieutenant James Josiah1
Sir Providence Septr 2nd 1776 -
I receiv’d your Letter yesterday— have enquired and find Mr Charles
Elden is now at North Hampton— make no doubt but shall be able to pro-
cure him as soon as Captn Symonds [John Symons] has leave to Exchange
you — please to let me know by a line and I will send Immediately for him
and send him to Block Island if Captn Symonds gives his Word a Boat may
come Safe —
There is a number of Officers Prisoners now in this Government— if
there is any more Men onboard that belong’d to the Continental Fleet,
should be glad to Exchange them. —
I have applied to Congress and they have given General Washington
directions to get you Exchang’d if in his power with Admiral Howe — I
am Your Friend
E. H.
To Mr James Josiah
onboard the Ship Cerberus , off Block Island — 2
1. Hopkins Letter Book, RIHS.
2. Josiah was on board the prize transport Crawford when she was retaken by H. M. S. Cerberus.
See Volume 5.
SEPTEMBER 1776
651
Journal of the Committee Appointed to Build Two Continental
Frigates in Rhode Island1
[Providence] Sepr 2.
Voted That a Letter be wrote to the Navey Board at Philadelphia Recom-
mending Abraham Whipple Esqr (now of the Columbus) to be appointed
Captain of the Ship Providence, and that Mesers William Russell and Jabez
Bowen write by the next Post.
1. Journal R. I. Frigates, RIHS.
Appointments of Officers Made by the Committee Appointed to Build
Two Continental Frigates in Rhode Island1
James Eldred -
Samuel Shaw.
William Jennison.
James Sellers -
Paul Hathaway.
[Providence, September 2, 1776] 2
Appointments.
South Kingstown.
Bridgewater.
Mendon
Dartmouth
Midshipman.
Midshipman.
1st. Lieut. Marines
if he enlisted 25
men.
3d. Lieut, if he enl.
12 men -
3d. Mate if he enl.
6 men.
May 27, 1776.
June 14, 1776.
>June 14, 1776.
| June 14, 1776.
1 June 14, 1776.
Appointments - Sloop Providence ”
Capt. Wm. Barron
Silas Devol.
William Barron.
Benjamin Page.
Seth Chapin.
Avery Parker.
Thomas Bowen.
John Channing.
Nicholas Easton Gardner.
Tanner.
Benjamin Dunham.
Abraham Whipple.
Master -
Capt. of Marines.
1st. Lieut.
3d. Lieutenant -
2d. Lieut. Marines
1st. Lieut.
Marines if he enl. 33
men
Midshipman.
2d. Lieut.
Midshipman.
Midshipman.
2d Mate,
recommended.
To be Capt.
Newport -
Tiverton.
Newport.
May 22, 1776.
June 20, 1776.
June 20, 1776.
June 20, 1776.
June 24, 1776.
►June 26, 1776.
June 26, 1776.
June 26, 1776.
June 26, 1776.
Aug. 23, 1776.
Aug. 23, 1776.
Sept. 2, 1776.
Appointments. Sloop “Warren.”
John Grannis. Capt. of Marines -
George Stillman. 1st. Lieut. Marines.
June 14, 1776.
June 14, 1776.
652
AMERICAN THEATRE
Barnabus Lothrop.
2d. Lieut. Marines.
June
14,
1776.
James Sellers.
2d. Lieut.
June
20,
1776.
Niles Christian.
2d. Mate.
June
©
CM
1776.
Lemuel Carver.
Midshipman.
June
26,
1776.
Ebenezer Allin - Rochester.
Steward.
June
26,
1776.
William Dunton.
Midshipman.
June
26,
1776.
William Comstock.
Midshipman.
June
26,
1776.
Niles Christian
Chief Mate, if he signed
articles “to-morrow”
June
26,
1776.
Simon Dunbar -
Midshipman.
June
26,
1776.
Samuel Knap.
Chief Cook.
June
26,
1776.
1. R. I. Arch.
2. The date used is that of the last appointment on the list.
Charter Agreement for the Rhode Island Sloop Diamond 1
This Agreement or Charter party made between Nicholas Cooke Es-
quire of Providence Owner of the Sloop Diamond burdened Eighty Seven
Tons and two thirds of the One Part and John Jenckes of said Providence
Merchant who acts in this Matter (together with the said Nicholas Cooke)
for and in Behalf of the State of Rhode Island 8cc of the other Part Witness-
ed! That the said Nicholas Cooke hath letter unto Freight to the said John
Jenckes for the Use of said State the aforesaid Sloop for a Voyage from
said Providence to the West-Indies and back and that the said Nicholas
Cooke shall be at the Expence of keeping her in good and customary Repair
during the Voyage.2 In Consideration whereof the said John Jenckes on the
Part of said State shall pay unto the said Nicholas Cooke for the Hire of
said Sloop at and after the Rate of Seven Shillings and Six Pence lawful
Money a Ton by the Month for the whole Time she shall be in performing
said Voyage to be computed from this Day until she shall be returned back
and redelivered to the said Nicholas Cooke And the said John Jenckes in
Behalf of said State shall wholly risque said Sloop in all Cases and in Case
of Loss shall pay to the said Nicholas Cooke Eighteen Hundred Dollars for
her with Interest from this Time but in such Case shall not pay any Hire
Money And further in such Case of Loss the said John Jenckes for sd
State shall be at the Expence of all Repairs from this Time.
Witness the Hands and Seals of the Parties interchangeably
September the Second 1776 Nichs Cooke
Witness JohnJenks
John Dexter Jona Jenks Junr
1. Maritime Papers, Revolutionary War, 1776-1778, R. I. Arch.
2. The Diamond, William Waterman, master, cleared Providence September 10, 1776, “for the
Foreign Islands in the West Indies,” with a cargo of “500 bbls Flour, 40 bbls Pickled
Fish, 5000 Bunches Onions and 100 Boxes Sperma Coeti Candles.” Account of Permissions
granted by his Honor the Governor, R. I. Arch. The voyage was to Martinique, and a
receipt on the back of the agreement shows an undated payment to Nicholas Cooke of
£600 by the State Treasurer when the voyage was completed.
SEPTEMBER 1776
653
Claim of Captain Wingate Newman for a Share
of the Prize Ship Star & Garter 1
State of Rhode Island See J Before the honble John Foster Esqr
Court Maritime J Judge of sd Court
Libel of Wm Chace vs Ship Star & Garter
Be it remembered that on the second Day of September in the Year of our
Lord one thousand seven hundred Sc seventy six Philip Moore of Philadel-
phia in the State of Pennsylvania Mercht comes into Court Sc in Behalf of
Wingate Newman Commander of the armed Brigt called the Hancock Sc the
other Officers Marines & Mariners belonging to said armed Vessell Sc the
Owners thereof claims a Part of the Ship Star & Garter in the Libel of said
Chace said to be taken by the sd Chace - Sc the said Moore says that the
same Ship was taken in the high Seas as set forth in said Libel by the said
Chace but with the Aid Sc Assistance of the sd Brigt Hancock Sc jointly with
her Sc being so taken was brot into Providence, in sd State of Rhode Island
& the sd Moore further says that the same Brigt Hancock was a Vessell of
War duly commissioned by the honble the continental Congress to cruise
against the Enemies of the united States of America at the Time of said
Capture wherefore he prays that the same Ship her Cargo Sc Appe[r]t[e]-
[nancejs may be decreed by this honble Court to be divided between the said
armed Vessels in Proportion to their Men Sc Guns as the Law directs—
Ph: Moore Agent -
1. Admiralty Papers, vol. 9, 1776, R. I. Arch. The document is endorsed: “N.B. this Claim was
not inforced.”
Newport Mercury, Monday, September 2, 1776
Newport, September 2.
Last Thursday arrived here, in about 18 days from St. Lucia, the
brig Ludlow -C as tie , Capt. Darling who informs that, a little before he sailed,
there was a warm engagement in the West-Indies, between an American
privateer, name unknown, and the British sloop of war, named Hawke,
a well-known bird of prey; in which the Hawke was so much damaged,
that she was obliged to make the best use of all her wings, to escape the
American bird of justice;1 which we must confess, has not had that agility
of motion necessary for the detection and ample punishment of the enemies
to this country: —Otherwise many a rascal who fled hither, to prevent being
hanged in his own country, and some natives among us, would have had
much longer necks before this day.
1. Seems to be a truly fanciful account of the engagement between the Continental ship
Reprisal and H. M. Sloop Shark.
654 AMERICAN THEATRE
Connecticut Courant, Monday, September 2, 1776
Hartford, September 2.
The Continental Frigate1 now building at Chatham, is to be launched
on Thursday next.
1. Trumbull.
Journal of Lieutenant William Digby 1
[Isle aux Noix]
Sep. 2. I went on duty to St Johns, and was present at the launching
of the Carlton schooner she was compleat in guns &c 8cc and the command
of her given to lieut. Decars of the navy.2
1. Manuscript journal of Lieutenant William Digby, Additional Ms. 32413, BM. Hereafter cited
as Digby’s Journal, BM. Published under the title The British Invasion from the North ,
The Campaigns of Generals Carleton and Burgoyne from Canada , 1776-1777 , With the
Journal of Lieut. William Digby of the 53D, or Shropshire Regiment of Foot. Illustrated
with Historical Notes by James Phinney Baxter (Albany, N.Y., 1887; reprinted, New
York, N.Y., 1970).
2. Lieutenant James Richard Dacres.
Brigadier General Benedict Arnold to Major General Horatio Gates 1
[Extract] Willsborough Septr 2d 1776
Dear General I intended sending the foregoing from Button Mould Bay,2
but waited for a Boat that I had Sent to this place . . . yesterday at Noon
we left Button Mould Bay, & arived here last night, before we passed the
Split Rock we Saw two Sail a Stern which, we suposed were the Lee , 8c a
Gondola, they have not yet Joined us, we Are now under way with a Fresh
Southerly breeze 8c expect to be at the lie Ta’te before night. I hope soon to
have it in my power to send you a very full Account of the Strength of the
Enemy by Sea 8c land I hope no time will be lost in forwarding, the three
Gallies, when they have Joined us, I am very Confident, the Enemy will
not Dare attempt Crossing the Lake— I beg my Congratulatory Comps to
Genl [Arthur] St Claire on his promotion— when the Enemy drive us back,
to Tyonderoga, I have some thoughts of going to Congress, 8c beging leave
to resign, - do you think they will make me a Major General— (Entre
Nous) . . .
1. Gates Papers, Box 4, NYHS,
2. Arnold’s letter of August 31.
Master’s Log of H. M. Brig Halifax1
Remarks as Before [off Flushing Bay, Long Island
Sound]
Monday 2d of Septr 1776
2 [A. M.] Came on Bd 4 Deserters from the Rebel Army Sent them to
the Brune
SEPTEMBER 1776
655
4 [A. M.]
8 [A. M.]
12 [M.]
2 [P. M.]
6 [P. M.]
Do W. [Moderate and Cloudy] Empd Sending Onshore the
Furniture and Stock (belonging to Francis Lewis one of the
Congress) to the Place taken from —
Do W. Empd as Before
Fresh Breezes and Fair Empd as Before and getting On Board
Water
Little wind and Fair, Empd Landing the Goods &c at White-
stone, and Getting on Bd Water
Weighd and Came to sail and Turnd up and came too of [f] Little
Laurences Point.
1. PRO, Admiralty 52/1775.
Memoirs of Major General William Heath1
[New York, September] 2d. They [the British] ran a ship past the city
up the East River: she was several times struck by the shot of a 12 pounder,
which was drawn to the river’s bank. Major [John] Crane of the artil-
lery was wounded in the foot, by a cannon shot from the ship. It was now a
question whether to defend the city, or evacuate it, and occupy the strong
grounds above. Every exertion had been made to render the works both nu-
merous and strong; and immense labor and expense had been bestowed on
them; and it was now determined that the city should be obstinately de-
fended.
1. Abbatt, ed.. Heath Memoirs, 50.
Master’s Log of H. M. S. Roebuck 1
September 1776 Governors Isld ENE i/2 mile
Monday 2d A M. Mann’d a flat Boat & sent to assist in landing some
troops on Governors Island which they took Possession off
1. PRO, Admiralty 52/1965.
Diary of Lieutenant Jabez Fitch1
[On board the Prison Ship Lord Rockford ]
Mond: the 2nd [September] Some Time in the Morning the Comasary
came on Board again, & gave us to Understand that the Officers would soon
be provided with a Ship by themselves; He also gave us Liberty of the Use
of Pen & Ink, under the Inspection of our Commanding Officer, which Privi-
ledge we had not yet been Allow’d since we came on Board
1. Sabine, ed., Fitch’s Diary, 38.
656
AMERICAN THEATRE
Diary of Dr. Thomas Moffat1
[On board H. M. Sloop Swan at Sandy Hook]
Monday Septr 2d 4 o clock in the morning by Lieut Dowie receivd ad-
vices that in the night of Thursday Agust 29th the Rebels had evacuated
Brookland and Red Hook leaving military stores and their provision behind.
The morning of the 30th the King Troops posessd both. The Rebels also
evacuated Govrs Island. Lord Howe in the Eagle with several Capital ships 8c
frigates are off Gov[erno]rs Island within random shott of N York. Sulli-
van is sent to Philadelphia on parole to negotiate an Exchange For General
Prescot.2 Ninety six Rebel officers are prisoners. General Howe is gone to
the Eastward with 12000 Troops. Great Division prevails in [New] York
among the Southern and Northern Rebels. The Southward officers now pris-
oners have petitiond Lord Howe to be separated from the N England Rebels
and they are now kept in Different vessells in consequence of that applica-
tion.
1. Thomas Moffat’s Diary, LC.
2. Brigadier General Richard Prescott taken at the Sorel, on the St. Lawrence, in November
1775.
Continental Marine Committee to Daniel Tillinghast1
Sir [Philadelphia] September 2nd 1776
The Secret Committee of Congress have directed Mr Thomas Green of
Providence in your State [Rhode Island] to put into your hands the follow-
ing articles belonging to the Continent now in his possession for which you
will please to give him areceipt.
330 Bolts of best holland and Rusia Duck
26 1/4 Casks of Powder
2 pair 4 lb Cannon
3 pair 3 lb Do
4 pair Swivels
3 Casks leaden ball
21 Casks Sewing Twine
598 lb salt Petre
60 lb Brimstone
470 Bushels salt
50 half Johannes
1 Drum
You have underneath aCopy of aResolve of Congress of the 30th ulto order-
ing such part of the above Duck as is suitable for Tents to be made up and
forwarded with all possible expedition to his Excellency General Washing-
ton, which we request You will immediately execute, you will hold the rest
of the articles ready for the future orders of this Committee Who are Sir
[Sec.]
1. Marine Committee Letter Book, 19, NA.
Charles Carroll , Barrister.
658
AMERICAN THEATRE
Minutes of the Pennsylvania Council of Safety1
In Council of Safety,
[Philadelphia,] September 2nd, 1776.
[Jno. M. Nesbitt, Esq’r, was directed] To pay Richard Dennis £ 31 5
0, for 50 Barrels of Tar, d’d Capt. [John] Hazelwood for the use of the
Fire Rafts.
Resolved , That Samuel Mifflin, Esq’r, be appointed Commodor 8c
Commander-in-chief of all the Naval Armaments of this State, and that the
president be requested to send him his Commission, with orders to repair to
his Command.
Resolved, That Mr. Owen Biddle be authorized to import from St. Eus-
tatia, such necessaries for cloathing and equipping the Troops employ’d in
the service of this State, as may be wanted for that purpose, on account of
this State.
1. Pennsylvania Colonial Records, X, 708.
John Burnell to the Maryland Convention1
Baltimore 2nd of September 1776
Gentlemen I was first shipt as masters mate of the ship Defence at her
first setting out in the proventional service. at the time Lieut Boucher left
the ship I was advanced to Master by the Councel of Safty. I hope your
honours will Continue to Advance me in rotation or as Comd Nechoalson
may think Right as Imagin him to be the best Judge what I may DeServe
Leeut Nechoalson [John Nicholson] I here is going to Leave the Ship
Likewise Leeut [Aquila] Johns if so I think should be first Leut as I was
mas [ter] of the ship before Leut Auchenleck had his Commission, from gen-
tlemen [8cc.]
John Burnell
1. Red Book, XII, Md. Arch.
Deposition of James Clark Nessels1
The Deposition of James Clark Nessells of Lawfull Age being
duly Sworn this 2d Day of Sepr 1776,
Deposeth and saith that some time in the Month of June last he was sent for
by some persons who intend on Board of the Tenders S[o] this deponent set
of [f] with some Others and went Over to the Islands where he found a
Number Tories a waiting to get on Board [of] some of Dunmores Ships,
after waiting there abt Eight Days Nathan Linton Carried this Deponent
and a Number of Others on Board the Otter Man of Warr Commanded by
Capt Squires, that One Cocklin was among [s]t the Number that went on
Board from the Islands, that Cocklin and Nathan Linton went down into
the Cabin Cocklin got a Shift of Cloaths - Linton stayd in the Cabin about
an Hour and then came upon Deck Capt Squires gave him the said Linton
SEPTEMBER 1776
659
a Gallon of Rum and some Pork and immediately Linton got into the Boat
and set off for the Islands, this Deponent further saith that he understood
from the People on Board of th [is] Ship that they had a Vessell dismasted
near the Islands with Rum Iron Train Oil Coffee some Sugar and Sundry
Other Articles, that Capt Squires made a present of all that was on Board of
said Vessell except the Rum and Iron to Linton for his Trouble in taking
up said Vessell and for Other Services done them, this Deponent saith that
the Ships Crew 8c Linton appeard to [be] very friendly— This Deponent saith
that the Ship immediately set of [f] up Patomack and arived at St George’s
Island and being there Three Days he this Deponent was sent on Shore with
some Others for Water and there made his escape over to the Maryland
Camp and obtained a pass from the Commanding Officer and then Made the
best of his Way Home, and further saith not
Sworn before Peter Waters
1. Executive Papers, Box 1, Folder 98, Md. Arch. Deposition was made to the Committee of
Somerset County, Maryland.
Virginia Navy Board to Captain Charles Thomas1
Sir Williamsburg Sepr 2d 1776
The Cordage mention’d in your [sic our] Letter to you of August 13th
is for the Gentleman who delivers this, Capt [Francis] Bright of the Brigg
Northampton ; you are desir’d to furnish him with it as soon as possible and
assist him in procuring a Vessel to bring it down; Shou’d he want any other
Articles not mention’d in the former Memorandum, you are to supply and
am for the Board, Your very Hble Servant
Thomas Whiting 1st Commr
To Capt Charles Thomas
manager of the Ropewalk Warwick2
1. Navy Board Letter Book, VSL.
2. Ibid,., this date the Board also ordered Andrew Lush of Cabbin Point to supply Captain
Bright with blocks needed for the Northampton.
Journal of H. M. S. Boreas, Captain Charles Thompson1
Septmr 1776
Sunday 1st
Monday 2d
Lattde in 27 . . 38N
at 6 AM saw a Sail to the Soward gave chace set Studg
Sails at 7 Hauld down the Studg Sails Perform’d divine
Service - The Prize in Co
light Airs PM Open’d a Cask of beef Contents 56
peices Short 2 pieces 8c a Cask of Pork Contents 112
pieces i/2 past 5 Sent the boats Man’d 8c Arm’d after the
Chace at 8 the chace SE i/2 past 1 1 lay too Between 1 1
PM 8c 5 AM
fir’d a Gun every half hour as Signals to the Boats at 6
saw the chace Bearg. SEBE at i/2 past 8 the Boats re-
turn’d with the Chace a Brig from Georgia with rice2 took
660
AMERICAN THEATRE
possession of her brot her men on board us 8c sent a Petty
Officer with 6 men on board her at Noon bore up in Co
with our prizes.
Mod 8c Cloudy PM read the Articles of War 8c Abstract to
the ships Company at 6 In 1st reefs of the Topsails
1. PRO, Admiralty 51/125.
2. Brig Rebecca, see Gayton’s Prize List under October 8.
Lieutenant Charles Cobb, R.N., to Governor Peter Chester1
Sir -
As I find by the Orders Addressed to Capt Davey that His Majesty’s
Armed Sloop the West florida is Sent down with an Intention to be of Serv-
ice to this Province in the present Emergency of Affairs — I am therefore
to request your Excellency in Council will be pleased to point out what in
your Opinion will be most Conducive to the Service His Majesty’s Sloop is
meant for — I am with great Respect [8cc.]
Cha3 * * * * 8 Cobb
His Majesty’s armed Sloop [Wesf] Florida
Pensacola Septr 2nd 1776.
1. PRO, Colonial Office, 5/634, Part II, 378, LC Photocopy.
3 Sept.
Journal of H. M. S. Triton , Captain Skeffington Lutwidge 1
Septembr 1776
Sunday 1st
Monday 2d
Tuesday 3d
Moor’d In the Bason of Quebec.
Reed an Order from Captn Douglas at Chambly to send
up a Midn 8c 37 Seamen to serve on the Lakes.
[Light Breezes 8c Cloudy] Wr at 6 P.M, sent up 37 Men
with a Petty Officer to Sorel in the Long Boat left by the
Venus Transport - came down 3 Transports -
A M punish’d Thos Brown, Davd Thompson and Matthias
Wright for Desertion 8c selling their Cloaths.
Fresh Breezes 8c Cloudy in the Evening sent on Shore
the 1st and 2d Lieuts with a party of Seamen 8c Marines
(by desire of the Lieut. Governor) to pick up straggling
Seamen - brot on Bd 9 Men -
A M scraped the Lower Masts 8c pay’d them
Do Wr 1st 8c mid parts with rain P M, reed an Order
from Captn Douglass to send 20 Men more from the Tri-
ton, 25 from the Isis and 20 from the Transports to serve
on the Lakes - at 8 P. M. sent the said Men up -
1. PRO, Admiralty 51/1013.
SEPTEMBER 1776
661
Diary of Joshua Pell, Jr.1
[Isle aux Noix]
3rd September sixteen arm’d vessels and four hundred. Batteaux, fill’d
with Rebels appear’d off Point au Fer, the entrance into Lake Champlain
from the Northward.
1. “Diary of Joshua Pell, Jr., an Officer of the British Army in America 1776-1777,” Magazine of
American History, II, part 2, 45. Hereafter cited as “Diary of Joshua Pell, Jr.,” Magazine
of American History.
Order of the Massachusetts Council for Arms and
Ammunition for the State Sloop Freedom 1
For Sloop Freedom
100 double headed Shott, at Plimouth
10-6 pound Cannon Carriages at Do
1 1 Swivell Guns & 1 Cohorn
the Brigs Sprit sail Topsail
30 Hammocks -
2 Bolt duck
2 Studen sails
2 Barrells Powder
Capt John Clouston
In Council [Watertown] Sept 3d 1776
Read & Ordered That William Watson Esqr be and he hereby is desired
to deliver Jonathmeil Bowers the above Articles out of the Armed Brigt
called the rising Empire - [Richard] Welden Comr which was Ordered to
be haled up by a Resolve of the General Court passed the 31st Augt last -
Samuel Adams Secry
1. Mass. Arch., vol. 165, 203.
“A Journiel Kept By Ephraim Briggs On board of the Good
Sloop Warren A Bold Privateer From Dartmouth
to the Lattd of 33:” 1
Tuesday September the 3 Day 1776
Latter Part Tuesday Morning Five A Clock spid A sail to Le-
ward Bearing East All Hands To Quarters Run For Her. Fir’d A
swivel Brought Her Two Boarded Her Prov’d to be A schooner
From Marvelhead Bound to Martinaca With A Load of Fish Honestly
Cleared out from Port Lattd in 34:20
First Part these 24 hours the Wind at S W. Saw [a sail] Bearing S
E Give Her Chase Run Up With [her fired] A Four Pouner
Brought Her Two Bourded Her [proved] To Be A Prise From
Tobago Taken Two Days Before Prise Master Aboard Bound to
Capan [Cape Ann] Been out Twelve Day We A stearing S E
1. RIHS.
662
AMERICAN THEATRE
Governor Nicholas Cooke to Governor Jonathan Trumbull1
Sir, - Providence, September 3d, 1776.
In Addition to what I wrote your Honor of yesterday, I now inform
you that there is at present no armed vessel belonging to the Continent in
this State besides the Alfred , who hath not more than forty men, inclusive
of officers. She, with the two Row Gallies, make the whole of the naval force
in this State. I have communicated your letter to Commodore Hopkins, and
find him perfectly disposed to co-operate with the Assembly in every meas-
ure in his power.
A sloop is now lading here with Continental pork, for New
London. She will carry about one hundred barrels, and it is expected will
sail to-morrow morning. I give you this information that you may, if neces-
sary, make use of it for the forces on Long Island. I am, with every senti-
ment of respect, Sir [Sec.]
Nich’s Cooke.
1. Collections of the Rhode Island Historical Society (Providence, 1867) , VI, 167.
Benjamin Huntington to the Connecticut Committee
of the Pay Table1
Lebanon Septr 3d 1776
Draw on the Treasurer of this State for the Sum of three Hundered Pounds
in Favour of Capt Uriah Hayden in Part for his building the Colony Ship
Oliver Cromwell and to be in Account.
By Order the Govr Sc Council of Safety
Benj Huntington Clerk P.T.
To the Committee! r OAA
Pay Table )£ 300
1. Conn. Arch., 1st Series, IX, 118a, ConnSL.
Journal of H.M.S. Niger, Captain George Talbot1
September 1776 At Single Anchor in Flushing Bay
Tuesday 3d Light Breezes Sc Fair Wr
at 4 P M Weigh’d and came to sail at i/2 past 5 came too
wth the small Br in 12 faths in Whiteston[e] Bay in
running down Fird 10 Twelve Pounders wth round shot
at a Number of Rebels Under Arms on the North
shore at 10 Came onboard 2 Deserters (Blacks) from
the Rebel Army
1. PRO, Admiralty 51/637.
SEPTEMBER 1776
663
Vice Admiral Richard Lord Howe to Philip Stephens1
Number 7.
Sir
Eagle off of Bedlow’s Island, New York,
September the 3d 1776.
Enclosed I transmit a Return of the Officers in different Stations which
I have had Occasion to appoint for carrying on the King’s Service in the
Squadron under my Command.2
The Concerns of the Victualling, and Distribution of Naval Stores
under proper Restriction, with other Matters respecting the Department of
a Master Attendant, are so extensive, that I have been under a Necessity of
having extraordinary Assistance in both these Branches. I send Copies of
the two Appointments for their Lordships more particular Information
therein; Hoping they will be pleased to authorize the Continuance of them,
and also that of two Officers for Duty onboard the Eagle , in Addition to the
established Number of Lieutenants, which are not sufficient for the current
Duties of a public Ship; As well as the Nomination of an Assistant Agent
requisite for the various Duties incident to the different Debarkations of
the Hessian Corps, and landing and reshipping the Baggage and Stores of
those inexperienced Troops.
I should have deemed it expedient to confirm the several Appointments
made by Sir Peter Parker to the Vacancies that were occasioned by the Ac-
tion at South Carolina, had my Powers been of sufficient Extent: But the
Vacancy occasioned by the Resignation of Captain [Alexander] Scott3 not
corresponding with the Letter of my Instructions, I have left the Promo-
tions consequent of that Resignation, as they stand in the enclosed Return
from the Commodore, until their Lordships pleasure is signified concerning
them. I am Sir [Sec.]
Howe
1. PRO, Admiralty 1 /487.
2. See next entry.
3. Captain Scott, H. M. S. Experiment, lost an arm in the Charleston action.
664
AMERICAN THEATRE
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666
AMERICAN THEATRE
Journal of Ambrose Serle1
[On board H.M.S. Eagle ] Tuesday, 3d. September.
A great Firing was heard last night from the Town upon the Rose & the
Boats, which were ordered to sail up the East River. One Shot passed
through the Rose , and another beat off one of her anchors, without doing
any other Damage. The Rebels fired two Pieces of Ordnance upon her to-
day from a Battery opposite Bushwyck; and wounded two or three Men.
The Boats got safe into Newtown Creek, and, as ’tis supposed, unperceived
by the Enemy, through the favorable Darkness of the Night.
1. Tatum, ed., Serle* s Journal, 89, 90-91.
Journal of H.M.S. Rose , Captain James Wallace1
September 1776 at Single Anchor between Red hook & Governers
Island
Monday 2d AM at 8 weigh’d and came to sail at 9 Anchd in 7 fm
between Red Hook and Governers Island to cover the
Troops landing do landed and took Possession of the
Island PM Reev’d from HM Ship Eagle Rum & Beef.
Varl Wr at 10 P M weigh’d and came to Sail Steering
up Et River with a Number of Flat-Boats, the Rebels
from Curtes Hook fir’d on us.
Tuesday 3d AM at 1 came too of Newtown Creek at 9 the Rebels
fir’d upon us from York Island, Return’d the Fire
Weigh’d and shifted our birth.
Light breezes and Clear Wr PM the Rebels kept a Con-
stant fire at us over Blackwells Island about 200 of our
Troops from long Island came over and took Possession
of Do Island
1. PRO, Admiralty 51/805.
Diary of Lieutenant Jabez Fitch1
[On board the Prison Ship Lord Rockford ]
Tuesd: the 3rd: [September] Was a very pleasant Morning, I arose at 4
oClock, & took an agreable Walk on the Deck before it was crowded with the
Prisoners &c, This Morning we wrote many Letters to send up to Town, as
we have had Encouragement of a Flag . . . The forepart of the Day there
was a mighty movement of the Transports in the Harbour, a great number of
them move’d up toward Town; About Noon the Comasary came on Board
again, & look’d on us, which was Greatfully Acknowledged by us.
Toward Night Capt. Hawker, one of our greater Overseers came
on Board again, & gave us great Encouragemt: of further Endulgence
&c; About Sunset our other Officers which had till now been kept on
Shore, were Bro t on Board a Snow, Laying near our own Ship, we also
SEPTEMBER 1776
667
Expected to have gon there this Night, but it was Defer’d while Morning;
The Officers on Board this Ship, all of them Turn’d in this Night on the
Quarter Deck, where I slept much better than I had done before since I have
been a Prisoner.
1. Sabine, ed., Fitch’s Diary, 38.
Journal of the Continental Congress1
[Philadelphia] Tuesday, September 3, 1776
General Sullivan having reduced to writing the verbal message from
Lord Howe, the same was laid before Congress, and read as follows:
The following is the purport of the message from Lord Howe to Con-
gress, by General Sullivan:
That, though he could not at present Treat with Congress as such, yet
he was very Desirous of having a Conference with some of The members,
whom he would Consider for the present only as private Gentlemen, and
meet them himself as such, at such place as they should appoint:
That he, in Conjunction with General Howe, had full powers to Com-
promise the Dispute between Great Britain and America, upon Terms ad-
vantageous to both; the obtaining of which Delayed him near Two months
in England, and prevented his arrival at this place before the Declaration of
Independency took place:
That he wished a Compact might be Settled at this time, when no Deci-
sive Blow was struck, and neither party could say, that they were Com-
pelled to enter into such agreement:
That, in Case Congress were Disposed to Treat, many things, which
they had not as yet asked, might and ought to be granted Them; and That
if, upon the Conference, They found any probable Ground of an Accommo-
dation, The authority of Congress must be afterwards Acknowledged, oth-
erwise The Compact would not be Compleat.
1. Ford, ed., JCC, V, 730-31.
John Hancock to George Washington1
[Extract] Philada Sepr 3d 1776.
Sir, I do myself the Honour to enclose you sundry Resolves, by which you
will perceive that Congress, having taken your Letter of the 2d Inst into
Consideration, came to a Resolution, in a Committee of the whole House,
that no Damage should be done to the City of New York.2
1. Papers CC (Letter Books of the President of Congress) , 12a, I, NA.
2. Journal of Congress, September 3, 1776 reads: “Resolved, That General Washington be
acquainted, that the Congress would have especial care taken, in case he should find it
necessary to quit New York, that no damage be done to the said city by his troops, on
their leaving it: The Congress having no doubt of being able to recover the same, though
the enemy should, for a time, obtain possession of it,” Ford, ed., JCC, V, 730, 733.
668
AMERICAN THEATRE
Account Against the Continental Frigate Virginia 1
Frigat Virginia built in the State of Maryland
To the Commissioners of the Navy. Dr2
[Philadelphia]
1776.
Septemr 3 To 12 Pieces French Canvass Assorted Vizte
6 pieces H 589 ells is 798 Yds. @
3 do K 355 do “ 480 “ @
3 do I 300 do “ 406 “ @
100 Cuttlasses a 15/ 75..—..—
1 doz Ballast Shovells 2..8..—
1. Woodhouse Collection, Box 5, HSP.
2. The Commissioners of the Navy, appointed January 9, 1776, were originally intended to
supply cordage and ship chandlery for the four frigates to be built at Philadelphia, but
their services were quickly expanded to supply the same type of materials for all naval
vessels in the port. The Commissioners were James Craig, James Wharton, Nathaniel
Falconer and William Davis, Papers CC (Letters addressed to Congress) , 78, 24, 331, NA.
Pennsylvania Evening Post , Tuesday, September 3, 1776
Philadelphia, Sept. 3.
A Court of Admiralty being to be held to-morrow morning at ten
o’clock, when the Martial and Crier must attend, the Sale of the cargo of the
prize ship Friendship is postponed until to-morrow afternoon, at three
o’clock when a quantity of Sugars, Coffee, Rum and Cocoa, will be sold.
Journal of the Maryland Council of Safety 1
[Annapolis] Tuesday. Septr 3rd 1776
Ordered That Western shore Treasurer pay to George Trumbull for
use of Captain James Nicholson five hundred and fourteen pounds for pay
of Ship Defence's Crew.
1. Council of Safety Journal, 29 August 1775 to 20 March 1777, Md. Arch.
George Logan to Samuel Lawford1
Septem. 3 1776 St Augustine -
The former part of this Letter was wrote August 7 when I flattered
myself with the Thoughts of getting away but alass that opportunity is at
an end, for the Governor’s Vessel is taken by the Georgians Since which the
Governor has received Letters from Lord Germaine with orders to let No-
body whatever pass from this to the other provinces, therefore I have posi-
tively taken my passage in Captn Lofthouse & hope to See you in London at
a Month after you receive this at most provisions grow very scarce here;
and have been obliged to dine five Days on saltpork 8c glad to get that, I as-
sure you, No fresh provisions [n]or Vegetables to be goten they expect
SEPTEMBER 1776
669
here to be attacked by the Georgians & Carolinians soon and have prepared
for them farewell till I see you in London Honoria writes to Kitty— 2
George Logan
P.S. a provincial privateer has just now Carried a large Ship away that was
lying off the Barr of this place — Success to them -
1. Brown Book, IX, Md. Arch. Continuation of an intercepted letter of August 7.
2. Ibid., Honoria Logan to Katherine Lawford, September 3, 1776.
Proceedings of the Royal Council of Bermuda1
At a Council held at the Government House on Tuesday
the 3d day of September 1776
Present
His Excellency the Governor. -
The Honoble George Forbes
Thomas Jones
Jonathan Burch
John Harvey
Tsqrs
Edward Stiles
Henry Tucker >
John Hinson
Esquires
The Board Considering the present Alarming Situation of the Island
from a Scarcity of Provision thought advisable to Address His Excellency
on the Occasion.-
The following Address being drawn up was read and approved of by
the Board the same Signed by the President and by him presented to His
Excellency as follows. Vizt— May it please Your Excellency.
We His Majesty’s most dutiful and Loyal Subjects the Council of Ber-
muda beg leave to represent to Your Excellency the present Melancholly
and truly calamitous Situation of this Island —
From your Excellencys long residence amongst us, you cannot but be
intimately acquainted with the Nature of our Trade and our entire depend-
ance upon the American Colonies for supplies of Provisions. That we can-
not possibly exist without such supplies is a Fact well known to your Excel-
lency, a Fact which cannot be controverted. It has however been often
urged, that every necessary supply can be easily obtained from Great Brit-
ain and Ireland, but as your Excellency is no stranger to the utter Impracti-
cability of such a plan we flatter ourselves it will be needless to suggest any
of the numberless Arguments, which may be adduced to demonstrate, that
every attempt of that sort must infallibly prove unsuccessful and abortive -
Our Trade is now totally annihilated thro’ the unhappy Contest between the
Parent State and her Subjects in America. We have no Staple of any kind,
by which we can procure the common Necessaries of Life, nor can we en-
courage the most distant Hopes of reeping any supplies from the Produc-
tion of the Country (at all Times inconsiderable and trifling) but at present
destroy’d by the long continued dry Weather. Under these deplorable Cir-
cumstances, where can we fly to for Refuge and Supportment. Where but to
your Excellency the Representative of Our most Gracious Sovereign, whose
670
AMERICAN THEATRE
Humanity is deservedly rank’d amongst his most distinguishing Character-
istics. From what has been premis’d Should the late Act of Parliament
which positively inhibits all Intercourse with the American Continent be lit-
erally and risidly [sic rigidly] adhered to, it is obvious that we must inevit-
ably perish. We therefore most earnestly entreat your Excellency, that you
wou’d be pleased to fall upon some Expedient; which may remove the Hor-
rors the people at present but too justly entertain of an impending Famine.
We are firmly persuaded that the Exigency of the Case and the peculiar
Hardships we labour under will fully justify in His Majesty’s Royal Breast
every lenient Measure which Your Excellency may think proper to adopt
for this desirable purpose, and therefore once more take the Liberty of re-
peating our Wishes that your Excellency wou’d be so good as to consider se-
riously the Distresses of the Inhabitants of this little Country and at the
same time kindly grant them every Indulgence and Relief in Your Excellen-
cy’s Power. -
By Order of the Board
September 3d 1776. - George Forbes, President -
His Excellency was pleased to Acquaint the Board that he would do every
Service to the Country that [lay] in his power Consistent with his duty to
His Majesty and supremacy of the British Empire, and Agreeable to His In-
structions. — His Excellency then laid before the Council an Instruction to-
gether with a Form of Lycence he lately received from the Right Honorable
Lord George Germain directed to be granted for fetching of provisions. —
The Board then Adjourned. —
1. Proceedings of the Governor’s Council, 300-02, Bda. Arch.
Marquis de la Torre to Jose de Galvez1
No. 1207
Most Illustrious Sir:
On August 23 there sailed into this port the mail frigate Patagon, which
left La Coruna at the beginning of July. Its Captain, Don Josef Teodoro
Perez, told me that on the night of August 19th, about ten-thirty, he encoun-
tered a British warship near the point called Hicacos on the coast of this is-
land, which, after inquiring if it was a Spanish mail ship, ordered it to haul
sail and stay within reach of its guns until daybreak. Not wishing to obey
this order, the Britisher let go a cannonade of five shots which did some
damage to the sails. Ceding, therefore, to force, he shortened sail and sailed
under convoy of the British warship heading for this port until daybreak.
Having then unfurled the Royal standard and answered questions as to
whether it had encountered any ships, he was allowed to continue on his
course. This tale of the Captain is supported by the declarations I took
down and the original of which were sent to the Marquis of Grimaldi, since
the event verified affects a ship of the Mail Service.
The British frigate in question is undoubtedly the one called Diligence , com-
manded by Thomas Davees [Davey], which has been on a cruise off these
SEPTEMBER 1776
671
coasts against shipping belonging to the Colonists of North America; the
same that on the 14th and 15th of August anchored off the mouth of the
harbor so as to take on water as informed in my letter of yesterday to Your
Excellency.2 [8cc.]
Havana, 3 September 1776
»>
Marquis de la Torre
1. AGI., Audiencia de Santo Domingo, Legajo 80-1-10, LC Transcript.
2. Ibid., in addition to water, Captain Davey requested that crew members from the captured
Jamaicamen Lady Juliana, Juno and Reynolds be turned over to him. However, the
men had already left Havana for Europe and Jamaica.
Vice Admiral Clark Gayton to Philip Stephens1
Sir Antelope Jamaica September 3rd 1776
I have the pleasure to inform their Lordships, that since my letter of
the 5th of last Month, Martial Law has been taken off, and that Peace &
Tranquility is again restor’d to the Inhabitants, and beg leave to inclose for
their information a Copy of a Letter I receiv’d from the Governor on that
Subject.
I likewise beg leave to acquaint them that His Majestys Ship Winchel-
sea Captain [Nathaniel] Bateman arriv’d the 28th of August, by whom I
receiv’d their directions to Careen & refit such of Lord Howe’s Squadron as
his Lordship might think proper to send, their order with the Kings In-
structions respecting such Captures as should be made in consequence of
the late Act for prohibiting all Trade & Commerce, with the Rebellious Col-
onies & your several letters of the 20th 22nd & 23rd of May, with their In-
closures, all which I shall pay due attention to, and beg leave to acquaint
their Lordships, that I’ve always been very Circumspect in the orders which
I have given my Cruizers, respecting the French Islands to prevent giving
any umbrage to that Nation.
A few days before the arrival of the Winchelsea I receiv’d by the Pac-
quet their Lordships order for augmenting the Complements of His Majes-
tys Ships under my Command and your several Letters of the 4th 5th & 7th
June, acknowledging the receipt of mine of the 31 March last and beg leave
to inform them that as the Atalanta was omitt’d in the List of Ships to have
their Complements encreas’d, thinking it must have been some Mistake I
have order’d Captain [Thomas] Lloyd to Compleat to 125 Men, which I hope
will meet with their Lordships approbation.
I am happy they approve of the reasons which I have assign’d for pur-
chasing the Lady Keith Schooner (which I have consider’d; as one of the
Four, since order’d to be purchas’d) and am extreemly oblig’d to their
Lordships for complying with my request in confirming the order which I
gave Mr Frans L’Montais to be Lieutenant of her
Having no Money Imprest against me, on my leaving England for Con-
tingent Charges, was the reason of my ordering the Naval Storekeeper to
pay the Attorneys Bill, for defending the several Actions brought against
me for the Detention of the American Vessels 8c their Crews but will draw
672
AMERICAN THEATRE
on the Navy Board for Five Hundred pounds Sterling to defray those Exp-
ences in future and shall account for the same in my Contingent Account
agreeable to their Lordships directions, which I hope they will approve.
I likewise beg leave to acquaint them; that by the Addition of my
Squadron and those expected from North America to Careen 8c refit, I have
found it necessary for the forwarding the Service to purchase a Watering
Sloop, as it [is] attend’d with many ill conveniences and bad consequences,
watering with the Ships Boats, particularly to the small Arm d Vessels 8c
twenty Gun Ships, the Watering Place being near Ten Miles from Port
Royal which Subjects the People, to be exposed to the extreem heat of the
Sun in the Day, or to the Dews in the Night, both of which I am confident
are very prejudicial to the Health of the Seamen, I have therefore order d
the Naval Storekeeper to purchase one of the Prize Sloops for £130 Curry
(equal to £93 Stg) for this Service which I hope their Lordships will ap-
prove
The Inclos’d Account of Sir Peter Parkers attack on Chas Town I got
from the Master of a Sloop, who was present, at the Action, which I am to
much afraid may be depend’d on, as he is the Man, who escap’d with the
Kings Powder from [New] Providence 8c has always been firmly attach’d
to Government
With regard to the Disposition of His Majestys Ships 8c Vessels under
my Command, I beg leave to inform their Lordships that the Antelope }
Winchelsea 8c Atalanta are at Port Royal, the Winchelsea I shall send to
Cruize after the Americans, as soon as she has got a new Bowspreet, having
Sprung her old one upon the Passage out, the Atalanta I shall send to Con-
voy the Pacquet through the Windward Passage, then to Cruize to intercept
the North Americans and on her return shall Careen 8c send her to Pensa-
cola; to relieve the Diligence , who is exceeding bad.
The Squirrel 8c Porcupine Schooner are Sail’d on a Cruize for the
Windward Passage to Intercept some North American Privateers which I
had receiv’d information of, and to remain on that Service til the Middle of
October — The Racehorse; I expect in a few days from the North Side,
where she has been Station’d for some time past, in consequence of the late
intend’d Insurrection, on her arrival I shall order her to Compleat her Pro-
visions 8c send her to Sea, the Badger is to remain Fourteen days longer, &
if every thing then remains quiet to return to Port Royal — The Boreas has
been spoke with on the Coast of America, so I hope she’ll soon Join me
again & the Maidstone sailed with the Convoy in July 8c is to return to Ja-
maica, with all possible dispatch on leaving them I am, with great respect
Sir [Sec.]
Clark Gayton
1. PRO, Admiralty 1/240.
SEPTEMBER 1776
673
Vice Admiral Clark Gayton to Philip Stephens1
Sir Antelope Jamaica September 3rd 1776
I beg leave to lay before their Lordships the Situation, we are in for
want of Stores particularly Masts and Bowspreets, those that are in Store
being entirely decay’d. the Squirrel after her late Cruize; came in with
her Fore Mast Sprung & before she could get another, was oblig’d to take
out three Sticks, two of which in Working prov’d to be decay’d, the Win-
chelsea has likewise had the Misfortune to spring her Bowspreet, & her
People has been Employ’d for this three days past, overhauling the Stores;
for a Stick to make a new one, but as yet cannot meet with any, but what
are decay’d to the very Heart -
I have the same Complaint of the Cordage from the Captains of His
Majestys Ships under my Command who all assure me, tis dry Rotten, be-
fore tis Issu’d, indeed I have one instance of it myself, in regard to some
New Careening Gear which I order’d to be fitt’d, and the first Ship that
hove down by it (which was the Antelope) as soon as she came Keel out,
Four of the Outrigger Pendants, out of the Five; gave way all together, but
happily it was attend’d with no bad consequences
As their Lordships inform me I am to expect some of Lord Howes
Squadron to Careen & Refit, I must beg they will be pleas’d to direct the
Navy Board to send a supply of Stores, particularly Masts & Bowspreets,
there not being a Sufficiency of those Stores for my own Squadron I am
with great Respect Sir [&c.]
Clark Gayton
[Endorsed] 3 Jany [1777] send a Copy hereof to the Navy Board for their
information and recommend to them to cause supplies of Stores to be sent
out from time to time, that the ships on the station may be in constant read-
iness for Service and to be particularly carefull that the Stores they do send
are of good Quality, & fit for the use to which they are applicable.
1. PRO, Admiralty 1/240.
4 Sept.
Journal of H.M.S. Liverpool , Captain Henry Bellew1
Septr 1776 Cape Ann NWi/2N 4 Lgs
Wednesday 4 at i/2 past 6 AM gave chace to a sail— at 8 AM shortned Sail
and brot too found the chace to be HM ship Milford and
3 Prizes, empd getting the guns on bd from out of our
Prize2 the Milford gave chace to a Sail N Wd
1. PRO, Admiralty 51/ 548.
2. Washington’s schooner Warren, taken August 26, 1776.
674
AMERICAN THEATRE
Petition for Commission for Benjamin Warren as Commander
of the Massachusetts Privateer Sloop Revenge 1
To the Hon[o]rable the Council of the State of
Massachusetts-Bay in New England.
The Petition of Elias Hasket Derby, Miles Greenwood and Joseph
White, all of Salem in the County of Essex and State aforesaid. -
Humbly Sheweth
That your Petitioners are now fitting out, and have almost compleated
for Sea, a Private Sloop of War called the Revenge of Ninety Tons burthen,
to be mounted with twelve Guns from four to Six pounders, owned by the
Subscribers, and whereof Benjamin Warren is intended to be Master; to be
maned by eighty men, to be victualled with thirty Barrels of Pork, fivety
Barrels of Beef and Seventy Barrels of Bread; and to be provided with
eight hundred pound weight of Powder and one thousand Shot—
Your Petitioners’s humble Prayer therefore is, that the beforenamed
Benjamin Warren may be commissionated Captain of the said Private
Sloop of War Revenge , & your Petitioners as in duty bound shall ever
pray.
Elias Hasket Derby Miles Greenwood Joseph White
Salem September 4th 1776
[Endorsed] In Council [Watertown] Sept 4th 1776 Read & Ordered that
the Prayer of the within Petition be granted and that a Comission be issued
to the within mentioned Benjn Warren, he complying with the Resolves of
Congress - 2
Samuel Adams Secry
1. Mass. Arch., vol. 165, 208, 208a.
2. Ibid., 210, 210a, commission was also issued this date to Nathaniel Freeman to command the
privateer sloop Wolfe.
Order of Massachusetts Council Commissioning the Officers of the
State Sloop Freedom1
Return of Officers on Board the Armed Sloop called the Freedom where-
of John Clouston is Comander
John Clouston Capt
James Scott Is [t] Lieutt
Timothy Tobey 2d Do
In Council [Watertown] Sept 4[th] 1776 Read & Ordered that the
above Officers be comissionated agreeable to their respective Ranks —
Samuel Adams Secry
1. Mass. Arch., vol. 165, 208a.
Dear sir
Thomas Cushing to John Hancock1
Boston September the 4. 1776
Mr William Bant Informed me that you directed him to pay into my
hands such monies as he had from time to time occasion to remit to Phila-
SEPTEMBER 1776
675
delphia upon your Account, and to take Bills for the same upon
yourself, he has accordingly paid me One Thousand Dollars for which
have given him a Bill, which I hope will be Agreable: I forgot to mention
in my last that Capt Manly sett out for Philadelphia on the 31st Ultimo, he
is quite tired of waiting for the Guns 8c goes either to get discharged from
the service or to bring the Guns with him, he goes also with a view, I sup-
pose, of prosecuting an Appeal to Congress with respect to the determina-
tion of the Maritime Court of New hampshire relative to a Vessell 8c Cargo
he took some time since 8c carried in there2 — I wish he may succeed with re-
spect to procuring the Guns— The Vessells might have cleared themselves by
this time if they had been furnished with Guns but the want of them re-
tards every thing, It will be impossible to fix off 8c Man the Ships till they
are obtained— 1 remain with great respect [8cc.]
Thomas Cushing
P S. Mr Langdon tell me he is Appoint Agent for the Continental
Ships, it was thought but reasonable as he had the Trouble of building one
of them.— I do not find I am as yet noticed in this way, I think I ought to be
for the same reason
1. Conarroe Papers, HSP.
2. The brig Elizabeth.
Petition of Thomas Cragg to the Massachusetts Council1
State of the
Massachusetts Bay
To the Honble the General Court of the said State -
The Petition of Thomas Cragg humbly Shews— that your Petitioner
being part owner of the Ship Isaac 8c her Cargo was on a Voyage in said
Ship from the Island of Tortola bound to Liverpool in England, to visit his
Family 8c attend to his private concerns, that in prosecuting said Voyage he
was taken 8c brought into this State2— this unexpected Event has thrown
your Petitioner into the most distressed 8c pitiable Circumstances— a prin-
cipal part of his Fortune is taken out of his hands, and what remains, must
suffer inevitable ruin from his absence in a short time— he has a Wife,
Children 8c a large Family who cannot long subsist without his support, 8c
himself tho’ unused to want the Conveniencies of Life, must soon experience
the wretchedness of extream poverty— your Petitioner begs leave to declare
that he has never taken an active part in the unhappy Controvery between
Great Britain & America, 8c from his Age 8c standing in Life, it necessarily
follows that he never will; he therefore humbly prays your Honors to take
his unhappy case into your consideration and grant him 8c one Servant Lib-
erty to take passage for some part of England in the Ship owned by
Mr William Ross and by your Honors permission bound for some part of
England,3 or grant him such other relief as your Honors well known Wisdom
and Humanity may point out, and your Petitioner as in duty bound shall
ever pray.
Thos Cragg
676
AMERICAN THEATRE
Boston Sept 4th 1776
[Endorsed] In Council [Watertown] Sept6[th] 1776
Read & Ordered That the Prayer of this Petition be Granted and that
the Said Thomas Cragg with one Servant be permitted to depart from this
State to any part of Great Brittain in such Vessell as Willm Ross and Nathl
Morgan, (who lately had Liberty obtained to depart) may purchase for that
Purpose4
Jn° Avery Dpy Secy
1. Mass. Arch., vol. 165, 212-13.
2. The Isaac was taken by the Massachusetts privateer sloop Warren, Captain John Phillips,
and was libeled against in the Admiralty Court of the Massachusetts Middle District on
August 29, for trial on September 17, Neiu-Engla?2d Chronicle, August 29, 1776.
3. William Ross and Nathaniel Morgan, passengers on the ship Zachariah Bayley, were taken by
the Massachusetts privateer sloop Yankee, Captain Henry Johnson. Ross and Morgan
purchased a ship for the return to England, but had difficulty obtaining ballast for her.
Mass. Arch., vol. 19, 208-11.
4. Master and passengers of prize ship Nancy also requested and received permission to go
with Ross and Morgan, Mass. Arch., vol. 165, 218-21.
Journal of the Massachusetts Sloop Tyrannicide , Captain John Fisk1
Remks on Wedensday 4th of Septr 1776
1 [A. M.] Very unsettled weather
N B. the under Mentioned snow hoisted a Seete of Inglish
Coulers we take her to be a British snow of warr
At 6 A m saw a sail barring NNW Gave chaise
she bore away form us
at 10 found her to be a learge snow full of men and Armed we
bore away made sail she Gave us Chaise we out saild her
small Air winds -
Lattd in 40° . . 00' Longd in 65° . . 10r
1 [P. M.] Moderate breaze & fair weather
the snow in Chaise of us
8 [P. M.] Took in sail lost sight of the snow & stood to the westward
1. John Fisk Journal, AAS.
Condemnation in Rhode Island Maritime Court of
the Prize Ship Star and Garter 1
[Providence, September 4, 1776] 2
We find that on the Twenty fifth Day of July AD: 1776, the Ship called
the Star and Garter , with her Appurtenances and Cargo, being upon the
High Seas and bound from the English Island of St Christophers in the
West Indies, to the Port of London in the Kingdom of Great Britain, were
then captured and taken, by William Chace Commander, his Officers and
men, belonging to the private Sloop of War, called the Diamond ;3 and that
afterwards, on or about the Thirteenth Day of August AD: 1776, the said
SEPTEMBER 1776
677
Ship, her Appurtenances and Cargo, were brought into the Port of Provid-
ence, in the State of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations: And we also
find that at and before the abovesaid Time of Capture, the said Ship Star
and Garter, her Appurtenances and Cargo, belonged to, and were the Prop-
erty of some of the Inhabitants of Great Britain, or some of the Inhabitants
of said Island of St Christophers, Subjects of the King of Great Britain, and
were carrying Supplies to Great Britain, whose Fleets and Armies, are now
acting against the united States of America.—
Elias Callender Samuel Howard
Samuel Ulrich junr John Warner
Samuel Gruff Joseph Olney
John Colwell Jur Obadiah Sprague
James Brath John Carpentor
John Phillaplace John Updike
1. Admiralty Papers, vol. 9, R. I. Arch.
2. Ibid., the verdict is without date, but the trial was held and condemnation given on Sep-
tember 4, according to the protest the next day of the master of the Star and Garter.
3. See Volume 5, 1221-22.
Connecticut Journal, Wednesday, September 4, 1776
New Haven, September 4.
Capt Redfield of Killingworth, on his Return from New York, was
taken by one of the Frigates, who burnt his Vessel, and after detaining him
a few Days, he was dismissed. There was another Person in the Vessel,
whom they detained.
“Papers of Vanzandt Remsen & Pintard relating
to the Sloop Nancey ”1
New York Sept 4 [1776]
of the State of New York
[Jacobu] s Van Zandt Lewis Pintard & Co agents
[New York Pro] vincial Congress vizt
[The sloop N]ancey, John Harrison Mastr which said Sloop w[as]
order of the Provincial Congress, from Joseph Hallet 8c Co to Bour-
deaux, and to return the said Sloop— in any po[rt] [or harbor], between
Cape Henlopen and Roade Island, This [sloop procee]ded to Bourdeaux,
and their compleated her loading, with [powder] 8cc for the use of the
State, But on her return to [America] The Captain for prundential Motives—
proceeded [with] Sloop and Cargo to St Eustatious— ware on his arivel [he
had intelligence, that our Coast was Crowded with Men [of war] [and
P]riveteers, for which reason, and for the Safety of the Cargo [decided]
to Reship, the said Sloop Nancy Cargo, in Two Armed [vessels] to the
Continent, ware th[e]y safely Arived— and [placed the] powder 8cc— in
the hands of the Provincial Congress, [and left the] Sloop in the hands of
678
AMERICAN THEATRE
Messrs Thomas 8c Ashburne [at St Eus] tatious, which Vessell Thomas 8c
Ashburne has dispoused [of by] Orders - and remited to Grant 8c Fine the
proceeds, [which they] receaved — as pr Acct at foot —
1. NYSL.
Lord Dunmore to Lord George Germain1
Ship Dunmore off New York
September 4th 1776. —
(No 5)
My Lord
Since my Arrival here I have received your Lordships Letter of the
21st of May and am sorry to find that the Duke of Cumberland Packet Boat,
with the dispatches were lost, tho’ I am afraid your Lordship would have
found but little information that would have been agreeable to you, one
reason why I am sorry they did not get safe is, that mine contained origi-
nals of Intercepted Letters that would have gone far to have Warranted the
securing the bearers of them, those were chiefly French, which it was not in
my power from the shortness of the time from their being intercepted and
the Sailing of the Packet to have Copied; of the others I have already sent
you Duplicates, and now Triplicates.
It becomes Necessary now that I should give your Lordship my reasons
for being here, they are few, but I hope your Lordship will think them con-
clusive; first the impracticability of Watring, our Numbers being reduced
to one hundred and eight Men capable of doing duty, and those decreasing
every day. The last time we were on Shore (as your Lordship will have seen
by No 4) we were opposed by above three times our Number, and that we
were sure to meet with wherever we went. Secondly our sickly State, yet I
cannot say our Sick List increased much in Numbers, as there were as
many died, almost as there were added to it, in short, there was not a Ship
in the fleet that did not throw one, two, three or more dead over board every
Night, the Roebuck I will venture to say is as well regulated, and as clean a
Ship as any in the Navy, had Seventy five on her Sick list, and so in propor-
tion had every other Ship; Captn Hamond and myself, finding it absolutely
requisite to go to Sea immediately, as the only chance of recovering the sick,
and saving those that were well; And being at Sea, and knowing this to be
the place of rendezvous, for both Fleet and Army, We both thought it best
to run in here; Where we would have an opportunity of giving the General
and Admiral every information that came within our knowledge, relative to
the State of the Southern Colonies, and our own Situation, and at the same
time to procure some Aid; tho’ both General and Admiral approve very
much of our conduct, yet they seem very unwilling to part with any of their
force at present, indeed it is hardly to be wished, till the fate of New York
is determined, when I hope, if they are able to spare us any assistance they
will; Sure I am returning to Virginia without, can Answer no good end to
His Majesty’s Service, but on the contrary would be giving fresh vigour,
and Spirits to the Rebels, who would have it in their power to drive us from
every spot whence we might endeavour to Land for Water, and if we run up
SEPTEMBER 1776
679
any of the Rivers for Water they are thence so Narrow, that the Rebels may
Annoy a Ship from either side with Cannon with impunity.
I have offered my services here in the mean time to General Howe, and
shall be happy if I can be of use.
I have now only to Congratulate your Lordship on the Success of His
Majesty’s Arms on the 26th Ultimo: I was with the Highlanders and
Hessians the whole day, and it is with the utmost pleasure I can assure your
Lordship that the Ardour of both these Corps on that day must have ex-
ceeded His Majesty’s most sanguine wish, and I am well convinced from
every thing I have heard, that the fervour of the rest of the Army was in no
ways inferior to those I have just now mentioned, but of which I was not an
Eye Witness. I am My Lord [8cc.]
Dunmore
[Endorsed] R 10th Octobr
1. PRO, Colonial Office, 5/1353.
Diary of Frederick Mackenzie 1
[Long Island] 4th Sept 1776 The Rebels fired a good deal at the Rose,
yesterday and this day, but as she lies under Blackwell’s Island, in such a
manner that her Hull is not seen by their batteries, they can do her no great
damage with Cannon Shot. This day they threw several Shells over the Is-
land at her, but without effect. She lies however in a dangerous situation.
Most of the Ships of War and Transports came up yesterday from
Gravesend Bay and Staten Island, and anchored between Red-hook and
Governor’s Island.
The Niger and Brune Frigates and the Halifax armed Brig, are in the
Sound, between Flushing and Whitestone.
1. Diary of Frederick Mackenzie (Cambridge, 1930), I, 37. Hereafter cited as Mackenzie’s Diary.
Diary of Lieutenant Jabez Fitch1
[On board the Prison Ship Lord Rockford']
Wednesd: the 4th: [September] I arose very Early in the Morning, 8c
walk’d the Deck for some Time, while the Ship was somewhat Still; Some
Time in the Morning the Commasary (Mr: [Joshua] Loring) came on
Board again, but made but a very short Stay; At about 9 oClock Col:
[James] Piper Capt: [Joseph] Howel Lt: [Thomas] Fanning 8c my self,
went with Capt: Lambert on board the Snow Menter, where our other
Officers are Confin’d, here I staid some Time 8c found most of the Officers of
our Regt: . . . While I was on Board the Snow, the People gave me some
Apples which were very agreable, alth’o pretty hard; Col: [Samuel]
Miles 8c Col: [Joel] Clark came back with us to the Lord Rockford, where
he Treated us with two Bottles of Porter, the first Drink of any thing better
than Water since we had been Prisoners, which is now 8 Days; Just be-
fore we came back, Mr: Dowdswell (the Offr: of the Marines) had Reed:
680
AMERICAN THEATRE
Orders to Enlist such Prisoners as were Dispos’d to Engage in their
Service; I was soon after Inform’d that he had Considrable
Suckcess; . . . About this Time our Prisoners on shore, were Bro’t on
Board of another Ship Laying in the Bay; The Night following, we again
Lodg’d on the Quarter Deck, where I Rested Considrably Comfortably.
1. Sabine, ed., Fitch's Diary, 39.
Journal of H.M.S. Galatea, Captain Thomas Jordan1
Septr 1776 Sandy Hook N67.15W 110 Leagues
Wednesday 4th at 4 AM Wore Ship
Modt 8c Cloudy Wr Saw a Sail to the NW gave Chace
at i/2 pt. 5 P M Fired [a] Shot and brot too the Ship Hope
from St Vincents bound to London that had been taken by
the Spy privateer of New London2
1. PRO, Admiralty 51/ 380.
2. The Connecticut state schooner Spy, Captain Robert Niles.
Lieutenant Thomas Quigley to Thomas Randall1
On Board the [ General ] Putnam, Cranbery Inlet the 4th of Sept 1776
Sir: I am sorry to inform you that there is a great disturbance in the Ves-
sel which made its appearance During my absence, and Capt [Thomas]
Cregier went away without informing me of it. They I understand had told
him they were determined not to sail under his Command, and requested
that they might be permitted to Petition the Congress for a Discharge from
the Vessel, on acct of his bad conduct which he did not grant. On my re-
questing to way the anchor in order to go out, they one and all aquainted me
it was their Determined Resolution never to act in the Schooner while he
had the Command of her, upon which I have thought fit to grant them the
liberty to Petition and send it by the bearer of this Letter, as I imagine that
the Capt will not inform you of these Disturbances, have thought to ac-
quaint you in this manner and as he is not Expected back under Eight or
ten Days should be glad you would write me as soon as possible and let me
know in what manner you think it most prudent for me to act. Your Com-
pliance will much oblige your Humble Servt
Thomas Quigley,
Thomas Randall, Esq. one of the Marine Committee, Elezth Town
1. Calendar of Historical Manuscripts relating to the War of the Revolution in the Office of the
Secretary of State, Albany, N.Y. (Albany, 1868) , I, 471-72. Hereafter cited as New York
Historical Manuscripts.
Crew of the Schooner General Putnam to the New York Convention 1
[Cranberry Inlet, September 4, 1776] 2
To the Honble the Congress of New York assembled at the White Plains in
the State of New York
SEPTEMBER 1776
681
The humble petition of us the Subscribers sheweth that we have been
four Months in the service of the American States on board the Schooner
Gent Putnam, during which time we have not been to sea but 11 Days all
the rest of the Time we have spent inactively at the Head of Inlets, five or
six Miles from the Mouths thereof from whence at any Emergency we could
not put out without great Difficulty, and often not at all. That we have sun-
dry Times Laid a week sometimes longer in an Inlet, and in one we have
laid at Anchor four or five Miles from the mouth a full Month without ever
attempting to go out or scarcely offering to send any Person to look out,
that numbers of vessels have pass’d and repass’d without our endeavouring
to speak them, notwithstanding it was the opinion of the officers we had
several opportunities verry favourable, that with our Commander Thomas
Cregier on board we have not been out of this Inlet in seven weeks.
That our sd Commander hath several Times insulted the officers when
they have candidly advised him and gave them to understand that their
business was only to answer a question when ask’d, and not attempt giving
advice, that in correcting People for slight or no offences, he hath used un-
lawfull weapons, once presenting a Pistol to the breast of one Burns, for
only requesting to know what his stated allowance was, and swearing by
God he would blow a Ball through him, at another time with a large hickory
club striking one Bell on the head and much wounding him for what in our
opinion scarcely appear’d a crime, that in no one thing has he complied with
the resolves of the Congress, His whole conduct being one series of Folly,
Vice and Inconsistencies, setting the most scandalous Examples to the Peo-
ple, swearing, Lying and frequenting the company of the most contemptible
of women, Presenting the Private Property of others to them, also at sun-
dry Times giving the Ships and Cabben stores away, we are sorry to have
occasion to Lay those charges against our Commander, but black as they
are they can be Proved, by the Journals of the officers, and the Evidence of
the most respectable persons in these Parts.
That by this Means he hath rendered himself Despicable to every man
on board, has greatly dissatisfied every friend of the cause, and become the
derision of its foes.
That we cannot with honor serve any longer under the Comand of the
said Thomas Cregier. that in our sincere oppinion (with him as our Com-
mander) we have not done the least service to our Country, and the season
of the year being so far advanced, we humbly conceive the vessel unfit to be
continued in the service, she being weakened and consequently would en-
danger our Lives in a gale of wind, besides she leaks so that not a man in
the Hold can Lay dry in the Cabbins, and at the same time that we solemnly
declare our ardent desire to Exert our utmost abilities in Defence of our
Distress’d Country, in any station where there is a probability of doing it;
and profess ourselves fully satisfied with the conduct of our Lieutenant, Mr.
[Thomas] Quigley, and the officers in general, and though we confess it
would be most agreeable to have a Discharge from this vessel, yet if your
Honourable House think proper to continue us therein (as long as the sea-
682
AMERICAN THEATRE
son will admit) under the command of Mr. Quigley or any other Person you
shall appoint, except the said Thomas Cregier, we shall cheerfully comply
— for we beg leave to assure you that we glory in yealding obedience to
your commands — but humbly request for the Honor Sc Interest of our
Country and ourselves that the said Thomas Cregier may be Cashiered, and
your Petitioners as in duty bound shall every pray
John James Boyd, Surgeon
George Shell, Gunner
John Thomas, Carpenter
John Trail, Boatswain
John Prichet
William Willosey
William Bell
William Radley, Cook
Thomas Still
Timothy Byrns
John Hardy
Henry Bassett
Thomas Shourds
Isaac Pritchet
Samuel Turner
Ezekeil Heazen
Morgan Lahy
John thayer
Nathanell Larance
Mack Donol
Josiah Davis, Steward
Benjamin Woodruff
1. New York Historical Manuscripts, I, 436-37.
2. Date and place established by Thomas Quigley’s letter of September 4, 1776.
Journal of the Continental Congress1
[Philadelphia] Wednesday, September 4, 1776
Resolved , That the proposal made by General Howe, as delivered by
General Sullivan, of exchanging General Sullivan and Lord Sterling for
General Prescot [Richard Prescott] and General M’Donald [Donald Mc-
Donald], be complied with.
Mr. J. Mease having, in consequence of the resolution of the 30th Au-
gust, made a report, that he cannot find there is any cloth in this city, fit for
making tents, except a parcel of light sail cloth, which is in the hands of the
Marine Committee: Whereupon,
Resolved , That the Marine Committee be directed to deliver to Mr. J.
Mease all the light sail cloth in their hands: And that Mr. Mease be directed
to have the same made into tents, as soon as possible, and forwarded to
General Washington:
1. Ford, ed., JCC, V, 734, 735.
John Adams to Dr. Samuel Cooper1
[Extract] Philadelphia Sept. 4. 1776
our Generals, I fear have made a Mistake in Retreating from long
Island. I fear they will retreat from the City of New York next. — These
are disagreeable Events. — I dont like these Measures. — I wish there was
more firmness — But let not these Things discourage, — if [illegible] get
Possession of New York, long Island, and Staten Island — these are more
Territory than their whole Army can defend. - this Year. — They must keep
SEPTEMBER 1776
683
their Force together. The instant they divide it they are ruined. — They
cannot march into the Country, for before they get Ten Miles into the Coun-
try they are surrounded or their Retreat cutt off. - They cannot go up the
North River to any purpose — because, a few Months, will make Ice in it in
which their Vessells cannot live. — They must keep the most of their Ships
in the Harbour of New York to defend their Army. — I sometimes think,
that Providence, against our own opinions and Inclinations has provided
better for Us in this Instance than our own Wisdom would have done—
that the Enemies Fleet and Army were kept from long Island, they must
and would have made an Effort elsewhere for Winter Quarters at Staten Is-
land they could not have wintered. — they must therefore have wintered at
Boston, Rhode Island, or have gone to the Southward to Virginia, one of the
Carolinas or Georgia, and either of these Cases would, perhaps have been
worse, for Us. - The Panick, which is Spread upon the occasion is weak
and unmanly — it excites my Shame, and Indignation. But it is moving off. —
If our whole Army had been cutt to Pieces it would have been shamefull
to have been so intimidated, as some are or pretend to be. - Congress I hope
will stand firm. -
1. Adams Papers, MassHS.
John Adams to Abigail Adams1
[Extract] [Philadelphia] Wednesday Septr. 4. 1776
... I am obliged to General [Benjamin] Lincoln for his Information,
concerning the Fortifications, which I hope will be effectually attended to,
as I am not clear, that Boston is yet Secure from Invasion.
I hope, the Disasters at Long Island, and New York will not dispirit
our People. The Ways of Providence are inscrutable. I have strong suspi-
cions that these Disasters have saved Boston from another Invasion, which
I think would have been attempted by the two gratefull Brothers, with their
whole Fleet and Army, if they had not obtained Long Island.
1. Butterfield, ed., Adams Family Correspondence , II, 117-18.
Advertisement for a Deserter from the Continental Frigate
Randolph 1
Thirty Shillings Reward.
Deserted from Capt. Samuel Shaw’s Company of Marines, belonging to one
of the Continental Frigates, Angus Cammeron, born in Ireland, about 5
feet, 8 or 9 inches high, dark complexion, with short black hair, curled be-
hind, a little pock marked, about 30 years of age; it is said he listed in Capt.
Craig’s company of Lancaster militia. Whoever apprehends said deserter,
and secures him in the city, shall have the above reward, and all reasonable
charges, paid by
1. Pennsylvania Gazette, September 4, 1776.
Franklin Reid, 1st Lieut.
684
AMERICAN THEATRE
Pennsylvania Journal , Wednesday, September 4, 1776
Philadelphia [September 4] .
Since our last arrived here between 30 and 40 inhabitants of this State,
who have been taken at different times by the English Pirates on our coast;
They were brought from the fleet at New-York on board the Orpheus , and
landed at Lewis-Town on Cape-Henlopen,
Captain John Paul Jones to the Continental Marine Committee 1
Providence , at Sea in No Latd 37°40' 8c
Wt Longitude 54° Sept. 4th 1776
Gentleman
I had the honour of writing to you the 27 Augt pr the Brigantine Brit-
tania which I sent in under the Care of Lt Wm Grinnell Since that I have
been to the Southward near the parallel of Bermuda 8c bro’t too four Sail of
French Spanish 8c Danish Ships homeward Bound but without gaining any
usefull Information. — on the first Currt. I fell in with a Fleet of five Sail
— one of them being very large it was the Genl opinion on board here that
she was either an Old Indiaman outward bound with Stores or a Jamaica
three Decker bound homeward we found her to be an English Frigate
mountg twenty Six Guns upon one Deck She Sailed fast 8c pursued us by
the Wind till after four hours Chace the Sea running very Cross She got
within Musquet Shot of[f] our Lee Quarter — as they had continued firing
at us from the first without Shewing Colours I now Ordered ours to be
hoisted 8c began to fire at them Upon this they also hoisted American Col-
ours and fired Guns to Leeward — but the bait would not take for having
every thing prepared I bore away before the Wind 8c set all our Light Sail
at Once so that before her Sails could be trimmed 8c Steering Sails set I
was almost out of reach of Grape 8c soon after out of reach of Cannon Shot.
— Our “Hairs breadth Scape” 8c the Saucy manner of making it must have
mortified him not a little had he forseen this motion 8c been prepared to
Counteract it he might have fired Several Broad Sides of Double Headed 8c
Grape Shot which would have done us very material Damage but he was a
bad marksman 8c tho’ within Pistol Shot did not touch the Providence with
one of the many Shot which he fir’d.
I met with no other Adventure till last night when I took the Bermuda
built Brigantine Sea-Nymph bound from Barbadoes for London with a Car-
goe of two hundred 8c twenty seven Hogshead’s 8c Eight barrels of Rum,
Five Hogsheads two Tierces 8c ten barrels of Sugar Six bags Ginger fourteen
Casks of oil 8c Twelve Pipes best particular London Market Madeira Wine—
The Brig is new 8c Sails very fast so that she is a pretty good prize. —
By the Master of the Brig 8c a Passenger I hear that the A Doria was off
Bermuda a few days Since also that Capt Weeks [Wickes] had an Action
with an English Sloop of War off Martinico 8c that our Side was victorious
8c drove the Englishman into Martinico —
SEPTEMBER 1776
685
I am now convinced that I am too late in the Season I will however
try my utmost ’tis not impossible that I may yet fall in with another
prize I did not expect to have found a Frigate Convoying two Ships a Brig
& a Sloop if the Store Ships come out all under Convoy my hopes of Suc-
cess from that Quarter must fall Short. - I have the honor to be with much
Esteem Sc Respect Gentlemen [&c.]
N
B the Brigt Sea Nymphs Crew
1 Francis Trimingham
2 William Lovil
3 Wm Johnson
4 John Hardy
5 Jamie
6 Anthony
7 Peter
8 Will
9 Davie
Sc Mr Sami Scott Mercht. of
are as follows Vizt
Master
Mate
Sailor
do
Negro — Sailors
London Passenger
Jno P Jones
1. Papers CC (Letters of John Hancock, and Miscellaneous Papers) , 58, 81-82, NA.
Captain John Paul Jones to Robert Morris1
Honoured Sir Providence at Sea 4th Septr 1776.
I herewith inclose for your inspection all the letters and Papers which
I found in the Brigantine Sea Nymph — for the Particulars of my Cruise
hitherto I must beg leave to refer You to the within Open letter to the Ma-
rine Board which please to lay before them — I purpose to Stand to the
Southward in hopes of falling in with some Ships which I understand are
now on their Passage from Barbados - but at this late Season my Success is
very Uncertain — I will, however, Ply about in this Meridian as long as I
think I have any chance and if I fail at last I can run to the Northward and
try for better Success among the Fishermen which may Answer no bad
Purpose by increasing the Number of our Seamen. — however my cruise
may terminate I forget not the Singular Obligation I owe to Mr Morris who
Promoted it for my honour and Advantage Sc I esteem the Honour done me
by his accepting my Correspondence as the greatest favour I could have
Aspired to — I conclude that Mr [Joseph] Hewes hath Acquainted you
with a very great Misfortune which befel me Some Years ago and which
brought me into No America — I am under no concern however that this or
any Past Circumstance of my life will Sink me in your Opinion Since
human Wisdom cannot Secure us from Accidents it is the greatest effort of
Reason to bear them Well. — I will from time to time carefully communi-
cate to you every intelligence in my Power — and “As the regulations of the
Navy,” he says, “are of the Utmost Consequence You will not think it
Presumption if with the Utmost diffidence I Venture to communicate to
you Such hints as in my Judgement will Promote it’s Honour and Good gov-
686
AMERICAN THEATRE
ernment. - I could heartily wish that every Commiss[ioned] Officer were
to be Previously examined, - for, to my certain knowledge, there are Per-
sons who have Already except into Commission without Abilities or fit
Qualification: I am myself far from deserving to be excused. - from my
experience in Ours as well as from my former intimacy with many Officers
of Note in the British Navy, I am convinced that the Parity of Rank be-
tween Sea Sc land or Marine Officers, is of more consequence to the harmony
of the Service, than hath generally been imagined. — in the British Estab-
lishment - an Admiral ranks with a Genl a Vice Admiral with a Lieut Genl
a Rear Admiral with a Major Genl a Commodore with a Brigadier Genl —
a Captain with a Colonel, a master»8c Commander with a Lieut Col[o]nel
— a Lieut. Commanding with a Major, and a Lieutenant in the Navy Ranks
with a Captain of Horse, Foot or Marines. — I propose not our Enemies as
an Example for our Genl imitation — Yet as their Navy is the best regu-
lated of any in the World, we must in Some degree imitate them and Aim at
such further improvement as may one day make ours Vie with and Exceed
theirs. — Were this Regulation to take Place in our Navy it would Prevent
numberless disputes and deuelings with otherwise will be Unavoidable.” —
besides Sir, you know very well that Marine Officers being Utterly Unac-
quainted with Maritime Affairs — are in those Cases unfit Persons to Pre-
side at or Compose half the number of a Court Martial. — I beg Pardon for
the liberty — I thought that Such hints might escape Your Memory in the
Multiplicity of Business. — I have Always Understood that the Sentince
of a Court Martial when Confirmed by a Commander in Chief was definitive
and Admitted of no Appeal — to Prove this I must again recur to English
authority in the Case of Lord Geo. G. Sackville who for disobeying the Or-
ders of Prince Ferdinand at the Battle of Mindan was by a Court Martial
held at the Horse Guards Rendered incapable of Serving Afterwards in any
Military Capacity — Altho’ his great Abilities were then well known and
are Generally acknowledged at this day — I am led into this Subject by
hearing with Astonishment the Application and Complaint of the late
Captn [John] Hazard to the Marine Board after he had been found “Un-
worthy of Bearing his Commission in the Navy” by the Undivided Voice of
a Court Martial where I had the honour to Sit as a Member.
If he was then Unworthy of bearing his Commission I cannot see
what new Merit he can have acquired — and even if he had merit it would
not be Sound Policy to reverse the Sentence — it would make Officers Stand
less in Awe and attend less Punctually to their duty — and it is not Impos-
sible that it might Induce future Court Martials in some Cases to inflict
Personal Punishment from whence there is no Appeal.
There was a Mistake made in the date of my Commission which Un-
less you Stand my Friend will make a material difference when the Navy
Rank is Settled — I took Command here the Tenth day of May as
appears the Order and Appointment of the Commr in Chief on the Back
of my Commission as Eldest Lieutenant of the Fleet, and my Commission as
Captain is not dated ‘till the Eight day of August — which you know is not
SEPTEMBER 1776
687
fair as it would Subject me to be Superseded by Captain Robeson [Isaiah
Robinson] who was at first my Junior Officer by Six — Perhaps it might
Subject me to be Superseded by Others. — If I have deserved so ill as to be
Superseded I am Unworthy of bearing my Commission. — I esteem it a
greater disgrace and Severer Punishment than to be fairly broke and dis-
miss’d the Service. — I have ordered Mr [William] Hopkins the Prize
Master to deliver You a Turtle which Please to Accept — I have the Hon-
our to be with Grateful Esteem and much respect [Sec.]
JPJ2
1. Papers of John Paul Jones, 6489-6490, LC.
2. Captain Jones had a busy pen on September 4. He also wrote a letter to Esek Hopkins
(filled with flattery for the Commodore) similar in content to those written to the Marine
Committee and Robert Morris. Naval History Society Collection, NYHS.
Journal of H.M.S. Active , Captain Anthony Hunt1
Septemr 1776 Charles Town Lighthouse Wt 7 Leagues
Wednesday 4th at 1 1 took the Rutledge Schooner, laden with Rice and
Indigo. Dispatched the prise to Cape Fear.
1. PRO, Admiralty 51/5.
Minutes of the Royal Council of West Florida1
[Extract]
At a Council, held at His Excellency the Governor’s
House in Pensacola the 4th September 1776.
His Excellency Acquainted the Board that he had called them together
in Consequence of different Intelligences Communicated to him by the Su-
perintendant of Indian Affairs respecting the designs of the Rebels to at-
tack this Colony and at this Critical Situation of Affairs he wished to have
all the assistance and advice of His Majestys Servants. . . .
It also appearing to the Board that there is reason to apprehend the
Rebels have designs against Mobile — They therefore recommend that the
Engineer form an Estimate of the Expence Necessary to be incurred by
temporary repairs to secure that Post in case of any Attack upon it and Re-
port the same as soon as he can to this Board.
His Excellency also laid before the Board a Letter which [he] had re-
ceived from Lieut Charles Cobb commanding His Majesty’s Armed Sloop
[West] Florida in this Harbour. . .2
Upon which it was recommended by the Board that His Excellency do
request Lieut Cobb at this Critical Juncture of Affairs to give Orders that
the West Florida armed Sloop (sent down with an intent to be of Service to
the Province) may remain here untill the Arrival of Capt Davey in the Dili-
gence - who is hourly expected or some other of His Majestys Ships —
And they farther recommend that His Excellency also apply to Lieut
Cobb to give the proper Orders that the West Florida afford what assist-
ance she can to the works to be carried on for the Security and defence of
SEPTEMBER 1776
689
this place and more particularly in bringing up a quantity of timber now
laying at the Red Cliffs Rose Island and Tartar point which will be wanted
for that purpose
The Board also think it their indispensible duty to mention that as His
Excellency is acquainted by a Letter from Lord George Germain — that His
Majesty has thought fit to give orders to Sir Basil Keith and Admiral Gay-
ton for the protection and Security of this Province in any Event which
may happen in the present State of Rebellion in North America —
They therefore think it highly proper to recommend that His Excel-
lency the Governor do desire Lieut Cobb to hold himself in readiness imme-
diately to proceed to Jamaica in the Armed Sloop [West] Florida with dis-
patches from His Excellency to Sir Basil Keith and rear Admiral Gayton
representing the alarming Situation we are at present in - and require that
all the assistance which they can afford us may be immediately sent down
for the Relief and protection of this Province — And then the Board were
adjourned till tomorrow morning —
1. PRO, Colonial Office, 5/634, Part II, 371-72, 377-78, 378-79, LC Photocopy.
2. See Lieutenant Cobb’s letter to Governor Peter Chester, September 2, 1776.
5 Sept.
Journal of the New Hampshire House of Representatives1
[Exeter] Septr 5th 1776,
Whereas the American Congress have lately extended their Former
Resolutions relating to ships Sc other vessells, their Tackle, apparel and
Furniture and all goods, Wares Sc merchandise belonging to any Inhabitant
or Inhabitants of Great Britain taken upon the High Seas or between high
Sc low water mark; To all ships and other Vessells, their Tackle, apparel
and Furniture, and all goods Wares Sc Merchandise belonging to any subject
or subjects of the King of Great Britain, Except the Inhabitants of the Ber-
mudas and [New] Providence or the Bahama Islands: In order to carry
into effect the Resolutions of said Congress touching the above matters ac-
cording to the Design and Intent thereof;
Be it Resolved, and it is hereby Resolved by the Council and house of
Representatives for said Colony, That the Judge of the Court Maritime for
this Colony for the time being, is hereby fully Sc amply Impowered to hear
Try, adjudge Sc Determine the Justice of any Capture or Captures of any
ships or other vessell, their Tackle, Apparell Sc Furniture, and of all goods,
Wares Sc Merchandize belonging to any subject or subjects of the said King,
Except as before excepted, that have been or shall be taken and brought
into any Port or place within this Colony; And if upon Trial of such Cap-
ture or Captures it shall be found that the ships or other vessells and goods,
Wares Sc Merchandise so taken Sc brought in, belong to any of the subjects
aforesaid, Except as before excepted, Then the said Judge shall and may
690
AMERICAN THEATRE
Proceed to condemn Sc Distribute the Same, as the Law of said Colony Sc
Resolutions of said Congress shall direct. Sent up by the Clerk. [Con-
curred.]
1. Bouton, ed., Documents and Records of New Hampshire , VIII, 346.
Master’s Log of H.M.S. Milford 1
Septr 1776 Do [Cape Ann] NW 7 Leagues.
Wednesdy 4 at 5 AM saw a Ship Sc Schooner to the So ward, made Sail and
gave Chace, the Chace standing towards us Barricaded Sc
Clear’d Ship for Action at 8 spoke the Chace proved to be
His Majs Ship Liverpool Sc her Prize Brot too Maintopsl to
the Mast and Hoisted out the Cutter at 1 1 saw a Sail in the
N E Quartr made Sail and gave Chace, parted Company with
the Liverpool.
Fresh Breezes and Squally at 1 PM Still in Chace at 7 lost
Sight of the [Chace] Shorten’d sail and in 2d Reefs T.
Sails, Tack’d Occasionally, Brot too Maintopsl to the Mast
at 1 1 saw a Sail under our Lee Bow, Bore down and took her
she proved to be an American Sloop loaded with Wood for
Boston,
Thursdy 5 at 6 AM saw our Chace at an Anchor in Salem lost Sight of
the Liverpool and Prizes, in Company the Brig, Scuttled the
Sloop Sc sunk her.
1. PRO, Admiralty 52/1865.
Journal of the Massachusetts Council1
[Watertown] Thursday Septr 5th 1776
Return of Amos Windship to be Surgeon on Board the Brig Massachu-
setts whereof Daniel Souther is Commander, Read and Ordered that the
said Windship be Commissionated Agreeable to his Rank. —
1. Mass. Arch., vol. 19, 215.
John Bradford to Robert Morris1
[Extract]
Sir- Boston 5th Sepr 1776
... You may Rely on your directions to Capt [Stephen] Cleveland
being most punctually Complied with in every respect2 . . .
I beg leave to hint that I last week wrote your worthy president relative to
a matter wch as it concerns his private interest its probable he may be
backward in mentiong to the Comee vizt the Agent for New hampshire
stops all Continental prizes that occasionally goes into their harbour mouth
for a nights Anchorage, and Orders them up to town there to be sold, their
SEPTEMBER 1776
691
harbour is so Situated that as the Autumn Approaches, its not probable we
may have another prize here the whole season and its a notorious fact, that
vessells nor Cargoss, will sell for more than half they would sell for here —
1. Papers of Robert Morris, Accession 1805, LC.
2. See Volume 5, 1286-88.
Neiv-England Chronicle , Thursday, September 5, 1776
Boston, Thursday, September 5.
Our last Accounts from Halifax say — They left there 40 Sail of Ves-
sels, Prizes, 8cc. —
Sails for London, from Halifax, in the Princess Royal Jamaicaman,
Robert Hollowed, Nat Mills, Printer, Margarett Draper and Family; George
Deblois, Sam Rogers, Sam Hughes, John Atkinson, the Miss Cummings’s;
and Justice Cutler of New-Hampshire.
Captain [Daniel] Waters, in the Lee Vessel of War, has retaken a
Sloop bound for Halifax, which was lately taken off this Harbour, by the
Milford Frigate, and sent her safely into Port.1
Taken up by the Company stationed at Plimouth for the Defence of the
Sea Coast, the Hull of the Sloop called the Smilling Molley, with her Name
wrote on her Stern, with white Paint, is almost 90 Tons burthen, appears to
be about two Years old, was scuttled and drifting along Shore when found,
the 24th of August current, about 5 Miles to the Northward of the Light
House on the Gurnet, is painted with green Hants, and green Stern, had her
Mast carried away by the Deck, and quite empty, not a Chest or Paper on
board, is now at the Wharf in Plimouth. Any Person claiming Property, are
desired to apply to Captains William Weston and Jesse Harlow, at Plym-
outh, being the Commanders of the Company above-named.
Plimouth, Aug. 31.
1. The sloop Betsey with cordwood.
692
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Transcript of Military Papers, Revolutionary War, XL, 657-63, R. I. Arch.
706
AMERICAN THEATRE
Journal of the Rhode Island Sloop Independence ,
Captain Jabez Whipple1
Remarkes On Thursday Septr 5. 1776
a 5 A M Came to Sail in Compeny With 5 Sail all Come to
Ancker at Tarplain [Tarpaulin] Cove Two Boats Came on Borde
With Solders Histed out the Boate and Sent on Shore To Fill
Sum Warter all Well on Bord2
1. Independence Journal, RIHS. Journal ends this date.
2. Independent Chronicle, September 19, 1776: “Capt Jabez Whipple, in a Privateer of Provi-
dence went up the east passage last Thursday, with a fine large prize ship, bound from
St. Vincent, with between 4 and 5 hundred hogsheads of sugar, 100 puncheons of rum
and 400 casks of indigo; also a brig loaded with sugar and rum, and a sloop loaded with
molasses.”
Governor Jonathan Trumbull to Governor Nicholas Cooke1
[Extract]
Sir, — Lebanon, Sept. 5th, 1776.
. . . We have also determined to equip what naval force we have with
all possible dispatch. I have certain intelligence that our forces are with-
drawn from Long Island and Governor’s Island, and that the two Continen-
tal companies, stationed on the east end of Long Island, are come over to
the main, and that the militia on Long Island are dispersed. We are ex-
tremely desirous to co-operate with your State in every proper measure for
our mutual defence, as there seems to be a threatening appearance that the
enemy will endeavour to land on the eastward of New York, in order to cut
off the communication and prevent supplies to our army. You will undoubt-
edly judge it expedient to send the regiment you have already raised, with
such other force as you shall judge proper, to unite with us in this impor-
tant measure, as also to augment and send your naval force for that impor-
tant purpose, and to clear the Sound if possible. The matter undoubtedly de-
mands the utmost attention and dispatch, as all seems to lie at stake. Don’t
doubt of your most vigorous exertions. I have advised General Washington
and the Provincial Congress of the Massachusetts, of the measures we have
taken. Would recommend it to you to consult Commodore Hopkins upon the
expediency of attempting to dislodge the enemy’s ships from the Sound,
how far it is probable it might be done; also, whether the ships with you
cannot be manned out of the forces you may raise, or is it not probable for
the present emergency it may be done from the army. You will please to re-
turn an early answer to these matters.
1. Collections of the Rhode Island Historical Society, VI, 169, 170.
Governor Jonathan Trumbull to Nathaniel Shaw, Jr.1
Sir Lebanon Sepr. 5th 1776
There being necessity of Sending a Number of Troops from New London to
the East End of Longisland you are desired to provide necessary Trans-
SEPTEMBER 1776
707
ports 8c Immedietly provide for the Carrying over Colol [Erastus] Wol-
cotts Regiment with their Bagage 8c the Six field peaces at New London
and you are directed to forward with them Sufficient quantity of Powder 8c
Ball and as Capt John Dishon is directed to forward Sufficient quantity of
Provisions for the Forces would have you Confer with him 8c so Cooperate
that the Provisions may be forwarded as the Troops go on Mr Andrew Hunt-
ington of Norwich p[er] order engaged of Capt Jabes Perkins one Suita-
ble vessell for Said Service which must be Improved as a Transport or to
Carry stores and there is more to be had at Norwich if wanted 8c quite
Likely a further Number will be soon wanted besides those immed[ia]tily
for Colol Wolcotts Regt Resting Satisfied that nothing will be wanting on
your part to forward this Important expedition Remain yours to Serve
1. Conn. Arch., 1st Series, IX, 305, ConnSL.
Nathaniel Shaw, Jr- to Barnabas Deane, Wethersfield 1
N London Sepr 5th 1776
Sir, The Marine Committee at Philadelphia wrote of the 22d Ulto that
the Secrett Committee had given you orders to deliver me what Articles you
had imported on Continent Accot Should be glad you would forward them
to me soon as you can, as I want to make use of them, and any matters you
want for the Ship, if wanted be fore She comes Round you can keep, and
any other articles you want let me know of it 8c will Indeavour to supply
you.2 1 am Sir Yrs [Sec.]
1. Shaw Collection, Letter Book, YUL.
2. Barnabas Deane was superintendent of the Continental frigate Trumbull built at Chatham
and launched September 5. Pennsylvania Evening Post, September 7, 1776.
Nathaniel Shaw, Jr/s Account against the Continental
Sloop Schuyler1
1776
Sepr 5
The Sloop Schuyler
Charles Pond Capt
To pd Wm Brooks for 90 lb beef @ 3i/£
To pd Mrs Cheeny for Nursing
Eph Jones
To 1 Shirt 8c Sheet
To pd the Sexton
To pd Jona Starr for Coffin
To Doc Wolcotts Bill
To Doc Thos Coits Bill
To My Corns 5 pCt
£ 2..6..1
4. . 0. .0
1.14. . 6
0. .6. .0
0.18. - 6. 18. .6
3. 10. . 8
3. . 2. -
£ 15.17. .3
15. .0
16.13. .0
1. Shaw Collection, Book 39, YUL. A partial account, omitting the doctors’ bills and Shaw’s
commission, is in Nathaniel & Thomas Shaw Collection, Ledger 9, YUL.
708
AMERICAN THEATRE
Major General Horatio Gates to Brigadier General Benedict Arnold 1
[Extract] Tyonderoga 5th September 1776.
... I am attentive to what you mention with Regard to an Officer
being appointed to the Command of the Royal Savage , and have, accord-
ingly, fixed my Eye upon Colonel [Edward] Wigglesworth, who has, upon
my recommending it to him, most readily undertaken to serve as the Third
Officer on Board the Fleet, yourself first, and Genl [David] Waterbury,
Second. He will sail tomorrow Morning in the Gondola, now here. The Colo-
nel is a good Seaman, appears to be much of a Gentleman, and has, as far
as I can learn, an unimpeached good Character.
Lieutenant [James] Calderwood delivers you this Letter, and carries
down with him the Seventy Men you have demanded. I understand Two
Hundred Seamen are inlisted at New-York for this Service. They shall be
put on Board the Row Gallies, the Moment they arrive. The first Row Galley
will be to-day, the other Two, General Waterbury assures me, will be
launched this Week. No Time shall be lost in Rigging them, and dispatching
them to the Fleet. As soon as you get the Reinforcement I now send you,
you will not, perhaps, think it necessary to detain Colonel [Thomas] Hart-
ley’s Detachment. He seems exceedingly anxious for them to return, as he
hopes to engage his whole Regiment for another Year.
I send you by the Bearer, Lieutenant Calderwood, the Draught of the
Lake as you desire. . . .
When General Waterbury and Colonel Wigglesworth join the Fleet,
you will be able to dispose it in three Divisions; yourself in the Centre, Gen-
eral Waterbury on the Right, and Colonel Wigglesworth on the left. This
Disposition will teach the Captains of the Vessels to know their Command-
ing Officers, and prevent any Confusion or dispute, about Command, in Case
an unlucky Shot, or other Accident should take off the General.
As you have seen, and examined every Part of the Lake in your Way
down, I should be glad to know your Opinion, what is the properest, and
most defensible Station for the Fleet to take. Gales of Wind will probably be
heavy about the Equinox. You are too good a Seaman not to take a secure
Place for Anchorage against that Season. I am very much pleased to find
the Gondolas are such good Sea Boats.
I fancy you will think it immediately necessary you should send hither
your most experienced Pilot, to conduct the Row-Gallies with Safety, to the
Fleet. Let him have your positive, and particular Instructions, how You
think proper he should proceed. It will be proper you should communicate
the Orders you, from Time to Time, receive, to General Waterbury and
Colonel Wigglesworth, that they may know how to act upon any Emer-
gency.
(Copy)
1. Schuyler Papers, vol. 15, NYPL.
SEPTEMBER 1776
709
12 [M.]
10 [A.M.]
12 [M.]
Thursday 5
Master’s Log of H. M. Brig Halifax 1
Remarks Sec off Laurences Point.
Wednesday Septr 4th 1776
Got under way And Anchord off Whitestone
Empd Wooding and Watering and Setting up the Rigging -
Read the Articles of War 8cc to the Brigg’s Comp
Mod & fair Weather PM saw a Number of Rebels on Hunts
point. Weighd and workd over to wards them and Fierd Sev-
eral Shot at them which drove them off at 8 Shifted our Berth
between Hewlets Island and West farm point
AM at 8 Landed the Marines on Hewlets Island to Guard the
Boats in takeing the Cattle from thence
At Noon the Rebels came down of[f] West farm point and
Fird several small shot, fird 4 four Pounder wt Round and
Grape and drove them off got on Bd Bullock from Hewlets
Isld PM the Brune Made our Signal for a Petty Officer -
Fird several shot at the Rebels on West Farm point
1. PRO, Admiralty 52/1775.
Brigadier General Samuel Holden Parsons to Major General
William Heath, Kingsbridge1
Sr
As the Machine designd to attempt blowing Up the Enemy’s Ships,2 is
to be transported from the East to the North River where a Small Vessell
will be wanted to receive it, I wish you to order One for that Purpose, as all
Things are now ready to make the Experiment, I wish it may not be de-
layed, tho’ the Event is uncertain the Experiment under our present Cir-
cumstances is certainly worth trying I am Sr [8cc.]
[Corlears Hook] 5th Sepr 1776 Sam1 H. Parsons
1. Heath Papers, MassHS.
2. David Bushnell’s submarine, the Turtle. In a letter of October 1787, Bushnell described the
submarine to Thomas Jefferson. See Appendix B.
Journal of H.M.S. Rose , Captain James Wallace1
September 1776 In East River New York.
Thursdy 5th AM Hove up the best Bower, at 9 Moor’d and
steady’d the Ship with a Hawser on Shore:
Light Airs with Calms
PM at 4 the Rebels began to Fire upon us from
York Island from 2 Battery’s 18 and 24 Pdrs
which damag’d us much, Do return’d the Fire.
1. PRO, Admiralty 51/805.
388-825 0-73-47
710
AMERICAN THEATRE
Ambrose Serle to Lord Dartmouth1
My Lord,
In my last Letter I acquainted Your Lordship with the safe Arrival of
the Hessians and Guards, and of the Troops under General Clinton from the
South. By all together, on Sea and Land, we have a very respectable Force;
and the Object of this Letter is to inform Your Lordship, how it has been
employed. But I will take the Liberty to mention a few Circumstances, pre-
vious to the important Events, which are the main Points of Attention, and
to which all the rest must be ultimately drawn.
The Hessian General and other Commanders have been treated with
the greatest Deference, which (as might be expected with Germans) has
made a pleasing Impression upon their Temper and Conduct, and inclined
them as heartily in the Cause as the warmest among us could desire. On the
other hand, the injudicious Abuse and Menaces of the Rebels, and the Hope
of Plunder (for I hear all the Hessian common Soldiers have a Notion of
making their Fortunes) , have stimulated them to such a Degree, as by no
means inclines them to shew Tenderness and Mercy. They are very expert
in foraging, and have made great Use of their Time. The Company 8c ex-
ample of the British Troops has hitherto prevented all excessive Cruelties.
On the 18th of August in the Morning, the Wind and Tide being fair,
the two Ships (Phoenix and Rose) came down the River again in Defiance of
the Rebel Batteries, and, though pelted all the Way, received no other Dam-
age than by one Ball which struck the Rose and drove a Splinter into a
Man’s Leg. Such Artillerists were the Rebels, that all the rest of their Dis-
charges, which were above an hundred, scarce came near either the Ships or
their Tenders. A Captain of Engineers from the Town, with his Servant, at-
tempting to get onboard the Ships, was overset in his Boat by the rapid
Course of the Rose and unhappily drowned: the Servant was saved. The
Rebels had attacked and sent up Fire-Ships to burn them, but to no purpose.
— Our People destroyed about 200 of them in the Attempt, and towed off
the Fire Ships to consume at Leisure, with the Loss only of a small Tender
and of two Men.
Early in the Morning of the 22d of August, the English Troops, the
Highlanders, and Preston’s Light Horse, were conveyed over to Long Island
without the least Opposition from the Rebels. — They immediately pene-
trated into the Country full 10 Miles, the Rebel Forces hastily retiring, and
burning all the Ricks of Hay, Corn, 8cc. as they went. They were pressed
upon too suddenly, however, to drive off the Cattle or to do so much Mis-
chief, as the poor People, who are mostly well disposed, informed us they
had intended. On the 25th following, the main Body of the Hessians were
carried over likewise, and joined the Army, which, upon this Junction,
amounted to near 20,000 Men. Some Troops were necessary to be left upon
Staten Island, to prevent Incursions from the Jerseys.
On the 27th the important Scene was opened. As Your Lordship will
have an Account of the Action in the public Dispatches, I will only relate
SEPTEMBER 1776
711
what passed under my own Observation at a little Distance from the Shore.
I saw much of the Battle, which from Beginning to End was almost a run-
ning Fight. The Rebels, confident in Numbers, were advanced in an open
Field, but on very advantageous Ground, without their Lines. Nothing could
exceed the Art of General Howe in the Disposition and Conduct of his At-
tack. The Army was marshalled into three Divisions. One Column marched
under General [James] Grant at a set Time to a particular Spot on the
Coast, near to the main Body of the Rebels: The Second under General Clin-
ton took the middle Way over the Hills and came upon the Rebels in Flank,
soon after General Grant had posted himself in Front; and, while these
were engaged, or rather keeping the Rebels at Bay and amusing them, Gen-
eral Howe with the third Column advanced upon them by a Circuit on their
Rear, and nearly hemmed them in. The Rebels, finding this, did not stand a
Minute, but all-amazed run with Precipitation to their Lines for the most
Part; and the rest, being prevented in their Retreat, were either cut to
Pieces, taken Prisoners, or scattered into the Woods, where our People have
been hunting and destroying them from Day to Day. The Eagerness and In-
trepidity of the Troops is beyond Description. They could not however beat
them at running; but they followed them as closely as they could, and with
a Spirit which even their Officers could scarcely restrain. Our People suf-
fered most by little Ambuscades behind the Hedges. Considering the
Ground, which is rather broken, and strong, the Loss on our Part is as little
as could have been expected. We had 54 killed, about 140 wounded, and
about 20 missing. Lord Stirling and Genl Sullivan, late a Member of the
Congress, with about 90 Officers, are among the Prisoners, with whom for
their Number we scarce know what to do. Many of them, principally Irish
Emigrants, have offered to enter into the King’s Service. They aver, that
the Rebel Army was formed in great Measure by Compulsion, and kept to-
gether by great Watchfulness and Constraint. The Victory of this Day put
His Majesty’s Troops in Possession of all Long Island, except the small Pen-
insula of Brookland.
In the Afternoon of the 28th the King’s Army broke Ground and ad-
vanced to form a Battery against a high round Fort, which the Rebels have
constructed near the Isthmus at Brookland. They strove to dislodge the
Troops, fully aware of the Consequences of this Post, and that the Posses-
sion of this Ground, which overlooks Governor’s Island and the Fort, would
give our People the Command [of] both of them and the Town. Their Ef-
forts were loose and languid, and of course in vain. Two of our Men only
were slightly wounded by their Fire of Cannon and small Arms, continued
for the Space of four Hours.
The next Evening, they precipitately evacuated all their numerous
Works and Intrenchments upon Long Island; and so precipitately, that
many of them were drowned in attempting to pass over to New York Is-
land. Our People were much surprized at an Abandonment, which to have
forced from Men tolerably brave and determined, must have cost a great
deal of Time and many Lives. I have walked over these Works, and, though
712
AMERICAN THEATRE
I am no Judge of Fortification; I can clearly see with what infinite Labor
and Expence they must have been constructed. Many of them are of great
Use to the Troops both for Harbor & Defence. The Reason of so sudden an
Evacuation, I am informed, was this: The next Day after their Defeat, a
Party of New England Men, who were posted in Connecticut Sound near
Hell Gate, came down in great Agitation to the main Body of the Rebels,
with the News of so’me Ships of War passing through the Sound, with the
view of preventing their Retreat. Not recovered from the Terror of their
Defeat, this Intelligence threw them into the utmost Consternation, and oc-
casioned the hasty Flight I have mentioned. ’Tis observed of these People in
general, that they are exceedingly careful of the Security of their Retreat,
and that all their Works are constructed as much with a View to an easy
Abandonment, as to the Annoyance of an Enemy. The Thought of being
surrounded annihilates all their Courage.
The Situation of this People is becoming desperate; and their actual
Distresses, to say nothing of their Fears, increase upon them daily. By the
Battle, they lost in Killed, Wounded and Prisoners above 3000 Men, which
we can account for; and, besides these, the Woods are so noisome with the
Stench of the dead Carcasses, which the Hessians left in them, that they are
in many Places inaccessible. A contagious Disorder also prevails in their
Army; and 7000 of them are said to be sick and incapable of Service. —
Jealousies and Feuds prevail among themselves; and they are reported to
have lost their former implicit Confidence in their Commanders. Besides all
this, the New England Provinces in particular have so entirely devoted
themselves to Arms during this last Summer, that their Lands for the most
Part have remained untilled; and I am informed by a Man of Character,
just escaped from that Country, that their Stock of Cloathing is almost ex-
hausted, and that they have not one eighth of the Quantity requisite for
their Covering during the ensuing Winter. In short, the Rebel Force is be-
coming a Rope of Sand, which a few more Trials will probably break in
Pieces.
I mentioned to Your Lordship, that we had among our Prisoners the
Rebel General Sullivan and the titular Lord Stirling, two such despicable
Characters, that nothing proves more the Want of real Officers or valuable
Men among the Rebels, than the Employment and Trust of Persons like
these. I have been in the Company of both, The former was once a Servant,
afterwards a Lawyer, then a Delegate to the Congress from New Hamp-
shire, and at length a General of the Rebel Army. He was the principal In-
stigator of the Confusions in New Hampshire, and is remarkable neither
for Decency nor Probity, but very much for a Species of low Chicane, in
which the Lawyers in general of this Country are known to excel, and by
which he himself has succeeded to his present Eminence of Situation. Mod-
esty has not been remembered to embarrass either him or his Colleague,
who is a thousand times worse than nothing in his Circumstances, and is
said to have made this desperate Push to get rid of the Inconvenience of his
legal Obligations. With such Characters, indeed, as the present Rulers of
714
AMERICAN THEATRE
this Country are in general, it would be disgraceful, if not impolitic, to have
any Sort of Intercourse^ The Americans have an Adage, which I embrace in
its full Extent. They say, “If Great Britain cannot conquer us, she cannot
govern us.” And I add, If Great Britain do not so govern them now, and so
settle their Polity, as to render it unnecessary to conquer them in future,
she will not govern them long. Pardon me, My Lord, if I add further, that
her Counsels must dictate: Mere Conferences, I fear, will have no Conclu-
sions to her future Interest, whatever they may have to a little temporary
Peace. This I learn upon the Spot, and can easily forsee in the Constitution
of Things and in the Spirit and Manners of the People. Another Campaign
will expend the best Money Great Britain has laid out for a Century, con-
sidering American Affairs either in a political or commercial Light. I could
explain this Position very fully, and I believe with some Demonstration;
but I will not obtrude my own private Opinions, as I fear I shall sufficiently
tire Your Lordship with the Recital only of Occurrences.
A Detachment of Hessians took Possession of Governor’s Island on the
2d of September, which, though the Rebels had fortified it with great Labor,
they abandoned without any Compulsion. We have found here and in other
Places above 30 Cannon, which were spiked so injudiciously, that our Engi-
neers have rendered almost all of them fit for Service.
I have made an Excursion upon Long Island, and own it to be one of
the most pleasant and fertile Spots I have ever seen. But when I survey the
Depredations and Ruin, the Bloodshed and Distraction, and all the other
Miseries of this once happy Region, I cannot help deploring the Condition
of its melancholy Inhabitants, and abhoring the Dishonesty and Ambition
of those Men, who, under the specious Pretences of Patriotism and public
Virtue, have been the Authors and Abettors of these Calamities. From what
I have seen here, I look with a double Horror upon the Persons, who would
light up a similar Flame, and incite the like Enormities at Home.
I did expect to have had the Honor of congratulating Your Lordship on
the entire Possession of New York City and Island by His Majesty’s
Troops, before I closed this Letter, and am happy to think, it will, in all
human Probability, be the Case, long before You can receive it. The sudden
Departure of the Packet curtails a Letter which is already of an enormous
Length, and obliges me to make a rather abrupt Conclusion. I cannot how-
ever finish it, nor even my Life itself, without the sincere and heart-felt Satis-
faction of being, upon the firmest Considerations, My Lord, Your Lord-
ship’s [&c.]
Ambrose Serle.
Off the City of New York, Septr 5th 1776.
1. Stevens, ed., Facsimiles , No. 2042.
Diary of Frederick Mackenzie 1
[Long Island] 5th Sept The Rose moved lower down this morning near
to Newtown Creek, where she is in a safer situation. One of the shells which
SEPTEMBER 1776
715
the Rebels threw at her yesterday fell within 8 feet of her side. Some splin-
ters from others fell on her decks. The ship has suffered a good deal of dam-
age from their shot since she first came up.
1. Mackenzie’s Diary, I, 38.
Journal of the Continental Congress1
[Philadelphia] Thursday, September 5, 1776
Resolved , That General Sullivan be requested to inform Lord Howe,
that this Congress, being the representatives of the free and independent
states of America, cannot, with propriety, send any of its members to con-
fer with his lordship in their private characters; but that, ever desirous of
establishing peace on reasonable terms, they will send a committee of their
body to know whether he has any authority to treat with persons author-
ized by Congress for that purpose, in behalf of America, and what that au-
thority is, and to hear such propositions as he shall think fit to make re-
specting the same:
That the president be desired to write to General Washington, and ac-
quaint him that it is the opinion of Congress, that no proposals for making
peace between Great Britain and the United States of America ought to be
received or attended to, unless the same be made in writing, and addressed
to the representatives of the said states in Congress, or persons authorized
by them: And, if application be made to him by any of the commanders of
the British forces on that subject, that he inform them that these United
States, who entered into the war only for the defence of their lives and lib-
erties, will cheerfully agree to peace on reasonable terms, whenever such
shall be proposed to them in manner aforesaid.
1. Ford, ed., /CC, V, 736, 737.
Minutes of the Continental Marine Committee1
In Marine Committee
Philadelphia September 5. 1776
Resolved
That the Uniform of the Officers in the Navy of the United States be as
follows.
Captains
Lieutenants
Master
Midshipmen
Blue Cloth with Red Lappels, Slash Cuff, Stand up Collor,
flat Yellow Buttons, Blue Britches, Red Waistcoat with Nar-
row Lace. —
Blue with Red Lappels, a Round Cuff faced, stand up Collor,
Yellow Buttons, Blue Britches, Red Waistcoat Plain. —
Blue with Lappels, Round Cuff, Blue Britches and Red Waist-
coat
Blue Lappeled Coat, a Round Cuff faced with Red, Stand up
Collor with Red at the Button and Button hole, Blue Britches
8c Red Waistcoat —
716
AMERICAN THEATRE
Uniform of the Marine Officers
A Green Coat faced with white, Round Cuff, Slash’d Sleeves
and Pockets; with Buttons Round the Cuff, Silver Epaulett
on the right Shoulder — Skirts turn’d back, Buttons to suit
the Faceings. White waistcoat and Britches, edged with
Green, Black Gaiters 8c Garters Green shirts for the Men if
they can be Procured —
Extract from the Minutes
John Brown Secy
for John Paul Jones Esquire
[Endorsed by Jones] Established Navy and Marine Uniform Dress —
Reed at Philadelphia April 1777. from the Secretary of the Marine Board.
1. Papers of John Paul Jones, 6491, LC.
William Goodrich to John Goodrich, Jr.1
[Extract]
Dear Brother Philadelphia goal 5 Septr 1776
I now have to inform You of rny being here A prisoner in close confine-
ment and not alowed the liberty of Speaking to any person . . .
I now proceed to inform you how I was taken which is as follows —
Lord Dunmore Sent me to Bermudas to purchase a Brigg that would carry
18 Guns for the use of his Majesty which I was to Command When at
Bermuda there was no such Vessil to be had and on my return from that to
Virginia I fell in with The Brigg Lexenton Capt Berry [John Barry] of 16
guns who chaseed me Six hours and notwithstanding I kept a continial fyer-
ing upon him with a three pounder out of my cabin window 8c now and then
getting Some of my after guns to fyer upon him which obliged him to heave
up Several times to fier on us while I was amakeing of[f] from him as fast
as I could right before the wind but notwithstanding all these advantages
and the art that I could make Use of she ran up alongside at which time we
called out for quaters which was granted, and I was treated Extreamly Jen-
teal by Capt Berry, and when carryed onboard of the Brig Capt Berry re-
ceivd me with A Grate deal of Joy giveing me a harty welcom onboard of
the Lexenton Saying that he never was glader to see any man in all his life
altho we neaver Saw each other before2 Capt Berry on his return to Phila-
delphia came athwart Mr Samuel Kerr Whome he took I was hartily sorry
for Mr Kerrs loss but could not keep myself from laughing at him owing to
Capt Berry showing Inglish Colours and passing for the Asias tender from
New-york which made Mr Kerr give three cheers which was returnd by the
Lexentom crew telling Mr kerr that he was ther prissoner which laid him
all aback3
1. Record Group 27, Records of the Supreme Executive Council, Pa. Arch.
2. Goodrich commanded the sloop Lady Susan.
3. Samuel Kerr was master of the sloop Betsey.
SEPTEMBER 1776
717
Archibald Buchanan to the Maryland Council of Safety1
Gent. Baltimore Town Sepr 5. 1776
Please to pay Mr John Davidson Or Order Whatever sum of Money you
may think is Necessary towards Building the two Gallies Contracted with
You for some time ago
Archd Buchanan
[Endorsed] Requiring an Order on W Shore Treasurer for Five hundred
Pounds Currency by Virtue of ab[ove] Order and for the use of Mr Archi-
bald Buchanan. John Davidson
1. Executive Papers, Box 2, Folder 66, Md. Arch.
Journal of the Maryland Council of Safety1
[Annapolis] Thursday. September 5th 1776
Ordered That Commission issue to Robert Polk of the Schooner Mont-
gomery, he having given Bond according to the Instructions of Congress.2
1. Council of Safety Journal, 29 August 1775 to 20 March 1777, Md. Arch.
2. Bond is in Papers CC (Ships' Bonds Required for Letters of Marque and Reprisal) , 196,
X, NA.
Governor Patrick Tonyn to Lieutenant William Grant,
H. M. Schooner St. John 1
(Copy)
Sir,
The intelligence received from the North parts of this Province, makes
it incumbent on me, to request that you will proceed with His Majesty’s
Schooner under your Command, without loss of time to St John’s River, and
take such station in conjunction with the Sloop Captain Mowbray, as will
most effectually prevent any attempts made by the Rebels to enter that
River, to disturb the Settlers thereon. I have wrote to the Commanding Of-
ficer of His Majesty’s Troops, to grant the assistance you desired to have on
Board the St John of a Serjeant and twelve men — I am with regard —
Sir [&c.]
(Signd) Pat. Tonyn
Council Chamber St Augustine 5th Septr 1776 —
[Endorsed] Copy Governor Tonyn’s letter to Lieut Grant No 2 —
In Govr Tonyns of 8th Septr 1776 (No 24)
1. PRO, Colonial Office, 5/556, 791-94.
718
AMERICAN THEATRE
Governor Patrick Tonyn to Colonel Augustine Prevost1
Copy
Sir,
The repeated intelligence from Georgia, and the North of this Prov-
ince, makes it absolutely requisite, for the safety of the Planters on St
John’s River, to establish a Naval force there —
For this purpose I have engaged the Sloop Rebecca Captain Mowbray
of ten Guns with nine men of the Captains, and [six] Seamen which I have
added, but the late instance to attempt to man her proving ineffectual, I am
compelled to request that a, detachment of His Majesty’s Troops of an
Officer and 35 Private may be fixed on Board Captain Mowbray, to act as a
Military force in conjunction with the detachment now established on Saint
John’s River.
His Majestys Schooner St John of four Guns being also to proceed im-
mediately to that River, Lieutenant Grant has made application for a Ser-
jeant and twelve, to be fixed on Board the said Schooner -
I am therefore compelled from the situation of that part of His Majes-
ty’s Province, to request of you, that the above Assistance be given to the
above mentioned Vessels, with all imaginable dispatch, who have received
directions to proceed forthwith to St Johns River —
Mr [Andrew] Turnbull at Smyrnea having represented the Mutinous
disposition of the Settlers under his management and his apprehensions of
their designs, obliges me to request that the detachment now there may be
augmented to eighteen or twenty men. I have the honour to be with re-
gard and esteem Sir [8cc.]
Pat Tonyn
Council Chamber St Augustine Septr 5th 1776 —
Colonel Prevost Commanding Officer
[Endorsed] Copy Governor Tonyn’s letter to Colonel Prevost No 1
In Govr Tonyn’s of 8th Septr 1776 (No 24)
1. PRO, Colonial Office, 5/556, 787-90.
6 Sept.
Journal of the New Hampshire House of Representatives1
[Exeter] Friday Sept. 6th, 1776
Voted to choose a Committee of this House, to join a Committee of
the Honble Board, to take into consideration the Resolves of the Honble
General Assembly of the Massachusetts Bay respecting fitting out the Con-
tinental Frigate at Portsmouth for a Cruise against the Enemy, and con-
cerning Stopping the Export of Lumber 8cc. (this day transmitted to this
Court by a Comtee of that Court) and to make report thereon to this house
as soon as may be; and that Colo [Samuel] Sherburne, Colo [Timothy]
Walker 8c Henry Prescott, Esq. be the Comtee of This house for that Pur-
SEPTEMBER 1776
719
pose. Sent up by Majr Tash. [Endorsed] [Concurred — Messrs Thorn-
ton, Whipple Sc Thompson added.]
The Comtee [above appointed] being joined by a Comtee of the Hon-
ble Board, made report.
That it be recommended to Mr. [John] Langdon Continental
agent for the Frigate aforesaid to equip her as soon as Possible for a
cruise against the Milford or any other Vessell of our Enemies on
the Coast in conjunction with one of the Continental Frigates in
the Massachusetts Bay and other of their Colony Armed Vessells:
and that a Committee be appointed to consult with Mr. Langdon
on the affair, and assist him if he needs it: and that any soldier in
the Colony service have liberty to Enlist for the Cruise, their wages
to continue besides the Emolument of Captures 8cc. they to return
to their service when the cruise is over. Also recommend that an
Embargo until the Twentieth of November next be laid on the
exportation of All Lumber from this State
M. Thornton, Chairman.
Which report being Read,
Voted, That the same be received Sc accepted.
Voted and Resolved — That it be and hereby is Recommended to John
Langdon Esqr Agent for the Continental Frigate now at Portsmouth to
Equip the said Frigate as soon as Possible for a cruise against the Milford
or any other Vessell of our Enemies on this Coast, in conjunction with one
of the Continental Frigates in the Massachusetts Bay and other of their
Colony Armed Vessells; and that Colo Samuel Sherburne with Such as the
Honbl Board shall appoint, be a Committee to consult with said Mr. Lang-
don on that affair, and to assist him if he need it: And that any soldier in
the Colony service have liberty to Enlist for the Cruise, and their wages to
continue besides the Emolument of Captures Sec. and to return to their serv-
ice when the cruise is over.
Sent up by Capt. Prentice.
[Concurred, Mr. William Whipple added.]
Voted and Resolved That an Act be drawn up Sc Passed laying an Em-
bargo on the Exportation of all sorts of Lumber from any part of this Col-
ony, and that a Committee be chosen to join a Comtee of the Honbl Board to
draw up Sc bring in a Bill or Act to prevent the Exportation of Lumber
from this Colony untill the Twentieth day of November next, and that Colo
Timothy Walker be the Committee of this House for that purpose. Sent up
by Colo Walker. [Concurred — and Mr. Clagett added.]
1. Bouton, ed., Documents and Records of New Hampshire, VIII, 321, 322-23.
Petition for Commission for Thomas Nicholson as Commander
of the Massachusetts Privateer Sloop America 1
To the Honble The Council of the State
of Massachusetts Bay —
720
AMERICAN THEATRE
The Petition of Thomas Nicholson humbly sheweth that your Peti-
tioner is fixing out from Plymouth as a Privateer a Sloop called the Amer-
ica, burthen about Eighty Tons mounting ten Carriage Guns and six Swiv-
els owned by himself Sc Messrs. Watson Sc Spooner Sc a number of others.
She has On board Six thousand pounds of Bread, forty barrels Pork and
Beef five hundred weight of Powder, Two thousand weight of Iron and
three hundred weight of leaden Balls, manned with Seventy men —
Thomas Nicholson — Captain
Corben Barnes — 1 Lieutenant
Nathaniel Ripley — 2 Ditto
Your Petitioner therefore humbly prays your Honors would Grant him
a Commission as Commander of the said Privateer, he giving Bond agree-
able to the requisition of the Congress —
Thomas Nicholson
[Endorsed] In Council Sept 6th, 1776 Read Sc Ordered that a Commission
be issued out to the said Thomas Nicholson as Commander of the Sloop
America he complying with the Resolves of Congress
Jn° Avery Dpy Secy
1. Mass. Arch., vol. 165, 211.
Memorandum Concerning the Massachusetts Privateer Schooner
Speedwell 1
[September 6, 1776] 2
On board the Armed Schooner Speedwell of 50 Tons -
70 Men Officers included —
8 Carriage Guns — 4 Sc 3 pounders —
12 Swivels — 35 small Arms —
700 lb Powder — 400 3 & 4 pound Shott —
300 Swivel Shot — 70 wt Small Arm Balls —
45 bis Beef Sc Pork — 6000 wt. Bread —
4 bis Flour — Sc a Number of other small Stores —
Jona Greely Capt — First Leiuttenant not yet appointed —
Wm Pitman 2d Leiuttenant — John Williamson Master —
Thomas Melvill
Wm Foster
David Bradley
John Hinckly
Jonathan Greely
Thomas Hichborn
Capt Gorham
Owners
all
Of
Boston3
1. Mass. Arch., vol. 165, 215.
2. Ibid., 214, 214a, memorandum is undated but the Massachusetts Council commissioned
Speedwell on September 6.
3. Paul Revere had a 1/16 share in the Speedwell. Paul Revere Miscellaneous Collection,
MassHS.
SEPTEMBER 1776
721
Receipt for Papers Concerning Two British Prizes1
List of Papers belonging to Schooner Industry Charles Coffin M [a] st[er]
No 1 manifest of the cargo -
2 Register of the Vessell
3 Certificate of the Committee of Bristol in favr of the Master
4 Hospital Receipt -
5 Admiral [Samuel] Graves Permit -
6 Memorandum of Cargo -
7 William Coits Receipt -
8 Danl Hubbard & Comp[y] Owners Orders -
9 Several Certificates from Committee in favr Capt —
A List of Papers belonging to Sloop Polly Sibilene White Master -
No 1 - Manifest of Cargo -
2 - Register —
3 - five Letters from private Persons relative to sloop Polly
4 - Letter & Invo to Jabez Hatch Owner —
5 - Admiral Graves Permit -
6 - Hospital Receipt -
7 - Certificate of Adjt Kembel [Stephen Kemble] a Card
Receiv’d the Above papers of Mr John Avery De[py] Secy for the Use of
Willm Watson Esqr & Ephraim Spooner Continental Agents2 —
[Watertown] Septr 6th 1776 — Oakes Angier
1. Mass. Arch., vol. 165, 216.
2. The Industry and Polly were prizes taken by Captain William Coit, Washington’s schooner
Harrison, on November 5, 1775. These papers were essential to the trial which had been
delayed.
Journal of the Committee Appointed to Build Two Continental
Frigates in Rhode Island1
[Providence] Sepr 6th 1777 [ sic 1776].
Meeting in being Present Honble Nicholas Cooke Esqr Nicholas Brown
Joseph Russell Henry Ward. Joseph Brown William Russell Joseph Night-
ingale John J. Clarke. John Smith John Brown Jabez Bowen.
John Langdon Esqr the Agent appointed to Build Equip a Ship of War
at Portsmouth for the Thirteen united States apply’d to this Committee to
Send Twenty six Twelve, and six Sixpounders, and he prod[uced]a paper
from the Honble Stephen Hopkins, Recommending to the Owners of the
Furnace Hope to supply him with the said Guns, if they had so many made,
and E. Hopkins Esqr Commander in Chief of the American Navy being pres-
ent Recommended to the Committee also that they should spare the Guns 8cc
Wheirupon the Committee Voted to supply Mr Langdon with the Guns
provided he makes a contract with the Owners of Furnace, to replace those
that he takes, as soon [as] possible wh we suppose will not exceed Fifty Days
provided they are supplyed with Water by the falling of the fall Rains.
1. Journal R. I. Frigates, RIHS.
722
AMERICAN THEATRE
Contract between Hope Furnace and John Langdon for Cannon
for the Continental Frigate Raleigh1
Providence Septem. 6th 1776
An Agreement between John Langdon Esqr on One part and the Owners of
Furnace Hope on the Other part Witnesses Viz the Said Furnace Owners
Agrees to Deliver to the Said Langdon Twenty Six Cannon Each Carrying
a Twelve pound Ball and allso Six Cannon Each Carrying a Six pound Shot
which Said Cannon are to be Deliverd in this Town out of the Cannon made
for the Ships built here for the Contenent, the Same being Agreed to by the
Navil Committee, and the Said Langdon Agrees to pay the Money to the
Said Furnace Owners for the Amount of Sd Cannon at the Rate of one
Hundred pounds L Money P Ton one half to be paid on the Delivery of the
Cannon at providence as Afforesaid and the Other half by the First Day of
November next or Interest from Each of Said Times till paid as Witness
our Hands —
1. JCBL. An unsigned draft of the contract.
Journal of the Massachusetts Sloop Tyrannicide , Captain John Fisk1
Remks on Friday 6th of Sepr. 1776
7 [A.M.] Sprang our mast again in the partenerd we have not a good
spare on board
11 [A.M.] Very heavy sea from the westward we are Oblidge to carry
little sail our mast is so [weak]
Lattd in 40° 50' Longd in 66°47'
1 [P.M.] Moderate breaze of wind and fair weather at 2 there came a
flaw of wind from the northward Carried a way our flying gibb
boom but it is no strang thing for our sparrs to break
1. John Fisk Journal, AAS.
Journal of H.M.S. Cerberus , Captain John Symons1
Septr 1776 Do [Block Island] N 3. 54 E 15 Leags
Friday 6 at 6 A M out all reefs & sett Top Gallt sails at 7 saw a SI to
Windwd gave Chace —
at 1 P M fired two 9 pd at the Chace at 3 spoke the Chace
a french Sloop from Rhode Island to St Domingo2 at 6 in
2 reefs
1. PRO, Admiralty 51/181.
2. The Felicite, Gouace, master, from Rhode Island for Cape Francois, with fish, flour and
spermaceti candles, Howe’s Prize List, March 31, 1777, PRO, Admiralty 1 /487.
SEPTEMBER 1776
723
Benjamin Huntington to the Connecticut Committee of the
Pay Table1
Lebanon Sept 6th 1776
Draw on the Treasurer of this State for the Sum of Eighty Pounds in Fa-
vour of William Lax to Enable him to carry on the Work of Making Cannon
Carriages for the Ship Oliver Cromwell and to be in Account
By Order of the Govr & Council of Safety
Benj Huntington Clerk P.T.
To the Committee 1 rsn n n
ofPay Table j £80- 0"0
1. Conn. Arch., 1st Series, IX, 117a, ConnSL.
Connecticut Gazette, Friday, September 6, 1776
New- London, September 6.
Last Tuesday three Privateers, viz two Sloops and a Schooner, com-
manded by the Captains [William] Rogers, [Charles] Pond, and Clarke,1
arrived here from Fire-Island Inlet, on the South-Side of Long-Island;
where they had at different Times carried in eleven Prizes, viz. 1 Ship, 2
Brigs, 1 Schooner, and 7 Sloops — a small Sloop loaded with Sea-Coal, they
brought out with them, the other Prizes they left in the Inlet, being obliged
to leave the Place at the Time our Troops evacuated the Island. The Cargoes
of the above Vessels had been carried to Huntingdon, and is in the Posses-
sion of the Enemy.
The Court of Admiralty for the Trial of the Cargo of the Ship Nathan-
iel & Elizabeth, will be held at the Court House in New-London, on the 20th
Instant, instead of the 22d, as mentioned in the Advertisement in the last
Page of this Paper.
1. Rogers commanded the New York state sloop Montgomery , and Pond, the Continental sloop
Schuyler. Captain Clarke and his schooner have not been identified.
Journal of H.M.S. Niger, Captain George Talbot1
Septr 1776 Moor’d off Whiteston[e]
Friday 6 At 8 AM Fir’d 3 Twelve Pounders & 2 six Do wth shot at some
Rebels Passing in a Boat sent the Boat, Man’d & arm’d &
brought of[f] the Boat the Rebels making their Escape on
shore
1. PRO, Admiralty 51/637.
Major General Horatio Gates to Major General Philip Schuyler1
Head Quarters Ticonderoga September 6th 1776
Sir 8 O’Clock at Night.
The following is an Extract of a Letter this Moment received from
Lieutenant Colonel [Thomas] Hartley commanding officer at Crown Point.
724
AMERICAN THEATRE
Friday two O’Clock There has been a very heavy cannonading
down the Lake all this Morning it is undoubtedly between our
Fleet and the Enemy so that you may prepare accordingly - I have
sent down a Boat just now to know more particularly.
I am exceedingly vexed to think that it is above a Month since I wrote
repeatedly for Musket Cartridge paper and not one Sheet yet arrived Let
me entreat you to send if not the exact Sort we want as many old Books or
such Substitute as you can procure — The Moment I know the Result of
this firing down the Lake I will acquaint you with it by Express. I am
Dear General [See.]
Horatio Gates
1. Washington Papers, LC.
Journal of H.M.S. Eagle , Captain Henry Duncan1
Septemr 1776. Moored off of Bedlows Island
Friday 6. At 1 AM Several Musquets were fired at the Guard
Boat 1/2 past 10 made the Sigl for all Petty Officers At
Noon sent a Boat to meet a Flag of Truce
Fresh Breezes Sc Cloudy Wr with rain at times
At 3 P M Arrived here his Majys Ship Carysfort 2 At 6
made the Rainbow , Roebuck , Sc Emeralds Sigl for Petty
Officers At 6 hoisted a Yellow pendt the Parole Sigl Sc
made the Emeralds Sigl. for a Lieut
1. NMM, Admiralty L/E/ll.
2. “The Carysfort , Capt. Robert Fanshaw, an old Schoolfellow with me, arrived this Day from
Canada, & brought Dispatches from the Commander in Chief [Carleton] to the Admiral
& General," Tatum, ed., Serle’s Journal, 92, 94. Serle makes no mention of the flag of
truce.
Journal of H.M. Fireship Strombolo , Captain Charles Phipps 1
Septemr 1776. Moored off Red Hook in New York River.
Thursday 5th Fresh Breezes and Cloudy A M got a Flatt bottom Boat Sc
20 Men from the Phoenix and Moored our ship, the Eagle
made the Sigl for Weekly Accounts received 132 pounds of
Fresh Beef, the Captain, Lieut with the Gunner, Midship-
man Sc 10 Men went on shore to Governors Island to assist
at the Fortifications, a Flag of Truce went from the Eagle
to the Town of New York came up and Anchored here the
Rainbow and Lively.
Do Wear (P.M) Heard a great deal of Firing in East
River Parole Falmouth
Friday 6. AM Seven Rebel boats made an Attempt to Land on Gover-
nors Island, but were beat off, by our Seamen 8c
Hessians Sailed hence the Rainbow for Hallifax a Flag
of Truce came from the Town of New York for Lord Howe.
SEPTEMBER 1776
725
Do Wr at 5 P M the Phoenix , Roebuck , Orpheus 8c Car -
rysfort Weighed 8c run up East River 8c were fired at from
the Town of New York 8c several other Battery’s on Long
Island, and Governors Island fired on the Town but none of
our people were killed from the Rebels firing
1. PRO, Admiralty 51/931.
Journal of H.M.S. Chatham, Captain John Raynor1
September 1776 Moor’d off Staten Island
Friday 6th AM the Long boat Employed Watering. Read the Arti-
cles of War 8c the Abstract of the Act of Parliament, to
the Ships Company. -
Fresh Breezes with Rain at 3 PM (Admiral Shuldham)
Shifted His Flag to His Majesty’s Ship Bristol, and Com-
modore Sir Peter Parker Hoisted His Broad Pendant on
Board His Majestys Ship Chatham, which Occasioned an
Exchange between Captain Raynor of the Chatham and
Capt. [Toby] Caulfield of the Bristol, with Several
Officers 8c Seamen Belonging to each Ship, by Order of
the Viscount Howe Vice Admiral of the White and Com-
mander in Chief 8cc a in North America -
1. PRO, Admiralty 51/192.
Diary of Frederick Mackenzie 1
[Long Island] 6th Sept — The Rose moved her Station again last night,
and went lower down the River. The Rebels fired some shot at her again last
Evening.
1. Mackenzie’s Diary, I, 39.
Minutes of the Pennsylvania Council of Safety1
In Council of Safety,
[Philadelphia] Sept’r 6, 1776.
Mr. Nesbitt was directed. . .To pay Jos. Gresswold for Porterage of
Powder 8c Lead, Imported P Capt. [Thomas] Bell, £ 13 5 6.
A Commission was filled up for Sam’l Mifflin, Esq’r, Commodore of the
Fleet in the service of this State, dated the 2nd Instant, 8c a Letter wrote to
him to return from Amboy, (where he now is,) 8c take the Fleet immedi-
ately under his care and direction.
A Letter was also wrote to General [Hugh] Mercer, requesting he will
permit Commodore Mifflin to return home for that Purpose.2
A Petition was read from Wm. Whitpain, a Midshipman on board the
Ship Mongomery, praying that he may be discharged, as he expects to go
into the Continental service; after consideration of said Petition, it was
726
AMERICAN THEATRE
Resolved, That said Wm. Whitpain be discharged from the service of
this state.3
1. Pennsylvania Colonial Records , X, 711, 712.
2. Samuel Mifflin was commanding an artillery company in New Jersey.
3. Whitpain had been appointed master of the Continental sloop Independence.
Johm Adams to Abigail Adams1
[Philadelphia] Fryday Septr. 6. 1776
This day, I think, has been the most remarkable of all. [Major General
John] Sullivan came here from Lord Howe, five days ago with a Message
that his Lordship desired a half an Hours Conversation with some of the
Members of Congress, in their private Capacities. We have spent three or
four days in debating whether We should take any Notice of it. I have, to
the Utmost of my Abilities during the whole Time, opposed our taking any
Notice of it. But at last it was determined by a Majority “that the Con-
gress being the Representatives of the free and independent states of Amer-
ica, it was improper to appoint any of their Members to confer, in their pri-
vate Characters with his Lordship. But they would appoint a Committee of
their Body, to wait on him, to know whether he had Power, to treat with
Congress upon Terms of Peace and to hear any Propositions, that his Lord-
ship may think proper to make.”
When the Committee came to be ballotted for, Dr. Franklin and your
humble servant, were unanimously chosen. Coll. R. H. Lee and Mr.
[Edward] Rutledge, had an equal Number: but upon a second Vote Mr. R.
was chosen. I requested to be excused, but was desired to consider of it un-
till tomorrow. My Friends here Advise me to go. All the stanch and in-
trepid, are very earnest with me to go, and the timid and wavering, if any
such there are, agree in the request. So I believe I shall undertake the Jour-
ney. I doubt whether his Lordship will see Us, but the same Committee will
be directed to inquire into the State of the Army, at New York, so that
there will be Business enough, if his Lordship makes none. — It would fill
this Letter Book, to give you all the Arguments, for and against this Meas-
ure, if I had Liberty to attempt it. — His Lordship seems to have been play-
ing off a Number of Machiavillian Maneuvres, in order to throw upon Us
the Odium of continuing this War. Those who have been Advocates for the
Appointment of this Committee, are for opposing Maneuvre to Maneuvre,
and are confident that the Consequence will be, that the Odium will fall
upon him. However this may be, my Lesson is plain, to ask a few Questions,
and take his Answers.
I can think of but one Reason for their putting me upon this Embassy,
and that is this. An Idea has crept into many Minds here that his Lordship
is such another as Mr. [Thomas] Hutchinson, and they may possibly think
that a Man who has been accustomed to penetrate into the mazy Windings
of Hutchinsons Heart, and the serpentine Wiles of his Head, may be tolera-
bly qualified to converse with his Lordship.
1. Butterfield, ed., Adams Family Correspondence , II, 120-21.
SEPTEMBER 1776
727
Journal of the Maryland Council of Safety1
[Annapolis] Friday, September 6th, 1776
Permit was granted to Hugh Sherwood of the Schooner Betsy to go to
Martinicoe, or any other foreign Port, he having given Bond with security,
according to resolve of Congress.
1. Council of Safety Journal, 29 August 1775 to 20 March 1777, Md. Arch.
Journal of the Virginia Council of Safety1
[Williamsburg] Friday September the 6th 1776
The Sloop Good Intent, of Bermuda, Richard Fowle master having en-
tered with eight hundred bushels of Salt, three puncheons of Rum and three
hundred and fifty pounds of Coffee, and having been offered twenty shill-
ings per Bushel for the Salt but chusing to give the preemption to the pub-
lick; the Board considering the great necessity of laying in a stock of that
essential article for the use of the army, agreed to take it for that purpose
and the said Richard Fowle is directed to deliver the same at Jamestown,
and is permitted to take in a load of Grain pursuant to the resolution of
Congress in such cases made and provided, as soon as he shall produce to
this Board a receipt for the same, under the hand of M. John Hawkins who
is hereby appointed to receive it.-
Ordered that the Commissary of Stores deliver to John N. Norton Es-
quire two pieces of Sail Duck to enable him to fit out a Vessell for the im-
portation of sundry necessary Articles, he having engaged with this Board
to return the same, in kind.
Ordered that a Warrant issue to Thomas Wootten, for Two pounds
twelve shillings and six pence for the hire of a Boat and two hands seven
days and for Express hire to Norfolk and Portsmouth two pounds.
A Permit to Captain Richard March of the Boat Nancy Burthen
Twenty Ton, Virginia built the property of Messrs Reynolds and Perrin of
York town and laden with Tobacco, Flour and Corn as per manifest filed to
trade at Martinico, or other port allowed of by Congress, the said Captain
having entered and acknowledged Bond with Security which is ordered to
be registered.
1. Mcllwaine, ed., Journals of the Virginia Council , I, 144, 145, 146, 147-48.
Journal of the Virginia Navy Board1
[Williamsburg] Friday 6th September 1776. -
Ordered that a Warrant Issue to Frederick Stoner for Forty one pounds
five shillings and six Pence for Whiskey furnished Capt William Deane for
the use of the Schooner Revenge. -
Capt. Edward Travis of the Manley Galley received Orders to Proceed im-
mediately with his Vessel and join the Commodore [John Thomas] Boucher
who is laying off New Point Comfort. -2
728
AMERICAN THEATRE
Ordered that a Warrant Issue to Lieut James Quarles for Twenty five
Pounds, on Account, to Purchase necessaries for the use of his Company of
Marines -
Ordered that a Warrant Issue to Robert Robertson for Four pounds two
shillings for Junk furnished Capt Edward Travis for the use of the Manley
Galley -
Ordered that Warrant Issue to Doctor Corbin Griffin for Eight pounds for
Pistols he furnished Capt. [Thomas] Lilly of the Brig Liberty — Also for
Twenty pounds and six pence for attending the Sick belonging to the Brig
Liberty. And also for Two Pounds four shillings and three pence for attend-
ing the Sick belonging to the Manley Galley as p Accts this day settled.
Ordered that a Warrant Issue t6 Capt Robert Tompkins of the Henry Gal-
ley for Seven hundred and eighty three pounds three shillings and seven
pence for Pay of his Company on Board the said Galley as p Accts this day
settled -
1. Navy Board Journal, 51-53, VSL.
2. Sloop Congress.
Virginia Navy Board to Commodore John Thomas Boucher1
Sir Williamsburg Sepr 6th 1776
Yours by Capt Westcot [Wright Wescott] we receiv’d. This will be de-
liverd by Capt [Edward] Travis of the Manly Galley, whom we have sent to
join you, we also shall order Capt [George] Muter of the Hero Galley and
Capt [James] Barron to your assistance immediately with those Vessels
and the Sloop Liberty .2 You are to proceed with the Brigg Adventure ten
Leagues out of the Capes, observing to keep the Captain Barrons ahead as
lookouts, taking all possible care to prevent your convoy from falling into
the Enemys hands. After you have discharg’d the Brigg you are to return to
York with the Sloop Liberty informing us of your arrival there, as we
shou’d be glad to see the Vessels. The Brigg Rawleigh is cleaning and will
not be ready for some time. Capt [Thomas] Lilly is at Baltimore for Iron
Ballast, had they been ready we shou’d have order’d them also to join you.
Capt Westcott we have order’d to Portsmouth to clean and refit. I am by
order of the Board of Commissioners Your Hble Servant
Thomas Whiting 1st Commr
1. Navy Board Letter Book, VSL.
2. Ibid., the Navy Board’s orders to various captains.
Virginia Navy Board to Colonel George Mason1
Sir, Williamsburg, 6th Sepr 1776 —
Yours of 26th and 29th Ultimo we have receiv’d in compliance with
your request we send you by Lieut: Arrell the sum you mention being
<£400 . . - which we doubt not you will properly apply to the use of the Navy
in your department— We have just receiv’d a letter by Capt Westcott from
SEPTEMBER 1776
729
Commodore Boucher informing us of his being in Mobjack Bay with the
Liberty Cruiser 8c the Tobacco Brigg Adventure and have order’d him with
the said Cruiser, two of our Gallies and the two Barrons who we have sent
to join him to convoy the Brigg clear off the Capes and to return to york
Town for our further Orders — We are surprised to hear that Mr Hunter
has made no Provisions for the [use] of the Navy and cou’d not conceive
he wou’d doubt of his Authority to mak[e] such Provisions after having
contracted and enter’d into Bond for that purpose. We shall write him im-
mediately on the Subject which we presum [e] will prevent all further dif-
ficulties in the business.2 the size and plan of the Galleys now building are
very nearly the same with those you intend to propose to the Assembly and
will enable us with some degree of certainty to furnish you with an estimate
of their Cost. I am by order of the Naval Board. Your very humble Serv-
ant
Thomas Whiting 1st Commr
To Col. Georges Mason Gunston Hall Fairfax County
P.S. We are oblig’d by your observations respecting the future supply of
necessaries for the Fleet, and shall consult the Council on the Move you pro-
pose, but fear it cannot be adopted without a stretch of power, which they
will not venture to risque
Thos Whiting 1st Commr
1. Navy Board Letter Book, VSL.
2. Ibid., the Navy Board wrote to James Hunter, state naval agent at Fredericksburg, on
September 7.
Virginia Navy Board to Smith 8c Roane, Hobbs Hole 1
[Extract] Williamsburg Sepr 6th 1776 —
. . . you are to provide for the Vessels both Salt and fresh provisions,
laying in a sufficient Stock that they may not be delayed for the want of
those necessary Articles; before this We hope you have received the Tar,
Pitch and Turpentine from Mr Cooper, Mr Hawkins will contract with you
for 40000 lbs Bacon at 7d pr lb to be deliver’d after the 25th March and be-
fore 25th June next, we approve of the price and desire you’ll enter into
contract.
1. Navy Board Letter Book, VSL.
Lieutenant Charles Cobb, R.N., to Governor Peter Chester1
Sir/ I am this Instant honored with your Excellencys Letter in the first
place requesting that I will detain H. Majesty’s Sloop West Florida, untill
the arrival of H. Majesty’s Sloop Diligence or any other of H. Majesty s
Ships - also that I will give directions to Lieut Burdon to give all the As-
sistance in his power in the Removal of a Quantity of timber from Rose Is-
land and Tartar point — for the better Carrying on the intended new
Works. I shall Comply with your Excellencys request 8c give directions to
Lieut Burdon accordingly
730
AMERICAN THEATRE
Your Excellency has also Signified to me that it is the Opinion of your
Excellency Sc Council that H. Majesty’s Sloop under my Command should be
held in readiness to proceed to Jamaica with dispatches for vice Admiral
Gayton Sc Sir Basil Keith — I look on it my duty and am always ready to
Comply with any request that may be for the good of His Majesty’s Service
- at the same time I must take the liberty to say that as your Excellency has
a proper Vessel for such service she should be employed therein. I on my
part will give every assistance required in getting her ready for sea — and
do take upon me to say (if her bottom is in proper Order) I will have her
ready nearly as soon as any Dispatches your Excellency may have to send
and as in the present State of Affairs it would in my Opinion be improper in
me to quit the province I propose forwarding the Removal of timber Sec up
to this place and to give every assistance in putting it in a State of defence -
But should it prove that the Hillsborough cannot possibly be got ready
for Sea I am still ready to forward any dispatches for Jamaica —
I beg the favor of your Excellency’s Answer as soon as convenient that
I may have time either to get the Hillsborough ready or to write my Letters
to Capt [Thomas] Davey and leave directions with Lieut Burdon for his
farther proceedings have the honor to be &ca
Cha8 Cobb.
His Majesty’s Armed Sloop [ West ] Florida
Pensacola Septr 6th 1776
1. PRO, Colonial Office, 5/634, Part II, 391-92, LC Photocopy.
7 Sept.
Advertisement of Sale of the Cargo of Prize Sloop Isabella 1
To be sold at Public Vendue, On Thursday, the 19th Inst, at Ten
o’Clock in the Forenoon, at Beverly,
The Cargo of the Sloop Isabella , consisting of one Hundred and Forty-
seven Hogsheads and Eight Tierces of Antigua Rum.
Salem, September 7, 1776.
1. New-England, Chronicle , September 12, 1776.
Acts and Resolves of the Massachusetts General Court1
[Watertown] Saturday September 7 1776.
Resolved that the two small Vessels employed for the purpose of ob-
taining Intelligence respecting the movements of the British Fleet, and
Army with their Crews be, and they hereby are discharged from the Serv-
ice of this State, and that the Honble James Warren Esqr be and he hereby
is impowered, and directed to dispose of One of the above mentioned Ves-
sels, which was fix’d out at Plimouth with her Appurtenances to the best
Advantage of this State, and pay the proceeds arising from said Sale into
the Treasury of this State taking duplicate Receipts the one of which Re-
SEPTEMBER 1776
731
ceipts to be lodg’d in the Secretarys Office the said honble James Warren
Esqr to be Accountable to this Court.
And it is further Resolved, that Capt Josiah Batchelder be, and he hereby
is directed to dispose of any Articles, that is the property of this State, that
may be found on board, or belonging to One of the above mentioned Vessel
fixed out from Beverly, discharge, and pay off the said Vessel, and Crew,
and lay his Accounts before this Court.
1. Mass. Arch., vol. 35, 207, 209.
Abigail Adams to John Adams1
[Extract] Braintree Sepbr. 7 1776
Tis said that the Efforts of our Enemies will be to stop the communica-
tion between the colonies by taking possession of Hudsons Bay [sic
River]. Can it be effected? The Milford frigate rides triumphant in our
Bay, taking vessels every day, and no Colony nor Continental vessel has yet
attempted to hinder her. She mounts but 28 Guns but is one of the finest
sailors in the British Navy. They complain we have not weighty mettle
enough and I suppose truly. The Rage for privateering is as great here as
any where and I believe the success has been as great.
1. Butterfield, ed., Adams Family Correspondence, II, 121, 123.
Providence Gazette , Saturday, September 7, 1776
Providence, September 7.
Thursday last arrived here a Prize Schooner, taken by the Joseph Pri-
vateer, Capt. John Field, in Consort with a Letter of Marque, commanded
by Capt. Joseph Tillinghast, both of this Port. She was in Ballast, and
bound from Grenada to Liverpool, in Nova-Scotia.
Capt. Biddle, of the Andrew Doria, in the Service of the United
States, we hear has taken four valuable Prizes, one of them said to be a
large Ship, which Lord Dunmore was sending to England, with 15000 Bush-
els of Wheat. Two of the Prizes have arrived safe in Port.1
We learn that Capt. Jabez Whipple, in the Privateer Independence , of
this Place, has taken three valuable Prizes, viz. a Ship, Brig and Sloop, and
convoyed them into a safe Port.2
1. The prizes sent into Providence were the brigantines Lawrence and Elizabeth.
2. The ship was the Aurora; the brig, Fanny.
Journal of Lieutenant John Trevett1
[August 6 to September 7, 1776]
July, 1776. I was at Newport but a few days before I sailed again with
Capt. Biddle.2 On this Cruise we took several prizes, one of them from Lord
732
AMERICAN THEATRE
Dunmores fleet; [also] A Brig from Barbadoes bound to Newfoundland,
This prize I went on board of as Master, and arrived safe at Providence.3
1. Trevett’s Journal, NHS.
2. Trevett’s month is in error. He arrived in Newport on August 6, and the Andrew Doria
sailed from there on August 10.
3. The 100 ton brigantine Lawrence, George Leyburn, master, with a cargo of rum, sugar,
limes, sea coal, wrought copper and tinware. The prize got into Rhode Island on
September 7.
Orders to Captain William Waterman1
Sir./ you being master of the Sloop Dimant, as She is now fitted for the
Seas, our Orders to you are that you Embrace the first fair wind, and good
weather, and go to Sea, with Said Sloop and her Cargo, and proceed Di-
rectly for the Island of Martinico, and when you arrive their, weight on the
Governor and gett a permission to Sell your Cargo, and when you have
Sold your Cargo, Lay out the neet proceeds in Gun Powder, and fire Arms,
Some three 8c four pound Canon 8c Swivells, Lay out the Principle part in
Powder, and make all the Dispatch in your power, if you Should fall to
Leward by any means go into St Eustatia, or any Port to Leward that you
think will Answer 8c Sell your Cargo, 8c Lay out the neet proceds in the
above Articles, You Are to have for the Sale of your Cargo five pCent and
Two and a half for your Returns, and if you Sell at Martinico, two half
Joannes for to pay the Ling[uis]ts, and if you are obliged to give any part
of your Commision away for doing the Business, you are to pay it out of
your Commision. your Priviledge Home as master is to be Ten Hogshd
and your mariners as p agreement, we Leive the Conducting this
Voyag[e] to your good Judgment, 8c recomend that you make all the Dis-
patch in your Power. So We wish you a good Voyage 8c Safe return Home to
your Friends 8c Owners. Dated at Providence Sepr 7th 1776
[Endorsed] The above is a True Coppy of my Orders, which I promise to
Observe Witness my Hand
William Waterman
[Additional instructions]
Capt William Waterman
Providence Sepr 9th 1776
Sir you are Ordered to purchase Two Hundred fire Arms the remainder
of your Cargo Lay out in Powder, 8c Cannon [8c] Swivele guns.
John Jenckes
Committee
for
1. Maritime Papers, Revolutionary War, 1776-1778, R. I. Arch.
SEPTEMBER 1776
733
Nathaniel Shaw, Jr. to Governor Jonathan Trumbull1
Sir New London Sepr 7th 1776
Since the Council left N L the Committe have Sent a Number of Ves-
sells to Long Island, and have brot of[f] as many People as Chose to come,
Also as much Stock as were offer’d them to transport, and tomorrow Sev-
eral more Vessells will Return to the Island, but it is Doubtfull wether
they will be requested to take any more Stock, as the Inhabitants that are
now left seem to be Determin’d to Remain and Submitt on as good terms
as they Can git — this Moment the Inclos’d came to hand, and as it Con-
tains Matter of sum Consequence, as to the troops Returning to the Island,
it was thought best to forward it to you, I am Sir [Sec.]
Nath1 Shaw Junr
1. Conn. Arch., 1st Series, IX, 307, ConnSL.
h
Diary of Christopher Vail 1
[September 6-7] 2
We at this time had information of a Company of Tories that was stationed
at Sauteunt [Setauket] L. Island we collected about 60 whale Boats and
manned them and cros’d over the Sound in a heavy blow from N. West in
the night in Company with the Armed schooner Spy of 10 Guns. Capt.
[Robert] Niles and arrived at the Island about 11 P.M. and divided our
force so as to take their whole force by surrounding their Guard house and
Head Quarters at the same time. On our arrival at the Guard house numbers
fled to Head Quarters where the whole was taken. We killed 13 of the Enemy
and brought off 40 prisoners and made prizes of two Sloops — we had one
man killed, none wounded, and the day following we returned to New
Haven — 3
1. Diary of Christopher Vail, LC.
2. Mackenzie’s Diary, I, 40, for September 7, 1776: "A few of the Rebels landed about 20 miles
to the Eastward last night, and after committing some outrages upon the loyalists, went
off again, taking with them some Cattle, and other matters.”
3. See also Lieutenant Colonel Henry Beekman Livingston to Robert R. Livingston, September
25, 1776.
Journal of H.M.S. Cerberus , Captain John Symons1
Septr 1776 Block Island N 3.54 E 15 Leags
Saturday 7 at 6 AM saw a Sail a head gave Chace fired sixteen 3 pdrs
at the Chace at 1 1 Brot too Sc spoke the Chace a Sloop from
Cape Francois Ladend with Molasses bound to Dartmouth2
Fresh Breezes Sc hazey sent a Mid: Sc 4 Men on bd a Prize
to Conduct her to New York at 5 saw a SI to Windwd gave
Chace at 6 parted Co wth the Merlin & Prizes3 at 11
handed Fore Sc Mizn Topsl
1. PRO, Admiralty 51/181.
734
AMERICAN THEATRE
2. Ibid., 1/487, the Success, E. Hathaway, master, J. Otis, owner, from Cape Francois for
Dartmouth, with molasses, Howe’s Prize List, March 31, 1777.
3. Master’s log of the Cerberus reads: “parted company with the Merlin, Prize and French Sloop
[Felicite], having sent them to Sandy Hook,” PRO, Admiralty 52/1650.
Brigadier General Benedict Arnold to Major General Horatio Gates 1
Dear General, Wind Mill Point September 7th 1776
I wrote you the 2nd Instant from Willsborough by Lieut [James]
Calderwood, the same Evening Anchored at Schuylers Island, & on the 3d
Instant arrived safe at this Place, which is 4, or 5 miles from the Isle Aux
Tate,2 and 7 miles from the Isle aux Mott, we found the Isle aux Tate occu-
pied by the Enemy, and several hundred Men encamped, between that & us,
who the Evening of our arrival made a precipitate retreat
I have posted my Guard Boats, at a Point running into the Lake about
one Mile below us, The Enemies Boats have several Times, appeared on the
Lake with a View of decoying our Boats but I have never suffered them to
be pursued; Lieutenant [Benjamin] Whitcomb arrived here the 5th in the
Evening and went off the same Night with three Men for St. Johns on the
Westside, I sent off Ensign [Thomas] McCoy early the next Morning on
the Eastside, with three Men, they are to send me intelligence from time to
time I expect to hear from them to Morrow early yesterday morning the
Boats were ordered on Shore to Cut Fascines to fix on the Bows and Sides
of the Gondolas to prevent the Enemies boarding and to keep off small Shot.
One of the Boats went on Shore contrary to Orders before the others were
ready, they were attacked by a Party of Savages, who pursued them into
the Water. They all reached the Boat, but before they could row off, three
were killed, and Six wounded the Party was headed by a Regular Officer,
who called to our People to resign themselves, on our firing a few Shot
among them they immediately dispersed, a party was sent on Shore who
found a laced Beaver hat, the Button marke 47th Regiment. The Lee and
Gondola arrived here yesterday morning, we are moor’d in a Line a Cross
the Lake, insuch a manner, it will be impossible for a Batteau to pass us. —
I hope the Gallies are nearly compleated, the Force of the Enemy is uncer-
tain, however they have this advantage that they can Man all their
Batteaux with Soldiers whenever they think proper to attack us, and our Ves-
sels are solow that numbers may carry them by boarding, this must be at-
tended with great Loss on their side, as I am Positive they will notbe able to
surprize us. If I find the Enemy have a considerable Naval Force I design to
retire, to Cumberland Head or Schuylers Island untill joined by the three
Row Gallies, which will be Superior to all our present Force, when the
whole are joined, I believe the Isle a Mott will be the best Stand as the En-
emy can bring nothing against us by Land nor will they dare to Come on the
Island, as by our Guard boats we can prevent, any Boats going from Mis-
sisque Bay, as you have more Troops at Tyconderoga than you want, will it
not be prudent to send up one thousand or fifteen hundred Men, who might
encamp on the Isle aux Mott, and be ready at all times to assist us if
SEPTEMBER 1776
735
attacked twenty Men to a Batteau will be sufficient, they might Load
under Cover of the Vessels, push out and Fire, Sc retire under cover again, Sc
If the Enemies Boats should make their principal Attack on any particular
Vessel these Batteaux might Assist her; each should be fixed for a Swivel in
each end, and if they are armed one should be fixed in them, if you should
think it necessary tosend a Detachment, it will be necessary to bring in-
trenching Tools, that they may cover themselves from Small Arms. —
We have but very indifferent Men, in general, great part of those who
shipped for Seamen know very little of the Matter three or four good Gun-
ners are wanted enclosed is a List of our Sick, who increase fast, I have sent
up in three Batteaux 23 Men, who will be of no service for some time, I
wish 50 Seamen could be procured and sent down, I inclose you a Letter
from Samuel Chaise Esqr you will observe he requests an explanation of
your Letter to Mr Adams, He observes my Character is much injured by a
Report prevailing in Philadelphia of my having sequestered the Goods
seized in Montreal, as you have had an Opportunity of hearing that Matter
canvassed on the Tryal of Colonel [Moses] Hazen, I beg you will be kind
enought to write your Sentiments to him on the Matter I cannot but think
it extreamly cruel, when I have sacrafised my Ease, Health and great Part
of my private Property in the Cause of my Country, to be Caluminated as a
Robber and thief, at a Time too when I have it not in my Power to be heard
in my own Defence.
The 15th of August when we left Tyconderoga the fleet were victualed
for thirty Days, which Time is elapsed except 6 Days, we have on board the
Fleet Six or eight Days Provision besides twenty Barrells of flour, left at
Crown Point to be baked, and ten Barrells of Pork which I have ordered
Lieutenant Calderwood to bring down, which will serve the Fleet to the
20th, as the Lake is often very difficult to pass for a number of days we
aught to have at least one Months Provisions on hand. Major [David]
Grier goes up with the Sick to whom I must refer you for particulars.
We are very anxious to hear from New York, hope soon to have that
pleasure by one of the Gallies, which I think must be compleated by this
Time — please to make my Compliments to the Gentlemen of your Family
and believe me with much respect, esteem and Affection Dear General [&c.]
B. Arnold
1. Gates Papers, Box 4, NYHS. A copy is in Washington Papers, LC.
2. Isle aux Tetes.
George Washington to John Hancock1
Sir New York Septr 7th 1776
This will be delivered you by Captn [Sion] Martindale Sc Lieutt
[Moses] Turner who were taken last Fall in the Armed Brig Washington ,2
Sc who with Mr [James] Childs the 2d Lieutt have lately effected their es-
cape from Hallifax.
736
AMERICAN THEATRE
Captn Martindale and these two Officers have applied to me for pay
from the 1st of January till this time, But not conceiving myself authorized
to grant It, however reasonable It may be, as they were only engaged ’till
the last of Decemr at their instance I have mentioned the matter to Con-
gress Sc submit their case to their consideration. I have [Sec.]
Go Washington
1. Papers CC (Letters from George Washington), 152, II, 523, NA.
2. See Volumes 3 and 4.
Diary of Samuel Richards 1
Deer, [sic September 7, 1776]
In the bay below N. York the british fleet made a great display; the no.
of the vessells of all sizes amounted to about 300; and as they spread their
sails to dry — after a rain— they covered a large extent of the water.
The admirals ship — the Eagle of 64 guns appearing in full sight,
known by her flag, Capt. [David] Bushnell — of the sappers Sc miners —
having prepared his submarine engine — it was sent one night, with a mag-
azine of powder attached to it — under the command of a serjeant and 12
men — the party proceeded to the ship — having a pointed rod at top de-
signed to be stuck into the ships bottom, but this point not taking effect —
the tide which was strong — wafted the engine away from under the ship Sc
the enterprise failed. The sergeant who had the command gave me a partic-
ular narrative of the proceeding, and said that he was of opinion that the
projecting point struck the head of a bolt which prevented its success; but I
judged it as probable that the point was prevented from entering the ship
by the copper sheathing.2
1. Captain Richards’ Diary, 45.
2. See Appendix B.
Journal of H.M.S. Asia , Captain George Vandeput1
September 1776 Moor’d in the No. River at New York
Saturdy 7 Do [Moderate Sc hazy] with Rain at times PM at \/2
past 10 sent 4 Boats to the Assistce of the Advanced Guard
p Signal 2
1. PRO, Admiralty 51/67.
2. Guard boats could have been alarmed by a strange object in the water— Bushnell’s submarine
T urtle. See Appendix B.
Journal of H.M.S. Eagle , Captain Henry Duncan1
Septembr 1776 Moored off of Bedlows Island
Saturday 7th At 6 A M made the Asia, Bristol, Rainbow , Emerald,
Thunder Sc Stombolos Sigls for Lieuts At 8 Sent a Lieut
Sc the Flat Boats Crews ashore to Red Hook to Launch the
Flat Boats, At 9 the Renown , Emerald, Thunder, Carcass,
SEPTEMBER 1776
737
Asia, 8c Bristoh Sigl for Petty Officers, Arrived His Ma-
jesty’s Ship Fowey At 11 the Repulse Signal for a Petty
Officer 8c Lieut Barkers Signal.
The first part fresh Breezes 8c hazey the Middle light airs
& do, latter fresh Breezes 8c Cloudy with rain At 3 PM
Sent Lieut [John] Howorth with Command of 12 Petty
Officers & 132 Seamen to Man Flat Boats At 5 made the
Parole Signal with a Red 8c White Striped Pendant 8c the
Greyhounds Signal for a Lieut Lieutenant Howorth with
the Petty Officers 8c Men Returned onboard At i/2 past
10 the out Guard Boats made the alarm Signal, fired a Gun
8c made the Signal for sending the Guard Boats to their
Assistance \/2 past 11 fired a Gun 8c made the Signal to
recall them2
1. NMM, Admiralty L/E/ll.
2. See Journal of Ambrose Serle this date.
Master’s Log of H.M.S. Roebuck 1
Septr 1776 Governors Isld ENE s/4 of a mile
Saturday 7th Receiv’d our 6 Prs from Red Hook
Fresh gales & Rain P M at 10 Receiv’d 2 Deserters from
the Rebels, at 11 an alarm was made by the gaurd
boats, Do the Admiral made a Signl to Reinforce them,
which was comply’d with
1. PRO, Admiralty 52/1965.
Journal of Ambrose Serle1
[On board H.M.S. Eagle ] Saturday, 7th. Septr.
This Morning, the Fowey, Capt. G[eorge]. Montagu, came into the Harbor
from North Carolina.
Great Preparations have been making all this Day; and about 80 Flat-
bottomed Boats were made ready for a further Debarkation of Troops, and
for a further attack upon the Rebels.
A slight alarm happened to-night from the Enemy’s Boats approaching
too near; they were soon driven back by the Musketry in our Boats. Their
Intention was, as we apprehended, to bring down 2 or 3 Fire-ships to set
adrift in the Fleet.
1. Tatum, ed., Serle’s Journal, 95.
Thomas Randall to the New York Provincial Congress-
[Extract]
Gentlemen — Elizabethtown, Sept. 7th, 1776.
Enclosed is a letter from the Lieutenant of your schooner Gen. Put-
nam, who informs you that the captain went away without letting him
738
AMERICAN THEATRE
know of his going, and of course it must be a neglect of his duty. You also
have a petition from the ship’s company, which complaint I fear is too true;
you will be pleased to take such steps as you think fit; for my part I think it
would be best to appoint a new commander for her; the lieut. I believe
would be more industrious in the service. I also think it would not be amiss
to order the people to be paid about one half of their wages, to supply them
with clothes and stores. . . .
1. New York Provincial Congress , II, 223.
William Goodrich to the Pennsylvania Council of Safety1
Philadelphia Goal, 7th Sept’r, 1776
Gentlemen of the Counsel of Safety:
I now beg leaf to inform you of my transactions while I was imployed
in fetching in gunpowder for the use of the Collony of Virginia, and de-
tained a prissinner under Lord Dunmore on that Account, Which is as fol-
lows, Viz:
Sometime in July, in the year of 1775, I was imployed by Mr. Thomas
Newton, of Norfolk, to fetch in a quantity of gunpowder for the use of the
collony of Virginia, and was intrusted with Bills of exchange on London to
the amount of five thousand pounds Sterling, to purchase the same with. I
proceeded to the West indies with all possable disspatch and disposed of the
said bills of exchange, agreeable to my directions from Mr. Newton. Then I
went to St. Eustatia, Martinico and Sundry other french Islands, and pur-
chased all the gunpowder I could find in those Islands, which did not exceed
five thousand weight. And knowing at that time that the Collony of Vir-
ginia was laying in a defenceless state, I took the above quantity of gun-
powder into a small sloop of mine, with a quantity of Oznabriges on my own
Acc’t, and proceeded with same to the head of paspotank river, in North
Carolina, where I landed the powder and oznabriges all safe. From thence I
was preceding to Norfolk, in Virginia, over land, there to see Mr. Thomas
Newton, the gentleman who imployed me to go on the powder expedition.
On my way to Norfolk I was informed that the said Newton had moved
from that and it would be onsafe for me to go there, as Lord Dunmore was
a keeping a lookout and wanted to take me, owing to an information lodged
against me to Lord Dunmore of my being gone out after gunpowder.
When I left the west indies I left the remainder part of the Cuntrie’s
money in the hands of Isaac Vandam, Merchant at St. Eustatia, with orders
to lay the same out in gunpowder, and have the same ready at St. Eustatia
on my return, a coppy of which I took with me. My receiving information
that Dunmore Wanted to take me, maid me alter my corse and go to Ports-
mouth, Where I expected to have seen my family; but on my arrival There,
I saw no one but Mr. Robert Shedden, who informed me that my Father’s
and my family was moved up to a Plantation of my Father’s that was about
twenty-five miles back in the Cuntry, and that I must leave the town erne-
SEPTEMBER 1776
739
diately as Lord Dunmore was keeping the strictest lookout for you, which I
did. I proceeded to my family. Mr. Shedden sent word to my Father 8c
Brother to inform them of my safe arrival, Who were then down at the
Capes, the one at the North cape and the other at the south Cape, keeping a
lookout for me, and a small Schooner which they expected in, loaded with
corse Linens. After staying one or two days with my family, I proceeded to
Williamsburg, and on my way I met with Mr. Newton, who I inform’d of
my proceedings, which gave him satisfaction, 8c he desired that I would pro-
ceed to Williamsburg and there give an account of my proceedings to Mr. R.
C. Nicholus, who it allso gave Satisfaction to.
From Williamsburg I returned to my Father’s plantation, where my
Family was, and muved my Wife, who was then big with Child, and looking
to layin in the corse of a month or so, to Mrs. Brown’s, an old Midwifes,
where I thought She might remain in Safety while I was gone for the re-
mainder part of This gunpowder. As soon as I got her well settled there and
provided her with necessaries of Life, I proceeded to my Father’s planta-
tion, on my way to St. Eustatia, but on my arrival there my Father wan’t
returned from the cape, who I wanted to see before I went to ’Statia, which
induced me to stay there that night, and, unluckey for me, there came Eight
men and an officer that night and took me a prissenner, about two o’clock in
the morning, and Carryed me on board of the Otter Sloop-of-War.
On my Father’s hearing of this misfortune of mine, he returned from
the Cape, and took the directions I left with Mr. Vandam and went to the
head of paspotank, where the small Vessel was laying that I brought in the
powder and Oznabriges with, and was proceeding to St. Eustatia in order to
take in hand the powder expidition, but onluckily got taiken at Ocrocock
Bar, by two of the king’s Croosers that was there, and brought a prissonner
on board of the Otter, with all his papers, among which was a Coppy of
Vandam’s orders, which I left with him. Upon Lord Dunmore Examineing
of this Coppy of Direction that I left with Mr. Vandam, he found that I had
left a considerable sum of money belonging to the Colony of Virginia in the
hands of Vandam, at St. Eustatia, to be laid out in gunpowder; upon which,
his Lordship obliged me to go on board of an armed tender, and sent me to
St. Eustatia, giveing of me possative orders to take that gunpowder, and
what money that should not be laid out, and fetch the same to him.
When arrived at St. Eustatia, I informed Mr. Vandam of My misfor-
tune, and told him that I was sent there by Lord Dunmore with such in-
structions, which I shewed to him, telling of him, at the same time, that we
must fall upon some plan to keep Lord Dunmore from Geting of this money,
as I did not think it was Just that he should have it, which Vandam readyly
agred to, and the money is now laying in the hands of Mr. Vandam’s Execu-
tors, as he has since departed this Life. Mr. Vandam had the powder ready,
agreeable to my directions, which he sold afterwards to a New York Sloop
that was laying in the rhoad.
On my return from St. Eustatia to Virginia, I waited on Lord Dun-
more and Shode him a note from Mr. Vandam Promissing to pay the sum of
740
AMERICAN THEATRE
money I left in his hands, On his receiveing advice that the bills of exchange
was duly Honoured, and not before, as he was an indorser on the bills
which he had the money for, and did not think himself safe in delivering the
money before then, which note Lord Dunmore took and was satisfyed with,
and in about one week his Lordship granted me my perole to go and see my
family where I staid three days and returned on board remaining a prissin-
nor, in which time Lord Dunmore sent for me several times desireing that I
would Join government, which I refused to do, telling of his Lordship that I
could not think of taking up arm against a cuntry that was Acting in de-
vence of there Liberties.
Now the people of the cuntry began to susspect that I had fotch in the
cuntries’ money to Lord Dunmore, which Occaisoned the Convention to stop
the payment of a considerable sum of money due my brother & self for a
quantity of corse linen sold them in October last. The people of the Cuntry
grew so inragedd, they went to the house where my wife was, and when she
had been but three Days delivered of a child, with a fixed reasulution to burn
the house over her head, which it was as much as some of my friends could
do to keep them from. My Friends was obliged to send my wife of [f] in a
fortnight after she was delivered as she run a risque of her life while on
shore.
After this I staid on board of a Vessel of my own for three months on
my perole not to go on shore; after which Time Lord Dunmore sent for me
and desireing that I would Take charge of one of the Tenders, which I still
refused to do. This Occasion’d his Lordship to grow a little mad. “What,”
says he, “don’t the ill treatment of those fellows on shore to Mrs. Goodrich
lead you to resent it?” I replyed that I did not think it was right to resent
the ill treatment of a few Invious men on the whole Cuntry, and that I could
not take up armes agains them with a clair Contience as long as they ware
acting in defence of there Liberties. “But,” says he, “you may depend upon
it that they mean to Shake of [f] their dependence on grate brittain?” Then
I told his Lordship that if he would alow me to remain nuteral untill they
did declare themselves free and independent of grate brittain, that I should
then look upon myself to be in duty bound to take a part in favour of grate
brittain, and would do avery thing in My power to appress the Americans
in such a declaration. Upon which we parted, and I do declair upon my
honour, Gentlemen, that I did not do nothing in favour of government but
what I was obleged to do before they Declared for Independence. Upon the
declaration of Independence in Virginia, I told Lord Dunmore that I was
then ready and willing to take a part in favor of grate brittain Agreeable
to my promiss, provided that his Lordship would furnish me with a propper
Vessel well man’d and arm’d, Which his Lordship agreed to do, and sent me
to Bermudas in the armed sloop, the Lady susan , to purchase a Brigg that
Would carry Eighteen guns. When at Bermudas, there was no such Vessel to
be had, and on my return from Bermudas, I met with the misfortune of fall-
ing in with the brig Lexington, Capt. Berry [John Barry], who took me
and sent me here.2 This, gentlemen, I hope you will take to your Consedra-
SEPTEMBER 1776
741
tions, and have me treated genteally, as a prissonner of war ought to be, and
not like a thief or a Robber, as you have done by putting of me in Close con-
finement, and not alowing of me to speak to any person. I am, gentlemen, a
constant and sinseer well-wisher to the piece and well fair of America,
while under the power 8c authority of Grate Brittain.
William Goodrich
N.B. I would be glad to obtain Liberty of riting to my pore Distressed
family who are now in Bermudas, as I understand there is an opportunity.
W. Goodrich
1. Pennsylvania Archives, 2nd series, I, 621-24.
2. Goodrich wrote to his brothers, Bridger and Bartlett, this date describing his engagement
with Barry:
On my pashage from Bermudas to I made the Brigg lexenton Capt Berry [John
Barry] of Sixtean guns wright to the windward of me about Six oClock in the
morning on the 27 day of July & in the Latitude of 35° - 5' She gave Chase to me,
and at 12 oClock She came So near as to throw her shot over me, notwithstanding I
was make[ing] of[f] from her with all possable speed right before the wind, from 12
untill i/2 after two oClock I kept afireing at her with a three pounder out of My
Cabin windows now and then giveing the sloop a yaw and fetching some of my
after guns to bare upon her at which time She kept her Bough guns aplaying upon
me and ran up along side, at which time I struck knowing my Self to be no match
for her haveing but 10 men onboard 6 of which was down with the Smallpox and
2 more not worth There salt to there Victuals, no one remaining true but Jones,
Miller & oald hardy the rest all turn’d [torn] in ten minutes after taiken you well
[torn] your boy Jeffery by Calling of him the Devil [torn]. Capt Berry used me
while I was onboard of the brig with agrate deal of humanity and did every thing
in his power to make things Agreeable to me
Record Group 27, Records of the Supreme Executive Council, Pa. Arch.
Diary of Christopher Marshall1
[Philadelphia] Sept. 7th 1776
. . . yesterday arrived a Bermudian Vessell its Sd with 2500 Bushels of
Salt . . . passes wrote 8c Signd to day were for Sarah Lecke wife of the Liu-
tenant of Roebuck She was taken at Gwin’s Island now going to New
York.
1. Diary of Christopher Marshall, HSP.
Stephen Steward to the Maryland Council of Safety1
Gentell. [Woodyard] Septembr the 7 1776
this will be handed to you by Captain [William] Paterson he has ben
with me to No If thare is any of the Provence Boats are Redey I have two
Redey for Rigen The Rigen is at Baltimore Wha[re] Capt Paterson may
go for amedatly If you think well of Employing him the boat he Chuses to
go in is Redey for shipen I am [8cc.]
Stephen Steward
1. Red Book, XII, Md. Arch.
742
AMERICAN THEATRE
Journal of the Virginia Council of Safety1
[Williamsburg] Saturday. September 7th 1776.
A Petition from the Inhabitants of the Town of Alexandria setting
forth among other things, '‘their defenceless condition, tho accessable to
Ships of War under forty or fifty Guns only, and praying that they might
be permitted to purchase at the public expence sixteen Iron Cannon, vizt ten
eighteen pounders and six nine pounders to be mounted on two substantial
Batteries which had been lately erected on advantageous situations in that
Town, and which were now compleated with proper embrazures for Cannon
directly under which the Channel of the river runs, so that no ships can
pass at much more than a Quarter of a mile distant; And that they may be
also allowed to purchase in the same manner two small Forges for casting
the nine pound shott, with a sufficient Quantity of Ordinance Stores ... It
is Ordered, That the Petitioners be accordingly permitted to purchase the
Cannon, Forges & Ordinance Stores aforesaid taking care not to exceed
thirty five pounds per Tonn, for the Cannon, including the expence of prov-
ing the same, and to procure the other Articles as cheap as possible. . . .
On considering a recommendation from the Navy Board, It is Ordered
that Mr Willis Wilson be appointed Captain of a Galley, called the Caswell ,
building at South Quay, and that a Commission issue accordingly.
Ordered, that Mr Joel Studivant who, as appears by Captain Cockes
Certificate, has acted as Captain of Marines on board the Brigantine Raleigh
ever since the resignation of Captain Foster, besides doing the Duties of his
own office of second Lieutenant of the said Brigantine, do receive from the
Time of Captain Fosters resignation six shillings per Day as long as he
shall continue to be employed in both the said offices.
1. Mcllwaine, ed., Journals of the Virginia Council, I, 148, 149-50.
Journal of the Virginia Navy Board1
[Williamsburg] Saturday 7th September 1776. —
Ordered that the keeper of the Public Magazine deliver unto Capt [Robert]
Tompkins for the use of the Henry Galley four hundred Pounds of Gun-
powder six Quire of Cartridge Paper One hundred Gun flints and a Worm.
Ordered that a Warrant Issue to Job Martin for Ten Pounds for two Rifle
Gunns furnished Capt George Muter for the use of the Hero Galley. -
Willis Wilson is recommended to his Excellency the Governor and the hon-
ble the Council as a proper Person to be appointed to the Command of the
Casewell Galley. -
1. Navy Board Journal, 53-54, VSL.
SEPTEMBER 1776
748
Virginia Navy Board to Captain Wright Westcott,
State Sloop Scorpion 1
Sir Williamsburg Sepr 7th 1776
You are to proceed to Portsmouth immediately and put your Vessel
[i] n order for cruising, with the utmost expedition, being as frugal as possi-
ble in your expence.
By order of the Naval Board
Thoms. Whiting 1st Commr
P. S. Should an Enemy be in the Bay you are to join Commodore Boucher or
any other of our Vessels & assist in distressing them T. Whiting
1. Navy Board Letter Book, VSL.
Virginia Navy Board to Sir John Taylor, Gloucester1
Sir Williamsburg Sepr 7th 1776
We are inform’d by the honble Mr Pago that there was a Flatt sunk
with some Cannon belonging to one of Lord Dunmores Vessels near
Gwynns Island. We have therefore sent Capt [Robert] Tompkins in the
Henry Galley to search for them and to endeavour to get them up & Shou’d
be much Oblig’d that you will give him the best information you can where
they may be most likely found. I am by order of the Naval Board Your
hble Servant
Tho9 Whiting 1st Commr
1. Navy Board Letter Book, VSL.
“Extract of a letter from a Gentleman at Baltimore.”1
Williamsburg, Sept. 7.
A Continental ship arrived with our vessel in Delaware, with 2200
stand of arms and 1500 bolts of canvas, and full with other stores.—
1. Dixon and Hunter’s Virginia Gazette, September 7, 1776.
Journal of H.M. Sloop Falcon , Captain John Linzee1
Septemr 1776. Moor’d off Ball’d Head
Frydy 6 AM 20 Men & 2 Officers Sent on Shore to work on the fort.
Modt. and Cloudy Wr PM the Rebells were discovered on
Ball’d Head at the same time attack’d fort Gorge with
Musquetry with 150 Men Commanded by Coll Poke2 after
a fire of about 10 Minutes the Rebells were drove off by a
party in the Fort of about 25 or 30 Men with only 12 Mus-
ketts The men in the fort belong’d to differant Ships of
War. the Rebells had 1 Man killd 8c 1 Woundd not a
man hurt by the Rebells Notwithstanding they had the
Oppertunity of firing on the grater part for some minutes be-
744
AMERICAN THEATRE
fore they Could get into the fort. 5 men belonging to H M
Sloop Cruizer that awas Stragling in the Woods was taken 8c
Carried off before the Rebels came to the fort on the forts
firing made Signal for all Boats mann’d 8c arm’d sent
Arms 8c men from the Ship to Support the fort fird 6 pound-
ers through the Woods at the Rebells at one P M we dis-
cover’d 2 of the Rebells Boats in Buzzards Bay Sent Lieutt
Dickerson with the Command of Sloop Defiance mann’d
and Arm’d and 5 Boats to Block them in or destroy them
Satury 7 AM fird Six pounders through the woods knowing the Reb-
ells to be there.
Fresh Breezes and Cloudy Wr P M the Boats and Sloop
Attack’d the Rebbell Boats in Buzzards Bay with Swivels 8c
Musquetry the Sloop fird some 3 Pounders which was Re-
turnd by the Rebells as was thought with either 2 or 3
pounders our Boats Returnd with out being able to De-
stroy them and under Cover of the Night got off.
1. PRO, Admiralty 51/336.
2. Colonel Thomas Polk, 4th North Carolina Regiment.
Journal of H.M. Sloop Cruizer , Captain Francis Parry1
September [1776] abreast of Fort Johnston [Cape Fear]
Friday 6th Modr and fair Wear at Noon the Battery at Bauld-
head fir’d upon the Rebels but was soon beat off.
Do Wear at 1 P M the Falcon made the Signal for all
boats at 2 unmoord and Hove Short on the best
bower, at 7 came in a Schooner from the West Indias
Saturday 7th at 10 A M came into Bauldhead a small Schooner, put 4
of our 3 pounders on bd a Sloop to go up the river to
prevent the Rebels from geting by bauld head
Mode and hazey at 6 P M the boats belonging to the
Ship fird several Swivels at the Rebels boats up in Bus-
sards bay, but was obliged to retreat.
1. PRO, Admiralty 51/218.
Journal of H.M. Sloop Scorpion , Captain John Tollemache1
Septemr 1776 Moor’d in Cape Fear River.
Saturdy 7 AM the Rebels landed on Bald Head burnt the Red Cut-
ter which was hauld on shore to prevent her falling into
their hands
Boats Empd with the Armed Sloop in cutting off the retreat
of the Rebels from Bald head they having been repulsed by
the Fort in the W. part of the Island
1. PRO, Admiralty 51/872.
SEPTEMBER 1776
745
Captain John Paul Jones to the Continental Marine Committee1
Providence at Sea in No Latd 36.°40' and
Wt Longd 51° - Septr 7th 1776.
Gentlemen
I had the honour of writing to you 27th Ulto pr the Brigantine Britan-
nia a Nantucket Whaler which I Sent in under the Care of Lieut [William]
Grinnell. — Also 4th Currt pr the Brigt Sea Nymph from Barbadoes for
London which I Sent in under the Care of Mr [William] Hopkins Master
of the Providence with a particular Accot of my Cruise till that time —
nothing has Since happened till last Night when I took the Brigantine Fa-
vourite laden with Sugar from Antigua for Liverpool as pr Custom House
Certificates herewith inclosed — as this Vessel did not Sail from Antigua till
18th Ulto my future Success must be very uncertain the West Indies is
very much thinned of Shipping & I have already Succeeded beyond my
expectations however I will not yet give up the pursuit. I Send this Vessel
in under the Care of Mr [Joseph] Vesey my Actg Master — Since I dis-
patched the Sea Nymph I have understood that there is a very considerable
property in Wine Sc Cask over Sc above what is enumerated in her Clear-
ances — I hope this may appear in time to take measures accordingly. — I
herewith forward you a large Bag of letters which may I hope contain some
useful Information. — Some of them contain Bills of Lading for the Cargo.
— As I have no Clerk I hope to be excus’d for not Sending Copies of my for-
mer Letters. I have the honor to be with gratefull Esteem and much re-
spect Gentlemen [8cc.]
Jn° P Jones
The Favorite s Crew are as follows Vizt
1 John Davis
Master
2 Bernard Gallway
Mate
3 Jno Williamson
Seed do
4 Jno Wilson
Seaman
5 Ben. alien
do
6 Wm. Nolats
do
7 Jamie Bacop
do
8 Sami Cornish
do
9 Jno Gaunt
do
10 Jno Irvine
do
Papers CC (Letters of John Hancock, and Miscellaneous Papers) , 58, 85, NA.
Journal of the Council of West Florida1
[Pensacola] 7th September 1776.
We the Subscribing Members of His Majesty’s Council therefore rec-
ommend it to your Excellency that you will be pleased to order His Majes-
ty’s Engineer to put the Fort of Mobile in such a temporary State of de-
fence as may be thought Sufficient to Repell any Attack from the Rebels
746
AMERICAN THEATRE
as the Loss of it will be Attended with the following dangerous Conse-
quences —
first That it will Cut off all our Communication with the Chactaws,
Chickesaws and all the other Tribes of Indians to the westward as far as
the banks of the Mississippi and alienate those tribes from His Majesty’s
Interest with the total loss of the Indian trade which is at present very con-
siderable and will put and end to all Commerce between Great Britain and
the River Mississippi which will infallibly fall into their Possession
Secondly That it will be Seperating us from the Western part of the Prov-
ince and prevent this Colony from Supplying the West India Islands with
Lumber &c. and this place with such Provisions as are Necessary for its
Subsistance. . . .
A Majority of the Board then gave it as their Opinion and advice that
His Excellency the Governor Should give Orders to the respective Officers
of the Customs at Pensacola not to clear out any Vessels now in this Har-
bour bound to the River Mississippi & should also Apply to Lieut Cobb the
Commanding Officer of the Armed Sloops here to prevent any such Vessels
from going out of the Harbour untill farther intelligence arrives in Order
that these Vessels may be prevented from giving intelligence or affording
any Assistance in transporting the Rebel Troops which may come against
us thro’ the Channel of the Mississippi 8c whom they think there is reason to
expect. . . .
1. PRO, Colonial Office, 5/634, Part II, 387-92, LC Photocopy.
8 Sept. (Sunday)
“Extract of a letter from Boston, September 8.”1
Captain [Francis] Proctor is confined in the common goal in Halifax,
is treated most barbarously, and had been in irons ten weeks on board the
Mercury man of war; they threaten to take away his life, but he despises
their threats; all that he wants is to meet his enemies in the field.2 He has
been in Halifax goal about five weeks, together with Col. [Ethan] Allen,
Mr. [James] Lovell, and 28 others.
1. Pennsylvania Gazette, September 25, 1776.
2. For capture of Proctor by H. M. S. Syren see Volume 4.
Master’s Log of H.M.S. Milford 1
Septr 1776 Cape Cod So 73 Wt 49 Leagues
Sunday 8 at 1 A M handed Mizn T. Sail Close Reeft Topsails Handed
Fore and Mn T. Sails at 5 saw a Sail to the So wd made
Sail and gave Chace at 6 saw another Sail to Windwd at 9
came up with the Chace Brot too and sent the Boat onboard
to take possession Proved to be an English Ship Bd to London
SEPTEMBER 1776
747
taken of[f] Cape Race By Amer Privateers Reed onbd the
Prisoners2
1. PRO, Admiralty 52/1865.
2. The ship John , Captain John Hunter, taken August 30 by the Massachusetts privateer
schooner Independence. The Halifax Vice Admiralty Court returned the John to her
master after he “offer’d to pay the one 8th Salvage to the Captors in behalf of the King.”
Vice Admiralty Register, vol. 5, N. S. Arch.
Brigadier General Benedict Arnold to Major General Horatio Gates 1
Dear General, Isle aux Mott September 8th 1776 —
When I wrote the foregoing Letter I designed sending off the Batteaux
last evening but was prevented by the Stormy weather lastnight the Enemy
were heard by the Guard Boats and the People onboard the Vessels near in-
shore onbothsides of us several Trees were felled and lights discovered. I
believe the Enemy were erecting Batteries, which might have injured us as
the Lake is only one and a Quarter Miles over and their Design was doubt-
less tohave attacked us both by land and Water at the Same Time. I make
no Doubt we should have been more than a Match for them, but did not
think it prudent to Run any Risque, as it would answer no good Purpose. I
therefore ordered the Fleet under way this Morning, and at 2 OClock P. M.
anchored at this Place here the Lake is about two Miles over and safe
Anchorage we effectually secure any Boats passing us — just as we came
to Anchor Lieutenant [John] Brooks came on Board, sent down by Colonel
[Thomas] Hartley in Consequence of hearing our Cannon fired at the Indi-
ans on Sunday Morning. I have thought it necessary to dispatch him back
again that you may be out of Suspence with regard to us. Four Guard Boats
are constantly out, the Rounds go every two Hours, at Night, and every pre-
caution is taken to prevent being surprized. —
Our men are extremely bare of Cloathing and the Season is coming on-
severe Se more so onthe Water than land. If a WatchCoat or Blanket Sc one
Shirt could be sent for each Man it will be of great Service for them. Rum is
another necessary Article When the Howitz arrive, I beg three or four of
Six Inches may be sent us mounted, on Field Carriages, with Shells Sec.
Sec. 50 Swivels are much wanted, the last Vessels h[ave none] I am [8cc.]
[B. Arnold]
P S. send me a few Quires Paper
1. Gates Papers, Box 4, NYHS. A copy is in Washington Papers, LC.
Major General Philip Schuyler to John Hancock1
[Extract] Albany September 8th 1776
The Season advances so fast that it is Time to think of preparing the
Winter Quarters for such Troops as are not to be kept in Garrison . . .
perhaps it would be best not to canton the Troops too far from Tyonderoga
at it may be supposed that an attempt will be made by the Enemy in the
748
AMERICAN THEATRE
Course of the Winter on that post or at least they will try to burn our
Navy in order to insure their passage over the Lake in a future Cam-
paign - . . .
Since writing the above a Letter from General Gates of the 5th Instant
is come to Hand he observes that ‘‘as the Fleet is large and mounts a
Number of Cannon and the Body of Troops here very considerable, it is im-
mediately necessary that fifteen Tons of powder, Ten of Lead with Flints
and Cartridge paper in proportion should be sent to this post,” I have not
any of the Articles here and must intreat that they may be sent with all Ex-
pedition.
1. Papers CC (Letters of Major General ^Philip Schuyler) , 153, II, 331-42, NA.
Captain Isaiah Robinson to Lieutenant Joshua Barney1
Mr Barney -
As it may be a means of preventing Mr Forrests, & the other Gentle-
mens Chests, 8c other things being more vigorously rummaged when you get
up, You will be kind enough, before the Pilot or any other reputable person
to examine their Chests, Boxe’s, 8cc. should you come Across [illegible]
Money, You will take a List, or Acct of it, Accurately; As the Congress will
require a return of every thing of that kind to be made to them, but Leave it
in the Gentlemens posession, Untill the Sentiments of the Congress are
made known to me relatively to it. Let not a stitch of Wearing Apparrel, or
any thing else of the kind apertain [ing] to them be touch’d on any pretext
Whatever
You will bring the Brigantine to Anchor in the stream and suffer no body to
come aboard of her, but those that have Imediate Business, 8c suffer not the
least Article belonging to her, her Cargoe, Materials, or Stores to be touched,
of brought from her. I am Yrs Sincerely
Mr Joshua Barney ] 2
Lieutt l Is* Robinson
of the Sachem
Sloop Sachem Sunday Morning [September 8, 1776] 3
Nb Apply to Mr Forrest4 for Capt Stalkers Bill of Lading for the Cargoe
8cc — He may depend on its being return’d him, for his recovering his In-
surance on which Acct. he is Under a Necessity of having one.
1. FDRL.
2. Barney, first lieutenant of the Sachem , was prize master on board the British brig Three
Friends, Captain Anthony Stalker, which was taken after a smart engagement on August
12, 1776. Mary Barney, ed., A Biographical Memoir of the late Commodore Joshua
Barney: . . . (Boston, 1832), 45-46.
3. The date is based upon the arrival of the Sachem in the Delaware on September 7, and the
instructions to Barney stating “when you get up.” These facts point to “Sunday Morn-
ing” as being September 8. Pennsylvania Gazette, September 11, 1776.
4. Probably James Forrest whose letter to Congress was read on September 17 and referred
to the Board of War. Ford, ed., JCC, V, 768.
SEPTEMBER 1776
749
Captain James Campbell to John Hancock1
Chingoteague Virginia
Sir 8th Septemr 1776
I have the pleasure to inform you that the Enterprize Privateer of Bal-
timore under my command is arrived Safe in this inlet having taken during
my Cruize the following prizes vizt
The Lancashire Ship a Guiniaman in Ballast now in Sinepuxent in
Maryland — 4 Guns 16 men —
The Betsey Brigt of Jamaica from Guadaloup for Hallifax having on
board 120 hhds & Tierces of Molasses now in this inlet —
The Black River Ship from Dominica for Bristol having on board 158
hhds Sugar 58 hhds. rum 60 hhds Molasses, Egg Harbour
The Snow James of Lancaster from Antigua having on board 100 hhds
Sugar 171 Bales cotton 2 hhds rum 14 Tierces and 27 Barrels Sugar Sc 50
Tons Fustick 23 men not yet arrived.2 The Brigt Betsey of Guernsey from
St Croix having on board 240 hhds rum not yet arrived expected this
day The Sloop Modesty of Dartmouth in England from Barbadoes for
Newfoundland thirty hhds Sc 4 Tierces rum and Twenty Barrels Sugar ar-
rived yesterday in Sinepuxent the Schooner Liberty of Nova Scotia from
Montserat Sc Anguilla having on board 1000 bushs Salt 14 hhds rum Sc 10
casks Nails a Sloop from Tortolla with a small cargo of Salt Sc rum Dis-
mis’d with 30 prisoners being quite Outnumbered by them when I saild I
had 53 men Sc boys 29 of whom never was at sea I suffered much in my
health and Sprung both my Masts, but expect to get better soon and be out
again before the winter I shall send your honourable Congress a Survey of
the Inlet when my health permits it being of Great importance and ought to
be fortified for which four Guns would be sufficient in it is 15 feet water
and among the Shoals without a Ship of any Size may find Shelter till
lightened3 I am Sir [&c.]
James Campbell —
1. Papers CC (Letters addressed to Congress) , 78, V, 63, NA.
2. Retaken and carried into Bristol, England, Public Advertiser , London, October 1, 1776.
3. See Journal of H. M. Sloop Nautilus, August 22, 1776.
Governor Patrick Tonyn to Lord George Germain1
No 24.
My Lord;
In the evening of the 28. August a Ship with some of His Majesty’s
loyal Subjects and their Effects arrived at an Anchor of[f] this Bar from
Cockspur.
The next morning, the Master and the Passengers being ashore, a rebel
Brig, supposed to be one Turpin Commander of Iff. Guns and a hundred
Men run dose to the Ship put three boats of their People into her and car-
ried her off/
750
AMERICAN THEATRE
We have no naval force but the Saint John of four Guns, and Lord Wil-
liam Campbells Schooner of six Guns in this Port for repairs. The first was
ten miles up North River cleaning, the latter without Men.
A Sloop pierced for fourteen Guns, belonging to Captain Mowbray,
who has been in the Kings royal navy, and a person of much credit and es-
teem, the same I sent to Captain Berkley’s [Andrew Barkley] assistance in
February last at Cockspur, had arrived a few days before from the Islands.
I engaged him to go out, sent for the St John Schooner in all haste, put ten
Guns into the Sloop and endeavoured, My Lord, to Man her; finding it how-
ever a difficult task, a subscription was set a foot to encourage the Men to
enter on Board, after our utmost exertion, about thirty Men were collected
by night, and of them not more than ten Men the Captain told me fit to go to
Sea. The Saint John made great dispatch, and by eleven at night was in the
road towards the Bar, although she lay Keel out of the water, when my let-
ters reached Lieutenant Grant.
Your Lordship cannot guess at my shock and mortification, for my zeal
runs high on such occasions for His Majesty’s service.
After applications my Lord to Admiral Shuldham, Sir Peter Parker,
and to Lord Howe, for a sufficient naval force for the protection of our
Coasts and Rivers, I am, my Lord, utterly in dispair of any maritime assist-
ance.
The Inhabitants are very uneasy my Lord, for the want of such sup-
port, and from the very strong reports from all hands, that the rebels in-
tend to attack the Plantations on Saint John River, I have been under the
necessity of taking Captain Mowbrays Sloop into His Majesty’s Service, for
the Protection of the Province, although it be attended, my Lord, with great
expence, I have no alternative. Our Rivers are too large to be defended
without Vessels upon them, by any number of Troops, less than an Army.
For these reasons, my Lord, I wrote to the Commanding Officer of His
Majesty’s Troops, of which the enclosed is a Copy, No 1, and to Lieutenant
Grant of His Majesty’s Schooner, No. 2. 2
I hope your Lordship will approve these measures, I beg leave to assure
you my Lord, in all cases and circumstances, my greatest care and anxiety
is to do right. I have the honour to be with the greatest respect. My Lord,
Your Lordships [8cc.]
Pat. Tonyn
St Augustine 8 Sepr 76
[Endorsed] St Augustine 8th Septr 1776 Governor Tonyn (No 24) R/
19th Deer (2 Inclosures)
1. PRO, Colonial Office, 5/556, 783-86.
2. Tonyn to Prevost and Tonyn to Grant, September 5.
“Extract of a letter from Cape Nichola Mole, dated Sept. 8.”1
... A French Frigate arrived the other day from France, with orders
to the General to protect all American vessels: A pilot boat belonging to a
merchant in Philadelphia was taken the day before yesterday, and sent to
SEPTEMBER 1776
751
Jamaica; a French frigate of 36 guns and a guarda coasta, which last
hoisted Continental Colours, were immediately sent after her, with orders
to follow her into Port Royal harbour, if they could not overtake her before,
and demand her; what will be the consequences time will discover. The
French were very much exasperated at her being taken, which was within
two leagues of the land.
1. Pennsylvania Gazette, October 16, 1776.
Journal of H.M. Sloop Atalanta , Captain Thomas Lloyd 1
September 1776 Cape Tiberoon NbE 5 or 6 Leagues
Sunday 8th Fresh Gales and cloudy weather, at 4 P M in 2d reef at
6 Cape Tiberoon Ni/£W 8 or 9 Leagues Variation Pr
Ampltde S,39Et, att 8 close reeft topsls and got down top
Gallt Yards at 10 handed fore and Mizn topsl fired 2
Six pounders at the Packet to make her keep her
Station,2 she being a great way to windward and going a
head, when she came within hail I asked him why he did
not obey his Instructions, answered he did all he could to
keep astern. I asked him why he did not haul his foresail
up, he made the same reply, and added that he would
leave me to morrow, which he repeated as he went under
the Lee Quarter, I then replyed he should not if I could
come up with him, and told him, I would fire into him if
he attempted it, she then Shot a head without Shortning
Sail, upon which I ordered the foretopsl to be set, but be-
fore that was accomplished he fell on our Starboard Bow
and carried away the Spritsl Yard; the Ship wearing
very Quick prevented any farther damage; when he fell
on Board his after Yards were Square, as soon as she run
on board clewed all up, she Shot a head and to Leeward,
fired a Swivel at her to bring her too, was obliged to wear
round after her several Times. At 12 fired 6 Guns and
made the signal to bring too on the Starboard Tack,
1. PRO, Admiralty 51/75.
2. Ibid., the Atalanta had sailed from Port Royal, Jamaica, on September 4 convoying the
packet Anna Theresa and the sloop Antelope through the Windward Passage.
“Extract of a Letter from a Merchant at Barbadoes, Sept. 8.”1
The Ranger , a Privateer Brig of 16 Guns, fitted out here to cruize
against the Americans, has brought into Carlisle Bay an American armed
Schooner of ten Carriage-Guns, from Brest, bound to Philadelphia, on board
of which were found several Letters; amongst others was one addressed to
the Hon. John Hancock, Esq; from one Mr. [Frederick] Hamilton, an
American Gentleman, who has been some Time at the Court of Versailles.
1. Public Advertiser, London, October 22, 1776.
752
AMERICAN THEATRE
9 Sept.
Petition of Isaac Collyer to the Massachusetts General Court 1
The Petition of Isaac Collyer of Marblehead
Humbly Sheweth that your Petitioner with Sundry others Are fiting out an
Armed Vessell [the Polly ] on a Four Months Cruize Against our unnatural
Enemies to Carry Twelve Carriage Guns and One Hundred men Nathaniel
Leech Commander and as It is difficult if not Impracticable to Procure
Ammunition, Beg your Honours would be Pleased to order the Commissary
of this Colony to deliver your Petitioner One Thousand Pounds of Gun
Powder he paying for the same and your Petitioner as In duty bound shall
Ever pray &c.
Isaac Collyer
[Endorsed] Sept 9, 1776
1. Mass. Arch., vol. 181, 214 This petition is illustrative of the frequent requests for gun-
powder made to the state by those who were outfitting privateers.
Petition of John Barber to the Massachusetts General Court 1
To the Great Sc General Court, of the State of the Masachusets
Bay, now sitting in Watertown -
The Petition of John Barber, late of Charlestown, in the said State -
Humbly Sheweth
That your Petitioner hath a Schooner about 56 Tons Burthen, which
was Coming from Sheepscot the 29 of August, &c. by contrarey winds put
into Cape Anne the 3d of September; having on board Posts, Rails, a few
Boards Sc Some Shingles, all designed for my own use, for Building Sc in-
closing my Lands in Charlestown;
That the embargo laid by the Honble Court, took place the 4th Septem-
ber, by which means his Vessel is retarded, Your Petitioner Humbly Prays
that your Honble Court would Grant him a permit to bring her round
to the Port of Boston, for which indulgence he is willing [to] give securities
for his faithful performance — And your Petitioner as in Duty bound will
Ever pray
Boston, Septem. 9, 1776 John Barber
[Endorsed] In House of Representatives Sept 9th, 1776
The Committee appointed to take into Consideration the within petition of
Captn John Barber have fully Considered the Same and Report by way of
Resolve —
Resolved that the within named Captn John Barber be permitted to bring
the within named Schooner with her Cargo from Cape Ann to the Port of
Boston — he taking due Caution to prevent Said Schooner Sc Cargo falling
into the hands of the Enemy
Sent up for Concurrence
Sam1 Freeman Speakr P.T.
In Council Septr 9, 1776 Read Sc Concurred
John Avery Dpy Secy
1. Mass. Arch., vol. 181, 218-19.
SEPTEMBER 1776
753
Acts and Resolves of the Massachusetts General Court1
[Watertown] Monday September 9th, 1776.
Petition of Ichabod Jones setting forth, That he in May 1775, consider-
ing that the People at Machias in the Eastern part of this State were of
themselves unable to procure the Provision necessary for their support, 8c
knowing that the greatest part of them depended on him to supply
them the other Traders having declined to do it; did purchase a Quantity
of Pork, Flour, 8c other Articles of Food, 8c convey the same to the People
aforesaid in two Sloops belonging to him
That when arrived at Machias the Inhabitants at his Request met to-
gether, 8c were informed, that if they could furnish themselves in any other
way with necessary provisions he would be extremely glad to be freed from
the difficult, & hazardous Task - That a great majority of them declared
they could not obtain the necessary Supplies without his Assistance and de-
sired him to continue as formerly to bring them provisions.
That afterwards by means of some of the Machias People with the As-
sistance of others in the neighbouring places the Vessels aforesaid, 8c the
Person of the Petr were seized - That at the time of the seizure the Inhabit-
ants of Machias owed him, 8c Compa nearly the Sum of Four thousand
pounds LMy which he is able, and ready to prove. -
That he is lately informed they have taken possession of his Houses,
Mills, 8c all his other Estate at Machias, 8c not only of the Estate of which
the Petr was sole proprietor, but also of the Estate which belong’d to him-
self, 8c Partners
That he learns from an Advertisement in the Watertown Paper of
Augt 19th that Libels are filed against the Vessels, 8c Cargo’s abovemen-
tion’d before the Judge of the maritime Court for the eastern District in
this State, 8c that the Justice of the Captures is to be tried at the said Court
to be holden at Pownalboro’ on the 9th of September next.
That as he is confined in the Town of Northampton under large Bonds
(with scanty means of subsistence) he is unable to attend himself, or to
procure any person to attend in his Behalf on so short a Notice, 8c is greatly
apprehensive, that his property therefore will be condemned, altho’ if al-
low’d to attend the said Court with his Evidence, he persuades himself the
Innocence of his Conduct would fully appear.
And praying the Hon: Court would take the Premisses into considera-
tion, 8c that he may have a hearing thereupon, having no doubt on a full
knowledge of his Case that he would be discharged from any further Con-
finement - and that he may have liberty to attend in Person the Trial afore-
said of his Vessels at some future time, to which the said Court shall by
Order of the Hon: Court be adjourned, 8c that in the mean time all proceed-
ings touching the Vessels 8c Cargo’s aforesaid may be stayed.
Resolved, That the prayer of this Petition be so far granted, that the
maritime Court for the Eastern District of this State to be holden at Pown-
alboro’ on the 9th of this Instt in order to try the Justice of the Capture of
754
AMERICAN THEATRE
two Vessels taken from the petitioner be adjoun’d to the first Day of Octr
next in order, that the petitioner by an Attorney may shew cause if any he
has why the said Vessels should not be Condemned. And the Petr by his At-
torney has Liberty to file his claim with the Judge of the said Maritime
Court, to the said Vessel, 8c Appurtenances at any Time before the said first
Day of October next - And that the Judge of said Court be notified thereof
by being served with a Copy of this Order.
Petition of Isaac Dodge setting forth - That he with his Company
marched upon an alarm to Glocester last November to defend a Store Briga
called the Nancy taken by Capt Manly, that he has received no considera-
tion therefor tho’ the Hon: Court have allowed others that were called upon
the same business — And praying for allowance for himself 8c Men in said
Service agreeable to the roll.
The Comtee appointed to examine the Muster Roll of Capt Isaac Dodge
for Service, 8c Travel of himself, 8c Co from Ipswich to Glocester 29th Novr
1775, have attended that Service, 8c beg leave to report, that they find the
same right cast, 8c well vouched, 8c inasmuch as said service was for the
Protection of a Prize taken by Capt Manly in the Continental Service, that
the said Roll be paid out of the Treasury of this State, 8c charg’d to the
Continent. all which is humbly submitted -
John Bliss p order
Resolved, That there be allowed, 8c paid out of the public Treasury of
this State to the within named Isaac Dodge, or his Order the sum of Twenty
two pounds four shillings, 8c ten pence for the use of himself, Officers, 8c
Men (who were employed in the Continental Service) in full discharge of
his Roll.
Petition of Thomas Melvill, for himself 8c others - setting forth - That
they have at a great expence equipt, 8c fitted the Schr Speedwell Jona Greely
Commander with ten Carriage Guns, 8c every necessary warlike Implement
for a Cruize against the Enemies of the American States; but for the want
of about 700 lb wt of powder, said Schr is detained in the Harbor, and un-
able to proceed on her intended Cruise - And praying for a supply of 700 lb
wt of powder, 8cc.
Resolved that the Commissary General be, 8c he is hereby directed to
deliver out of the Store belonging to this State [ (] or order the same to be
delivered at the powder Mill in Stoughton) Five hundred pounds of Gun-
powder to Thomas Melvill he the said Melvill paying Six shillings p pound
to the said Commissary for the same - the Commissary General to be ac-
countable for the money so Received. -2
1. Mass. Arch., vol. 35, 207, 208, 213, 216.
2. Ibid., the General Court provided gunpowder for six other privateers this date.
David Cobb to Robert Treat Paine1
[Extract] Boston Septr 9th 1776
... A Number of prizes have been sent into the different ports of
New England since my last, 4 in at Bedford, one at Cape Ann, some at the
SEPTEMBER 1776
755
Eastward & a number at Providence, chiefly West India men. — The Spirit
for Privateering is got to the highest pitch of enthusiasm, almost every
Vessell from 20 Tons to 400 is fitting out here; they are in great want of
Guns, but with what they dig up on Wharfs and at the Corner’s of Streets,
they have made out heretofore very well; Small Vessells are gone to His-
paniola for the Cannon of 2, 24 Gun Ships, that are now fitting for the Sea;
the Owners have offer’d me 20 £ p Month & 4 shares, to take the Surgeon’s
birth on board one of ’em. — The Salt Petre business is still persu’d with
spirit, tho’ the quantity that has been brot in since June, is but small, but
when the Farming business is over we shall have it in as great plenty as
ever. -
1. Robert Treat Paine Papers, MassHS.
Thomas Cushing to Robert Treat Paine1
[Extract]
Dear Sir Boston September 9th 1776
I have received your kind favor of the 24 Ultimo — The 24 Gun Frig-
ate might have been out to Sea a month Ago and have cleared her Cost as
well as the Cost of the other Frigate, by what prizes she might have taken
before this, had she have been furnished with her Guns, the want of these
retards every Attempt to fix her off, besides it will be impossible to procure
Men till they see she is Compleatly Armed, It is a great pity you have not
been able to send the Cannon from Philadelphia; I have received no orders
to purchase any here but have from the first been told I should be supplied
with them from Philadelphia, however I have tryed in Vain to procure them
at Providence, Their Furnace has been so engaged in supplying the two
Continental Ships there as well as the Government of Rhode Island with
Cannon that they have constantly wrote me I could not be supplied with any
till they had fulfilled those Engagements; but I fear (being tempted with a
most extravagant Price by the owners of Privateers) they have notwith-
standing been Supplying other People even in preferrence to their own Gov-
ernment; Mr Nicholas Brown, one of the owners of the Furnace, has lately
wrote me that they Can have Ninety pounds Lm p Ton for Cannon & want
to Know Whether I am empowered to Contract for any, but does not Inform
me how soon I can be furnished, if I was willing to Contract at that enor-
mous price, which I dare not do without first Consulting Congress, pray
let Know what I shall do upon this occasion, provided they at Providence
Can furnish me Seasonably —
The Mi[l]ford Frigate and, it is said, some others, are Cruising upon
our Coast and taking prizes - The Continental Frigates, if they were now
out, might be of eminent service, O for Cannon! The spirit of Privateering
prevails so amazingly here that Cannon cannot be procured, if at all, but at
a most extravagant price — pray forward them from Philadelphia if possi-
ble & send me the dimensions of the Guns by the first opportunity that I
756
AMERICAN THEATRE
may compleat the Carriages, for the General Court apprehending the 24
Gun Frigate will not be a Match for the Milford of 28 Guns are About plac-
ing the Guns, they proposed lending to me, on board the Portsmouth Frig-
ate, if Capt Langdon will consent she should go out And Attack the
Milford . . .
Your Brethern in the Law have fine times of it, They are making
Money as fast almost as they Can receive it, I suppose there never was a
better chance for Gentlemen of your Profession getting money than the
Present, Privateering prevails so much & such a number of prizes are
taken that it makes a vast deal of Business in your Way — Messrs Dana,
Lowell, Kent, Morton Hitchburn 8cc. 8cc. 8cc have their hands full —
While writing I received your Favor of the 31 August — The prize
ship that had the Ten 9 pounders on board was retaken 8c Carried to Halli-
fax — I hear Capt Langdon is appointed by the Congress Agent for the Con-
tinental Ships within the State of Newhampshire and as he has had the
trouble and fatigue of building 8c fixing one of them out (which at this dif-
ficult day is attended with Ten times the trouble 8c fatigue as at another
time when every thing may be obtained with Ease 8c barely for asking for)
I think it is reasonable 8c just he should have the Appointment — If I, who
have had the care 8c trouble of building two of these Ships, Should be en-
tirely overlooked, will it not seem as if my conduct with respect to them was
disapproved of? As to the Objection made to my being Agent for the prizes
on account of it’s being incompatable with my other Appointments, it seems
this objection was easily got over with respect to Mr Langdon for he is
judge of the Common pleas in his Government as well as my self in this
Government; with respect to such an Appointment’s being incompatable
with the place of a Councellor, that seems not to Agree with the Ideas of the
Court here, for both the Honble Mr Wm Sever 8c Mr Richard Derby are
Councellors and Notwithstanding this they have both been appointed by the
Council Agents for the Colonial Vessells of War, one for the southern Dis-
trict, the other for the Middle District; As I have had an Infinite deal of
trouble in building 8c Collecting the Materials for these ships I should think
it hard if any one else was appointed to have the Care of them 8c from time
to time to furnish them with Supplies, It will be full enough for one man to
have the Charge of the Prizes, and for Another to have the Care of these 8c
the other Continental privateers 8c from time to time to supply them with
Provisions, Stores of all Kinds, Mast, Yards, Cables and other riggen as
they may stand in Need of them — perhaps this is the appointment Capt
Langdon has got pray let me know particularly what his appointment is 8c
what precisely is his Duty, I am oblidged to you for the tender of your serv-
ices Upon this occasion 8c doubt Not I shall experience the benefit of them -
I remain with respect [8cc.]
Thomas Cushing
1. Robert Treat Paine Papers, MassHS.
SEPTEMBER 1776
757
Commodore Esek Hopkins to Nathaniel Shaw, Jr.1
Sir Providence Septembr 9th. 1776 —
I receiv’d yours, and desire you will supply Captn [Hoysteed] Hacker
with every thing that may be necessary to enable him to get with dispatch
his Vessel ready to Cruise2 —
As to purchasing the Schooner you best can tell, as you had directions
in procuring the Vessel — My Instructions is to Mann her and Order her
where to Cruise — I have no Orders to buy, or to direct any other Person to
buy — perhaps you would do well to write to the Marine Committee for Or-
ders in that matter, as I believe they had no Apprehension of any Warlike
Vessel, Guns or Stores of any kind being Sold without their Especial Or-
ders, so to do — I expect to come to New London soon, and am Sir [8cc.]
Esek Hopkins
1. Nathaniel and Thomas Shaw Letters and Papers, NLCHS.
2. Continental brig Hampden.
Commodore Esek Hopkins to Captain Hoysteed Hacker,
Continental Brig Hampden , New London1
Sir Providence Septembr 9th 1776
I receiv’d yours of the 5th instt and observe that you think your Vessel
is in bad Order - If it is necessary, direct you as soon as possible to Grave,
or clean the Brig and fit her for the Sea with 5 or 6 Months provisions on-
board —
Mr. [Nathaniel] Shaw will Supply you with every thing necessary - I
shall come to New London soon and give Some directions about filling up
your Officers. I am Your Friend
E.H.
1. Hopkins Letter Book, RIHS.
Commodore Esek Hopkins to Captain Samuel Chew, New Haven1
Sir Providence September 9th 1776
I receiv’d yours — and now acquaint you that I had directions from the
Marine Board to offer you the Command of a Schooner which they made no
doubt was in New London, and directed Mr Shaw their Agent there to pre-
serve her which can’t be done as the Schooner is gone - 2 If Mr Shaw pro-
cures any other in her Room shall fit her out — but I have no Orders to buy
a Vessel myself — that matter being entrusted to their Agent Mr Shaw - If
any thing offers shall acqu[ain]t you - I shall be at New London in a few
days, when I shall be able to inform you with more certainty, in the mean
time I am [8cc.]
E.H.
1. Hopkins Letter Book, RIHS.
2. Schooner Hawke which the Marine Committee had ordered purchased and renamed Hopkins.
758
AMERICAN THEATRE
“Interogatories answered by Samuel Lightbourn late Commander
of the Brigantine Fanny. Providence Sept 9th 1776” 1
Interog. When where and by whom was the said Brig taken, from whence
and to what Port was She bound, what Tonage is She what are
the Contents of the Cargo of said Brigg: and who are the owners
of the said Brig and Cargo? —
Answr The said Brig and her Cargo upon the Twenty first Day of Au-
gust AD: 1776 was taken upon the High Seas, by Jabez Whipple
Commander of the private Sloop of War called the Independence
in Latitude 33. her Cargo consists of 118 Hogsheads 3 Tierces 14
Barrels 15 Bags df Sugar 5 Barrels of Oyle 10 Barrels of Limes
about 300 lbs of Indego 1 Cask of Rum. the said Brig 8c Cargo
were bound from the Island of Antigua to London. — the said
Brig is owned one Quarter part by myself One Quarter part by
William Lightbourn of Bermuda — One Quarter part by William
Malcom of New York, and the other Quarter part by Cook Muli-
gen of New York late deceased, the said Cargo belongs to Inhabit-
ants of Great Britain Said Brig is of the Burthen of about 146
Tons.
Samel Lightbourn
Providence Septemr 9:1776 Sworn to before me
John Foster Judge of Prize Causes -
1. Admiralty Papers, vol. 9, R. I. Arch.
Governor Jonathan Trumbull to Governor Nicholas Cooke1
Sir Lebanon Septemr 9th 1776
Since my last I have made Enquiry what naval Force can be had in this
State to assist in an Attempt to clear the sound of the Enemies Ships — and
find we can soon have a Ship mounting 20 Guns, 9 lbders, and a Brigantine
of 16 Guns ready for that Service; we could also add another Brigantine of
8 Guns could we procure Cannon to put upon her, besides our Galleys,
which we hope may be able to join them
I persuade myself You are advised of the present Situation of our
Army and the Enemy, from which it will appear how much it imports the
Success of the Army under General Washington, as well as the Safety of
these States to atchieve this Enterprize — Could Commodore Hopkins be
prevailed upon to join the Force under his Comand with Your Gallies and
such naval Force as your State can furnish to our Ship Briga and Gallies I
flatter myself it would be sufficient to effect the purpose intended, if
greater Force should be thought necessary, there are two privateers in the
Harbour of New London that may be had to assist them.
Permit me to request your Attention to this subject, and your answer
by the return of this Express and to assure You I am with the greatest
Respect 8c Esteem [8cc.]
Jonth Trumbull
1. Letters to the Governor, 1776, vol. 8, R. I. Arch.
SEPTEMBER 1776
759
Governor Jonathan Trumbull to the Massachusetts General Court1
Gentlemen — Lebanon Septr 9th 1776 —
The vast Importance of preventing the Ministerial Army takeing the
Benefit of the Stock on Long Island 8c Availing themselves of the Advantage
of that Post, Assisting such of the Inhabitants to remove with their Effects
who are disposed for it, and prevent their Total Seduction, I Apprehend are
Matters of more Consequence to the Common cause than we can easily Imag-
ine, to dislodge that Army from Long Island and Destroy the two Ships Sc
Tenders in the Sound which at present prevent Supplies that way by Water
to Our Army, might at one blow in a great Measure Relieve Our Bleeding
Country from its Impending Danger —
How far it wou’d be Practicable or what Measures are proper to take
at this Alarming Crisis is Matter of Serious Concern with Us — Its Sup-
posed here that in Case an Attempt Shou’d be made to Collect a Force at the
East end of Long Island to Remove Stock &c That a Number of Whale
Boats wou’d be Absolutely Necessary to Troops Stores Supplies See as they
might Avoid all the Vessels of Force the Enemy cou’d send to Obstruct us
— I am Informed that a large Number of Whale Boats that belong to the
Continent are at and near Boston and might be used for that Important
purpose we have but very few with us. I am Also Informed that a Regt is
Ordered from you to Providence to replace the Continental Battallion re-
moved from the State of Rhode Island, 8c Whether your Regiment cou’d not
come in the Whale Boats to Providence Carrying them A Cross the Land at
Buzzards Bay, is I apprehend Worthy of your Consideration, and to be exe-
cuted without Delay We are Equipping what Naval Force we have with
all Possible Expedition, we are Exerting Ourselves Sc desirous to Unite Our
Whole Strength with the Other States in Our Common Cause — I dont
doubt of your Utmost Attention and Most Vigorous Exertions therein.
Must Intreat your Answer to this Sc such other Measures as you Judge may
be Beneficial —
I have Communicated to Governor Cooke on the Subject I am with
great Truth and Esteem Gentlemen [8cc.]
Jona Trumbull
A true Copy — 2
Attest -
1. Letters to the Governor, 1776, vol. 8, R. I. Arch.
2. This copy was enclosed in Trumbull’s letter of the same date to Cooke.
Journal of the Connecticut Council of Safety1
At a Meeting of the Governor and Council [Lebanon] September 9th, 1776.
Voted to give, and accordingly gave, orders to Capt. Zebadiah Smith,
master of the prize schooner Elizabeth and Hannah , (now at Newport)
lately taken and sent in by the armed schooner Spy, to embrace the first fair
wind and weather when the coast is clear of the enemy, and proceed with
760
AMERICAN THEATRE
said prize to N. London and up to Norwich, and take the necessary steps to
procure a legal condemnation to be pass’d thereon as soon as may be.
1. Hoadly, ed., Connecticut Records, XV, 517.
Nathaniel Shaw, Jr. to Governor Jonathan Trumbull1
Sir New London Sepr 9th 1776
Inclos’d is two letters wich came by Express from Saybrook, this mo-
ment — And the person who brot them says he must wait for an Answer —
Should be Glad you would give sum orders for the People Tradesmen
8cc we want to Assist in fitting the Arm’d Vessels, not to be Oblig’d to
March with the Meletia, or we Cannot Procede — as to officers that are to
be Imploy’d in the Navy its very Nessesary that they be hear, 8c In Case you
have not already Appointed any, if its Agreable, I will Choose such 8c Reco-
mend to your Honour as I think will Answer our Purpose — I am Sir
[8cc.]
Nath1 Shaw Junr
P.S. I Reed yrs of Yesterdays date 8c have Sent of[f] a Vessell to New
Haven for the Stores NS
1. Conn. Arch., 1st Series, IX, 308, ConnSL.
Brigadier General Benedict Arnold to Major General Horatio Gates1
[Extract] Isle-aux-Mott September 9th 1776
. . . The Master of the Royal Savage is 111 with the Fever and Ague; I
shall observe your Directions very particularly, I hope soon tohave the Plea-
sure of seeing General [David] Waterbury and the three Gallies. I think
the Station we are in the Best in the Lake to stop the Enemy; there is not a
good Harbour, except where the Lake is Wide until you come to Button-
Mould Bay, thirteen Miles this side Crown-Point here I think we are very
safe from Gales of Wind: the Anchorage good and several small Harbours
in the Vicinity where the Gondolas will Ride safe from any Wind, that
Blows, I have sent you Robert Aitkins an experienced Pilot, to bring down
the Gallies and have given him particular Directions. —
1. Gates Papers, Box 4, NYHS.
Abraham Yates, to the New York Delegates in the
Continental Congress1
In Committee of Safety for the State of New York
Fishkill Septr. 9th 1776
Gentlemen. Sensible of the great Importance of the Posts in the high-
lands, We have lately directed an enquiry into their Situation which will ap-
pear from the inclosed Return to be far from such as we could wish. -
The Necessity General Washington has of all the Troops that compose
his Army at New York, prevented his sparing to those Fortresses sufficient
■
■
Hell Gate, New York, Showing American Fortifications .
762
AMERICAN THEATRE
Garrisons or the necessary Stores — What may be the fate of the Country
below the highlands is as yet uncertain and may possibly depend on the
event of a single Battle — should these Posts be properly secured we cannot
but hope that the greater part of this State might nevertheless be retained;
and the Communication between the Northern and Southern States be by
that Means kept up — For which Reason we wish you to call the Attention
of the Congress to an Object of whose Importance they have already been
sensible and to ask a proper supply of Stores. We have already afforded
them all in our Power to supply — Fire Ships would be of great use, yet for
want of Materials we are unable to proceed in preparing them. Seamen can-
not be procured here to man our armed Vessels without the greatest Delay
unless drafted from the Army — perhaps they may be got at Philadelphia. —
By the inclosed Resolves you will find that we have endeavoured to rein-
force the Garrisons in the highlands — As these Men are all taken from the
Plough, we are very anxious to have them relieved as soon as the Circum-
stances of the Continent will admit. —
We have borrowed of the State of Connecticut twenty Pieces of Can-
non, ten Twelve and ten Six Pounders for the Forts — We wish they were
heavier, but we fear this Deficiency cannot be supplyed, and therefore must
endeavour to do without them — You will find by the enclosed Resolves that
we have taken Measures to encrease the Number of our field Artillery. You
will be mindful to transmit us every public Resolve of Congress, and at least
one of the Pensilvania Gazattee’s every Week — We remain Gentlemen
[8cc.]
By Order Abm Yates Junr President
1. Papers CC (New York State Papers), 67, I, 268-69, NA.
Diary of Frederick Mackenzie 1
[Long Island] 9th Sept Two Ships of War are expected up the East
River, as soon as the Wind and tide serves for their pafsing the town. Many
of the flat boats have come up the River during the late nights, and are af-
sembled in Hallet’s Cove near Hellgate. More are expected up this night,
and the whole will be collected there.
Everything indicates that we shall soon attempt something decisive
against the Rebels, but considering the nature of the Shore at Hellgate, and
rapidity of the tides and variety of Eddies there, I do not suppose the land-
ing will be made in that place. It appears probable that the erecting batter-
ies against the Enemy’s works at Hellgate, and making so much demonstra-
tion there, is intended to draw their attention from some other point, for
owing to the situation and construction of their principal work, it is ex-
tremely difficult to destroy it effectually.
1. Mackenzie's Diary, I, 41-42.
SEPTEMBER 1776
763
E. Baldwin to Solomon Porter, Danbury1
[Extract] Camp below Turtle Bay Sept 9. 1776
Matters continue very still, that I have little to write — We are in
hourly expectation of the Enemies Landing on this Island — But they con-
tinue still as yet — Except that they have Erected a Battery opposite ours at
Hell gate from whence there was yesterday a very brisk Cannonading Sc
Bombardment upon our Fort — Sc from our fort upon them — I hear they
killed one of our Men, wounded Another Sc have done some Damage to the
fort — last Night they were still on both sides — but this morning we hear
the Cannon playing very briskly again. The Ship (probably the Rose Capt
Wallace) still lies in the East River close by the long Island Shore; at such a
Distance, that tis not easy to damage her much. . . .
1. Trumbull and other Assorted Papers, YUL.
George Washington to Governor Jonathan Trumbull1
[Extract] Head-Qrs New York, Sept 9th, 1776
I highly approve of your plan and proposition for raising such a naval
force as will be sufficient to clear the Sound of the enemy’s Ships of War -
If Admiral Hopkins will Join you, I should suppose It not only practicable,
but a matter of certainty, Sc If it can be effected, many valuable Sc salutary
consequences must result from It - As to drafting Seamen from the Conti-
nental regiments It cannot be done as their Numbers have been reduced so
low already by taking men from them for the Galleys, Boats, Sc other pur-
poses that some of them have hardly any thing left but the Name, besides I
must depend chiefly upon them for a successful opposition to the Enemy -
If It can be done out of the Militia I shall not have the least objection Sc
heartily wish the Enterprise, when ever attempted may be attended with all
possible success - secrecy Sc despatch will be most likely to give It a happy
issue - The enemy’s Ships can receive no reinforcements but such as go
round Long Isld - Our Works at Hell Gate preventing their sending Ships
that way - they are sensible of their Importance Sc yesterday opened Two,
Three Gun Batteries to effect their destruction, but as yet have not ma-
terially damaged them Sc they must be maintained If possible.
1. Washington Papers, LC.
New-York Gazette , Monday, September 9, 1776
New-York, Sept. 9.
Since the Retreat of our Army from Long-Island, the Enemy have ex-
tended themselves a considerable Length on the Shore bordering the Sound,
and on Tuesday a large Number of them landed on Blackwell’s-Island, about
three Miles from the City, but the Shot from our Batteries soon made them
recross the River. On Wednesday a Ship from the Fleet, (supposed to be a
British Hell Gate Battery Opening Fire, September 8, 1776.
SEPTEMBER 1776
765
Frigate) passed between Governor’s Island and Red-Hook, and that Night
got up the Sound abreast of the Island the Enemy had been drove from;
when, under cover of her Guns, they the next Day again came over to it in
large Bodies - This brought on a brisk Cannonade for near two Hours, in
which the Ship sustained so great Damage in her Hull, 8cc. as obliged her to
move close in with the Long-Island Shore, for Shelter from our Shot and
Bombs. At the same Time of this attack, a firing also began from the Ene-
mies Batteries oh Long-Island opposite the City, which was returned with
such Spirit, by our People in their Fortresses at and about the Ship-Yards,
that they gave us little or no Annoyance since from that Quarter.
Several Men of War now lie within Gun Shot of our main Battery, and
the greatest Part of the Fleet behind Governor’s-Island tho’ they have lately
had very favourable Winds to come up to the City; which gives us Reason
to think they mean not to attack it by Water till they know the Success of
their forces in attempting to land on this Island.
Thursday a Barge was seen in the East-River, sounding the Channel
where it is obstructed by scuttled Vessels, but soon made off, as it is sup-
posed she observed our People at the main Fort, preparing to give her a
suitable Salutation.
Wednesday a Flag came from the Fleet with a Return of those Officers
that were made Prisoners in the late Attack on Long-Island; who we hear
are treated with Civility by the British Officers.
Saturday night our Guard Boats for observing the Motions of the
Fleet, fell in with those of the Enemy, when a smart Attack began and
lasted for some Time, but the latter being reinforced with several Tenders
obliged our’s to return to their Station.
On Sunday Morning a Cannonade again commenced, supposed to be
from our People opposing some new manoevres of the Enemy up the Sound.
Journal of the Continental Congress1
[Philadelphia] Monday, September 9, 1776
Resolved , That a committee of five be appointed to hear the parties on
the appeal against the verdict and sentence of condemnation passed against
the schooner Thistle and her cargo.
The members chosen, Mr. [Richard] Stockton, Mr. [Samuel] Hun-
tington, Mr. [Robert Treat] Paine, Mr. [James] Wilson, and Mr.
[Thomas] Stone.
Resolved , That in all continental commissions, and other instruments,
where, heretofore, the words “United Colonies” have been used, the stile be
altered, for the future, to the “United States.”
1. Ford, ed., JCC, V, 747.
766
AMERICAN THEATRE
Minutes of the Pennsylvania Council of Safety1
In Council of Safety,
[Philadelphia] September 9th, 1776.
Mr. Nesbitt was directed ... to pay Doct’r James Dunlap £16 13 6,
for Medicines, &ca., for the use of the Fleet.
An order was given for Rob’t Jewell, Esq’r, was authorized Sc Required
to receive the Bodies of Messrs. James Forrest, Thomas Byrn Sc Shanks into
his Custody, they being Prisoners of War, Taken by Capt. Isaiah Robinson
of the Armed Sloop Sachem 2
Mr. Nesbitt was directed to pay Sami Davison, late Commodore of the
Fleet, his wages to this day.
1. Pennsylvania Colonial Records, X, 713, 714.
2. Josiah Bartlett to John Langdon, September 9:
Yesterday was sent in here by the Sachem continental vessel, a brig [Three Friends]
bound from Antigua to the British Army; She mounted six guns and fought obsti-
nately. killed 3 men on board the Sachem - her loading said to be rum and sugar.
William Whipple Papers, Force Transcripts, I, 217, LC.
Libel of Captain John Barry Against Eight Negro Slaves1
Port of Philadelphia,
Pennsylvania, ss.
To all whom it may concern.
Notice is hereby given, that a Court of Admiralty will be held at the
State House in the city of Philadelphia, on Thursday, the twenty-sixth day
of September inst. at ten o’clock in the forenoon of the same day, then and
there to try the truth of the facts alledged in the bill of John Barry, com-
mander of the brigantine of war called the Lexington, (who as well, 8cc.)
against Thomas Saunders, John Lucy, John Pomp, Samuel Sawood, Jack
Masson, Charles Mills, Chance and Jeffery, Negro Slaves lately taken on
board the prize sloop or vessel called the Lady Susan , William Goodrich,
master; to the end and intent that the owner or owners of the said slaves, or
of any or either of them, may appear and shew cause, if any they have, why
the same should not be condemned, according to the prayer of the said bill.
Sept, 9, 1776
By order of the Judge,
Andrew Robeson, Register.
1. Pennsylvania Packet, September 10, 1776.
Minutes of the Baltimore Committee1
At a Meeting of the Committee 9 Septemr 1776 —
Job Green having appeared before the Committee and desired a Pass-
port to pass the Fort for the Schooner Two Brothers now loaded with Bread
Sc Flour intended for the West Indies, and the Committee being informed,
that the said Schooner was the same Vessell, which belonged to Mr James
Clarke, and was then called the Sea Flower, demanded of Mr Green,
SEPTEMBER 1776
767
whether he would make Oath, that the said Vessell was his own Property,
before the Time Mr Clarke was published as an Enemy to his Country, he
answered, that he would not, the Committee therefore, Unan[imousl]y re-
jected a Clearance for said Vessell to pass the Fort, the more especially as
Mr Green has refused to associate & has paid a Fine of £ 10
1. Baltimore Committee, LC.
Journal of the Virginia Council of Safety1
[Williamsburg] Monday September 9th 1776
It appearing by an authentic Letter, received from a Gentleman of
Credit in the Island of Bermudas that the Schooner Polly John Middleton
Master, cleared out from the port of James river, for the Island of Hispan-
iola, hath landed and Disposed of her Cargo in the said Island of Bermudas,
contrary to the Resolutions of the General Congress; and in breach of the
Condition of the Bond given for clearing out the said vessel Resolved that
the attorney General be desired to commence a Suit in Behalf of this Com-
monwealth on the said Bond; and to procure the Depositions of the Master
and Mate of the Sloop Good Intent , lately arrived from Bermudas, and who
are about to leave the Country, to be taken as evidence in the said suit.
1. Mcllwaine, ed., Journals of the Virginia Council , I, 150, 151.
Journal of the Virginia Navy Board1
[Williamsburg] Monday 9th September 1776. —
Ordered that a Warrant Issue to George Goosley for Forty eight pounds
thirteen shillings and three pence for Rum furnished Capt Travis for the
use of the Manley Galley. — Also for seventeen pounds one shilling and six
pence for Swivel Guns, Shott he furnished Capt Thomas Lilly for use of the
Brig Liberty as p Accts this day settled -
Ordered that a Warrant Issue to John Brett for Twenty five pounds for
a Boat Built for the use of the Manley Galley. -
1 . Navy Board Journal, 54, 55, VSL.
Governor Patrick Tonyn to Lord George Germain1
No 25.
My Lord; On the 7. by express from the Commanding Officer on St John
River the Rebels have appeared on the opposite side of some force, our
Planters are greatly alarmed, but I hope the Indians I have sent along the
West side of that River will soon compell them to move out of this Province.
The Sloop Captain Mowbray which I was obliged to take through ne-
cessity into His Majesty’s Service will be of the greatest use in that River, I
have also employed a scout Boat with swivels, and have directed that as
768
AMERICAN THEATRE
many as are necessary to perform the service of scouts on the River be em-
ployed.
Give me leave to inform your Lordship, the expence of these services
not only distress me, but shock me, the expence of employing Rangers is
terrible, repairing and puting in order the Fort comes high, I hardly know
which way to turn.
I have desired the Commanding Officer to apply to the General to dis-
charge the expences of repairing the Lines by the Kings Troops, and for
their allowance of Rum when on that duty, these charges will amount to a
considerable Sum, but they are nevertheless absolutely necessary in our pres-
ent situation
I have done every thing with the greatest frugality and Oeconomy, yet
in these times I am startled at the expence.
It is confidently reported that a rebel General of note, with a considera-
ble body of troops arrived at Savannah about a month ago.
The distresses of our frontier Inhabitants are great, they affect me
very deeply, I endeavour to lessen them, as much as I can, but, it is not pos-
sible in our Situation to remove them.
That your Lordship may know the state of His Majestys Troops, I have
the honour to enclose a return.
We are now actually threatened with an invasion. By all accounts from
His Majesty’s loyal Subjects preparations are making in Carolina and Geor-
gia to besiege this Garrison. Part are to come by the inland water passage,
with the Row Gallies, the Men the rebel General [Charles] Lee brought
from the North, joined to what can be raised in those two Provinces. Lee
has been as far South as Sunbury. I am informed the rebel Generals [John]
Armstrong and How [Robert Howe] are to conduct this expedition. Lee I
believe is either gone to the North, or is going there. We hear great boast-
ings from Georgia, of what great things they are to do. If they come they
may possibly ruin our Plantations. In former letters I have acquainted your
Lordship of my suspicions of a part of the Inhabitants of this Province.
But, my Lord, If the Plans I have set on foot, to bring the Indians to our
assistance take place on this occasion, of whch I have not the least doubt,
your Lordship, I flatter myself will hear in the end a good account from
me, of this vaunted expedition.
I have had the honour to convey to Lord Howe, and the General, an ac-
count of these matters. I have the honour to be with the greatest respect,
My Lord, Your Lordships [8cc.]
Pat. Tonyn
St Augustine 9 Septemr 76
[Endorsed] St Augustine, 9th Sepr 1776. Governor Tonyn (No 25)
R/ 19th Decemr (1 Inclosure)
1. PRO, Colonial Office, 5/556, 795-98.
SEPTEMBER 1776
769
10 Sept.
Journal of H.M.S. Liverpool, Captain Henry Bellew1
Septr 1776
Monday 9
Tuesday 10
Cape Ann No 43 W 27 Lgs
at 5 AM saw 2 sail Et wd gave Chace, 9 mann’d and Arm’d
the Pinnes and sent her after a Sloop. i/2 past sent the Cutter
onbd a Sloop from Nantucket fishing, still in Chace —
Light airs and fair, at 7 [P. M.] shortned sail, and brot
too. Retd the Pinnes with a sloop from the Wt Indies, bound
to Rhode Isld with Rum and Sughar, took possession of her,
hoisted in the boats and made Sail
at 6 AM gave chace to a Sloop Wt wd at 1 1, the Sloop run on
shore sent the Boat after Do Prize in Co
First and Midle parts, Modr and Cloudy, latter modr and
clear, returned the Boat, not being able to burn the chace,
being fird upon by a party of Rebels, at 5 PM bent a New F
Topsl
1. PRO, Admiralty 51/548.
Journal of the Massachusetts Sloop Tyrannicide, Captain John Fisk 1
Remks on Tuesday 10th of Septr 1776
12 [M.] Saw Cape Cod barring west 8 Leagues Distance
Lattd in 42°. 9'
Hasey weather moderate breaze of wind from the southward at 3 P M.
saw a Ship and sloop barring west we hald our wind to the SW the ship
and Sloop gave us Chaise at 5 the ship gave over Chaise she out saild the
sloop so fast we allmost lost sight of her at 6 the ship spake with the sloop
the ship barring N E B N and the pitch of the Cape N W B N 3 Leagues
Distance rainy weather we find Mackrell plenty Saw a sloop on shore
about nawset [Nauset] harbour at 8 bore away round the Cape small airs
of wind from SE
1. John Fisk Journal, A AS.
Journal of the Massachusetts Council1
[Watertown] Tuesday Septr 10th 1776
On Motion Ordered That Mark Clark be Commissiond as Master on
Board the Armed Brig Called the Massachusetts, Daniel Souther Com-
mander belonging to this State —
Bonds being given by Nathl Leach Sc John Guest Sc James Mugford a
Commission was Issued out to the said Nathl Leach2 as Commander of the
Sloop Called the Polly Sc Instructions were Accordingly deliverd him —
1. Mass. Arch., vol. 19, 223, 224.
2. Ibid., vol. 165, 227, the name is spelled Leech in petition for commission.
770
AMERICAN THEATRE
Commodore Esek Hopkins to the Continental Marine Committee1
Gentlemen Providence Septembr 10th. 1776.
Inclosed you have Copies of Captn Hacker & Mr Shaws Letters, by
which you will know Circumstance of the Brig and the Schooner which Mr
Shaw was to purchase - The Alfred is this day going to Newport there to be
hove down, as upon examining find her Bottom so foul that she will not do
well to Cruise untill Clean’d - The Andrew Doria has sent in here two
Brigs, One from Dunmore with Salt, Tobacco, Rice and Flour, One Phaeton
and Chaise bound to Antigua -+ the other with fifty hogsheads Rum from
Barbados to the Land -2 Captn Biddle had also taken a Ship with 15,000
bushs Wheat which Lieutt [John] McDougall thinks was bound to the West-
ward
There has also arrived in this port this week a large Ship loaded with
Sugar from Grenada, and Brig with Rum from Antigua taken by the Sloop
Independance of this place -3
The People onboard Captn Biddles Prizes informs, that they left the
Columbus in Lattd 36 — and when they parted a Sixty Gun Ship was in
Chace of her
The whole attention of Merchants and Seamen at present seems to be
on Privateering through the whole New England Colonies, any Small Car-
riage Guns will now Sell at the extraordinary Price of 400 Dollars pr Ton —
I believe if you was to give the same Prize Money which is one half as
they do, it would be a great deal easier to Mann the Continental Vessels I
am with great Regard [8cc.]
E.H.
1. Hopkins Letter Book, RIHS.
2. The vessel from Dimmore’s fleet was the brigantine Elizabeth; the one from Barbados, the
brigantine Lawrence.
3. The prizes were the ship Aurora and brig Fanny.
Journal of the Connecticut Council of Safety1
[Lebanon] September 10th, 1776.
This Board do appoint Doctor Thomas Gray to be Surgeon’s Mate and
Physician of the ship Oliver Cromwell ' 3 and his Honor the Governor is di-
rected to give him a warrant accordingly.
1. Hoadly, ed., Connecticut Records, XV, 519.
Journal of H.M.S. Niger , Captain George 1 albot1
Septr: 1776 Moor’d off Whitestone
Sunday 8 Mode Breezes & Fair Wr P M sent an Officer & 20 Men to
the Et wd in a Sloop with the Halifax
First part Do Wr Remr Do & Cloudy
Monday 9
SEPTEMBER 1776
771
Tuesday 10 Mode 8c Cloudy at 10 P M the Officer 8c People Return’d
from the Et wd wth a Prize Sloop from Curasoa bound to
New York Laden with Bale Goods2
1. PRO, Admiralty 51/637.
2. Ibid., on September 13 the captors “sent the Prize sloop to Flushing & put the Cargo under
the Care of Messrs Frumiture & Eustace.”
Master’s Log of H.M. Brig Halifax1
Sept. 1776
Sunday 8th
Monday 9
Tuesday 10th
Remks at Anchr off New Citty Island
AM Heard the Report of a Heavey Cannonade, supposd
at Hell Gates
The 1st part fresh Breezes and Fair Middl Do and Hazey
PM the Nigers Tender Came Down, and Brt fresh Beef
for the Use of the Briggs Company, and a Party of High
Landers sent the Boats Mannd and Armd on the long Isld
shore in search of Vessels and Boats at 10 the Yaul re-
turnd with a small sloop from long Island
AM at 5 Saw a Sloop off Janseys point. Sent the Nigers
Tender in Chace, weighd and Gave Chace. fird a 4 pr
Shotted and Brt to[o] the Sloop Came too of[f] the So
part of Hart Isld in 18 fm of water found the sloop to be
the Sally from Coraso Laden wt salt Bale Goods, bound to
New York — took Charge of her as prize Sent the Nigers
Tender wt the Yaul in to Cow bay in Search of Vessels for
Governments Use Weighd and Turnd to wards Cow bay
Remks at Anchor in Cow bay Long Island Sound
PM at 4 Came too in Cow Bay wt the Sml Br in 3 Fathoms
Veerd to % of a Cable, Tend[er] and Prize in Company.
At 10 the Boats re turnd and brought one Sloop and some
Small Boats with her
AM sent the Tender and Boats with a Party as
before at 10 the Tender and Boats returnd with two
Empty Sloops and Several Small Boats with them Empd
Occasionally Light Breezes and Fair Weather PM Weighd
and Came to sail with the Prize five Sloops and several boats
in Company at 9 Came too of [f] Frogs point and sent the
Nigers Tender with the Boats and Vessels and Prize up to
the Brune. Rowd Guard during the Night
1. PRO, Admiralty 52/1775.
Joseph Williams to William Coit, Norwich Merchant1
[Extract] Camp Nigh Kingsbridge Sept 10th 1776
... I Expected to have got the boards down the North river, but the
day before yesterday 3 Ships ran the gantlet by all our forts, 8c have Stopd
772
AMERICAN THEATRE
Our People from getting Any Lumber down for barracks, though they got a
good deal down before, tis Supposed that is what they went up for — the
Ships were much damaged from our forts, they took one of the york gallies,
but the men got on Shore, & tis reported they took Another after they got
up the river —
1. Trumbull Papers, YUL.
Lieutenant Colonel Robert Hanson Harrison to Joshua Wentworth 1
Sir New York Septr 10. 1776
I am directed by his Excellency to acknowledge his receipt of yr Letter
of the 26th Ulto advising of the Capture made of the Ship Nelly Frigate, &
of the acquittal of the Brig Elizabeth on a Trial had the 22d. also of your
appealing to Congress from that decision. -
Removed at such a distance as his Excellency is, and Involved in a
multiplicity of Important business, It is impossible for him to give direc-
tions about or to pay attention to the Continental Armed Vessels at the
Eastward — Therefore, at the same time that he doubts not but your con-
duct is right respecting this Appeal, he apprehends you should correspond
with the Marine Committee appointed by Congress in all matters that may
occur in your department, presuming that they were appointed & intended
for that purpose. — His Excellency can only repeat that he has already
said, that the Laws prescribed by Congress, are the only Rules by which you
can conduct yourself — It is not his wish nor in his powere to give any or-
ders or advice authorizing a deviation from them — If in any instances
hardships of a peculiar nature cast up — Congress & Congress alone have it
in their power to relieve, on proper representation being made.
The Estate of Colo. Lee, late of Marblehead, having lent the Continent
some Guns to fit out their Armed Vessels, which are now wanted & applied
for you will deliver Nathanl Tracy Esqr Eight that are at Portsmouth
which were taken in some of the prizes — Mr Tracy has a claim to Ten,
which his Excellency would have replaced, If we have so many — The rea-
son of mentioning Eight, is, that he has no Account of your having more. I
am 8cc
RH H
1. Washington Papers, LC.
Diary of Dr. Thomas Moffat1
[On board H. M. Sloop Swan at Sandy Hook]
Tuesday Septr 10th Thermometer 66. Captn Bursel in an armd Ship
from cork last from Halifax in 18 days passd up to the fleet with a prize
ship from Virginia 16000 bushels of wheat and Indian corn aboard and six
Victuallers from Ireland also a Schooner with passengers from
Halifax, at noon also passd up the Merlin Sloop of war with two prize
SEPTEMBER 1776
773
Sloops laden one Homward and the other outward bound to and from the
west Indies.
1. Thomas Moffat’s Diary, LC.
Benjamin Franklin to William Temple Franklin1
Dear Grandson, Brunswick Sept. 10, 1776
It is possible that a Line from Lord Howe may be left for me at your
good Mother’s, as I have appointed to be there to morrow Morning, in order
to meet a Notice from his Lordship relating to the Time & Place of a pro-
posed Interview. If it should come there to night, or very early in the Morn-
ing I could wish you would set out with it on horseback so as to meet us on
the Road not far from hence, thus if N York should be the Place, we may
not go so far out of our way as Amboy would be. Besides I should be glad to
see you. My Love to your Mother Mr [John] Adams & Mr [Edward] Rut-
ledge are with me. If Amboy or the House opposite to it on Staten Island is
to be the Place of Meeting, we shall want private Lodgings there. I am as
ever, Your affectionate Grandfather
B Franklin
If no Letter is come to your House enquire at Headquarters if any for me
is come there; but do not mention from whom, or the Occasion.
1. Mason-Franklin Collection, YUL.
Daniel Joy to Robert Treat Paine1
Sr/ Reading-Furnace Sept the 10th 1776.
The purport of this is to acquaint you that I have been at Col: Grubb’s
Furnace where I proved Two of their 12 lbrs with 8 lb of powder & two
Shot, boath Stood, Mr Bustead had proved one of them with 12 lb of Pow-
der & one Shot before my arivel. last Saturday I left their when they had
27 twelve pounders cast, the Majore part of which looks Extreemly well &
cast very Smooth aqualety pecular to that Metel, — An accident happened
that they Brock the Gudgin of their water wheel or else they would had Sev-
eral others ready, before I left it they cast a new gudgin So they will soon
be able to get [a]boreing again & I endevored to prevail on the Cleark to
get one made at some Forge which he promissed me he would, for I have
but a poor oppinion of cast Iron for such kinde of work. They have exces-
sive hard work in boreing out their coers. I have told him Bustead of
Mateirals to make them with So as they can be got out with the greatest
ease which I make no doubt but he will try.
They go on with the greatest Spirit & I make no doubt but will soon ac-
complice their contract, the greatest fault in their cannon is they are very
large being 17% Inches at the Touchole & 11% Inches at the Muzle & I
soppose will weigh about 30 C, — They requested me to apply to you for a
resolve of congress for Liberty to employ a number of the prisoners of war
774
AMERICAN THEATRE
(not exceeding twelve [) ] , which if you should obtain please Send it via
Lancaster to be forwarded by Mathias Slough or Wm Henry to Cornwall
Furnace, working people are very scarce at present about the Furnaces’s -
I remain with much Esteem [8cc.]
Daniel Joy
P S when I was in Philada last I saw some Double-headed Shot in the
State-house yard the Barr’s of which were large enough to over load any
gun, they being 2i/£ or 3 Inches Square, And as Messrs Rutter & Potts have
an Order to make Some for Congress I have herewith Sent you the Size of
the Barr’s &c: as I calculated them for Sd R: & Potts — you’ll see they are
in a just Ratio with the Shot, that is they are 2i/2 Diametir: of the Shot
long in the clear & % of a Diameter Squar — The greatest length that ever
was alowd was 3 Diameters - I am 8cca
D: Joy
1. Robert Treat Paine Papers, MassHS.
Bill of John Slemaker, Pilot of the Maryland Ship Defence 1
Ship Defence
To John Slemaker
Dr
1776
March 8th
To
Piloteing To North Point and up
£ 4..0..0
ditto To Annapolis and up
7. .0. .0
April 30th
To
Wicomoco and up
16. .0. .-
May 18th
To
ditto
16. .0. .0
June 6th
To
Boat hire and Expences Taking \
5. .9.11
up the 4 Deserters J
27th
To
Piloteing To Potomack & up
14. .-. .-
July 4
To
ditto to Wicomoco
16. .0. .-
23
To
Potomack
14. .0. .-
August 1st
To
Annapolis
7. .0. .-
9th
To
the Cape
24.15. .-
Septr 10th
To
Annapolis
3.10. .-
£ 127.14.11
1. Revolutionary Papers, Box 1, Accounts, 1776, Md. Arch. The movements of the Defence in
Chesapeake Bay can be traced through this account, the origin of each cruise being
Baltimore.
Journal of the Virginia Navy Board1
[Williamsburg] Tuesday 10th September 1776.
Ordered that a Warrant Issue to Capt Gabriel Jones for Four hundred and
forty four pounds one shilling and three pence for the pay of his Company
of Marines to the twenty ninth day of August last as P Pay-roll this day
settled -
George Brett personally appeared before the Board and Agreed for the Sum
of six pounds P Ton to Build a Row Galley on Mattapony River of the fol-
SEPTEMBER 1776
775
lowing Dimensions, Vizt, Eighty one feet Keel Twenty one feet Beam seven
and a half feet Hold, Square Stern’d with a Quarter Deck thirty feet long
three feet Waist with Quick Work as high as the Sills of the Ports, Ten
Gunn Ports. The Plank (except for the Decks) and all the Timbers to be of
good sound white Oak of Proper sizes and the Plank for the Decks to be of
good two Inches thick Yellow Pine, the whole to be finished in a Workman
like manner with as many Ports as can conveniently be Rowed in also Oars,
Masts, Yards and all necessary spars fitted to a Cleet and to be delivered by
the first day of April next -
1. Navy Board Journal, 55-56, VSL.
Virginia Navy Board to Mr. Benjamin Baker, Nansemond 1
Sir, Williamsburg Sepr 10th 1776
We are inform’d by Captain [John] Calvert that you have not as yet
complied with [yo]ur Contract for furnishing the Men employ’d on the
Gallies building at So Quay with Provisions, and that you seem rather to be
dispos’d to retard than expedite their work, We are greatly surpris’d that
you shou’d endeavour, by any means to obstruct the public service and find
it our duty to call upon you for an immediate compliance with your Con-
tract and at the same time to warn you against throwing any difficulties in
the way of our Workmen or People employ’d there, as you may hereafter
answer it at your Peril I am for the Naval Board Your Hble Servant -
Tho8 Whiting 1st Commr -
1. Navy Board Letter Book, VSL.
Journal of H.M. Sloop Otter , Captain Matthew Squire 1
The S end of St Johns River SWi/gW 3 Leagues
At 9 A M anchored with the B Bower in St Augustine
Road in 10 fam Found lying here the Duke of Cum-
berland Packet. Fired a Gun & made the signal for a
Pilot. At Noon one came onboard, who informs us
that the Sloop Fincastle our Tender was in the Har-
bour, with a Prize Schooner she had taken with Com
& Tobacco
1. PRO, Admiralty 51/663.
11 Sept.
Journal of H.M.S. Lizard , Captain Thomas Mackenzie 1
Septemr 1776 [Hillsborough Bay, Island of St. Johns]
Tuesday 10 Sent an officer wt 18 Men to bring Guns to defend Charlotte
Town.
Wedy 1 1 Brought the remainder of the Guns from Fort Amherst
1. PRO, Admiralty 51/550.
September [1776]
Tuesday 10
776
AMERICAN THEATRE
Isaac Smith to John Adams1
[Extract] Salem September the 11th 1776
As to trade there is but very little what there is. is chiefly in the West India
way, but that is very much Obstructed by the Milford Sc Liverpool Sc Viper
who seem to be stationd this way. and take more or less every week, we
were in hopes the Continental ships would have been att sea before this, but
dont see any prospect of there being likely to get to sea: A Month to come,
the complaint is for want of Guns — There is here and the Towns round
About a doz privateers Out, a small One took a briga from Ireland bound to
Halifax with beef butter Sec — for the Armey is in att the Eastward Sc ex-
pected up here Two Vessells from Antigua with Rum for Halifax was carrd
into Plymouth last week. - One taken by this state briga2 Capt [Simeon]
Sampson — we have here Another briga3 belonging to this state near sail-
ing Capn [Daniel] Souther, but these Vessells are not sufficient to keep
the Coast cleer. I am Affraid the Town of Boston will be greatly distrest for
want of Wood this Winter, As there are many Coasters taken which dis-
courages there coming up . . .
1. Adams Papers, MassHS.
2. The Independence.
3. The Massachusetts.
Acts and Resolves of the Massachusetts General Court1
[Watertown] September 11th 1776.
Resolved, That Edward Pope Esqr the Colony Agent at Dartmouth, be,
& hereby is empower’d, Sc directed to pay to the petitioner [Weymes
Orrock] one hundred pounds out of the Colony’s part of the Ship [ Har-
riot], & Cargo of which the petr was late Master if so much there be be-
longing to this State, if not, whatever is the Colony’s proportion of sd Cap-
ture.
Whereas the Ship named Lord Dartmouth lying in Danvers is libelled
in the Maritime Court for the Middle district by Bartholomew Putnam, and
Andrew Cabot, and Whereas this Court apprehend that as said Vessel was
owned in Great Britain she properly belongs to this State.
Therefore Resolved, That the Hon: Richard Derby Jr Esqr be and he
hereby is appointed agent in behalf of this State to put in, and defend their
Claim to the said Ship, appurtunances & Boats, and whatever may be found
in her, and in all respects to carry on said Claim to final Judgment, and if
the same shall be adjudged to this State, that he take possession thereof ’till
the further Order of this Court.
1. Mass. Arch., vol. 35, 224, 227.
SEPTEMBER 1776
777
Petition of a Passenger in the British Prize Ship Princess Royal
to the Massachusetts Council 1
The Petition of William Williams an African -
Humbly Sheweth
That your Petitioner in a Ship bound from Jamaica, to London, com-
manded by Capt Archibald Duthie2 was taken by the Letter of Marque
Schooner Sturdy Begger, commanded by Capt Peter Lander, and after the
Capture of the said Ship, he was taken out of her and put on board the said
Schooner Sturdy Begger, and brought into Salem.
That your Petitioner, being in a Country where he is an entire
stranger, and where from the manner of his bringing up, he is incapable of
earning his living, is deprived of the necessary means of subsisting. Your
Petitioner has for a number of years been much incident to the Rheuma-
tism, even while in the West Indies and being now in so cold a Climate, he
must expect that the same disorder will attack him with double violence
upon the approach of Winter, unless he should be suffered to depart this
Country
Your Petitioners humble Prayer therefore is th[at] he may be suf-
fered to take passage for London, in a Ship bound thither lately purchased
by Mr Ross and others at Boston
And your Petitioner as in duty bound shall ever pray
his
William X Williams
mark
[Endorsed] In Council [Watertown] Sept 11th 1776 Read 8c Ordered
that the Prayer of the Petition be granted and the Said William Williams be
permitted to depart from this State to any Part of Great Brittain in such
Vessell as Willm Ross 8c Nathl Morgan (who lately obtained Liberty of this
Board to depart) may purchase for that Purpose —
John Avery Dpy Secy
1. Mass. Arch., vol. 165, 228.
2. Captain Duthie’s vessel was the Princess Royal which was retaken by H. M. S. Milford and
carried into Halifax, Vice Admiralty Register, vol. 5, N. S. Arch.
Petition of Ethan Compstock and Joshua Wing
to the Massachusetts General Court1
The Petition of Ethan Compstock second Lieutt in the diligent
Schooner of War Capt. John Lambert Commander 8c Joshua Wing Master
of said Schooner humbly sheweth -
That your Petitioners have been in the Service of the State nearly six
Months, have made several Cruizes but all of them unsuccessfull by which
they have not been able to supply themselves with any of the necessaries of
Life: 8c your Petitioners are now reduced to such a Situation (not having as
yet received any Wages,) as obliges them to Petition your Honors for some
Releif: —
AMERICAN THEATRE
778
And your Petitioners as in Duty bound will ever pray 8cc
Ethan Compstock Joshua Wing -
Boston Septr 11th 1776
1. Mass. Arch., vol. 181, 235.
Massachusetts Spy , Wednesday, September 11, 1776
[Worcester, September II]
Captain James Tracy sailed from Newbury-Port the seventh of June in
the Yankey Hero, for Boston, with twenty-six men only, including officers
this number was not a quarter of his complement; he was provisioned for a
six months cruize, and was to take in the remainder of his men at Boston; the
afternoon he went out, going round Cape Ann he observed a sail in the
offing, but in his situation did not think of looking after her. Two boats full
manned with their muskets, who had put out after the sail, came on board,
and informed him a number of transports had been close in with the Cape
that day; fourteen men from the two boats joined him, and sent their boats
on shore; he had now forty hands in the whole (only a third of his comple-
ment) with these he put away for the sail, which bore E. S. E. about five
leagues distance, they perceived her to be a ship, and soon from her manage-
ment to be a ship of war. As a contest with her must have "been very unequal,
Capt. Tracy, who intended to make a harbour that night, ordered the brig to
be put about for the shore, not then suspecting the ship could come up with
him; but he had not tacked ten minutes before the westerly wind died away,
and the ship taking a fresh southerly breeze came fast in, endeavouring to
cut the brig off from the shore. After some time, the ship thus getting in the
wake of the brig, the wind again came fresh to the westward, upon which the
brig hauled to the wind in the best angle for the shore, the ship gave chase
and in an hour came up within half a mile, and began to fire her bow chasers,
which the brig only answered with a swivel, Capt. Tracy reserving his
whole fire, until the ship, keeping a constant fire, came up within Pistol shot
upon his lee quarter when the brig gave her the best return they could
make from their main and quarter deck guns, swivels and small arms, and
after then kept up a constant fire. The ship was soon up along side, and with
twelve nine pounders of a side, besides forecastle and quarterdeck guns,
and with her marines overlooking the brig as high as her leading blocks,
kept a continual fire; after some time the ship hauled her wind so close,
which obliged the brig to do the same, that Capt. Tracy was unable to
fight his lee guns; upon this he backed under her stern, but the ship, which
sailed much faster, and worked as quick, had the advantage, and brought her
broadside again upon him, which he could not evade; and in this manner
they lay not a hundred feet from each other, yawing to and fro, for an hour
and twenty minutes, and privateer’s men valiantly maintaining their quarters
against such a superior force. About this time, the ships foremast guns be-
ginning to slack fire, Capt. Tracy stacked under her stern, and when clear
SEPTEMBER 1776
779
of the smoke and fire, perceived his rigging to be most shockingly cut, yards
flying about without braces, some of his principal sails shot to rags, and half
of his men to appearance dying and wounded.
Mr. Main, his first Lieutenant, was among the first wounded, and Mr.
Davis, one of the prize masters, fell in the last attack. In this situation they
went to work to refit the rigging, and to carry the wounded below, the ship
having then taken a broad sheer some way off, and none of her guns bearing;
but before they could get their yards to rights, which they zealously tried for
in hopes still to get clear of the ship, as they were now nearer in shore, or
to part from her under the night, she again came up and renewed the
attack, which obliged Capt. Tracy to have recourse to his guns again though
he still kept some hands aloft to his rigging; but before the brig had again
fired two broad-sides, Captain Tracy received a wound in his right thigh,
and in a few minutes he could not stand; he laid himself over the arm chest
and barricadoe, determined to keep up the fire, but in a short time, from
pain and loss of blood, he was unable to command, growing faint, and
they helped him below; as soon as he came to, he found his firing had
ceased, and his people round him wounded, and not having a surgeon with
them, in a most distressed situation, most of them groaning and some ex-
piring.
Struck severely with such a spectacle, Capt. Tracy ordered his people
to take him up in a chair upon the quarter deck, and resolved again to
attack the ship, which was all this time keeping up her fire; but after getting
into the air, he was again so faint that he was for sometime unable to speak,
and finding no alternative, but they must be taken or sunk, for the sake of
the brave men that remained, he ordered them to strike to the ship [ Milford ,
of twenty-eight guns, John Burr, commander]. Thus was this action main-
tained upwards of two hours in a low single decked vessel, with not half
the metal the ship had, against an English frigate, whose navy had been the
dread of nations, and by a quarter the number of people in the one as
the other, yet the victors exulted as though they had overcome a force as
much superior as this was inferior to them. The brig had four men killed
and thirteen wounded including officers the number in the Milford wounded
is not known, though there were some. The deprivation of these brave officers
and men is to be regretted by all friends to this country. With justice to
Captain Bur of the Milford , it must be acknowledged he treated with
humanity and politeness the officers and men that were wounded; but to
the eternal disgrace of Britain, and the present King and Parliament, let it
be recorded, that in this very action above related, upwards of thirty Ameri-
cans (prisoners in the Milford) were forced, at the forfeit of their lives, to
fight against their countrymen, and the officers and men of the Yankey Hero,
that were not wounded, are now detained in several of their ships, and may
meet with the same cruel fate, an exaction that even savages have not been
known to require. It is to the credit of the Hero's men, that not one would
780
AMERICAN THEATRE
enter upon the ship’s books, though not only urged by every persuasion
but by threats.
Capt. James Tracy, and Mr. Main his first Lieutenant, we hear are
likely to do well of their wounds, though they mend but slowly; they and
the other wounded men are at Halifax, twelve of the Hero’ s men were kept
on board the Milford. Mr. Robert Tracy, his second Lieutenant, and the rest
of the brig’s company, are on board the Renown , Commodore [Francis]
Banks.
Libel of Captain Jabez Whipple Against the British Brig Fanny 1
State of Rhode Island To the Honl John Foster Esq Judge of
& Providence Plantations ss the Court of Justice erected for the
Tryal of Prize Causes in and throughout
the State of Rhode Island and Providence
Plantations
Jabez Whipple of Providence in the County of Providence in said
State Commander of the private Sloop of War called the Independence , of
the port of said Providence duly commision [e] d to cruise against the Ene-
mies of the united States of America for himself and for and in behalf of
the Owners of and the officers and men belonging to said Sloop of War
comes into this Honl Court and gives your Honor to understand and be in-
formed that on the Twenty first Day of August AD 1776 being on a Cruise
against the Enemies of the said united States upon the high Seas he to-
gether with his officers and men belonging to said Sloop took and cap-
tur[e]d the Brigantine Fanny with her appertenances commanded by Sam-
uel Lightbourn together with her Cargoe consisting of Sugar, Whale Oil,
Indico, Rum & Limes, bound from the Island of Antigua to the port of Lon-
don in great Brittain, which said Brigantine her appertenances and Cargo at
and. before the Time of Capture aforsd belongd to and were the property of
some of the Inhabitants of Great Brittain or some of the Inhabitants of the
said Island of Antigua Subjects to the King of Great Brittain, and were
carrying Supplies to great Brittain in support of the Fleets and armies
which great Brittain has now acting against the said united States of
America, And he farther informs your Honor that he has sent said Brigan-
tine with her appertenances & Cargoe into the port of Providence within
your Honors Jurisdiction for condemnation.
Wherefore he hereby prays that your Honor would take the premises
into Consideration and grant out the proper process and Notifications re-
quired by Law in such Cases or otherwise proceed as to right and Justice
doth appertain
John Cole proctr for J. Whipple
[Endorsed] Received Sept. 11. 1776 Trial ordered to be on 1st Octor 1776
1. Admiralty Papers, vol. 9, R. I. Arch.
SEPTEMBER 1776
781
Jabez Bowen to Governor Nicholas Cooke1
Sir> Providence September 11th 1776
We the Subscribers all of Providence in the State of Rhode Island &c
Merchants, request your Honor to grant a Commission or Letter of Marque
and Reprisal to Thomas Child2 Commander of the Brigantine Industry of
which we are Owners, She is burthened about One Hundred and ten Tons
carries Twelve Carriage Guns Six Pounders, and Twelve Swivel Guns,
manned with One Hundred Men, and fitted with a suitable Quantity of
Muskets Blunderbusses, Cutlasses, Pistols, Powder Ball, and other Military
Stores. She hath on board Forty- five barrels Beef and Pork, Seven Thou-
sand Pounds Weight of Bread, with some Flour, Rice, Beans, Pottatoes
Sec. David Arnold is First Lieutenant Draper Toman is Second Lieuten-
ant and Joshua Bliven - Master. We are with great Respect Sir [8cc.]
Jabez Bowen
1. Maritime Papers, Letters of Marque, Petitions and Instructions, 1776-1780, R. I. Arch.
2. Ibid., Thomas Child acknowledged his commission and instructions on the same date. In
the Rhode Island Historical Society is a bill from Child for expenses incurred while
outfitting the Industry. It is dated September 15, 1776, and reads:
To Reparing 3 Guns & 4 Pistols
£ 0-9-0
To 1 Coffee mill
0-12-0
To Spring lock
2. .6
1 Call for the Boatswain
1-4-0
1 mortar for the Doctor
0-8.. 0
12 Glasis
0-3-0
2 Doz Belaying pins
0-5-0
fresh meat for the Brig
1-17-6
£ 4-3-0
Cr Reced of Capt Earl
1 Case Geneva
2-11-0
By Cash from Mr Jon Brown
1-10-0
4-1-0
Errors Except p Tho8 Child.
Nathaniel Shaw, Jr- to Francis Lewis, Philadelphia1
New London Sepr 11 1776
Sir Yours 24th Ulto came to hand last Post, Sc I find that I can pur-
chase Seed to put on board Capt Kenedy [Thomas Kennedy] in the Room
of the Flower, consequently shall sell the flour which begins to take
damage, Kendy says that he can take on board three hundred hhd. - A
few days agoe Capt Alex Exceen in the Brig Friendship arrived here from
the Southside of Longiland, being drove out by the Tories, having left most
of his Cargo on Shore and is now waiting here for your orders he has Six
or Seven hundred bus Salt on board - I think its best to discharge the Vessell
Sc put the Cargo in Store - All the Melitia in this Coloney being order’d to N
Y makes it very difficult to get any work done, but imagine by the next
Week Kenedy will begin to Load I am Sir [&c.]
N Shaw Junr
1. Shaw Collection, Letter Book, YUL.
782
AMERICAN THEATRE
Journal of Lieutenant Colonel Stephen Kemble1
[Long Island] Wednesday, Sept. 11th. Some firing the Night past,
tho’ mistake, the Highlanders and our Seamen in Flat Boats. Our 1st. and
2d. Light Infantry on Montresors Island, 1st Brigade on Bohannas. Are
informed that three Commissioners, Vizt. Franklin, John Adams and Rut-
ledge, from the General Congress, had this day arrived at Staten Island, to
Treat with Lord and General Howe. His Lordship only met them, and their
Interviews short, as the Deputies from the Congress would treat on no other
terms than that of Independent States.
1. “The Kemble Papers,” Collections of the New-York Historical Society for the Year 1883 (New
York, 1884), I, 87.
Journal of H.M.S. Eagle , Captain Henry Duncan1
Septemr 1776 Moored off of Bedlows Island
Wednesday 11th At 10 AM Dryed Sails made the Renown Asia } Strom-
bolo Sc Carcass Sigls for Petty Officers
The first part Modr Sc fair, Middle Sc latter light airs &:
Cloudy
At 2 PM Sent a Boat to meet a Flag of Truce from New
York2 At 3 made the Asias Signal for a Petty
Officer, At 5 the Repulse Signal for a Lieut at 7 the
Parole Sigl with a White Pendant, At 9 sent the
Launch and Yawl to row Guard At 11 Cleared hawse
1. NMM, Admiralty L/E/ll.
2. “A Flag of Truce came from the Town this Afternoon, with Letters, Cloaths, & Money (hard
Cash, not Congress Notes) for some of the Rebel Prisoners. Among them was a most
illiterate Letter from [Israel] Putnam to a Mr. Chew, in our army.” Tatum, ed., Serle’s
Journal, 97, 98.
Autobiography of Joshua Barney 1
[July 5, 1776 to September 11, 1776]
... we had not been long out before we fell in with an armed Brig
(Letter of Marque) with whom we had a severe action for upwards of two
hours, when she struck to us, she was loaded with rum & had a large tur-
tle on board with Lord Norths name on it, brought it in Sc gave it to Mr
[Robert] Morris: we had all our officers killed or Wounded the Captain Sc
Myself excepted, so that I was obliged to take the command of the prize Sc
which circumstance obliged the Sachem to return into port.2
1. Manuscript Autobiography, DARL.
2. The brig Three Friends, Anthony Stalker, master. The engagement took place on August 12.
The prize and Sachem, Captain Isaiah Robinson, arrived at Philadelphia on September 7.
Pennsylvania Gazette, September 11, 1776.
SEPTEMBER 1776
783
Minutes of the Pennsylvania Council of Safety1
In Council of Safety,
[Philadelphia] Septem’r 11th, 1776.
Commission granted for Sloop Jupiter , Privateer, Fran’s, Illingsworth,
Comm’r, 80 Tons, 95 men, 14 carriage Guns, own’d by Nicholas Low, & co.
1. Pennsylvania Colonial Records, X, 714, 715. Continental bond for this privateer is in Gratz
Autograph Collection, Case 5, Box 27, HSP.
Advertisement of Sale of the Prize Brigantine Neptune and Cargo 1
On Monday, the 16th of this instant September, at Three o’Clock in the
Afternoon on Plumsted’s Wharff.
A Parcel of Rum. Taken in the Prize Brigantine Neptune, condemned
in the Court of Admiralty.2 The said Brig will be sold the same Afternoon,
at the same Place, as soon as the Rum is disposed of.
1. Pennsylvania Gazette, September 11, 1776.
2. The Neptune, Captain James Robinson, “burthen about eighty tons,” was taken by Lambert
Wickes in the Continental ship Reprisal. Pennsylvania Ledger, August 24, 1776.
Journal of the Virginia Navy Board1
[Williamsburg] Wednesday 11th September 1776
Ordered that a Warrant Issue to Colo William Aylett for Nine pounds four-
teen shillings for Bread furnished Capt Lilly for the use of the Brig Lib-
erty. - Also for Thirteen pounds nine shillings for Bread and Flour fur-
nished Capt Edward Travis for the use of the Manley Galley.
Ordered that a Warrant Issue to John Armistead for Eight pounds two
shillings and ten pence half penny for Provisions furnished Capt William
Mitchell for the use of his Company of Marines -
William Smith Bell is recommended to Capt Willis Willson as a proper per-
son to be appointed Surgeon to the Casewell Galley.
Ordered that the keeper of the Public Magazine deliver unto Capt William
Mitchell for the use of his Company of Marines One hundred pounds of
Lead & six Quire of Paper -
Ordered that a Warrant Issue to John Jones for Ten pounds, upon Account,
for his Allowance as Bookeeper the Board.
Adjourned till tomorrow morning nine of the Clock.
Signed,
Thomas Whiting 1st Comsr
1. Navy Board Journal, 56-57, VSL.
Virginia Navy Board to Captain Thomas Lilly, Brig Liberty 1
Sir, Williamsburg Sepr 11th 1776
As the Congress have order’d that Troops be immediately sent to New
York and that the said Troops be transported by Water as the most expedi-
784
AMERICAN THEATRE
tious way, the Naval Board has receiv’d orders to collect all their Vessels in
this Colony for that purpose, you are therefore desir’d to proceed directly to
York Town upon receipt of this and when arriv’d there apply to this Board
for further orders. I am by order of the Naval Board, your h’ble Servant
Thos Whiting 1st Comr2
1. Navy Board Letter Book, VSL.
2. Ibid., similar orders were issued this date to Captain John Calvert, galley Norfolk Revenge ;
Captain James Cocke, brig Raleigh; Captain Wright Westcott, sloop Scorpion, and
Captain Robert Tompkins, galley Henry.
Virginia Navy Board to Captains Richard and James Barron 1
Sir Williamsburg Sepr 11th 1776 -
most of the Vessels of the Navy with some Transports are very shortly
[to] proceed up the Bay with a considerable body of our Troops, unless
prevented by appearance of an Enemy, we therefore desire you’ll use the ut-
most diligence in reconoitering the Bay and Capes as often as possible, and
shou’d you discover an Enemys Vessel that you will give immediate notice
of her strength and situation to this Board. I am by order [8cc.]
Thomas Whiting 1st Comr
1. Navy Board Letter Book, VSL.
Virginia Navy Board to General Adam Stephens, Portsmouth 1
Sir Williamsburg Sepr 11th 1776 —
As the Troops intended for New York are to be transported up the Bay
it will be necessary for the Boats you had built to attend them. Therefore
you’ll please to order them to be ready to attend the service by the 20th In-
stant, by which time we expect that the other Vessels we are to furnish will
be ready to sail, I am By order of the Naval Board Your hb’le Servt
Thoms Whiting 1st Comr
1. Navy Board Letter Book, VSL.
Virginia Navy Board to Mr. John Perrin, Gloucester1
Sir Williamsburg Sepr 11th 1776 —
hearing that you had two Sloops unemploy’d and being in want of Ves-
sels to transport Troops up the Bay, shou’d be glad to know immediately
whither you can have them ready at York by the 20th Inst. By order of the
Naval Board, I am Your hb’le Servant
Thomas Whiting 1st Comr
1. Navy Board Letter Book, VSL. A similar letter was sent to William Stephenson at Yorktown
who had “a Schooner unemploy’d.”
SEPTEMBER 1776
785
12 Sept.
“Extract of a Letter from Capt. Michael Whitbyrne, dated
St. John's, Newfoundland, Sept. 12” 1
This is to inform you of my being arrived here in the Captina , Capt.
Ceutrich, having lost the Minehead , which was taken from me Sept. 4, by
the Hawke privateer, Malachy Lee, commander, of eight guns and 60 men,
almost all of whom were Old-England-men;2 they also took nine other sail
the same day, but released all but mine, it being the best sailing ship among
them.
1. London Chronicle, October 15 to October 17, 1776.
2. Probably the Massachusetts privateer schooner Hawke, Captain John Lee, commissioned
August 10, 1776.
John Garvin and Isaac Needham's Agreement on Prize Shares 1
this agreement made this twelth Day of September 1776 Between John Gar-
vin and Isaac Needham Both of Salem Wetens [witnesses] that the Said
John Garvin a Seaman on Board the Privter Sloup Reveng[e ] Command
By capt Ben Worren heath Sold and By these Presents Doth Sel to the Said
Isaac Needham for the condertions her after mentchons one half of one
Share of all prizes that Shall Be taking By the Priveter Sloup Reveng Dur-
ing her Said Cruze in Concerdiert[i]ons of Which the Said Isaac Needham
Doth hearby Prom to Pay to the said John Garvin Eighteen Dolrs pr month
for every month he Shall Contrene on Board the Priveter Sloup or on Board
her prizes During Said Cruse to comments at the time of Said John Garvin
gouen on Board of said Priveter and the Said Isaac Needham Doth further
Proms to Pay to the Said John Garvin Eighteen Dolrs in ad vance in We-
tens hear of We Both of Us hear unto Set our hands this twelth Day of
September 1776
Wetens Isaac Needham
Daniel Needham John Garvin
1. Shipping Miscellany, El.
Journal of the Massachusetts Council1
[Watertown] Thursday Septr 12th 1776 —
On Motion Ordered That Benjn Greenleaf & John Winthrop Esqrs be a
Committee to propose a Letter to the Honble Congress, accquaintg them
with the Situation of Our Coast being infested with Cruisers belonging to
Great Britain, and to request that some of the Continental Vessels may be
fitted Out for the purpose of Clearing the Coast of those Enemies to the
State, and Report —
1. Mass. Arch., vol. 19, 226, 227.
786
AMERICAN THEATRE
Joseph Palmer to the Massachusetts General Court1
Watertown, Sept 12th 1776:
Joseph Palmer represents, That the Town of Braintree was heretofore
Supported in a great measure by Supplying Lumber for Ship-building, 8c
large quantities of Stones for Cellars, Houses & Wharfs, for Boston, Marble-
head &c, which employed many men, 8c about 10 or 12 Lighters from 25 to
40 Tons each; which business has been wholly destroyed by the Quarel com-
menced against us by Great- Britain: said Palmer had also there, a very
large Manufac[to]r [y] of Spermaceti Candles, which is entirely Stoped, 8c
the Apparatus nearly, if not quite ruined, to his damage more than £2000 L
mo within that Town
That some of the Inhabitants were obliged to quit their habitations,
others removed their most valuable effects, 8c many Suffered great damage
by having troops Stationed upon the Sea-Coasts of said Town, to prevent
greater damage by the Enemy; whose vicinity occasioned frequent alarms
to the Inhabitants.
J: Palmer
1. Mass. Arch., vol. 139, 348.
Petition of William Jenkins to the Massachusetts Council1
State of the J To the Honble the Council and the Honble the
Massachusetts Bay J House of Representatives of said State in General
Court assembled at Watertown this twelfth Day
of September 1776
Humbly sheweth William Jenkins of the City of Bristol in the Kingdom of
Great Britain, Mariner.
That your Petitioner being Master of the Brigantine called the Perkins ,
was by the Chance of War, taken by the Capts [Samuel] Tucker and
[John] Skimmer in the Continental arm’d Schooners called the Hancock
and Franklin 8c brought into the Port of Boston where he now is —
Your Petitioner would represent to the Honble Court that at the time
of his being taken, he was on a Merchant Voyage, bound from St Augustine
to Bristol in Great Britain, that he had on Board his said Brigantine no
Supplies of any kind either for the Fleet or Army, now employed against
these States, neither had he Arms or Ammunition —
Your Petitioner would further represent to the Honble Court, that he
left in Bristol a Wife and four small Children who are entirely dependant
on him for their Support and maintenance, 8c he is really apprehensive that
even before this time they may be suffering all the Anxiety and Distress an-
nexed to a Want of the Necessaries 8c Comforts of Life, unless fortunate
enough to find Friends to releive them in their Troubles; however tedious
and irksome his Continuance here might otherwise be, this cannot but nec-
essarily render it more so. He therefore prays the Honble Court that from a
Consideration of the Premisses, they would grant him Permission to take
SEPTEMBER 1776
787
Passage for Great Britain or any other Part of Europe, the first Opportun-
ity that offers; he also prays Liberty to take with him his Servant Boy.
He humbly presumes there will be no Objection to the Prayer of his
Petition, as he is not held as a Prisoner of War, & no Information that he
can give can be of any possible Service or disservice to either Party in this
War, unless indeed the Humanity with which he has been treated may be an
Inducement to the like Treatment of others in similar Circumstances on the
other Side — And as in Duty bound shall ever pray
Willm Jenkins
[Endorsed] In Council Sept 20th 1776 Read & Ordered that the Prayer of
this Petition be granted 8c Said Petitioner be permitted to depart with his
Servant Boy to any Part of Great Brittain agreeable to his Prayer -2
John Avery Dpy Secy
1. Mass. Arch., vol. 165, 254, 255.
2. Ibid., 256, on September 14, John Bradford had written to the Council on Jenkins’ behalf.
New-England Chronicle , Thursday, September 12, 1776
Boston, Thursday, September 12.
An authentic List of the Naval and Military Force, in the Province of
Nova-Scotia, August 13th, 1776, collected from the best Authorities in said
Province.
In the Harbour of Halifax, the Milford and Liverpool Frigates, of 28
guns; the Brig Hope, of 12 Guns; the new Sloop of War, fitting out, called
the Albany (late the Rittenhouse, belonging to Philadelphia) to carry 16
Guns, Mowatt, Commander.
August 16. Since writing this List, the Milford and Liverpool Frigates
sailed, and the 17th, the Brig Hope will sail for Louisburg [And since
which (by an honest Fisherman) we are informed, that the Milford Frigate
is cruising off this Coast again. Look out, Cruizers,8cc.] 1
Captain James Tracey, and Lieut. Mains, of the Yankee Hero Brig,
were sent from Halifax to Staten-Island, the last of July, on board the Mer-
cury pirate Frigate, James Montague - [Captain Proctor, of Philadelphia,
who is now a prisoner in Halifax goal, was 11 weeks in irons on board the
above Frigate, during which time he was treated in the most barbarous
manner by the above Montague, who several times threatened to hang him,
and offered one of his sailors 40s. to swear his life against him.] Mr. Car-
penter, of this Town, is closely confined in irons in Halifax goal, by order of
Gen. [Eyre] Massey, who commands there
We learn from undoubted authority, that the Schooner Sally, Capt.
Roach, which lately went from Piscataqua, to Halifax, as a flag of truce,
with prisoners, was, on her arrival there, made a prize of, (by that petty,
paltry, Jack-tarr, Commodore Arbuthnot,) and the hands put on board a
man of war.
788
AMERICAN THEATRE
Yesterday se’nnight was sent into this Harbour, by the Lee, Capt. Wa-
ters, a Sloop from the Eastward, bound for Halifax, laden with Cord-
Wood.2
We hear that a Snow, laden with Rum, and Sugars, was carried into
Cape- Ann last Week.3
One Day last Week, was sent into Providence, seven Vessels, Prizes,
with Supplies for those unrelenting, barbarous, tyrannical, blood-thirsty
Butchers, the Royal Savage of Britain’s Troops, now on Staten-Island. — -
They were taken by the Captains Biddle and Whipple, in two Vessels of
War, belonging to the United and Confederated States of America. Partic-
ulars of their Cargoes have not yet come to Hand.
Last Sunday was taken and carried into Gouldsborough, by two small
Boats, a Brig from Ireland, bound for Halifax, laden with Beef, Butter, Sec.
She parted Company with Twelve other Provision Vessels the Day on which
she was taken, all bound for the above Port.
By the Hartford Post we are informed, that the Royal pirate Frigate
Rose, commanded by the infamous Wallace, in attempting to get up the
Sound, at New-York, was hulled several Times, and obliged to put back to
the ministerial fleet.
1. The brackets were inserted by the printer of the Chronicle. Apparently he had taken the
Halifax material from a letter or the Nova-Scotia Gazette , and interpolated his own
comments.
2. The sloop Betsey.
3. The snow Anna taken by the Massachusetts state sloop Tyrannicide.
Continental Journal, Thursday, September 12, 1776
Boston, September 12.
Capt. [John] Gill in a small Privateer Schooner from this Port,1 has
taken and sent into Plymouth, a Brigantine from Antigua bound to Europe,
laden with Rum and Sugars. She was first taken by a Connecticut Priva-
teer, but the People rose and retook her, and had her in Possession three
Days before Capt. Gill came up with her.
We hear a Privateer from Salem has taken a Brigantine from Cork,
loaded with provisions for New-York, and sent her into some Port at the
eastward.
1. The privateer schooner Independence.
Libels Against British Prizes Filed in the Massachusetts
Admiralty Court for the Southern District1
State of Massachusett’s-Bay, Southern District, ss.
To all whom it may concern.
Notice is hereby given, That the Maritime Court for the Southern Dis-
trict will be held at Plymouth, in the county of Plymouth on Tuesday the
first day of October, 1776 at the hour of ten in the forenoon, to try the jus-
SEPTEMBER 1776
789
tice of the following captures, viz. of the ship called the Argo, of about 170
tons burthen, lately commanded by William Cockran, and her cargo and ap-
purtenances; of the sloop called the Elizabeth, of about 30 tons burthen,
lately commanded by Thomas Ludlow jun. and her cargo and appurte-
nances; of the brigantine called the Frederick, of about 140 tons burthen,
her cargo and appurtenances, lately in possession, and under the care and
command of Edmund Cottle; seized and taken in the port of Dartmouth, in
said district, on a part of the sea, between high water and low water mark;
of the schooner called the Spermaceta, of about 90 tons burthen, and her ap-
purtenances, lately in the possession and under the care and command of
John Peas; seized and taken in the port of Nantucket, in said district, on a
part of the sea, between high water and low water mark. Against which
vessels, their cargoes and appurtenances libels are filed before me, they hav-
ing been brought into the Southern District aforesaid; and the owners of
the same, or any persons concerned may appear and shew cause, if any they
have, why said vessels, or any of them, with their cargoes and appurte-
nances should not be condemned.
Nathan Cushing, Judge of said Court.
[Boston, September 12, 1776]
1. New-England, Chronicle, September 12, 1776. Same issue of newspaper carried notice that
the trial of ship Charming Sally, snow Ann, and brigantine John captured by the armed
sloop Broome would be held at Plymouth on October 3, 1776 to be followed the next day
by trial of the brigantine Carolina JPacket.
John Brown to Moses Brown1
[Extract] [Providence] Septem 12th 1776 -
... I have allso Desired Mr Polock to Forward all the Cordage he has
bot for Me & the Navil Committe here, which Cordage Suppose is Now at
Kings Bridg, by Land to the First Harber in Conecticutt on this Side the
Kings Ships and that the Same May be Shipt to me from thence by water as
Soone as possable ... if the Cordage he has wrote me about is purchesed
Viz 8 Ton for Me & Ten Ton for the Navil Committe a 5.5/ York pCt Comes
to £1890. York Mony or 4725 Dolls So that their will be upwards of 5000
Dolls due to me when the Goods are Sold & Cordage pd for, & as I have had
Sum hints Sence I Left York Which Makes Me a Little Doubtfull of the
Safety of My money I am the More Urgent to Git it out of his hands . . .
John Brown
1. Moses Brown Papers, RIHS.
Nathaniel Shaw, Jr. to Governor Jonathan Trumbull1
Sir New London Sepr 12 1776
Agreable to Coin [Benjamin] Huntingtons directions I have sent to
New Haven for the Stores Rigging Sec belonging to the Old Briggtn De-
fence, and the Vessell is Returnd with only the two masts (one of which is
790
AMERICAN THEATRE
been Cutt 8c not fitt to go in her Again) , and Rigging only Sufficient for the
Shrowds to her foremast with her main and Fore Stay, these being so much
Short of what we Expected, I thought best to Advise you of it before I begin
to work on her, 8c shall wait your further orders - my Bomb Brigg2 is
Clean’d Rigg’d and already to take Guns on Board 8c Capable of Carrying
Twelve four pounders, with a Good Suit of Sails — 8c is att your Service, if
you Incline to have her for the Use of this State I will take the Old Brigg
in part pay — I am Sir [8cc.]
Nath1 Shaw Junr
1. Conn. Arch., 1st Series, IX, 309, ConnSL. Copy in Shaw Letter Book, YUL.
2. Formerly the British bomb brig Bolton captured by Esek Hopkins, which Shaw was fitting
as a privateer.
Journal of H.M.S. Cerberus , Captain John Symons1
So End Block Island NWbW 3 or 4 Leags
at 5 AM out all reefs, found the Bowsprit sprung in two
places, got the Sprit sail Yard in Empd fitting a fish for
do sett studg sails
Mode Breezes at 1 P M Brot too a Brigg from Virginia
bound to St Augustine Loaded with rum 8c Molasses
taken by the Andrew Doria privateer.2 at 5 AM saw a SI
to Windwd gave Chace fired at the Chace 3-9 pdr: 3-3
pdr at 12 brot too the Chace a Brigg from Cape Fran-
cois bound to Nantuckett Loaded with Molasses 8c some
cotton3
Fresh Breezes 8c hazey sent a petty Officer 8c 4 Men on
board the Prize at 6 parted Co wt the Prizes
1. PRO, Admiralty 51/181.
2. Peggy, William Cook, master, Morfield & Son, owner, from Virginia for St. Augustine, with
rum, molasses and linen, Howe’s Prize List, March 31, 1777, PRO, Admiralty 1/487, where
the recapture is erroneously credited to the Perseus. The master’s log of the Cerberus
adds: “. . . sent the Boat on board, found that the Privateers people had taken their
Boat & left the Vessell,” PRO, Admiralty 52/1650.
3. Joseph, Elias Coffin, master, from Cape Franyois to Nantucket, with molasses, Howe’s Prize
List, March 31, 1777, PRO, Admiralty 1/487.
Septr [17] 76
Wednesday 1 1
Thursday 12
Examination of Sergeant Thomas Day1
[Extract]
The Examination of Serjeant Thomas Day of Colonel McLeans Regi-
ment late of Captain [John] Lambs Company, who deserted from Point
aux Tremble, between Montreal and Sorrell, with two others the 31st
August.2
. . . That he heard there were two Schooners taken to Pieces and
brought up to St Johns, to Carry Six six Pounders, and ten Swivels each,
that he understood there were two or three more Sloops 8c Schoonefrs]
withsome Gondolas and floating Batteries, building at St Johns. That he
SEPTEMBER 1776
791
frequently heard for a Fortnight before he deserted that the Army were in
a few Days to cross the Lake for Crown Point. . . .
On board the Royal Savage September 12th 177 [6]
B. Arnold.
[Endorsed] Letters from Brigadier Genl Arnold dated, lie La Motte Sep-
tember 15th 8c 16th. 1776 — With his Examination of Sergt Thomas Day, a
Deserter from the Enemy.
1. Gates Papers, Box 4, NYHS.
2. Thomas Day was captured, along with most of Lamb’s artillery company in the disastrous
attack on Quebec, December 31, 1775. He then enlisted in the British service in Colonel
Allan McClean’s regiment.
Major General Horatio Gates to Brigadier General Benedict Arnold 1
Dear General. Tyonderoga 12th September 1776.
I had the Pleasure to receive your Letters by Lieutenant [John]
Brooks of the 6th Battallion of Pensilvanians, from Isle-aux-Mottes. I am
perfectly satisfied with your leaving Isle-aux-Tites, 8c think from Your’s 8c
every other Account, that the Post you now Occupy is much preferable.
Point-aux Fers is an Object that should employ your Serious Attention.
Should it be Possible for the Enemy Secretly to get Artillery, 8c a post Fix’d
there, while you are to the Northward of that remarkable Spot, it might
prove a great Annoyance to your Fleet, remember how exceedingly you
ought to Guard against the possibility of the Enemy’s possessing any Nar-
row Pass in your Rear; a Caution, which you so-much approved, in the Or-
ders, 8c Instructions you received.
The Row Gallies are all three at this Place, and Fitting with the Ut-
most diligence. G1 Waterbury is indefatigable, 8c promises to Sail without
the smallest unnecessary Delay; your best Pilot should be sent by the return
of The Bearer to Conduct them down. — You wrote to General Schuyler, to
Apply to Governour Trumbull for Capts to Command These Gallies. The
Governour has sent Four; by this, we are incumber’d with Double Officers,
as you appointed Three, before you left Tyonderoga. What is best to be done
in this Difficulty? I shall Endeavour to Pacify all Claimants, until I hear
from You. a Good many Seamen are procured, 8c will be sent in the Gallies.
I have Order’d Commissary [Elisha] Avery, 8c Mr Deacon Rood of Onion
River, to Acquaint all the Inhabitants upon both sides the Lake, that what
Cattle, Sheep, Garden Stuff, or Hoggs, are sent to You, shall; upon your
Certificate, be paid for in ready money, upon the presentment thereof to
Me.
Inclosed is a Copy of a Letter I have Just receivd from Dr Franklin.
The Tobacco is not yet come, it shall be sent to you in the First Row Galley
— would it not, now 8c then be proper for a Row Galley or Gondola to
Cruize a little to the Southward, above Point Aux Fers, to protect boats 8cc
passing to the Fleet? — The Enemy are Subtile, and quick at Expedients;
they may endeavour to Impose False Friends upon you; your watch word,
792
AMERICAN THEATRE
should never be given until Sun Sett, and all boats, at Day light, kept at a
proper Distance, until their Crews are examined.
In Obedience to your request I wrote very fully Yesterday in my Pub-
lick Letter upon the Subject you so Earnestly mention’d. I fancy when my
letter is received, the Congress, 8c your Friends will be convinced, that
every report to your prejudice is Founded in Calumny, 8c should meet with
the Contempt, 8c disregard it so Justly deserves.
A Fourth Row Galley will be quite plank’d up by Saturday night; your
Barge is here, and most elegantly painted 8c Finish’d. She will be sent by
Capt [James] Arnold; The prvovisions I now send, will last much longer
than will be necessary for the Supply of the Fleet, until the First Row Gal-
ley Arrives, Even if the Inhabitants upon the Lake do not send you any
Fresh Provisions 8cc.
I hope to be able to send all the Cloathing you demand by Capn Arnold.
Rum goes by this Conveyance, and all the Hard bread baked at Crown
Point. — Commissary Avery has my orders to write, 8c to Obey all your Or-
ders. — the Swivels will come with the Galley; Gunners are very Scarce;
but you Shall be Supplied.
I would Feign send you some Intelligence from Authority, of the Proceed-
ings of The Armies at Long Island; but neither General Sch[uyler] or my-
self, have received any Letters from General Washn; that are particular
upon the Subject. By private Letters, it is clear the Enemy lost upwards of
1400 Men in the three Repulses they met with, in their Attack upon our
Lines, Wednesday the 28th Ult; and Commissary Trumbull writes that we
are still in possession of Our Lines upon Long Island, and the City of New
York. It is beyond a doubt that our people have behaved with the Greatest
Spirit 8c that the Enemy have suffer’d Greatly 8c must View our Troops in a
very respectable light I am [Sec.]
P S When you receive an Order to send a Flag to the Enemy; or have
an Opportunity by the return of one of theirs, send them the Act of Inde-
pendence Inclosed —
H G
1. Gates Papers, Box 19, NYHS.
Journal of Ambrose Serle1
[On board H. M. S. Eagle] Thursday, 12th. Septr.
A severe Canonade was heard on board this Morning, supposed to be Horn’s
Hook, where our People are dislodging the Rebels, and are already in Pos-
session of two Islands [Montresor’s and Buchanan’s] near the Isle of York
Shore. We have lost one Sailor, who was killed as he lay sleeping on the
Grass by a Cannon Ball. An Engineer lost an Arm; and two or three other
slight Accidents occurred.
This Afternoon Capt. [Thomas] Wilkinson in the Pearl , a fine Frigate
of 32 Guns, arrived from Quebec. He brought us very agreeable News from
Genl. Carleton, viz. That General Burgoyne was almost ready to em-
SEPTEMBER 1776
793
bark on Lake Champlain, and probably would be embarked by the middle of
August, with an Army of about 14,000 Men, of which 10,000 were Regulars
and about 1000 Indians; and that, if it were necessary, he could bring with
him 15 or 20,000 Canadians. Capt. Wilkinson convoyed several Transports
with upwards of 500 Rebel Prisoners on board, with whom we know not
what to do. He also informed us, that he spoke with a Ship on the 27th. of
July, who had seen the Second Division of the Hessians at Sea, and that
they may hourly be expected to arrive.
1. Tatum, ed., Serle’s Journal, 98.
James Blair to the Pennsylvania Council of Safety 1
Gentlemen, Fort Island, Sept’r 12th, 1776
I this morning received your Resolve of 31st ult., ordering Four men
belonging to the Gallies to be sent to work at Mr. James Wharton’s Rope
Walk for four weeke, agreeable to which I now send Purviance Sc Canaday
belonging to the Franklin. Farley belonging to the Ranger went up this
morning in their Yaut [yawl] Sc the other man Reily is on board Capt.
Greenaway. I am, Gent. [&c.]
James Blair.
1. Pennsylvania Archives, 1st series, V, 24.
Robert Morris to Silas Deane1
[Extract] Philada Septr 12th 1776
Sir You will receive herewith Copy of what I wrote you the 11th Ulto Sc
by this Conveyance I remit the 2d bills of those setts mentioned in that let-
ter. I have bought a considerable quantity of Tobacco but cannot get suita-
ble Vessells to carry it, you cannot conceive the many disapointments we
have met with in this Respect however I expect a Ship is now taking in
about 400 hhds as I wrote two posts ago agreeing to the Owners terms and
shall advi [s] e you more particularly in my next respecting this matter. I am
sorry to tell you another Vessell bound from hence for Bourdeaux with a
Cargo of flour &c has been taken and carried to N York with the
Fleet, this was a fine New Brigt intended as a Packet between us. she
had dispatches for You which were thrown over board Sc sunk by the Cap-
tain as well the Invoices See of the Cargo,2 these unlucky accidents retard
the remittances exceedingly, which is vexatious but cannot be helped. I hope
your Credit has been sufficient to procure the Indn Goods Sc that they are on
their way out, for they will be much wanted and we shall not give over re-
mitting untill you are fully enabled to pay for them; I expect a Cargo of
Rice & Indigo is now Shipping on this Account as orders have been given to
that Effect, but still the same difficulty about Vessells occurrs in that
quarter also. So many of the American Ships have been taken, lost, sold Sc
employ [ed] abroad, that they are now very Scarce in every part of the
794
AMERICAN THEATRE
Continent which I consider as a great misfortune for Ship building does not
go on as formerly and this Want can only be supply d by the ai rival of
Ships from Europe and by the Captures, in which all the American Cruizers
have been remarkably Successful those who have engaged in Privateering
are making Large Fortunes in a most Rapid manner, I have not meddled
in this bussiness which I confess does not square with my Principles for I
have long had extensive Connections 8c dealings with many Worthy Men in
England 8c Coud not consent to take any part of their property because the
Government have Seized mine, which is the case in several instances.
The Trading plan recommended in my last is farr more eligible and if
we have but luck in getting the Goods safe to America the Proffits will be
sufficient to Content us all, I do therefore continue my recommendation of
that plan and sincerely hope You 8c Tom3 will be able to do something con-
siderable therein for you may depend it will reward you beyond any other
pursuit. If you can procure Insurance at any reasonable prem[iu]m even at
50 pCt (altho I dont think the Risque is really worth 15 pCt) I think you
had best to Charter two or three good Double Deck’d fast Sailing Vessells,
ballast or Load them with Salt in the Holds and put onboard of each as
many Dry Goods, say Woolens, Linens, Tin, Copper, Hosiery 8cc 8cc, as you
can Conveniently obtain 8c let them proceed immediately for this place, In-
suring the Value of the Cargoes on the best terms you can against the
Risque of Capture by our Enemies as well as against all other Risques 8c
dangers, I mean that you shou’d Charter French Vessells 8c by clearing
them out for the Island of St Piers 8c Miquelon they may sail along this
Coast without being Subject to Capture untill they come within three
Leagues of the Land, you must take care that the Ships are sound, strong
8c staunch and that they are well fitted 8c Manned, two suits of Sails and
good Anchors 8c Cables they ought to have, tell the Masters when they
come on this Coast to venture in Close with the Land as our N Westers in
the Winter will keep them out a long time if they keep without Or in the
Gulph Stream whereas if they come within it, nothing but an Easterly
Wind can hurt them 8c those Winds do not prevail much in Winter, when
they come in sight of our Light House they must hoist an Ensign at the
Foretop Gallt Mast head and stand in for the Mouth of the Bay with it
flying. If there is any Enemy or danger in the way, a Signal will be made at
the Light House by shewing Colours there. If no danger they will not an-
swer the Signal and the Vessells may come boldly in to the Mouth of the
Bay or into Whore Kiln Road 8c send a Boat onshoar at Lewis Town for a
Pilot — inshort I think there is very little danger in all this matter for the
Men of Warr cannot keep the Coast 8c we will not let them Harbour here in
the Winter Season. You Shou’d Charter the Vessells out here 8c back again,
so that You may afford them a good Freight 8c we will load them back with
Wheat, flour, Tobacco, Rice 8c Indigo, Bees Wax 8cc, to pay for the Cost of
the Cargoes You Ship by them, besides these Vessells I wou’d have you keep
sending out Goods Constantly to Martinico, St Eustatia 8c Cape Francois
but the first and last are safest for the present 8c I suppose will continue so,
Robert Morris
796
AMERICAN THEATRE
unless the French become parties in our Warr which I think very likely and
then the Dutch Islands must engross our Attention, at St Eustatia Mr Cor-
nelius Stevenson and at Curracoa Mr Isaac Governeur will receive & for-
ward Goods for us, at Cape Francois Mr Stephen Ceronia, at St Nicholas
Mole Mr John Dupuy, at Martinico Wm Bingham Esqr who has already
written you some Letters 8c with whom I expect you will support a Constant
Correspondence both Political 8c Commercial, he is a Young Gentl[eman]
of good Education, Family 8c Fortune, his Correspondence has yet a good
deal of the Fancifull Young Man in it, but experience will cure him of this
and upon the whole I think he had abilitys of Merit both in the Political 8c
Commercial Line, you will inform him soon as You can whether Insurance
can be effected on Goods 8c Vessells from the French Islands to this Conti-
nent, and on what terms, indeed we expect to hear from You pretty regu-
larly through that Channell
Since my last Genl Howe 8c his Army have taken possession of Long Is-
land leaving about 4 or 5000 Men on Staten Island where they first
landed We had some Works 8c about 5000 Men on Long Isld when the
Enemy landed with 20 m a Skirmish very soon followed the landing
there about 3000 of our Men went out of the Lines to take possession of
some Hills 8c high Lands, but the Enemy out General’d us and surrounded
our People with four times their Number however they purchased the
honor of the day at a very dear rate for our Folks drew up, gave them Bat-
tle 8c two different times broke 8c routed double their Number in fair Man-
euvering 8c Platoon firing in the open Field, but in the end Superiour Num-
bers 8c Superiour Generalship prevailed, We lost about 7 to 800 Men in
Killed, Wounded 8c Prisoners, the Enemies loss was farr greater as they
acknowledge in Killed 8c Wounded, but not so in Prisoners for we only took
one party a Lieutt 8c 30 Men. Sullivan commanded in this affair 8c was well
seconded by Ld Stirling who behaved Nobly indeed, they are both Prison-
ers as are several Cls Lt Cols 8c other officers, in short such Victorys as
these alarm our Enemies 8c will be their ruin. We have evacuated Long Is-
land 8c must do the same by N York which is not tenable against their
Ships, for my part I wish our Men 8c Stores were all removed to Kings-
bridge where we must sooner or later take Post 8c make the great stand. We
are no ways dismayed at the Force of the Enemy but have full hopes of get-
ting the better of them in the long run altho they seem very formidable at
present Our Army on the Lakes is now very Strong and we seem perfectly
Secure in that quarter for the present. . .
1. Silas Deane Papers, ConnHS.
2. The Dispatch, Peter Parker, master, taken July 21, 1776, off the Delaware Capes by H. M. S.
Orpheus, Howe’s Prize List, March 31, 1777, PRO, Admiralty 1/487. See also Volume 5,
1182-83.
3. Thomas Morris, a half brother of Robert Morris.
SEPTEMBER 1776
797
Journal of the Maryland Convention1
[Annapolis] Thursday, September 12, 1776.
On motion Resolved, That the Council of Safety be empowered to sell
the schooner Resolution, after removing her military and other stores, and
her sails, rigging, anchors and cables.
Resolved, That no merchant vessel belonging to any inhabitant of this
state, sail from this state without licence from the Council of Safety, or the
committee of observation for the county from which the vessel shall sail,
and that no such licence be granted before the captain of such vessel shall
make oath, or affirmation (if a quaker) as to the contents of his cargo, and
that he will use his best endeavours to prevent such cargo, and every part
thereof, from being landed in any part of the dominions of the king of
Great- Britain, or otherwise going into the hands of the enemies of America;
and further shall give bond with good security, that he will not land such
cargo, or any part thereof, in any port, island, or territory, subject to the
king of Great-Britain, nor sell or dispose of the said cargo, or any part
thereof, to the enemies of America; and the owners of the cargo shall also
make oath, or affirmation (if a quaker) that the said cargo, and no part
thereof, belongs to or is for the use or benefit of any inhabitant of Great-
Britain, Ireland, or any of the dominions subject to the king of Great-Brit-
ain.
1. Maryland, Convention, 26.
Journal of the Maryland Council of Safety1
[Annapolis] Thursday. September 12th 1776
Permit was granted to Job Greene of the Schooner Two Brothers , to go
to Martinique or any other foreign Port, he having given Bond, and re-
turned a manifest agreeable to the Resolutions of Convention:
Permit was granted to Thomas Ridley of the Sloop Fanny to go to His-
paniola or other where -
Ordered That Western shore Treasurer pay to Archd Buchanan four
hundred and fifty Pounds for Schooner Dolphin insured by this State.
Ordered That said Treasurer pay to George Wells three hundred
Pounds, on Acct of Gondolas. -
1. Council of Safety Journal, 29 August 1775 to 20 March 1777, Md. Arch.
Maryland Council of Safety to Van Bebber and Harrison,
St. Eustatius1
Gentlemen,
Your favours of the 9th 24th and 25 of July and August 1st & 15th are
before us. - It has been unlucky for this State as well as for you, that so
many of our outward bound Vessells have miscarried - we have been toler-
798
AMERICAN THEATRE
abl luckey in our importations, having only lost the Adventures by Scott
and Simmerton that we as yet hear of. Captain Luce is safe arrived in Dele-
ware and we Daily expect to hear of the arrival of the rest of the Powder
you advise us, that you have and are about to Ship. - We are very solicitous
to Charter or buy Vessells to Load out to your address as we want a large
sum of Money in your hands for the Purchase of Salt, Arms, Course
Cloathes, Blankets and Lead but we fear that we shall be disappointed in
procuring as many as we want - you will therefore if possible Charter or
buy Vessells with you and Load them in with Salt as far as thirty thousand
Bushels and Draw Bills upon us or upon Messrs Willing Morris and Com-
pany at Philadelphia and you may depend upon their being duly honoured.
Next to Salt we want a large quantity of Course Cloths, Blankets, Sail Duck
light as well as heavy, Lead and Muskets. - We do not restrict you in price -
but leave it to you to do the best you can for the State of Maryland - and
your Bills for the whole or any part thereof will be paid.
P.S. Your Bill on T. Johnson Esqr Will be duely honoured - We are See:2
[Annapolis] September 12th 1776.
1. Council of Safety Letter Book, Md. Arch.
2. Ibid., another letter this date from the Council advised Van Bebber and Harrison that
Captain Thomas Conway, letter of marque sloop Molly, was being dispatched to St.
Eustatius with a cargo of tobacco, fine flour and bread.
Journal of the Virginia Council of Safety1
[Williamsburg] Thursday 12th September 1776.
Resolved, that the Commissioners of the Navy be desired immediately
to contract with proper persons for the building in the most expeditious
manner, thirty Boats properly calculated; for the transportation of Troops
across or up and down the rivers and Creek’s, each Boat to be of a proper
size for carrying a complete company of sixty eight men, with their arms
and Baggage.
The navy Board, having agreeably to a request of this Board, returned
a List of such of the cruising Vessells, as in their opinion, might be sent
with the greatest advantage & the commodities of this Country, to the For-
eign Islands or to Europe for the purchase of Salt, clothing, arms, and other
necessaries for the army & also a scheme of trade & recommendation of
proper persons to conduct their lading & outfit; the consideration thereof is
deferred till to morrow.
Upon Information, that a quantity of Flour, belonging to the public
was landed at Frazers ferry in the County of King William from on board
the Brig Liberty, It is Ordered, that the Commissary of Provisions do make
inquiry concerning the same, and cause it forthwith to be brought to this
place.
I. Mcllwaine, ed., Journals of the Virginia Council, I, 155, 156.
SEPTEMBER 1776
799
Virginia Navy Board to Captain Richard Taylor1
Sir Williamsburg Sepr 12th 1776
We are in immediate want of your Vessel for carrying Troops up the
Bay, you are therefore upon receipt of this to proceed to York Town —
where you are to prepare for taking in the same so as to be ready to sail by
the 20th Instant at farthest. I am by order of the Board Your h’bl’e Serv-
ant
Thom0 Whiting 1st Comr
To Capt [Richard] Taylor of the Schooner Hornett
The same wrote to Capt [James] Markham of the Page Galley —
The same wrote to Capt Cily Sanders of the Lewis Galley —
The same wrote to Capt [Eleazer] Callender of the Sloop Defiance — 2
1. Navy Board Letter Book, VSL.
2. Ibid., the Navy Board this date sent similar orders to Captain William Deane and Captain
Isaac Younghusband, and offered to hire a small vessel from Mr. Edward Hughes,
Gloucester.
13 Sept.
Journal of the Massachusetts Sloop Tyrannicide, Captain John Fisk 1
Remks on Thursday 13th of Septr 1776
6AM Came to Ankor in salem harbour all well2
1. John Fisk Journal, AAS.
2. The journal at this point is condensed by Fisk to read:
Remarks from Septr 13th to Novr 1st 1776. This time spent in Rigging the
Sloop into a Brig & getting fit for sea.
Petition for Commission for Isaac Snow to Command the
Massachusetts Privateer Schooner America 1
To the Honorable Council Setting at Watertown In the State of the
Massuchusets Bay September The Thirteenth day, Anno Domini 1776 -
The Petition of Isaac Snow of Harpswell in the County of Cumberland
Humbly Sheweth -
That Your Petitioner has the Command of A Private Schooner of
Warr, Called the America of Ninety Eight Tons Burthen, Mounting Ten
Carriage Gunns Eight of which are four pounders & Two Three Pounders,
Eighteen Swivel Guns five Hundred weight of Powder, fifteen hundred
weight Of Shott, Thirty five barrels Pork and Beef, Six Thousand weight of
Bread, Belonging to Aaron Hinckly, Esqr of Brunswick, James McCobb
Esqr of George Town - [illegible] Pennington Esqr and Messrs John
Snow, Joseph Linscott, Henry Merritt, Elisha Snow and Isaac Snow your
Petitioner of Harpswell in the County of Cumberland, In the State afore-
said Whereof Isaac Snow of Harpswell aforesaid is Commander and Benja-
min Lemmount of George Town in the County of Lincoln is Lieutenunt,
with Eighty Men -
800
AMERICAN THEATRE
Your Petitioner Prays Your Honors would Grant him A Commission to
Cruize Against the Enemies of the United States of America, and Your Pe-
titioner as in Duty bound Shall Ever Pray 8cc
Isaac Snow In behalf of himself and other owners —
[Endorsed] In Council [Watertown] Sept 13, 1776 Read & Orderd that a
Commission be issued out to the Above named Isaac Snow as Commander
[of] the Schr America he Complying with the Resolves of the Congress -
John Avery Dpy Secy
1. Mass. Arch., vol. 165, 229.
Colonel Thomas Crafts to the Massachusetts Council1
Some time in June last a Scotch Ship & brig were seen in the bay by
the troops stationed at Hull, standing in for the Light 8c four Privateers at-
tacking them without any probable hopes of success. On this ordered one
eighteen pounder to Point Alderton In the dusk of the evening The Vessels
were between said Point 8c the fort on Hull — We fired from the Fort on
them — The brig struck to us 8c sent her boat on shore. I put in a claim for
the Vessels in the name of the State 8c in behalf of myself 8c regiment — But
recovered no part of the Ship or brig.2 When the Queen of England was
taken I had the same idea of the matter as before — 3 That it was my duty to
claim for the State as well as myself 8c Regiment, accordingly gave direc-
tions to my Council — I was afterward to my great surprize informed, that
the Ship was not libelled in the name of the State 8c that it was too late to
correct this error — But at my request the Honble Mr [Richard] Derby
[Jr.] Agent for the State had leave to enter his claim, the time by Law for
his doing it being relapsed notwithstanding for I had no disposition that the
State should be deprived of its just right in this Vessel neither have I now
any disposition to contend if the Council are clearly of the opinion that
there ought to be a different disposition of said Ship 8c Cargo from that
given by the Court 8c Jury I beg your Honors would excuse my troubling
you with this matter 8c believe me to be with the greatest respect [8cc.]
Thos Crafts
[Endorsed] In Council [Watertown] Sept 13 [th] 1776 Read 8c Committed
to David Sewell 8c Daniel Hopkins Esqrs to take the same under Considera-
tion 8c Report -
John Avery Dpy Secy
1. Mass. Arch., vol. 165, 230.
2. The ship George and brig Annabella. See Volume 5.
3. See Volume 5; also New-England Chronicle, August 2, 1776. See also next entry.
Final Verdict in the Case of the British Prize Ship Queen of England 1
Suffolk ss At the superior Court of Judication 8cca held at Braintree within
8c for the County of Suffolk, by adjournment, on the second
Tuesday [10th] of September Anno Domi [ni] 1776.
SEPTEMBER 1776
801
In the Case Benedict Eldridge one of the Claimants of Ship Queen of Eng-
land app[e]lant vs Caleb Hopkins et al Libellants and Josiah Whitney
Thomas Crafts 8c Thomas Marshall et al other Claimants of the same Ship
Cargo 8c appur [tenan]ces ap [pel] lees. The Jury find that the said Ship
Queen of England was employ’d in carrying supplies to the Fleet 8c Army
employ’d against the united Colonies or States of America and being so em-
ploy’d the said Ship was taken at the time when, in the Libell, she is said to
have been taken by the Claimants Josiah Whitney Thomas Crafts 8c
Thomas Marshall and the Men under their command and Benedict Eldridge
the Pilot, and by them brought into Boston in the County of Suffolk, and
that one fifth part of said ship and appur [tenan]ces 8c Cargo be to the use
of Benedict Eldridge, and the remainder of said prize to the use of Josiah
Whitney Thomas Crafts 8c the said Men under their Command.
John Ellis proc[tor]
Sam1 Winthrop Cle[rk]
Sept 13th 1776.
1. Mass. Arch., vol. 165, 231.
Acts and Resolves of the Massachusetts General Court 1
[Watertown] Friday Sepr 13th 1776.
The Committee of both Houses appointed to take into consideration the
representation of Capt John Fisk take leave to Report. -
That the Honble Richard Derby Junr Esqr be Directed as soon as may
be to alter the Spars, 8c Rigging of the Tyrannicide from that of a Sloop to
a Brigantine and to lay his Accounts before this Court for Examination and
Allowance, and in order, that this matter may be effected expeditiously -
the Honble Board are Desired to Issue their warrant on the Treasurer in fa-
vour of the said Richard Derby Jr Esqr for such Sum of Money as they
judge may be Necessary for the purpose aforesaid, the said, Derby, being
accountable therefor. -
Read, 8c Accepted.
Resolved that this State will furnish the Agent for building the Conti-
nental Ships at Newbury port with a sufficient number of Guns for one of
them, and afford him every other assistance in their power, in fitting out
and maning said Ship; provided leave can be obtained from the Hon: Con-
gress for said Vessel to cruize on this Coast for the protection of the Trade
thereof. - The Agent engaging to reimburse all the Expences this State
shall incur in fitting out, 8c manning said Ship, and return said Guns, when-
ever said Ship shall be otherwise employ’d.
1. Mass. Arch., vol. 35, 239, 242, 244.
802
AMERICAN THEATRE
James Bowdoin to John Hancock1
State of the Massachusetts Bay
Sir. [Watertown] Septr 13th 1776.
The General Assembly of this State beg leave to inform the Honble
Congress, that the Milford Frigate of 28 Guns and another Ship of War,
have been for sometime cruising on this Coast, and have taken several Mer-
chantmen and valuable prizes coming into Port; We have apply ’d to the
Honble Thos Cushing & John Langdon Esqrs, Agents for building the Con-
tinental Ships at Newbury Port & Portsmouth, requesting that one or more
of those ships might be sent out to protect our Coast, but are inform’d by
those Gentlemen that they have no Guns, and if they had, they have no or-
ders to send the Ships to Sea, upon this information the General Assembly
of this State resolv’d to furnish the Agent for building the Continental
Ships at Newbury Port with a sufficient number of Guns for one of them,
and afford him every other assistance in their power in fitting out and man-
ning said Ship; provided leave can be obtain’d from the Honble Congress
for said Vessell to cruise on this Coast for the protection of the Trade
thereof, The Agent engaging to reimburse all the Expences this State shall
incur in fitting out and manning said Ship, and return said Guns whenever
said Ship shall be otherwise employ’d.
We would farther inform the Hon Congress that the Guns propos’d for
the above purpose are 24 nine pounders, which we apprehend are suitable
for the Ship under the command of Hector McNeil Esqr, and which is in the
greatest forwardness for sailing.2
As said Ship will be inferior to the Enemy in Force, this state beg
leave to suggest to the Honble Congress, the great advantage of having the
Ship under the care of John Langdon Esqr fitted out immediately to act in
concert with her. The readiness of the State of New Hampshire to give all
possible assistance to Mr Langdon for the above purpose, will appear by a
resolve of that State herewith inclos’d.
1. Mass. Arch., vol. 57, 280-81.
2. The Continental frigate Boston.
James Bowdoin to the Rhode Island Naval Committee 1
Gentn Watertown Septr 13th 1776
We have your Letter of the 29th Ulto and consider the sending out the
Continental Ships (as you do) of the greatest consequence to these united
States, and should be glad to promote their being sent out immediately by
every means in our power, for we trust they might be employ’d to very good
purposes, especially as several of the Enemies Cruizers are now infesting
this Coast.
We farther assure You that we shall readily embrace such occasions as
may present to render a neighbouring State any reasonable Services, but
considering how much this State is drained of its Men by the public Calls,
SEPTEMBER 1776
803
and how much our Sea Coast is expos’d to the incursions of the Enemy, we
have thought it needful sometime since to pass a Resolve prohibiting the
inlisting our Sea Coast men into any other Service, even such as it may con-
cern this State particularly to attend to; we cannot therefore consent to
your request that Mr [John] Grannis may be permitted to enlist his Com-
pliment of Marines out of the Troops in our pay.
If Mr Grannis chuses another Service in preference to ours, we shall
endeavour to supply his place by as good a Man.2
1. Mass. Arch., vol. 57, 284.
2. John Grannis had been appointed Marine captain on board the frigate Warren, June 14,
1776, by the Rhode Island Naval Committee. RIHS,
Libel in Rhode Island Maritime Court of the British
Prize Brigantine Bee 1
State of Rhode Island To the Honl John Foster Esq Judge [torn]
Sc Providence Plantations ss erected for the Tryal of Prize Ca[u]ses
[torn] State of Rhode Island Sc Providence
Plaftorn]
John Warner of Providence in the County of Providence Commander of
[the] Sloop of War calld the Yankey Ranger of the Port of said [Provi-
dence] duly commissiond to cruise against the Enemies of the united
[States of] America, comes into this Hone Court and gives your Honor to
under [stand Sc] be informed that he together with William Rhodes of sd
Providence Commfander of the] Sloop of War Montgomery2 of said port
of Providence who was also duly commissiond as [torn] being on a Cruise
against the Enemies of the united States of America on the Twenty first
Day of August A D 1776 on the high Seas they together with their officers
and Mariners on board said Sloops took and captured the Brigantine called
the Bee , with her Appurtenances command [ed] by one Thomas Davis to-
gether with her Cargoe, consisting of Coffee, Cocoa, Sugar, whale Oil, Cot-
ton Sec — bound from the Island of Dominica in the West Indies to the port
of Lancaster in Great Brittain And which said Brigantine and her Cargoe
at and before said Time of Capture belonged to and were the property of
some of the Inhabitants of great Brittain or some of the Inhabitants of said
Island of Dominica Subjects of the King of Great Brittain — And were
carrying Supplies to great Brittain whose Fleets and armies are now em-
ployd and acting against the said united States of America, And the Libel-
lant further Informs your Honr that he hath brought said Brigantine with
her appurtenances Sc Cargoe into the Port of Providence for adjudication.]
Wherefore he humbly prays that your Honor would take the premises
into your Consideration and grant out the proper process Sc Notifications in
such Cases by law required and proceed in such manner as to your Honor
shall seem Right and just
John Collins for the Captors
804
AMERICAN THEATRE
[Endorsed] Libel No 1. John Warner and Wm Rhodes vs Brig: Bee. Re-
ceived Septemr 13 AE) 1776 Trial Octor 1. 1776. Warrant to sell Issued
Octor 2: 1776
1. Admiralty Papers, vol. 9, R. I. Arch.
2. Ibid., the ship Betsy and brigantine Triton, also prizes of the Montgomery, were libeled
against on September 18.
Minutes of the Committee Acting in Recess of the Rhode Island
General Assembly1
[Newport] Friday Septemr 13th
Upon hearing the Petition of James Wallace and Henry Stevenson late
Officers in the British Navy and now Prisoners in the Gaol at Providence
Resolved That the Petitioners be permitted to go upon their Parole into ei-
ther of the Towns of Smithfield, Gloucester, Scituate or Cumberland at the
Discretion of the Secretary.2
1. RIHS Mss.
2. Wallace commanded the British schooner Hawke, taken April 4, 1776 by the Continental
fleet. Stevenson probably had commanded the Glasgow’s tender, taken April 6, 1776.
Connecticut Gazette, Friday, September 13, 1776
New- London, September 13.
Yesterday returned here from a Cruize, the armed Schooner Spy, Capt.
Robert Niles, belonging to the State of Connecticut, and brought in with
him the Schooner Mary and Elizabeth, commanded by Capt. Bruce, bound
from Barbadoes to Halifax; her Cargo consists of 59 Hogshead of Rum and
8 Ditto of Sugar. — About 18 Days ago Capt. Niles took the Ship Hope,
Capt. Quince, burthen 270 Tone, bound from St. Vincents to London; her
Cargo consists of 257 Hogsheads of Sugar, 32 Puncheons of Rum, some Mo-
lasses, Cocoa and Coffee, and may be daily expected into some Port.1
In Lat. 38, Long. 65. Capt. Niles saw five large Ships, which he sup-
posed were Transports, under Convoy of a large Man of War; the latter
chased him a while.
Capt. Niles saw a Number of Vessels which he could have taken, had it
not been for bad Weather. - He spoke the Captains [Seth] Harding and
Packwood, six Days out from this Port.
1. Hope was recaptured by HMS Galatea. See Journal of HMS Galatea, September 4, 1776.
Memoirs of Major General William Heath1
[New York, September] 13th. - Four British ships, one of which was a
two-decker, ran by the city up the East River. The cannonade and bombard-
ment at Horn’s Hook continued.
1. Abbatt, ed., Heath Memoirs, 51.
SEPTEMBER 1776
805
Journal of H.M.S. Carysfort, Captain Robert Fanshaw 1
Septr 1776. Att Single Anchor off New York
Friday 13th AM the Ship quite clear, Ships Drt water Foreward 14 foot
Aft 16 ft 5 Inches
Little Wind Sc Cloudy with Rain - At 4 PM the Signal was
made aboard the Admiral, on which we Weighed Sc came to
Sail run in for the Channel between Long Island Sc Governors
Island, led by the Phoenix Sc Orpheus and followed by the
Roebuck, each Ship at the Distance of two Cables length
from each other, on our coming round Governors Island the
Rebels began to fire their great Guns from their Batteries on
New York, which was returned by the British Troops from
their Batteries on Governors Island, Sc the Eastern Shore,
Several Shot fell on board our Ship, Damaged the Sails [8c]
rigging, Spare Pump, some of the braces Sc part of the Mizen
Top Sec but hurt none of the Ships Company - Abt 5 Passed
by all the Enemy’s Batteries - At \/2 past 5 Anchor’d off Bush-
wyck Creek in Company wth the above Ships, Do Moor’d with
the Stream Anchor in Shore in 3 fam Sc the small Bower in 8
fam found Riding here His Majesty’s Ship Rose -
1. PRO, Admiralty 51/168.
Journal of H.M.S. Eagle, Captain Henry Duncan1
Septemr 1776 Moored off of Bedlows Island
Friday 13th At 8 AM made the Greyhounds Sigl for a Petty Officer At
9 the Signal for a Petty Officer from the Asia, Renown
Carysfort, Roebuck Phoenix Sc Jersey
Modr Sc Cloudy At 3 PM fired a Gun Sc hoisted a Blue Sc
Yellow Flag at the Ensign Staff made at the same time, the
Phoenix, Orpheus, Carysfort Sc Roebucks Signals, which
Ships got under way Sc Run up the East River and were
fired at from the Rebels Batteries without returning a
Gun At 6 the[y] Anchor’d, at which time was hoisted at
our Foretopgallt masthead a Red Sc Yellow Flag with a
Blue pendant over it, made at the same time the Repulses
Signal Sc the Parole Sigl with a Yellow Pendant At 11 An-
chor’d here his Majesty’s Frigate the Galatea
1. NMM, Admiralty L/E/ll.
Journal of Ambrose Serle1
[On board H. M. S. Eagle ] Friday, 13th. September.
In the Afternoon, the Phoenix , Capt [Hyde] Parker, of 44 Guns, the Or-
pheus of 32 Guns, Capt. [Charles] Hudson, the Carysfort , of 28 Guns,
806
AMERICAN THEATRE
Capt. [Robert] Fanshaw, and the Roebuck of 44 Guns, Capt. Hammond,
sailed up the East River up to Bushwyck Bay. The Fort fired 4 or 5 Guns
faintly upon them, as also a Battery upon a red Bank of high Land just
above the Town; and were retorted upon very warmly by our Batteries on
Governor’s Island & Brookland. The Ships passed along under their Top-
sails, for th^ most Part; and, in supreme Contempt of the Rebels and their
Works, did not fire a Gun. It was a fine Sight, if one could have divested
one’s Thoughts of the melancholy Reflection, that some Fellow-Creatures
Lives were either taking away or in Danger, on account of the Villainy of
the Rebel Leaders & Abettors. We could not perceive that the Ships reed,
the least Damage; by an account afterwards, we found that the Phoenix
had one man killed upon her Forecastle.
1. Tatum, ed., Serle’s Journal, 99-100.
Journal of H.M.S. Orpheus , Captain Charles Hudson 1
Septemr 1776. at Single Anchor off of Bedlows Island.
Friday 13th Light airs and fair. PM Empd as before2 at l/2 past 3
weighed and made sail up the East River p Sigl from the
Admiral in Company with the Phoenix, Carrisford, and
Roebuck passed the Town and Battery of New York which
kept a Constant Fire at the Ships, without their returng
One Shot, at i/2 past 5 came too, with the Best Bower in
9 fathm in Bushwick Creek, found here the Rose.3
1. PRO, Admiralty 51 /650.
2. Clearing the ship for action.
3. Bartholomew James describes the above action, mistakenly dating it September 21, and
confuses the position of the Rose. His journal reads:
. . . The 21st, about three o’clock in the afternoon, his Lordship made the signal
for us to weigh, in company with the Phoenix, Roebuck, Carysfort and Rose, with
a very light air from the westward. At half past three the enemy’s batteries opened
and commenced a prodigious heavy cannonade on us, from which we were never
a pistol shot till seven o’clock, and without once returning the fire; and though the
shot went through and through us, we experienced little loss except in our rigging,
which was terribly cut fore and aft, the people being all directed to lie down.
The other ships were not so fortunate, having a number killed; among which was
Mr. Hitchcock of the Roebuck, belonging to Falmouth who was to have dined with
me on that day had not the service prevented it. We anchored in Kippes Bay at
half-past seven, where the rebels were intrenched along the shore of York Island
two miles, to the number of 15,000, and amused us all night with a constant fire
from an eighteen-pounder, with which, from the darkness of the night or bad
conduct, they only hit us twice.
Laughton, ed., James’ Journal, 30.
Diary of Dr. Thomas Moffat1
On board H.M. Sloop Swan at Sandy Hook
Friday Septr 13 th Noon Thermometer 70. P M passd up the Gale tea
Captn [Thomas] Jordan from Plymouth in nine weeks with Two Prize
Ships retaken from the Pirates also a Brigantine and Schooner.2 The Ships
SEPTEMBER 1776
807
were from the west Indies. Captn Jordan came out after a Fleet with Bri-
tish and foreign Troops had passd through the [English] Channell.
1. Thomas Moffat’s Diary, LC.
2. The ships from the West Indies were Szvord Fish , S. Kingsley, master, from Cape St. Nicolas
Mole, and the Heart of Oak , E. Howell, master, from Cape Francois. The brigantine
was the William , Joshua Bunker, from Bordeaux with gunpowder and small arms; the
schooner, Dolphin, John Parker, from Philadelphia for Bermuda with flour and corn.
Howe’s Prize List, March 31, 1777, PRO, Admiralty 1/487.
Secret Committee of the Continental Congress to the
Maryland Council of Safety1
Gentn Philada Septr 13th 1776.
We have been applyed to for a supply of powder for the Continental
Frigate built at Baltimore2 which shou’d have been ordered down there, but
as we understand you have a sufficient quantity at that place and as there is
some powder due to the Continent from your State, we request the favr of
you to supply Messrs Wm Lux, Sami Purviance and David S[t]ewart with
four Tons and a half of gun powder for the use of the said Frigate and for
proving her Cannon Sec and hereafter we will repay you in powder the bal-
lance that will then become due to your State, or supply you with more
shou’d it become necessary. Your compliance with this request will save
time and charges. It will also oblige the Secret Committee of Congress of
which we are a quorum Se we remain Gentn [Sec.]
Rob1 Morris B Franklin
Richard Henry Lee Josiah Bartlett
1. Correspondence of Council of Safety, Md. Arch.
2. The Virginia.
Minutes of the Pennsylvania Council of Safety1
In Council of Safety
[Philadelphia] September 13th, 1776.
Permission was given Christopher McClure, Tho’s Gaskil, Isaac Tub-
lin, Sc Benja. Cliffton, Blacksmiths, on board our fleet, to come to this City
to work on Anchors, making by De Offley, for the Continental Frigates, if
they are not already employed in the Service of this State.
1. Pennsylvania Colonial Records, X, 716, 717.
Advertisement of Libel Against the Prize Schooner Peter 1
Port of Philadelphia,
_ , . v l To all whom it may concern.
Pennsylvania, ss j
Notice is hereby given, that a Court of Admiralty for taking cogni-
zance of and trying the justice of captures of vessels, made pursuant to the
resolves of the Honorable Continental Congress, and brought into this port,
will be held at the Court-house in the city of Philadelphia, on Saturday, the
808
AMERICAN THEATRE
14th day of September next, at ten o’clock in the forenoon of the^same day;
then and there to try the truth of the facts alledged in the bill of Lambert
Weeks, Commander of the Ship of war called the Reprisal against the
schooner or vessel called the Peter, burthen about eighty tons, lately com-
manded by John Muckelno, with her tackle, apparel, furniture and cargo.
To the end and intent that the owner or owners of the said schooner, called
the Peter, and her cargo, or any persons concerned therein, may appear and
shew cause, if any they have, why the same should not be condemned ac-
cording to the prayer of the said bill. By order of the Judge,
Andrew Robeson, Register.
1. Pennsylvania Gazette , September 13, 1776.
Maryland Council of Safety to Captain George Cooke 1
No 184. To Captain George Cooke, Saint Marys County.
Sir, We have the pleasure to inform you that you were Yesterday ap-
pointed Commander of the Ship Defence now lying at Annapolis bound out
on a Cruise; and the Honourable Convention have directed us to inform you
of this appointment and to request your immediate attendance to take the
Command of said Ship We are &c:
[Annapolis] 13 September 1776.
1. Council of Safety Letter Book, Md. Arch.
Journal of the Virginia Council of Safety1
[Williamsburg] September 13th 1776
The Board, now resumed the Consideration of the Report made yester-
day by the Navy Board; which is as follows viz.
The Commissioners of the Navy are of Opinion, that the Scheme proposed
to them by the Council for the Importation of Salt, Clothing, and Medicines,
for the supply of the Army, is practicable, and may probably be the means
of providing those and many other Articles Indispensably necessary for the
Army and Navy on much cheaper Terms, than they can be procured in any
other way. They think the following Cruizers to wit, the Sloops Congress,
Scorpion, Liberty, Defiance, and Schooners Hornett, and Revenge, may with
propriety be spared for the purpose; and that they may be ready to take in
their Cargoes by the 15th of October next. They have no doubt the Articles
desired may be got in Europe on good Terms, but conceive these Vessels to
be unfit for such a voyage; more especially, as their return, would probably
happen in the winter season; they have therefore agreeable to the Request
of the Council made out Invoices of the Cargoes that they Judge best suited
to the Markets in the Foreign West Indies, and a Memorandum of such arti-
cles, suited to our wants, as may probably be purchased there to advantage.
Invoice of Cargoes for Six Vessels proposed to be sent to the Foreign West
Indies on account of the Public viz.
SEPTEMBER 1776
809
Cargo for the Sloop Congress , 60 Hogshead of Tobo supposed a £10.
each £600.-.-.
500 Barrels of Flour at 30/ 750.-.-.
£1350.-.-.
Cargo for the Sloop Scorpion 10 hhds Tobacco supposed at £10.
£10. each £100.-.-.
250 Barrels of Flour at 30/ 375.-.-.
£475.-.-.
Cargo for the Sloop Liberty 10 hhds Tobacco supposed at
£10. each £100.-.-.
250 Barrels of Flour at 30/ 375.-.-.
£475.-.-.
Cargo for the Sloop Defiance. 60 hhds Tobacco supposed at
£10. each £600.-.-.
300 Barrels of Flour a 30/ 450.-.-.
£1050.-.-.
Cargo for the Schooner Hornet. 10 hhds Tobacco supposed at
£10. each £100.-.-.
300 Barrels of Flour at 30/ 450.-.-.
£550.-.-.
Cargo for the Schooner Revenge. 20 hhds Tobo supposed at
£10. each £200.-.-.
300 Barrels of Flour at 30/ 450.-.-.
The whole amount of the above Cargoes
£650.-.-.
£4550.-.-.
To be purchased on James River, and Stored at Hoods, 90 hhds Tobacco and
900 Barrels of Flour.—
To be purchased on York River, and Stored at Cumberland, 60 hhds of Tobo
and 500 Barrels of Flour.—
To be purchased on Rappahannock River, and Stored at Hobbs Hole, 20
hhds Tobacco and 500 Barrels of Flour.—
To be purchased on Potowmack river, for the Schooner Speedwell and Stored
at Alexandria, 60 hhds Tobacco supposed at £10 each £600.-.-.
300 Barrels of Flour at 30/ 450.-.-.
£1050.-.-.
Mr Thomas Shore for James River, Mr George Park for York River, and
Messrs Smith and Roan for Rappahannock River, are Recommended as
proper Persons to purchase the above Cargoes—
810
AMERICAN THEATRE
Invoice of Goods to be purchased in return for the Cargoes of six Vessels
proposed to be sent to the Foreign West Indies on Account of the Public viz
Cargo for Sloop Congress , 2000 Bushels of Salt supposed at
2s /6d
£250.-.-.
Blankets to the amount of
600.-.-.
Coarse Woollen
500.-.-.
Sail Duck
500.-.-.
Medicines
50.-.-.
Oznabrigs
500.-.-.
Checks and coarse white Linens
300.-.-.
Powder
[500.-.-.]
Arms Sc Swords
200.-.-.
Port Charges &c
150.-.-.
£3550.-.-.
Cargo for Sloop Scorpion, 500 Bushels Salt
£62.10
Blankets to the amount of
200.-.-.
Coarse Woollens
200.-.-.
Sail Duck
100.-.-.
Arms
300.-.-.
Powder
100.-.-.
Port Charges Sec.
87.10
£1050.-.-.
Cargo for Sloop Liberty, 500 Bushels Salt
£62.10.-
Blankets to the amount of
300.-.-.
Coarse Woollens
200.-.-.
Medicine
47.10.-
Sail Duck
100.-.-.
Arms
200.-.-.
Coarse Linens
100.-.-.
Port Charges &c.
£ 165.-.-.
£1175.-.-.
Cargo for Sloop Defiance 1000 Bushels Salt
£125.-.-.
Blankets to the amount of
500.-.-.
Coarse Woollens
500.-.-.
Medicines
75.-.-.
Sail Duck
300.-.-.
Arms
300.-.-.
Oznabrigs Sc Checks
300.-.-.
Powder
400.-.-.
Port charges Sec
200.-.-.
£2700.-.-.
Cargo for the Schooner Hornet 600 Bushels Salt
£75.-.-.
Blankets to the amount of
200.-.-.
Coarse Woollens
200.-.-.
Medicines
40.-.-.
Sail Duck
125.-.-.
SEPTEMBER 1776
811
Arms
200.-.-.
Powder
260.-.-.
Oznabrigs
100.-.-.
Port charges Sec.
[150.-.-.]
£1350.-.-.
800 Bushels Salt
£100.-.-.
Blankets to the amount of
300.-.-.
Coarse Woollens
300.-.-.
Medicines
50.-.-.
Sail Duck
250.-.-.
Arms
200.-.-.
Powder
200.-.-.
)rt Charges Sec
100.-.-.
£1500.-.-.
Total £‘11325.-.-. which upon the most moderate Estimate we suppose the
Cargoes will sell for.—
The Return Cargo for the Schooner Speedwell to be hereafter Considered.
The Board having maturely considered the above Scheme do entirely
approve thereof and thereupon it is, Ordered that agreeable to their Rec-
ommendation the following Gentlemen be appointed Agents to purchase the
Commodities intended for Exportation viz Mr Thomas Shore for James
River, Mr George Park for York River, and Messrs Smith and Roan for
Rappahannock River. Also that Mr John Dalton be appointed Agent for Po-
towmack River — That the Agent on James River be instructed to purchase
on as good Terms as the same can be procured 90 hhds of Tobacco and 900
Barrels of Flour, to be stored at Hood’s — That the Agent on York River be
instructed to purchase 60 hhds of Tobacco and 500 Barrels of Flour, to be
stored at Cumberland — That the Agent on Rappahannock River be in-
structed to purchase 20 hhds of Tobacco and 500 Barrels of Flour, to be
Stored at Hobbs Hole. And that the Agent on Potowmack River be in-
structed to purchase 60 hhds of Tobacco and 300 Barrels of Flour, to be
stored at Alexandria
All which Commodities will be paid for by Warrants on the Treasurer
within three Months from this day. —
And the several Agents aforesaid are to be instructed to procure the respec-
tive Commodities aforesaid so as to be ready at the Places where they are
directed to be stored, by the 10th day of next month at latest. —
1. Executive Communications, July 5, 1776-June 1, 1778, VSL.
Journal of the Virginia Navy Board1
[Williamsburg] Friday September 13th 1776 —
Mr Thomas Newton is desired to proceed as soon as he conveniently can to
Edenton in North Carolina to enquire after and provide proper Materials
812
AMERICAN THEATRE
for the Rigging, fitting 8cc of the Galley’s now Building at So Quay, and also
to endeavour to procure in the lower parts of Nansemond County proper
Vessels for the Transportation of Troops up the Bay -
Mr Thomas Whiting is desired to procure in Gloucester County as many
Vessels as he may think Necessary to be employed in the Transportation of
Troops up the Bay. -
Mr George Webb is desired to proceed up James River to View the present
state of the Rope-Walk at Warwick under the direction of Capt Charles
Thomas and to give such directions respecting the same as he may think
Proper and also to endeavour to procure what Vessels he can for the Trans-
portation of Troops up the Bay.
Mr Champion Travis is desired to attend in Williamsburg in Order to dis-
charge any Business that may come before the Navy Board during the Ab-
sence of the Members this day sent on Business to different parts of the
Country. -
1. Navy Board Journal, 57-58, VSL.
Virginia Navy Board to the Commanding Officer, Jamestown 1
Sir, [Williamsburg] September 13th 1776 -
You are requested to permit Lieut. Triplett to take the Cannon lying on
the Beach near your Fort and afford him your assistance in conveying them
to his Vessel.
By order of the Naval Board I am Sir, Yours &c
Thom8 Whiting 1st Comr
1. Navy Board Letter Book, VSL.
Purdie’s Virginia Gazette, Friday, September 13, 1776
Williamsburg, Sept. 13.
Another vessel is arrived at Hampton with 1400 bushels of Salt, and a
small quantity of rum. The captain informs, that he spoke a French ship,
one of a fleet of 14 sail, Laden with goods, and bound for Delaware. A num-
ber of French officers were likewise on board, who intended to offer their
services to the United States of America.
By letters from Cape Nichola Mole, of the 28th ult. we learn that two
frigates had lately arrived at St. Domingo, from France, completely
manned, in order to cruise off that island, and protect all American vessels
within their limits. Two more frigates are daily expected, for the same pur-
pose. These four frigates are to act in conjunction, with two Spanish frig-
ates, which are stationed at Porto Rico, for the protection of all North
American vessels. The Spanish captains are to pay equal attention to the
general of St. Domingo’s orders as to those of the commander at Porto
Rico. There is every appearance of a speedy rupture between France, Spain,
and Great Britain, as Spain and Portugal are absolutely now at war.
SEPTEMBER 1776
813
William Savage to John McCrohon & Co., St. Eustatius 1
[Extract]
(Copy) Edinton 13th September 1776.
. . . this Opportunity will serve for me to apprize you that if you will
lay your Shoulders to Business, We may have it in our Power to do a great
deal with very little Risque — the Plan I propose is this to Charter every
Vessell that you can come across, load them entirely with Salt and send
them into me and I will load them in return with Produce, by this method
You will observe the Salt Cargoes will be but little Risque and if the Vessel
or Vessels arrive safe here We can afford to run the Risque of the Cargoes
to the West Indies; In good Times, the very highest Freight that was given
was a Dollar Pr Ton — We can afford now to give Two Dollars Pr Ton, as
they will have so many Risques to run and for which a Double Freight will
be a full Consideration — By your taking a Trip thro the English Islands, I
take it for Granted that You may pick up any Number on those terms, as
well as in the Foreign Islands — and it will be necessary to take out Eng-
lish Clearances, with English Bottoms, for Hallifax or St Augustine, which
will protect them from the Kings Ships, at the same time it will be as neces-
sary to take out Foreign Clearances, to protect them from Seizure by Amer-
ican Vessels tho’ I should in Case of Seizure be able to explain this Matter
on the Continent in such a Manner as to give Satisfaction . . .
[Endorsed] No 1 Edinton, 13th September 1776 Intercepted Letter of In-
telligence —
1. PRO, Admiralty 1/309.
Journal of the Council of West Florida1
At a Council held at Pensacola the 13th September 1776.
The Governor laid before the Board agreeable to the Minute of Yester-
day the Opinion of the Attorney General & another Gentleman of the Law
in Answer to the Question then proposed which was, whether he could be
justified by the information then Communicated in laying an Embargo at
this time on the Shipping bound to the Mississippi which he desired might
be read & inserted in the minutes of this day and is as follows —
Sir
In Answer to your Excellencys Question of yesterday whether
your Excellency would be Justified by the information then com-
municated in laying an Embargo at this time on the Shipping
bound to the Mississippi, We have the honor of informing your
Excellency that there is no doubt but by the known and Estab-
lished Laws of the Land, the King may and Consequently your Ex-
cellency as his representative in this Province can in time of War
by Proclamation lay an Embargo on all Shipping as well those of
foreigners, as Others, this however is never to be done but in
814
AMERICAN THEATRE
Cases of Great & Urgent Necessity; thus Stands the Law upon
the Subject -
And with regard to the legality of the affair under Considera-
tion having Maturely considered the Matters Contained in the in-
formation we are with all due deference to your Excellency of
Opinion that such information does not contain such legal Matters
as is Necessary to Justify such a measure at this Juncture, we are Sec.
E R Wegg E H Bay
His Excellency Governor Chester
And desired to know if the Gentlemen of the Board would still advise
him to detain the Vessels bound for the Mississippi after having received
the above Opinion. —
(The Chief Justice and Mr Livingston a Gentleman of the Law were also
desired by His Excellency to give their Opinion who entirely agreed in Sen-
timent with Mr Wegg and Mr Bay)
some of the Gentlemen begged leave to decline giving an Answer and
Others were Still of the same opinion that the Vessels should be detained —
Upon which His Excellency read the following Paragraph (to wit) “Gen-
tlemen I must beg leave to be excused from following your advice as the
Gentlemen of the Law are of a very different Opinion (to wit) that the In-
formation is not Sufficient to Warrant me to detain those Vessels any longer
— I shall therefore give Orders that they may receive their Necessary pa-
pers and proceed on their Voyage.” —
1. PRO, Colonial Office, 5/634, 394-96, LC Photocopy.
14 Sept.
John Langdon to Thomas Se Isaac Wharton, Philadelphia1
Gentlemen - Portsmouth 14th Septemr 1776
Your favour of the 26th ulto is just come to hand, I join most heartily
with you in hopeing, that the day is not far distant, when we shall have
Peace and good Will towards Men, and our Trade renewed, so far (on its
former footing) as shall be consistant with the true happiness and Intrest
of both Countries —
The Charges you mention on the Iron shall Order paid p Colo [Wil-
liam] Whipple, and shall thank you for your Rect, as it must be Charg’d
to the Continental Ship, as the Iron was intended for her2 my most kind
wishes to your good Families - with respect I am [8cc.]
John Langdon
1. John Langdon Letter Book, Captain J. G. M. Stone Private Collection, Annapolis.
2. The Raleigh.
SEPTEMBER 1776
815
John Langdon to Josiah Bartlett1
Dear Sir — Portsmouth 14 Septemr 1776
My absence for sometime past will no doubt plead a sufficient Excuse
for my not writeing, and I suppose you’ll say that your hurry must do the
same on your part, let it be so then, we are on a Ballance. —
I’ve just return’d from Providence, where Eve been after Guns, this
is the third time, I’ve been, (and sent) to contract for Guns, and to endea-
vour to perswade those Gentlemen, who are employ’d to build the Ships
there to lend me the Guns, which were already cast for our Ship, as they
could get another sett cast for one of theirs, long before either could go to
Sea. They seem’d at first to agree to it, and Voted in their Committee to
spare the Guns, but with this proviso that I should contract with the Own-
ers of the Furnace for a sett to be replac’d, and pay them their price, which
was the unheard of Sum of One hundred pounds Lawf[ul] Money Pton, all
this (however unreasonable it appear’d to me) I agreed to do, rather than
not have the Guns, but notwithstanding this, when I came to see the Con-
tract of the Owners of the Furnace (who by the way are included in this
Committee of Mr [Stephen] Hopkins’s for building the Ships) it appear’d
such a one that I could not in Honour to the States, as Agent sign it, they
(some of them especially the Messrs Brown’s) declined taking me as Agent,
but insisted that I should give my private Engagement to pay for the Guns
at that price. I told them that my power was ample and equal to Govr Hop-
kinss who appointed them to build their Ships 8c contract for Cannon, they
answered, that they did not doubt it, but said the Congress might think the
price too high, and perhaps some dispute would arise. I even agreed to do
this and in short any thing almost, that they in such an unreasonable man-
ner asked, but what finally prevented my agreeing at last was that they in-
sisted that I should pay one half down for those Guns, which they were to de-
liver me, which already had been paid for by the Continent, or should pay
Intrest for the Money from the delivery of the Guns. — I told them if they
would deliver the Guns, I would on my return home, send them Two or
three thousand Dollars, and as soon as I could get Money from Philadelphia
would pay the whole, as the Continent, would not pay Intrest, and this
would be done long before the Guns would be cast for me, with which I was
to replace those they lent me, which were not theirs, but the
Continent’s, such 8c many more, were the Arguments with those Gentle-
men, to induce them to do no more than what I conceive was their duty, but
all would not do, there seem’d to be a secret determination not to let me
have the Guns at any rate whatever, unless an absolute Order from the
Honbl Marine Committee, it appear’d to me, every advantage was to be
taken of the Continent in their power, in the Price of Cannon. —
I’ve given great dispatch for Masts for both of their Ships at Provid-
ence, part of which had got round 8c they have just began to make
them, the rest are on their way — take the Situation of their Ships, it ap-
pears to me impossible, that they should get to Sea in two or three Months,
816
AMERICAN THEATRE
notwithstanding they tell the Committee they are almost already, and shall
want their Guns — It is truly to be lamented, that there should be Guns be-
longing to the Continent laying at Providence near three or four Months
past, and this Ship entirely waiting for them since June last, at which Time
every Man might have been had for her, who are now gone either in the
Army or Privateering, and the Ship might have Sail’d by the 1st of July
without the least doubt, since which she might have taken more Prizes than
would have paid for our whole Fleet, numbers of which have been within
sight of this Harbour, and all this must be put up with, rather than the
Furnace Owners (who are of the Committee and understand one another)
should loose Ten or Twenty Pounds P Ton on casting the Guns for the Con-
tinent, or a Jealousy that the New Hampshire Frigate, would be ready
about four Months before them at Providence - I should been very happy, if
the Honourable Committee, had sent a Man, well acquainted with Ships to
have seen who was forwardest, how built and the Properest place for that
Business — Those Ships at Providence in all probability, could not have
gone to Sea, either of them this Year, had they not got Masts from hence
unless they had gone with improper ones, not by any means to be depended
on.
I think it my duty as Agent, to lay this matter before the Honble Com-
mittee, as I tho’t the Continent ill treated & myself insulted, by their drag-
ging me at the Continental Expence from this place to Providence, twice or
three times under pretence of contracting for Cannon, when I was first up
in June, they said Seventy pounds would be the price, little after Eighty
pounds, soon after Ninety Pounds, and now by their Letter before my going
up, the last time, One Hundred Pounds p Ton, upon which I went up least it
should be Two hundred pounds p Ton — They have cast considerable num-
ber of Cannon for private Ships, thro the Summer, some of which are Nine
Pounders — with great Respect I am [8cc.]
John Langdon
[Note by Langdon] The above wrote to Mr Hancock also, as President of
Marine Committee at the same time — p Post.
1. John Langdon Letter Book, Captain J. G. M. Stone Private Collection, Annapolis.
John Langdon to Josiah Bartlett1
Dear Sir Portsmouth 14th Septemr 1776
Inclos’d is a long Letter about Cannon the Contents of which you’ll
mention to the Honourable Marine Committee, committed there will be no
need of laying the Letter before them, as I’ve mentioned the same to Mr
Hancock — Mr [John] Wheelwright our 2d Lieut for the Ship has left us,
therefore have appointed another to act till the pleasure of the Comme is
known Mr Josiah Shackford will rise from 3d Lieut to be 2d, in room of
Wheelwright, and Mr Hopley Yeaton to be 3d Lieut, this you’ll please
mention to the Comme immediately and send down a Certificate of Mr Yea-
SEPTEMBER 1776
817
tons appointment P return of Post — If the Commissions are ready they
will stand in the following Order - Viz —
Thomas Thompson
Peter Shores -
1st
Lieut
Josiah Shackford
2d
ditto
Hopley Yeaton
3d
ditto
Your [8cc.]
John Langdon
1. John Langdon Letter Book, Captain J. G. M. Stone Private Collection, Annapolis.
Journal of the New Hampshire House of Representatives 1
[Exeter] Saturday, Sept. 14th 1776
Whereas Capt. Lionel Bradstreet is now a State Prisoner in this State
(lately commander of the Nelly Frigate lately taken & bro’t into the Port of
Piscataqua by two Continental Armed vessels,)
Voted that he have leave and be Permitted to depart this State, 8c re-
pair to Boston or to Maryland or Virginia or any Port or place on this Con-
tinent in order to get a passage home to his Family in Great Britain. Sent
up by Mr. Cutts. [Concurred] .
1. Bouton, ed., Documents and Records of New Hampshire, VIII, 335.
Journal of the Massachusetts Council1
[Watertown] Saturday Septr 14th 1776
Bonds being given by Isaac Snow, James Leech 8c Ebenr Prout a Com-
mission was Issued out to the said Isaac Snow as Commander of the
Schooner called the America and Instructions were given him accordingly
The Committee of Correspondence, Inspection, 8c Safety for the Town
of Newbury Port Would beg leave to Represent to Your Honors that a Sub
Committee was appointed by them to Inspect all Vessels Arriving at or De-
parting from this Harbour that the Regulations of the Honble Congress of
this State might not be Violated that while on their Duty on board the Sloop
Two Friends (which was some time past taken 8c bro’t into this Place by
Captns Obrian 8c Lambert, And acquitted by a Court of Admiralty held for
this District) William Hazen Master bound for St Johns they were In-
formed of two Men that were bound to Nova Scotia in said Sloop and of
whom it was Suspected that if not prevented they would be of real Damage
to this State to let pass Upon further Inquiry we were Satisfied as to the
unfitness of their going and prevented them it appeared they were to be
sent by Mr Epes Sargent of Cape Ann (the one being his Son 8c the other a
Master of a Vessel who had for sometime past been in his Employ) down to
East Passage where he had a Snow and tis said a Schooner or two laying
with Considerable Interest which we have Reason to think has for sometime
past been Employ’d in and under the protection of that Government By a
Letter from Mr Epes Sargeant which was wrote directly upon his being
818
AMERICAN THEATRE
frustrated in this plan, to Capt Sayward Master of his Snow there and in-
tercepted just before the Sloop sail’d fully Convinces us of the above
Suggestions. — We are induced to Trouble Your Honors with this Informa-
tion by a Report that the said Mr Sargeant did on his leaving this Town
hire a two Mast boat in Ipswich & applied to a Friend in Salem who pro-
cured a Commission for said Boat that She has Actually sail’d it is sup-
posed directly for East Passage and that his Son is gone in her. Which Your
Honors will be pleased to Act upon as shall in Your Wisdom seem fit
In Behalf 8c Pr Order of the Committee
Jona: Titcomb Chr P.T.
In Council Septr 14th 1776 On the Representation from the Committee of
Newbury Port relative to Epes Sargeant Read 8c Ordered that the said
Epes Sargeant be notified to appear and make Answer in Council on Thurs-
day the 26th day of September inst to such Matters as are in said Represen-
tation suggested to his Prejudice and that the Secretary be directed to serve
him the said Epes Sargeant with a Copy of said Representation and this
Order thereon and also serve the Committee of the Town of Newbury Port
with a Copy of the above Order that they may appear if they think proper.
1. Mass. Arch., vol. 19, 231-32.
Acts and Resolves of the Massachusetts General Court1
[Watertown] September 14th 1776.
Whereas this Court is credibly informed, that two Negro men, lately
taken on the High Seas, on board the Sloop Hannibal, and brought into this
State as prisoners, are advertised to be sold at Salem the 17th Instant by
public Auction.
Resolved, That all persons concerned with the said Negroes be and they
hereby are forbidden to sell them, or in any manner to treat them otherwise
than is already ordered for the treatment of prisoners taken in like man-
ner; and if any sale of the said Negroes shall be made, it is hereby declared
null, and void. And that whenever it shall happen, that any Negroes are
taken on the High Seas, and brought as prisoners into this State, they shall
not be allowed to be sold, nor treated any otherways than as prisoners are
ordered to be treated, who are taken in like manner. -
Whereas it is necessary, in Order that the Ship Boston, Hector McNeil
Commander, may be fitted out with all possible expedition, that she shou’d
be immediately supplied with Guns this Court has resolved, upon certain
Conditions to furnish her with. - Therefore Ordered, that the Committee
for Fortifying the Harbor of Boston be, and hereby are directed to send
forthwith by Water so many Cannon nine pounders with Carriages, 8c other
Apparatus from those in, and about the Town of Boston, as shall be suffi-
cient to arm said Ship to the Town of Newbury Port to be there deliver’d to
Capt Hector McNeal, for the purpose aforesaid, and in case the whole num-
ber of nine pound Cannon above mention’d cannot be obtained from those
SEPTEMBER 1776
819
in, and about Boston, then the said Committee are Impower’d, and directed
to procure, and send to Newbury Port by Water so many as may be neces-
sary to make up the deficiency from the Towns of Salem, and Marblehead,
and give them others in lieu of the same from those in, and about the Town
of Boston - and further Ordered, that the Agent for building the Conti-
nental Ships at Newbury Port be furnish’d by the Town of Newbury Port
for the purpose before mentioned, with the five pieces of Cannon this State
has lately purchas’d of said Town, and also with five other Cannon nine
pounders, which the Town of Newbury Port has agreed to lend to this State
with their Carriages &c. the Agent engaging to redeliver all the Cannon
with their Carriages, and other apparatus beforementioned to the Order of
this State, in case leave cannot be obtained from the Hon: Congress for said
Vessel to cruize on this Coast for the Protection of the Trade of this State,
and it is strongly recommended to said Agent to be as Expeditious as possi-
ble in fixing out said Ship.
1. Mass. Arch., vol. 35, 251-52, 254.
John Brown to Governor Nicholas Cooke1
Sir, Providence September 14th 1776.
I the Subscriber of Providence in the County of Providence and State
of Rhode Island &c. Merchant request your Honor to grant a Commission or
Letters of Marque and Reprisal to Abner Coffin Commander of the Sloop
Favourite of which I am Owner. She is burthened about Seventy-four Tons,
carries Ten Carriage Guns Four Pounders, and Ten Swivel Guns, manned
with Eighty Men, and fitted with a suitable Quantity of Muskets, Blunder-
busses, Pistols, Cutlasses, Powder Ball and other Military Stores. She hath
on board Fifty barrels Beef and Pork, Six Thousand Pounds Weight of
Bread, with some Flour, Rice, Beans, Pottatoes Sec. Peter Ritt is First
Lieutenant, Wilson Jacobs Second Lieutenant, and Jacobs
Master. I am with great Respect Sir [8cc.]
John Brown 2
1. Maritime Papers, Letters of Marque, Petitions and Instructions, 1776-1780, R. I. Arch.
2. Ibid., commission and instructions were issued the same day.
Journal of the Committee Appointed to Build Two Continental
Frigates in Rhode Island1
[Providence] Sepr 14. 1776.
Meeting in Being Sec
Voted That The Commtee purchase of Mesers Clarke Sc Nightingale one
Thirteen inch Cable, of One Hundred and Twenty fathom, at Five pounds.
L. Mony [illegible.]
Voted That Lieut. Chapin go to Plymouth &c. and Interest as many
Seamen and Marines as he can, and that Mr John Brown supply him with
Fifty pounds [illegible] for that purpose.
820
AMERICAN THEATRE
Voted That Mr Shaw, go to the Eastern Furnaces and [illegible] in-
gage a quanty of Shott for the Ships, and that Mr Joseph Brown be desired
to give him the gua[ge] and Dimentions of those that are wanted.
Voted That Capt Christopher Sheldon be appointed to pay of the
Board of the Seamen Sc Marines belonging [to] The two ships and that his
Wages be raised one Dollar pr Day for his attendance Sec.
Voted That Mr George Olney be not retained any longer in the pay of
this Comtee. he having Nearly posted up the Books Sec Sec.
1. Journal R. I. Frigates, RIHS.
Libels of Commodore Esek Hopkins and Captains Jabez Whipple,
John Warner, and William Rhodes Against Various
Prize Vessels1
State of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations,
Providence, ss.
Seven Libels are filed before me: First, In Behalf of Esek Hopkins, Esq;
Commander in Chief of the Continental Fleet, against the Brigantine Lawr-
ence, Burthen about 110 Tons, with her Appurtenances; and also her Cargo
of Rum, Sugar, Limes, Sea Coal, wrought Copper, Tin Ware Sec. George
Leyburn, late Commander, bound from Barbados to Newfoundland, cap-
tured and taken by Nicholas Biddle, Esq; of Philadelphia, Commander of
the Brigantine Andrew Doria, one of said Fleet.
Second, In Behalf of the said Esek Hopkins, against the Brigantine
Elizabeth, Burthen 110 Tons, with her Appurtenances; and also the Cargo
of said Brig, consisting of Salt, Flour, Rice, Riding Carriages, Turpentine,
one Negro Man, Sec. William Johnson Rysam, late Commander, bound from
Cape Fear to the British Fleet and Army at New-York, and taken by the
said Nicholas Biddle.
Third, In Behalf of Jabez Whipple, Commander of the private Sloop of
War called the Independence, belonging to the Port of Providence, the Own-
ers of and the Officers and Men belonging to the said Sloop, against the Ship
Aurora, Burthen 210 Tons, with her Appurtenances; and also [her] Cargo
of Sugar, Rum, Cocoa, 8cc. Gregor McGregor, late Commander, bound from
St. Vincents, in the West-Indies, to Glasgow, in Scotland.
Fourth, in Behalf of the said Jabez Whipple, the said Owners of and
Officers and Men belonging to the said Sloop, against the Brigantine Fanny,
Burthen 146 Tons, with her Appurtenances, and also her Cargo of Rum,
Sugar, Indico, Limes, Whale Oil &c. Samuel Lightburn, late Commander,
bound from Antigua, in the West-Indies to the Port of London.
Fifth, in Behalf of John Warner, Commander of the private Sloop of
War called the Yankey Ranger, in Company with Capt. William Rhodes,
Commander of the private Sloop of War called the Montgomery, both of the
Port of Providence, for himself, the Owners of and the Officers and Men be-
longing to the said Sloops, against the Brigantine Sally, Burthen 130 Tons,
SEPTEMBER 1776
821
with her Appurtenances; and also her Cargo of Sugar, Whalebone, Oil, 8cc.
Jacob Snowball, late Commander, bound from said Antigua to London.
Sixth, in Behalf of Daniel Tillinghast, Esq; Continental Agent in said
State, and Messieurs Clark and Nightingale of Providence, Agent for the
Sloop Montgomery, belonging to the State of New-York, for and in Behalf
of the Owners of and the Officers and Men belonging to the Continental
Sloop of War, called the Schuyler, Charles Pond Commander, and the said
Sloop Montgomery, William Rogers, Commander, against the Sloop Char-
lotte and her Appurtenances, which said Sloop Charlotte was laden with In-
trenching Tools, John Cox, Master, late bound from Halifax to the British
Army at New-York, and taken by the said Charles Pond and William Rog-
ers, in Company.
Seventh, in Behalf of John Warner, Commander of the private Sloop
of War called the Yankey Hero [sic Yankee Ranger ]_, in Company with
William Rhodes, Commander of the private Sloop of War called the Mont-
gomery, both of the Port of Providence, for himself, the Owners of and the
Officers and Men belonging to the said Sloops, against the Brigantine called
the Bee, her Appurtenances, and her Cargo of Coffee, Cocoa, Sugar, Whale
Oil, Cotton, Thomas Davis, late Master, bound from Dominica, in the
West-Indies, to the Port of Lancaster, in England.
All which said Vessels, with their Appurtenances and Cargoes, against
which said Libels are filed, the Libellants say, they have lately captured and
taken as Prizes, and have brought the same into the Port of Providence, in
said State, for Trial; and that the said Vessels, their Appurtenances, and
Cargoes, before and at the Time of Capture, belonged to and were the Prop-
erty of some of the Inhabitants of Great-Britain, or some others, Subjects
of the King of Great-Britain, and were carrying Supplies to said Subjects,
in Support of the British Fleets and Armies, now acting against the
United States of America.
The Justice of the aforesaid Captures will be tried, at the Maritime
Court erected for the Trial of Prize Causes in and throughout said State, to
be holden at said Providence on the first Day of October, A.D.1776, at the
Hour of Ten in the Forenoon.
This Notice is given pursuant to Law, that the Owner or Owners of
said Vessels, Appurtenances and Cargoes, respectively, or any Person or
Persons concerned therein, may appear and shew Cause, if any they have,
why the same, or any Part thereof, should not be condemned.
John Foster, Judge of said Court.
1. Providence Gazette, September 14, 1776.
Libels of John Cole and Commodore Esek Hopkins Against
Cables, Anchors and Negro Slaves1
State of Rhode-Island and Providence Plantations.
Providence, ss.
Two other Libels are also hied before me: First, By John Cole, Esq; as Ad-
vocate, for and in Behalf of said State, against three Large Cables and two
822
AMERICAN THEATRE
large Anchors, which late belonged to the British Ship of War, called the
Scarborough; which said Cables and Anchors were captured and taken by
John Grimes, Commander, his Officers and Men, belonging to the Row-Gal-
ley called the Spitfire.
Second, in Behalf of Esek Hopkins, Esq; Commander in Chief of the
Continental Fleet, against Seven Negro Slaves; late in the Service of the
King of Great Britain, on board one of his Ships called the Bomb Brig,2 a
Vessel of War, sent against the United States of America, and lately taken
by the said Fleet; which said Cables, Anchors and Negroes, the said Libel-
lants say, they have brought into the Port of Providence, in said State, for
Trial.
The Justice of the abovesaid Captures will be tried, at the Court
erected in and for said State for the Trial of maritime Causes, to be holden
at said Providence on the 1st Day of October, A.D. 1776, at the Hour of Ten
in the Forenoon.
This Notice is given, pursuant to the Laws of said State, that the
Owner or Owners of said Cables, Anchors and Negroes, or any Person or
Persons concerned therein, may appear in and shew Cause, if any they
have, why the same should not be condemned.
John Foster, Judge of said Court.
1. Providence Gazette, September 14, 1776.
2. H. M. Bomb Brig Bolton.
Providence Gazette ; Saturday, September 14, 1776
Providence, September 14.
The Privateers Montgomery and Yankey Ranger , of this Port, have
taken three large Brigs, bound from the West-Indies to England, laden with
Rum, Sugar, Coffee, Cotton and Oil. They are all arrived in a safe Port.1
We hear that Capt. Samuel Dunn, in a Privateer from Swanzey, has
taken a large Brig, with 260 Hogsheads of Rum.
1. The prizes were Sally, Bee and John.
Memoirs of Major General William Heath1
[New York, September] 14th. - The British sent three or four ships up
the North River, as far as Greenwich. The cannon and stores were remov-
ing from New- York, during the night.
1. Abbatt, ed.. Heath Memoirs, 52.
Journal of H.M.S. Carysfort, Captain Robert Fanshaw1
Sepr 1776. Att Single Anchor off Bushwick Creek East River
Saturday 14th AM sent the Boat on Shore Watering, Do the Sailmakers
empd mending the Sails, & people repairing the Rigging,
Do the Ships Company on Deck all Night & ready for
service
SEPTEMBER 1776
823
Mod Breezes 8c fair Wear - PM empd Watering 8c get-
ting the Ship clear for Action Do cleard Hawse - At 6 sev-
eral Great Guns were fired, both from the Enemy in New
York 8c the British Troops on Long Island - At 7. five
Transports came pass’d the Enemy’s Batteries 8c anchor’d
here -
1. PRO, Admiralty 51/168.
Journal of Ambrose Serle1
[On board H. M. S. Eagle'] Saturday, 14th. Septr.
Late last Night arrived Capt [Thomas] Jordan in the Galatea of 20 Guns
from Plymouth, which Place she left on the 10th. of July. He brought us
Advices, that the Hessians were only sailing from England, when he left it,
and that, being in heavy-sailing Dutch Transports, we cannot expect their
Arrival here for a great while to come, and especially if they come into the
Course of the equinoctial Winds, by which they may be probably driven to
the West India Islands, and not be able therefore to sail hither before the
Spring. He also brought an account, that the Sea to the South-East from
hence, 8c about Bermuda, and to the Lat. of 32°, is greatly infested by
American Privateers, who have taken several of our West India merchant
men, and that the Rebels are fitting out every Vessel that can sail for that
Purpose. This Intelligence was very unpleasant altogether. A few such
swift-sailing Ships as the Galatea would soon disperse or destroy these
Free-booters; and ’tis presumed they will be employed.
Five Transports sailed up the East River this Evening to join the Man
of War, who went up last Night. Many Shot were exchanged upon the Occa-
sion. I saw a House or Part of a House in the Town tumble down, by a Ball
from one of our Ships or Batteries. Three men of War were to have passed
up the North River at the same time, but were prevented by an accident.
1. Tatum , ed., Serle’s Journal, 101-02, 102-03.
Minutes of the Pennsylvania Council of Safety1
In Council of Safety,
[Philadelphia] September 14th, 1776.
Resolved , That Capt. [Joseph] Blewer 8c Mr. [Francis] Gurney be
Empowered to contract with some person or persons to fill up 8c Compleat
the Peers sunk in the Chanel of the River Delaware, near fort Island, and
fix the Chain for stoping the Navigation upon an Immergency.
1. Pennsylvania Colonial Records, X, 717, 718.
824
AMERICAN THEATRE
John Adams to Abigail Adams1
[Extract] Philadelphia Saturday Septr. 14. 1776
Yesterday Morning I returned with Dr. F. [Benjamin Franklin] and
Mr. R. [Edward Rutledge] from Staten Island where We met L[ord]
H [owe] and had about three Hours Conversation with him. The Result of
this Interview, will do no disservice to Us. It is now plain that his L[ord-
shi] p has no Power, but what is given him in the Act of P [arliament] . His
Commission authorises him to grant Pardons upon Submission, and to con-
verse, confer, consult and advise with such Persons as he may think proper,
upon American Grievances, upon the Instructions to Governors and the Acts
of Parliament, and if any Errors should be found to have crept in, his Maj-
esty and the Ministry were willing they should be rectified.
1. Butterfield, ed., Adams Family Correspondence, II, 124.
Willing, Morris & Co. to William Bingham, Martinique1
Sir, Philada Septr 14th 1776
Your several favours of the 2nd, 15th Sc 26th August have come duely to
hand, the last by the Reprisal Capt. Wickes who arrived here Yesterday
without having taken any more Prizes or met with any Remarkable occur-
rence. We shall reply to the Contents of your letters in the order they stand
or at least to such parts as require an answer —
The observations you make on the different modes of Conducting a
Commerce between Europe Sc this Continent through the Islands of Martin-
ico Sc St Lucia are very proper, they are what have frequently occurred to
us, but do not remove the only difficulty we have to encounter, which is the
establishing proper Funds in Europe as a foundation to Trade on. Our Pro-
duce is bulky & little Value in it requires large Ships for the Transporta-
tion, large Ships are much exposed to Capture and indeed we have not many
of them left, so that, you see us encircled with difficultys in this respect, for
this reason Sc for this reason chiefly we like the Idea of Your agreeing with
some Good French House in the Island to Import certain quantitys of
Goods as for his own Account to be delivered over to you on arrival at a
Certain advance. You do not mention what advance wou’d be expected,
which we are sorry for as that is a material point, however We advise that
you immediately make such a bargain on the best terms in your power, with
some House of Established good Reputation for honorable Sc punctual deal-
ing, you may agree with them to import in this way the Value of Two Thou-
sand pounds Sterling to be wrote for immediately and sent out with all pos-
sible expedition. If they can be shipped from France so as to be out with
you in all the Month of Deer Sc January we wou’d wish nearly the whole
Amount to Consist of Woolen Goods fit for Winter Wear, Blankets, Cloths
chiefly Coarse, Coatings, Flannells, Worsted &: Yarn Stockings some Good
Silk Stockings, Threads, Pins, Needles, Sewing Silk, Mohair Twist Sc But-
SEPTEMBER 1776
825
tons, but if they are to arrive later you must order an assortment of Sail
Cloth, Coarse 8c fine linens, sheetings 8cca We will keep shipping to you
the Produce of this Country to enable Punctual payment, but we think you
had best make it a part of your bargain that You shall have liberty to Ship
from Martinico to old France any Tobacco or Indigo we send you on your
own Account 8c they to Receive the Nt pceeds there in payment for the
Goods 8c then if you dont like the prices offered you in Martinico you can
ship your Goods to a second Market - Monsr Begorrats Sloop is not yet
arrived, when she comes in you may depend on a faithfull attention to his or-
ders 8c interest2 and that the same will be extended to every Concern put
under our care and as you think it might facilitate or promote these Con-
signments to take a Concern with them occasionally We agree that you
shou’d interest us jointly with yourself any part you may think proper 8c
Prudent in such Vessells 8c Cargoes as come to our Address you holding one
half we the other half of whatever share you thus adopt.
We observe you mention several Vessels at St Lucia that might be
Chartered or bought upon Good Terms 8c we have no objection to your buy-
ing or Chartering some of them provided You can get Salt or Mollasses to
load them with; Cargoes of those Articles Cost but little Money 8c will sell
for a great deal therefore You may execute of this plan as much as You
think proper for our joint Accounts or take in some more partners so as to
reduce the risque to thirds or fourths just as you like best 8c use such pre-
cautions as you think most likely to bring them safe here, and as you will
know from France whether Insurances can be made there or not, you can
give orders for Insurance if you find it can be obtained on reasonable terms,
but let it be made for the whole Voyage 8c not for so many Leagues clear of
the Island 8c so many clear of this Coast as mentioned in your letter, which
woud Subject us to many perplexing disputes, you woud pay the premm 8c
never know whether you were Insured or not — We (say R M the writer
hereof) does not see any impropriety in your attending to Commercial mat-
ters as that will not prevent your attending carefully 8c assiduously to the
more Important matters committed to your charge, but at the same time we
dont think it will be much to your advantage to seek extensive Connections
as most of the Trade from this Continent must be Carried on in Small Ves-
sells and the Masters chiefly insist on the Consignments or they will not go
the Voyages, and we shall make a point now that you are safe arrived 8c
well established to keep you well supplyed with Goods both on Publick 8c
Private Account, however do herein as you think proper We advise you
to write to Mr John Dorsius at Charles Town, So Carolina, 8c to the Honble
Archibald Bullock Esqr President of Georgia, informing them of your es-
tablishment at Martinico 8c offering them your assistance in the Sale of
Rice, Indigo Sec and in procuring for them Powder, Arms 8c such other Arti-
cles as they may want in Return. Mr Bullock is President of Georgia 8c not a
Merchant but he may recommend You to their Merchts 8c I will get the Del-
egates to write him on the Subject. Mr Dorsius is well established at
Charles Town 8c doing much business there. You may also write Messrs
826
AMERICAN THEATRE
Smith Sc Hughes Merchts at Edenton No Carolina Sc to Colo. Benjn Harrison of
Berkely, Charles City County Virginia. We like your plan of a Voyage to
Dantzig but its too soon for the execution of it
We shall send the Maccaliao Snuff forward to Colo Harrison who will
think himself much obliged to you for it We have letters from Mr Bealle
who arrived at Bourdeaux the 6th June but finding it impracticable to
transact his business there, he had gone for Holland where he expected to
Succeed, but we dont yet know whether he will come out to St. Eustatia or
your Island, it is most likely to the latter as we immagine he must land his
Dutch Goods in France & Reship them from thence he will bring his whole
value in the one single article therefore you must only Contrive to get it
here in the best manner you can at present this place, Virginia Sc Occracock
Inlet No Carolina are the safest places but theres no saying how long they
may remain so, the best way will be to divide it amongst some good fast
sailing small or armed Vessells but if he arrives whilst this Sloop Independ-
ence Capt [John] Young is with you, We think it so good a Conveyance
that we shoud be for risquing the whole or greatest part by her You Sc Mr
Bealle must lay your heads together and Contrive to send it safe one way or
other Sc Remember that you shall have other Armed Vessells sent to your ad-
dress besides this Sloop.
Capt Wickes has not yet landed the Goods but we doubt not they will
answer very well we shall make the most of them Sc hope very soon to
transmit You a pleasing account Sales - It now Remains that we enable you
to pay for them as speedily as possible and we shall also attend most Care-
fully to this Circumstance by shipping you Goods for that purpose We
wou’d gladly have sent some by this Conveyance but the Sloop is full & the
Goods belong to the Publick therefore we must wait another Opportunity,
indeed we mean to seek out for a Sloop that will answer to the papers you
have sent and if we can meet one will load her immediately but shou’d that
not happen we shall get others and shall ship you some Tobacco as well as
flour, we will also Contrive if we can to send You some Rice Sc Indigo from
Carolina or Georgia
You will doubtless have learned that West India property is now liable
to Confiscation as well as British Consequently your plan in that respect
will not do, so long as the French remain in Peace it is probable that French
Papers may prove the best Cover, especially in your Seas. You ask what Ar-
ticles are most in demand here or what are likely to be most so, to which
we may safely reply that every thing is wanted, it is hardly possible to go
amiss. However Woolens will undoubtedly yield the greatest Profht if they
can possibly be got here before the Winter is over Linens also Continue in
full demand notwithstanding a most glorious Crop of Flax was gathered the
last Season, but we have not Weavers & Manufacturers to Work it up fast
enough, We think Hosiery of every kind will be exceedingly wanted, Cotton
Sc Wool Cards, Pins, Needles, Ravens Duck or other Cloth fit for Tents, Mus-
kets Sc Powder must Continue in demand whilst the Warr lasts Sc so indeed
must every kind of European Manufactures, Medicines are much called
SEPTEMBER 1776
827
for, West India Produce is dear, Mallasses upwards of 4/ pGalln Sugars 60/
to 90/ p Ct Rum 6/ to 10/ pGalln In short you may keep Shipping us
Goods as you meet with good Conveyances but not too much Value at a time
especially in unarmed Vessells.
The Sloop Independence by which this goes We deem an exceeding
good Conveyance Sc shou’d have no objection to your Shipping to the Value
of fifteen hundred or Two Thousand pounds by her especially as you expect
Goods to be plenty Sc Cheap by the time she will be with you, But as we have
proposed a good deal of bussiness to you Sc pointed out Several purchases to
be made you will naturally say where are the Funds Sc these we must try to
establish for you and will do it with all possible expedition. We wish you
wou’d immediately either Charter or buy a good fast sailing Sloop or
Schooner and dispatch her for Edenton in North Carolina Consigned to
Messrs Hewes Sc Smith Merchts there with some Salt, Mollasses, a few Sug-
ars, alittle Rum, Dry Goods an assortment of any or all these Articles to the
Value of five or Six hundred Pounds Sc they will immediately send her back
to you with a Cargo of Fine Tobacco for we have bought a Considerable
quantity which now lies there waiting for Vessells to carry it
away Edenton is up Occracock Inlet. As We understand Monsr Begorrats
Sloop is afine Vessel ready Armed and that he intends she shall be sold,
we may probably buy her unless she goes too high which it is very likely
may be the case as such Vessells are much wanted and we shall give her
afair Chance at Public Vendue, but if we buy her our present View is to
send her from hence to Carolina Sc thence to You with Rice Sc Indigo by
which means we can make up a very valuable Cargo and, of Course lodge
Funds for the several purposes we have pointed out to you —
We like your Idea of Importing Medicines from the Mediterranian and
wish you wou’d immediately write to Mr Estevan Cathalan Mercht at
Marseilles probably you know him he is a most Respectable Mercht
inform him of your establishment at Martinique and tell him your Con-
nection with us indeed we will if possible inclose you a letter for him
p this Convey and request him to ship you soon as possible the Value
five hundred pounds Sterling in an assortment of Medicines of which we
will enclose a list if we can get it in time, Peruvian Bark is exceedingly
wanted but Cadiz is the best place to get that Article from however
you must Contrive in the best manner you can to procure it Sc always
write for Medicines of the very best quality You will inform Mr Cathalan
that you will be constantly receiving remittances from hence Sc that you
will very speedily remit him the Cost of whatever you order from him -
Messrs Sami Sc J. H. Delap of Bourdeaux have offered us Credit to the
Extent of £ 4 or £ 5000 Stg or more if we engage they shall not be disa-
pointed of remittances therefore We have requested them to Credit you
to the Extent of Two Thousand Pounds Sterling. And you may immediately
write to them for that Value in an assortment of such articles as you think
from the Course of these Sc other advices will answer best to tranship from
Martinico hither, press them to dispatch the Goods quick as possible and en-
828
AMERICAN THEATRE
gage for the remittances being made within twelve Months probably they
may go to hand in much less time, enclosed you have an open letter to
them on this Subject We mean these Goods on your Sc our joint Account, but
they will probably Send you others for us beside which you’l take proper
Care off. We have lately reed a Cargo of Sail Cloth &c from Mr Andw Li-
mozin of Havre deGrace who used us extreamly Well Sc is justly entitled to
a preference of bussiness in that place write to him to Ship you the value
of £ 1000 Stg in Woolens immediately he can readily get them and you
will also find an open letter to him, with a Sealed one, these Goods also to be
on your Sc our joint Account, but he may probably have others to send for
us which you’l take care off.
Mr John Ross of this City is now in Europe and will ship out Goods by
various ways for us, and our Thos Morris is with Mr Deane at Paris they
may probably do the same. We depend on Your care in forwarding Sc Re-
ceiving any Goods that may come for us, and as this letter is now Spun out to
a pretty good length we will close it altho we shall probably write You an-
other by this Conveyance being Sir [8cc.]
1. Papers of Robert Morris, LC.
2. Pierre Begozzat, Martinique merchant.
Thomas Rodney to Caesar Rodney1
[Extract] Dover Sepr 14th 1776 —
Brown informs me that small vessels are much wanted [at] Philada -
Stockly says he was Offered £ 350 for his; My Sloop [is] worth a great
deal more than his, Sc if what he says be true perhaps she may sell for £
400 — She Carries about 1200 bus is 2 years old, very sound & well found,
sails Sc Riging all good — If you should hear any enquiry for such a one,
please to sell her Sc I will send her up immediately — At any rate shall send
her up soon to sell her as she is of little use at present2. . .
1. Ryden, ed., Letters to and from Caesar Rodney , 118, 119.
2. Ibid., 121, Caesar replied to Thomas on September 17 urging him to send the sloop to Phila-
delphia “imediately for the purpose of haveing her Sold” because “the demand cannot
hold Long.”
Journal of the Virginia Council of Safety1
[Williamsburg] Saturday, 14th September 1776.
A Certificate dated July 25th of the Review of a Lieutenants quota of
marines recruited by Lieutenant Henry Stratton of the Hero Galley, was re-
turned and filed, the said Henry Stratton having taken the oath of Fidelity
to this Commonwealth also received his Commission dated this day.
Permits issued to the Schooners Kitty , and Good Intent, Captains Ste-
vens and Sea Brooke, outward bound, to trade at Hispaniola, or other for-
eign Port, allowed by Congress, a manifest of their Cargoes was lodged
and filed.
1. Mcllwaine, ed.. Journals of the Virginia Council, I, 160, 162.
SEPTEMBER 1776
829
Journal of H.M. Schooner Porcupine , Lieutenant James Cotes 1
September 1776 Cape Nichola SbE 5 or 6 Lgs
Saturday 14 A M at 4 Off Bonnet of the F Sail at 5. . 6. . & 7 TaKd
Saw three Sail to the Eastwd Saw the Land, Out Reefs,
on Bonnets — Saw 2 Sail in Shore at 8 Cape Nichola
Mole, SbE Diste 11 or 12 Lgs at Noon TaKd the Ship
to Windwd fire a Gun
Modt Breezes and Cloudy at 3 P M the Ship 8c Snow to
Windward, brought to, fired a Gun 8c hoisted a Jack at
the M T. Gt Mt head, we took her for the Squirrel and
made the Signl but as she did not answer it fired a 3
Poundr at the Ship 8c bore away She firing at us several
Shot, At 1/2 past 4 she made our Signal and fired a Gun
not shotted, brot too 8c found it to be the Attalanta with
two Packets under Convoy, 8c at 5 md Sail in Co with her.
1. PRO, Admiralty 51/702.
Journal of H.M. Sloop Atalanta , Captain Thomas Lloyd1
September 1776 Island Tortuga ENE 5 or 6 Leagues -
Saturday 14 at 4 AM fired 2 Guns made the signal to wear and sail
on the other Tack at 6 out 2d and 3d reef topsls and set
Mizn topsl at 7 tacked a Strange Sail in Company
Moderate breezes and cloudy wr at 3 PM fired a Gun
and made the Signal for the Convoy to come under our
Stern, at 4 repeated the private Signal, made sail and gave
Chace fired 7 Six pounders and 2 Swivels at the Chace
1/2 past 5 the Chace brot too proved to be His Majesty’s
Schooner Porcupine - Cape Nichola SW 5 Leagues
1. PRO, Admiralty 51/ 75.
Journal of H.M.S. Maidstone , Captain Alan Gardner1
Septemr [1776] Turks Isld S23E — 151 Leags
Saturday 14 AM 5 Out reefs. — Saw a Sail in the SW. Set Studg Sails.
Sent the Barge and Cutter Mann’d and Armed after the
Chace. 8 Observed the Chace to Fire at the Boats, Saw the
Boats board her: 9 the Boats returnd with a Schooner from
C Nicola to Boston,2 Seized her. - Took out the Master
and People. — Sent a Mate and 6 Men to take Charge of her.
1. PRO, Admiralty 51/572.
2. Schooner William, master’s name not given, see Gayton’s Prize List, under October 8.
830
AMERICAN THEATRE
Declaration of John Douglass1
September 14th 1776 — 8 o’Clock in the Morning Comeing in the Mole of St
Nicholas, I, John Douglass, Commander of the Schooner Lady Caroline,
come from Philadelphia Loaded with Flour, Kegs of Biscuit, Fish, Pork,
Cheese, Gammons 8cc Sec
I declare I was at Five o’Clock in the Morning within Five Miles of the
Land Sc North of the Point of St Nichola Mole in the Island of St Domingo. I
have been chased by one English Frigate Sc a Sloop, and them two pursued
me fireing a great many Shot at me both Nine Pounders Sc Swivels, til the
Sloop came to the distance of one Mile from the Entry of the Port of St Ni-
cholas Mole; where I saw a French Frigate with her Colours flying and she
firing several Shot but it being Calm she could not get out of the Harbour,
but I saw her send a Sloop out of Sixteen Guns, with two of her Barges, tow-
ing ahead the French Frigate, having part of her Sails unbent and was Set-
ting up her Main Rigging, Main Top Mast and Main Top Gallant Mast was
also down. And she was getting ready as fast as possible to come out, the
Sloop not minding the Shot stil kept her Pursuit not careing for the little
distance I was from the Land, then I was oblig’d to abandon my Vessel with
my People and I came into the Mole for protection And all the Inhabitants
both ashore and the Shipping came running down to the Shore, they have-
ing seen the Event, I was sure I was near enough to the Land not to be
Molest’d in the least, but to go in the Harbour Peaceably
I have Declar’d the above
in the Mole of St Nicholas
to all the Superior Officers
>
Signed Jn° Douglass
[Endorsed] Copy of the Declaration of John Douglass, Master of the
North America Schooner Seiz’d by His Majs Ship Squirrel, annex’d to the
claim of the Chevr de Monteil dat’d 16th Septr 1776.
[Endorsed] (A Copy) Clark Gayton
1. PRO, Admiralty 1/240. See Vice Admiral Clark Gayton’s letter of October 8, 1776.
“A Journiel Kept By Ephraim Briggs On Board of the Good
Sloop Warren A Bold Privateer From Dartmouth
to the Lattd of 33:” 1
Saterday September the 14 Day A D 1776 —
Latter Part Saterday Nine A Clock Saw A sail to Windard the
[wind] at SW. standing to the NNE. A small Brease Run for
Her Almost Calm [out] the oars Rowd for Her Lattd in
36:17. (scalded my self in the Cabose by Boyling water)
First Part these 24 hours Fine 8c Smoth in Chase after A Brig
stearing to NW Five fir’d at Her Brought two Spoke With Her
she was A french man From Portto prince Bound to Bourdou in
France told no News
l. RIHS.
SEPTEMBER 1776
831
15 Sept. (Sunday)
Master’s Log of H.M.S. Milford 1
Septembr 1776 Moor’d in Hallifax Harbour.
Sunday 15 AM Heel’d Sc Scrub’d the Ships Bottom Reed Water. Came
onboard a Serjeant Sc a party of Soldiers to demand one of
the Rebels that was taken in the John Transport he be-
longing to the Independency Privateer, who had deserted
from the 43d Regement of Foot delivered him up as their
Prisoner
1. PRO, Admiralty 52/1865.
William Whipple to Josiah Bartlett1
[Extract] Portsmouth 15th Sepr 1776
... it seems to be Settled that our Troops have quitted Long
Island, the consequence I fear will be, that they must also Evacuate [New]
York I have had a hint that Congress have directed Genl Washington not
to destroy that City if he shod be obliged to leave it. is this right why
shod we be so careful to furnish the Enemy with convenient Winter
Quarters? it appears to me that the consequence will be that the States
will be put to the Expence of five if not ten times, the value of that Cursed
City which ought to have been destroyed long ago
It seems that are many Complaints about the Maritime Courts the
Court here has acquited a vessel that ought to be condemn’d,2 Sc other
Courts condemn vessels that ought to be acquited, Mr [Jacob] Sheaf has
had a ship condemn’d at Providence as British Property, she was bound
from the west Indies for London, his property was transfer’d to prevent
her being seiz’d by British ships, I really think his case hard he intends to
petition Congress, another ship belonging to Capt [Tobias] Lear of this
town under the same Circumstances is to be try’d at Salem to morrow3 if
this ship shod be condemn’d the Owners of her will also apply to Congress so
it’s probable you’ll have business enough of this sort on your hands
1. Simon Gratz Autograph Collection, Case 1, Box 20, HSP.
2. The brig Elizabeth.
3. The ship Polly taken by the Massachusetts privateer sloop Revenge, Captain Joseph White.
Massachusetts Council to Captain Daniel Souther1
[Watertown, September 15, 1776] 2
The Brigantine Massachusetts under Your Command and being Prop-
erly Armed Sc man’d and in other Respects fitted for a Cruize, You are here-
by Ordered Sc Directed Imediately to Proceed to sea, Sc use Your utmost
Endeavours to Protect the sea Coast Sc Trade of the united States, and you
832
AMERICAN THEATRE
are Also Directed to Exert your self in makeing Captures of all ships 8c other
Vessells, Goods, wares 8c Merchandize, belonging to the King of Great Brit-
tain or any of his Subjects, werever Residing, Excepting only the ships 8c
Goods of the Inhabitants of Bermuda 8c the Bahama Islands, and You are
Directed not to Cruize farther south, than Lattd 34° North nor farther
East than the Grand Bank of Newfoundland, nor farther West than the
sholes of Nantucket, at All Times using necessary Precaution to prevent
your Vessell from falling into the hands of the Enemy
And whereas you have Received a Commission, authorising you to
make Captures as aforesaid, and a sett of Instructions have been Deliverd
You for Regulating your Conduct in that matter, these Instructions you are
hereby Directed Diligently to Attend to, and if you are fortunate as to make
any Captures, you are to Order them to make the first Safe Harbour within
the united States of America. And you are further Ordered, not to Expend
Your Ammunition unnecessarily, and Only in times of Action or firing
Alarm or Signall Guns. —
1. Mass. Arch., vol. 165, 234-35.
2. The date is approximated; as late as August 23, the Massachusetts was still in need of more
cannon, and on October 2 she “returned from a short cruise.”
Joseph Greenleaf to Robert Treat Paine1
[Extract]
Dr Sr Boston sepr 15th 1776
Mr Austin is kind eno’ to let me know that he is just going to set out
for Philadelphia I thought I would imbrace the opportunity to let you
know That we 8c our Ta[u]nton friends are all well — Capt Manley’s ap-
peal from a Judgment of a maritime court to The Congress is The occasion
of Mr Austin’s Journey — Altho’ The capture of the Vessell2 with Stolen
good[s] belonging to several Merchants here is a lucky affair upon the
whole, yet The trouble 8c expence attending the tryals at Portsmouth 8c
Phila will settle a great loss upon the owners of the goods even Tho’ They
should be restored to them — It was generous in them to offer Manly
£1000 Sterling after they were cleared by the Jury — I cannot see upon
what principle the Jury could have condemned them. They were not the
property of the enemy, nor treasure trove, but stolen goods: 8c it is every
mans duty to detest Thieves. —
Our coast is infested with several Frigates 8c Cutters who frequently
take our vessells 8c retake our prizes, Is it impossible to equip our Ships of
War lately built ? If they are not soon at sea this town will be [i]n a dis-
tressed Condition, we shall not be supplyed with fuel for the approaching
winter. —
1. Robert Treat Paine Papers, MassHS.
2. The brig Elizabeth taken by Manley’s squadron on April 2, 1776, containing goods looted
from the merchants’ stores and warehouses in Boston at the time of the British evacua-
tion. See Volumes 4 and 5.
Nathaniel Shaw, Jr.’s Account of Sales of the Prizes
Brig Bolton , Schooner Hawke and Glasgow's Tender 1
Sales of Brigt Bolton 8c Stores Schooner Hawk 8c \/^ the Glasgows Tender
Captured by Commodore Hopkins
SEPTEMBER 1776
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Amo Sales of Schooner John & Joseph retaken by Captn Nicholas Biddle in Brigt Andrew Doria
834
AMERICAN THEATRE
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Suruyrrfh Order of
Hi ^Excellency Major general S" Jeffery Amherst,
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SEPTEMBER 1776
837
Jabez Huntington to Captain Joshua Huntington1
[Extract]
Dear Son Norwich Sept. 15th, 1776.
. . . Capt. Neles2 is returned from his Cruse taken two Prises one
Schooner about Sixty Tons and one Ship about three hundred Tons Chiefly
Loaded with Rum and Sugor the Schooner is Safe arived in Norwich
Harbour the Ship Hourly expected hope Soon to hear some agreable ac-
count from Capt. Harden [Seth Harding.]
1. Collections of the Connecticut Historical Society, XX, 43-44.
2. Captain Robert Niles in the Connecticut schooner Spy.
Brigadier General Benedict Arnold to Major General Horatio Gates 1
Dear General, Isle La Motte September 15th 1776. -
Your Favour of the 12th Instant was delivered me last Night by En-
sign [Clemens] Botsford, who narrowly escaped being lost in his Passage
down and was obliged to throw overboard three Barrels of Provision to
lighten the Batteau. I am Happy to find, you approve of my returning from
the Isle aux Tetes, our Present Situation is five Miles to the Southward of
Point aux Fire and two Miles to the Southward of the North End of Isle La
Motte, at a Part of the Island where the Lake is one and a half to two Miles
Over, to the Southward of us there is no Part of the Lake less than two
Miles over and entirely out of the Reach of any Batteries that can Possibly
be erected by the Enemy of whose Naval Force I have been able to procure
no other Intelligence, than from a Deserter one Thomas Day whom I have
sentyou by Ensign Botsford with his examination; which is inclosed.2 I
have heard nothing from Lieutenant [Benjamin] Whitcomb, or Ensign
[Thomas] MCoy since they left the Isle aux Noix, from which a Man re-
turned from each Party, who agree that there is about one thousand Men
encamped There, they saw no WaterCraft except Batteaux.
I have dispatched a Frenchman to St Johns, for Intelligence, whom I
found in the Bay of Missisque, he has promised to return in four Days with
Intelligence If I hear nothing from St Johns, soon, I design makeing a Re-
move to the Island Valcouer untill joined by the Three Gallies. There is a
Good Harbour and if the Enemy venture up the Lake it will be impossible
for them to take advantage of our Situation, if we should succeed on our At-
tack onthem it will be impossible for any of them to Escape, if we are wor-
sted our Retreat is open and Free, in Case of Wind which generally blows
Fresh at this Season ourCraft will make good Weather, when their Bat-
teaux cannot keep the Lake.
I am glad to hear General Waterbury has taken Charge of the
Gallies I make no Doubt they will soon be compleated my best Pilot I
sent up by Major [David] Greer.
I requested General Schuyler tosendfor Four Captains for the Gallies,
since which I have appointed only two, at that Time Three Gallies were
838
AMERICAN THEATRE
nearly finished and four others ordered to be put on the Stocks, which still
left a Vacancy for one Captain, Captain [Seth] Warner is one of the
Four which was requested: one of the others I wish sent for the Royal-Sav-
age, the third for the Gaily on the Stocks and the Fourth for one of the Oth-
ers ordered to be built, which ought to be put on the Stocks long ere
this, The greatest part of the Timber was cut for the four la[s]t Gallies
before I left Skeensborough, and as the Carpenters and Materials are pro-
cured, will it not be Prudence, and Oeconomy to have them compleated. —
In my Last I wrote you we were Victualed to the 20th Instant. For that
Calculation I computed ten Barrels of Pork and twenty of Flour left at
Crown Point, which I ordered to be sent down in the last Gondola, the
Order was neglected and the Provision left behind so that the Supply sent-
now will Victual us no longer than the 26th [5zc] Instant, unless supplied
by th[e] Inhabitants on the Lake of which there is little Prospect. Cannot a
Frenchman or two, who is acquainted in Canada and can be depended upon
be sent me, with the Tobacco I keep the two small Schooners continually
cruizing above and below us. The Countersign is never given until four
O’Clock, two Guard Boats are posted every Night two Miles below us, at a
proper Distance to discover the Approach of the Enemy, another Boat goes
the Rounds every two Hours all Night every Ship keeps half their Men con-
stantly on Deck under Arms, and Matches lighted, it will be impossible for
the Enemy to surprise us.
I am greatly obliged to you for the Friendly Notice you have taken of
me in your Public Letter, which I make no Doubt will have the desired Ef-
fect.
I am surprized you have received no particular Accounts of the Battle
on long Island, the severe Check the Enemy have met with will doubtless
Dispirit them greatly and will I hope prove a happy prelude to our future
Success, I hope you will soonhave the Particulars of the Affair. The Act of
Independence, I willsend, agreeable to your Direction I am with Senti-
ments of Respect and Esteem [8cc.]
B. Arnold. -
1. Gates Papers, Box 4, NYHS.
2. See examination of Sergeant Thomas Day, September 12, 1776.
Journal of H.M.S. Phoenix , Captain Hyde Parker, Jr.1
September 1776 At Single Anchor in the East River above the
Saturday 14th Town of New York
at i/2 past 3 P:M Weigh’d Came to Sail in Co His Majes-
ty’s Ship Roebuck, Orpheus and Carisford; 8c ran
through Butter Milk Channell into the East River at
[4] the Batteries on the West End of York City began to
fire at us as we passed them. At i/2 past 5 Came too with
the Small Bower in 9 fm found riding here His Majes-
ty’s Ship Rose Veer’d away to 1/2 Cable and Moor’d
SEPTEMBER 1776
839
with the Stream. — Brookland Church SWt Off Shore 2
Cables lengths. In passing the Batteries Reed Several
Shot through our Hull and Sails and One Seaman was
Kill’d. -
Sunday 15th Light Breezes 8c Cloudy Wear at 6 P:M Anchor’d here
Five Sail of Transports at 3 A:M Slip’d the Stream
Cable 8c hove Short on the Small Bower At i/2 past 4
Weigh’d 8c came to Sail in Co His Majesty’s Ships Roe-
buck; Orpheus; Carisford and Rose at \/2 past 5 Came
too with the Sheet Anchor in 4 fm abreast the Enemy’s
Intrenchments upon York Island; in Co as before. Veer’d
away to \/2 a Cable and let go the Small Bower Veer’d
to 1/3 Cable and hove into 1/3 of the Sheet Cable. At 10'
past 11 began a Constant Fire upon the Intrenchments
at Noon ceas’d Firing His Majesty’s Troops being landed
without opposition. Lost in Sounding Crossing the River
a Hand Lead and Line. —
Fresh Breezes 8c Cloudy Wear at 2 P:M Commodore
Hotham came onboard and hoisted his Pendant at 5
Weigh’d the Small Bower Came to Sail at \/2 past
Came too with the Small Bower at 6 Veer’d away and
Moor’d a Cable each way Brookland S Et and Coders
Hook SWbS off Shore l/2 a Mile
1. PRO, Admiralty 51/694.
Master’s Log of H.M.S. Roebuck 1
Septr 1776
Friday 13th
Saturday 14th
Sunday 15th
Red Hook EBS y2 mile
AM at 4 Unmoord & Barrocaded the ship at 11 hove a
Peak
First and latter Part Modt and cloudy, P.M at 4 Weigh’d
as pr Signal from the Admiral as did the Phenix, Or-
pheus and Carrisfort 8c went thro the channel to the
East wd of Governor’s Island, in Passing the Town Re-
ceiv’d the fire from the several Batterys of the Enemy which
was return’d by our troops from Long Island, at 6 An-
chor’d of [£] Bushweeks creek in 13 fath about 2 Cables
Length from the shore, found his Majesty’s Ship Rose at
anchor here at 8 moor’d with Kedge 8c Hawser.
First and latter Parts Modt and fair P.M. at 6 five Trans-
ports came up and Anchor’d here.
AM. at 4 got the Kedge on board, at 5 Weigh’d and
made sail as did the rest of the men of War, & stood across
the sound and Anchor’d off Cliffs Bay2 in 8 Fath. 8c got a
spring on the cable in order to cover the Landing of the
Army from the Other side, at 9 the Troops in the Flat
840
AMERICAN THEATRE
Boats appear’d in sight coming out of Newton Creek and at
11 rowe’d towards the shore. Do let go the stern Anchor
and soon after all the ships begun to fire in the Enemy’s
Lines at 12 ceas’d firing & the Troops Landed —
Moderate and fair Wr P. M. at 6 Weigh’d and made sail &
at 7 Anchor’d off Bushwick Creek
1. PRO, Admiralty 52/1965.
2. Kips Bay.
Journal of H.M.S. Orpheus , Captain Charles Hudson1
Septemr 1776. At Single Anchor in Bushwick Bay East River N.
York.
Sunday 15th at 4 AM weighed and made Sail in Company with the Phoe-
nix, Carrisford, Rose, and Roebuck, at Six came too with
the Best Bower in 4 fm in Ships Bay. got the Stream and
Kedge Anchors Astern & moored thence distant off Shore
300 yards close by the Rebels Intrenchment at 10 the
Flatt bottom Boats with the Troops came out of Newtown
Creek Long Island Shore, and stopp’d astern of the Five
Transports in Bushwick Creek at Noon they put off, from
thence, and rowed our forces, on which We, with the Other
Ships began to Cannonade the Rebels Lines, and scour the
Coast. Mode and Cloudy with some rain, kept a Contin-
ual Fire of Cannon 8cca on the Rebels Intrenchmt til i/2 past
4 when the first Division of the Troops landed, in Ships
Bay, sent the Boats with the Flat Boats to Bushwick
Creek for the 2nd Division. Commodore Hotham hoisted
his Pendant on board the Phoenix, at 5 weighed the
Stream Anchor, and hove up the Bt Bower in order to move
further off. at i/2 past the Ship grounded upon a Rock,
where She remained half an hour, then floated without re-
ceiving any Damage
1. PRO, Admiralty 51/650.
Journal of H.M.S. Rose, Captain James Wallace1
September 1776 In East River New York
Saturday 14 came up and Anchor’d here HM Ships Phenix, Roebuck,
Orpheus and Carisford.
Light breezes and Cloudy with Rain at times PM at 7
came up and Anchor’d 4 Transports
Sunday 15th at l/2 past 3 Unmoor’d and came to Sail fell on board a
Transport in Casting and Carried away a Pair of Mizon
Shrouds, at 6 came too in Kipps Bay York Island in 8
fm as did HM Ships Phenix Orpheus, Roebuck and Caris-
SEPTEMBER 1776
841
ford to Cover the landing of our Troops, at 11 all the
Boats crossing the River, began a heavy fireing to Clear
the Rebel Trenches, at 12 began to land
Do Wr The Boats landing the Troops at 6 PM
Weigh’d and came to sail at 7 came too off Newtown
Creek
1. PRO, Admiralty 51/805.
Journal of Bartholomew James1
[September 15, 1776] 2
The 23rd \_sic~\, at six in the morning, we weighed in company with the
former ships, and anchored a little below Blackwell’s Island on the York
side, about fifty yards from the enemy’s intrenchments, to which place the
whole body as above immediately moved, frequently making signs and call-
ing to us to come on shore. We continued without firing at each other till
eleven o’clock, when the first division of flat boats appeared, coming down
Bushwick Creek, having on board four thousand five hundred men under
the command of General Howe. As soon as the boats arrived within fifty
yards of the ships, the signal was made from the Phoenix to begin the at-
tack on the enemy’s lines.
It is hardly possible to conceive what a tremendous fire was kept up by
those five ships for fifty-nine minutes, in which time we fired away, in the
Orpheus alone, five thousand three hundred and seventy-six pounds of pow-
der. The first broadside made a considerable breach in their works, and the
enemy fled on all sides, confused and calling for quarter, while the army
landed, but, as usual, did not pursue the victory, though the rebels in gen-
eral had left their arms in the intrenchment. The havock was by no means
so great as it would have been had we not been obliged to cease firing on the
landing of the troops; however, the ground in some places was filled with
the slain, and numbers got off with the loss of arms, 8cc.
As soon as the firing ceased from the ships I was sent in the barge to
tow on shore the flat boats, when curiosity led me to follow the army
through the works, where I saw a Hessian sever a rebel’s head from his
body and clap it on a pole in the intrenchments. While I was amusing my-
self with these sights, and picking up some curious trifles, several volleys of
musketry was fired from a boat belonging to the Orpheus at us, who had, in
rowing along shore, taken us for rebels, as I had on a white linen jacket
which I wore at my quarters, and which was all colours at this time with
powder and dirt. As I knew the boat, I made signs of friendship, but all in
vain; and I was obliged to throw away my little affairs and take to my
heels, as the enemy had done before, amidst a constant fire from the boat,
who fortunately only wounded one man slightly in the leg. On my arrival on
board I found the second lieutenant amusing the captain with an account of
his attack on a body of rebels, which I gave him to understand was myself
and the barge’s crew, by which I had lost some valuable swords and little
842
AMERICAN THEATRE
trifles, which in the precipitate retreat before his arms I had left behind me.
Captain [Charles] Hudson permitted me to go again on shore with the
above lieutenant, but all our little matters were taken, and we procured only
nine drums and some fusees, one of which, being very handsome, I took from
the hands of a rebel officer who lay dead in the field . . .
Mr. Barton leaving me by accident on shore, I rambled into the woods
with one of the midshipmen of the Phoenix, who had with him the gunner
and seven men. On our entrance into an orchard we took a rebel prisoner
who had lain concealed there for some time. From this man we learned
there had been a skirmish in the woods with the rebels and a body of the
Hessians, and that the former was dispersed all round the woods. Having
consulted each other on the consequences of advancing further from the
ships, and pleased in some measure with the success of taking the above
man, we determined to go in quest of some more, and shortly after heard
several voices in an orchard at the end of the wood, on which we assembled
with our muskets presented to the gate, and levelling at some men we saw
in the grass, were about to fire, when up start two or three hundred Hes-
sians, with flaming large brass caps on, and with charged bayonets ad-
vanced rapidly towards us. The sudden unexpected surprise of such a visit
alarmed us prodigiously, and we made signs of being friends, which had lit-
tle or no effect in our favour, as on their coming close to us they knocked us
down with their muskets, frequently using the word “rebel,” for which they
really took us. In vain I assured them with signs that we were part of the
British navy, and pointed to my white cuff, having changed my clothes on
going on board, that I might not a second time be taken for an American.
But I was much surprised, and in fact at a loss how to act, when they
pointed at a rebel officer who lay there with a leg shot off, who had on the
very exact uniform of a midshipman, which having explained to each other,
they again beat us unmercifully, and would undoubtedly have put their bay-
onets through us had not General [Robert] Pigot, who commanded that
party, and who knew me when in the Chatham , have come to our relief,
when they made a thousand ridiculous apologies for their treatment, and we
returned to our ships, in need of both cook and doctor, and totally weary of
our expedition.
1. Laughton, ed., James ‘ Journal, 31-33.
2. James, as usual, was wrong in his dates.
Journal of Ambrose Serle1
[On board H.M.S. Eagle ] Sunday, 15th. Septr.
This Morning about 7 o’Clock, the Renown of 50 Guns, Capt. [Francis]
Banks, the Repulse of 32 Guns, Capt. [Henry] Davis, & the Pearl of 32
Guns, Capt. [Thomas] Wilkinson, with the Schooner [ Tryah] , Lieut.
[Lancelot] Brown [Jr.], sailed up the North River. The Morning was fine,
the Tide flowed, and there was a fresh Breeze. The Rebels began their Can-
onade as furiously as they could, but apparently with very little Effect, as
SEPTEMBER 1776
843
their Guns were but poorly served. The Ships, as these were the grand Bat-
teries of the Enemy, returned a heavy Fire, and struck the Walls of the
Batteries and the Sods of Earth, which the Rebels had raised, very fre-
quently. What other Damage our People did them, we as yet know not; but,
’tis observed, that, except for beating down particular Structures, or clear-
ing the Way for other operations, Cannon have but a very small or precar-
ious Effect. The great Business is always accomplished by the minor Im-
plements of War.
About a Quarter before 9, the Ships came to an Anchor in the North
River, in view of the Fleet, at about 4 or 5 Miles Distance above it, and be-
yond the principal Works of the Enemy.
A Transport, during the Affair upon the North River, went up the
East River 8c joined the other Ships, almost without Molestation.
The whole Scene was awful 8c grand; I might say, beautiful, but for the
melancholy Seriousness which must attend every Circumstance, where the
Lives of Men, even the basest Malefactors, are at Stake. The Hills, the
Woods, the River, the Town, the Ships, and Pillars of Smoke, all heightened
by a most clear 8c delightful morning, furnished the finest Landschape that
either art and nature combined could draw, or the Imagination conceive.
After this affair had subsided for a little while, a most tremendous Dis-
charge of Cannon from the Ships began (as was concerted) in the East
River, in order to cover the Landing of the Troops upon New York Island.
So terrible and so incessant a Roar of Guns few even in the Army 8c Navy
had ever heard before. Above 70 large Pieces of Cannon were in Play, to-
gether with Swivels 8c small arms from the Ships, while the Batteries added
to the uproar upon the Land. The Rebels were apparently frightened away
by the horrid Din, and deserted the Town 8c all their Works in the utmost
Precipitation. The King’s Forces took Possession of the Place, incredible as
it may seem, without the Loss of a Man. Nothing could equal the Expres-
sions of Joy shewn by the Inhabitants, upon the arrival of the King’s
officers among them. They even carried some of them upon their Shoulders
about the Streets, and behaved in all respects, Women as well as Men, like
overjoyed Bedlamites. One thing is worth remarking; a Woman pulled
down the Rebel Standard upon the Fort, and a Woman hoisted up in its
Stead His Majesty’s Flat, after trampling the other under Foot with the
most contemptuous Indignation. I first espied both Circumstances from the
Ship, and could not help paying the first Congratulations to Lord H [owe] .
upon the Occasion. The Spirit and Activity of the Troops 8c Seamen were
unequalled: Every man pressed to be foremost, consistent with Order, and
to court Distinction. The dastardly Behaviour of the Rebels, on the other
Hand; sinks below Remark. The Ground, where our People landed, was far
from being advantageous; the Tide rapid; the Current unequal; the Shore
shallow; and themselves obliged to march up on Ground, where these Pol-
troons had been at Work to entrench themselves for several months. Provi-
dentially, the Wind coming in with a fine Breeze from the S.W., wch it had
not done before since we have been here, and wch was the most favorable
844
AMERICAN THEATRE
Circumstance our People could have desired, enabled the Boats to carry
over the Forces almost in a Direct Line, and return in like manner for the
second Division, notwithstanding the Rapidity of the Current. Thus this
Town and its Environs, wch these blustering Gentlemen had taken such
wonderful Pains to fortify, were given up in two or three Hours without
any Defence, or the least appearance of a manly Resistance.
In the Evening the Admiral [Howe] ordered up the Mercury of 24,
and the Fowey of 20 Guns, to lie close to the Town, to prevent the Trans-
port Boats from going on Shore 8c plundering, wch many of them appeared
very ready to do.
1. Tatum, ed., Serle’s Journal, 103-05.
Journal of H.M.S. Pearl , Captain Thomas Wilkinson1
September 1776 Moor’d in [New] York Harbour
Saturday 14 AM washed Decks, at 11 our Sigl was made for a petty
Officer.
Modte 8c fair Weatr Employed clearing Ship for Ac-
tion.
Sunday 15 at 3 A M. unmoor’d, At 7 weighd and made sail in Com-
pany wth his Majs Ships Renown , Repulse, and Trial
Schooner. At 8 abreast of New York Town, Receiv’d a
smart Canonading from the Town 8c Paulers hook, which
we return’d. At 14 past 9 Anchor’d in 7 fm water mid-
Channel li/2 mile below Bulls ferry and veer’d to 1/2 a
Cable on the small Br reed a smart Firing of Musketry,
which we returned.
Fresh Breezes & fair Weather. At 3 P M. was Alarm’d by
our Guard Boat, on the sudden approach of four Fire
Ships, which obliged us to Cut our small Br Cable and
drop lower down. Anchor’d with the Bt Br in 6 fm
water. At 4 Weigh’d and turn’d in shore 8c Anchor’d in
5 fm to avoid them. Two of the Fire Ships were tow’d
on Shore, by the Boats, and the other two drove on
shore. At 5 the Renown Cut and run down to the Fleet
with the Schooner in Company At i/2 past 8 Weigh’d
and worked up and Anchor’d with the Bt Bower, got the
end of the small Bower Cable in. Weigh’d the Bt Br and
spliced the small Do
1. PRO, Admiralty 51/674.
Diary of Samuel Richards1
[New York, September 14 and 15]
On the evening of the 14th the greatest part of the troops marched out
and took post on the bank of the East river just below Kip’s Bay — about
SEPTEMBER 1776
845
three miles from the city. Myself being one of the body — we were posted
behind a slight entrenchment recently thrown up, opposite and near which
lay five ships, on the 15th as the morning advanced we saw the road oppo-
site to us — the sound not being two miles wide at that place — filled with
a dense column of the enemy moving down to the waters edge and embark-
ing on board flat boats, knowing their object we prepared to receive them.
As soon as they began their approach — the ships opened a tremendous
fire upon us. the column of boats on leaving the shore proceeded directly to-
wards us; when arriving about half way across the sound they turned their
course and proceeded to Kip’s bay — about three quarters of a mile above
us — where they landed: their landing there being unexpected they met
with no opposition: the firing from the ships being continued — our slight
embankment being hastily thrown up — was fast tumbling away by the ene-
my’s shott. Our troops left their post in disorder, and before being rallied
the enemy had completely formed in the road on the adjoining hill, our reg-
iment with some others being ordered on the Bloomingdale road and to
march towards Kingsbridge
1. Captain Richards’ Diary, 37-38.
Memoirs of Major General William Heath1
[New York, September] 15th - About noon, the British landed at Kepp’s
Bay. They met with but small resistance, and pushed towards the city, of
which they took possession in the afternoon. They availed themselves of
some cannon and stores; but their booty was not very great. Here the
Americans, we are sorry to say, did not behave well; and here it was, as
fame hath said, that Gen. Washington threw his hat on the ground, and ex-
claimed, “Are these the men with which I am to defend America?’’ But sev-
eral things may have weight here; — the wounds received on Long-Island
were yet bleeding; and the officers, if not the men, knew that the city was
not to be defended. Maj. [John] Chapman was killed, and Brig. Maj. [John
P.] Wyllys was taken prisoner. A few others were killed, wounded, and
taken prisoners. The Americans retreated up the island; and some few, who
could not get out of the city that way, escaped in boats over to Paulus
Hook, across the river. The house in the fort at Horn’s Hook, was set on fire
by a shell, and burnt down. The fort was afterwards abandoned.
1. Abbatt, ed., Heath Memoirs, 52.
Journal of H.M.S. Eagle , Captain Henry Duncan1
Septr 1776 Moored off Bedlows Island
Sunday 15th \/2 past 6 AM made the Signals for the Renown, Repulse 8c
Pearle to Weigh, which Ships Weighed 8c made Sail up the
No River, At 10 Minutes after 7 the Batteries on New York
Island began to play on them 8c soon after the Batteries on
Paulers hook both which they returned, the firing continued
846
AMERICAN THEATRE
until a Quarter of an hour after 8 At i/2 past they Anchored
up the No River, at 10 the Renown hoisted a Dutch Flag
at the Foretopgallt mast head which we Answd with a Dutch
Flag at the Foretopgallt mast head At Noon saw much
Smoak & heard a very heavy, fireing at New York.
The first 8c Middle parts fresh Breezes & fair, the latter light
airs
At 6 made the Parole Sigl with a Blue 8c White Striped Pen-
dant made the Asias Signal for a Petty Officer At 6 the
Fowey and Mercury got under way and Anchd close to New
York At 12 the Flat Boats returned from the East River
1. NMM, Admiralty L/E/1L
Journal of Captain Henry Duncan, R.N.1
[On board H. M. S. Eagle , off New York City]
15th September, Sunday. - Between six and seven this morning,
made the signal for the Renown, Repulse, and Pearl to get under way,
which signal they immediately obeyed. About seven o’clock, or a little after,
the batteries in the town and all along that shore began to fire, as well as
that at Paulus Hook; the ships returned the fire very smartly, and pro-
ceeded up the North River six or eight miles and anchored in our sight
under the high land of Holbeck. At the time they got under way the trans-
port that ran on shore last night got under way, and run up the East River,
scarcely noticed, as the rebels’ attention was so much taken up with the
men-of-war. When the ships of war anchored, and for some time before,
there were no guns fired at them. A little after eleven a most furious can-
nonade was heard up the East River. It appeared from our mastheads to be
from the men-of-war. It continued about an hour. The admiral went on
shore, and returned about two o’clock, and informed us of our army being
on York Island. They landed in Kipp’s Bay, about three miles above the
town up the East River, under the cannon of the ships. Soon after dinner I
went in a boat and pulled towards York. A flag of truce was hoisted in the
town when I put off from the ship, but was hauled down soon after I put off.
On approaching the town there appeared to be a rabble on the walls. Or-
dered the boat to push on shore. At the landing-place I was met by the mob,
who gave me three cheers, took me on their shoulders, carried me to the
Governor’s Fort, put me under the English colours now hoisted, and again
gave me three cheers, which they frequently repeated, men, women, and
children shaking me by the hand, and giving me their blessing, and crying
out “God save the King!’’ They carried me to my boat, and we parted with
cheering and my promising to send them some troops. The Fowey and Mer-
cury went close to the town.
1. Duncan’s Journals , XX, 127-28.
■ * ' '
British Troops Landing at Kips Bay, New York, September 15, 1776.
848
AMERICAN THEATRE
Diary of Frederick Mackenzie 1
[New York] 15th Septr Early this morning the five ships of War, vizt,
The Renown 2 44 Guns, Phoenix 44, Arpheus 28, [ Carysfort ] 28, and Rose
of 20, took their Stations along the shore of New York Island, from Kipps s
bay near Turtle bay on the right, to the point behind Mr John Watts s house
on the left, and about 200 yards from it. They anchored with their broad-
sides to the shore.
About 10 o’Clock the flatboats began to row from the mouth of New-
town Creek, and assembled aStern of the 6 transports at Bushwick point, in
four Divisions. During this time The Guards embarked in flatboats which
were prepared for their reception. The whole when assembled, amounted to
about 30 flatboats with troops, besides several Launches and other Craft,
with some Light Artillery, Mantelets, Intrenching tools, Ammunition, &c.
&c.
A little before 11, upon a signal given, the five Ships of War opened
their fire upon the Entrenchments, on the shore, and the adjoining woods.
This fire was continued until the Boats began to move, and the troops to
land. Very few of the Rebels showed themselves, and those only in the most
secure places.
The Rebels, who judged from what they saw of the movement of the
Boats and Ships, that the troops would land at Turtle bay, observing the
boats row from Newtown Creek, and assemble at Bushwick point, immedi-
ately conceived they were going to land on the flat grounds near the town,
and therefore marched several Battalions with their Colours flying into
their line and works on that side, and made every appearance of an obsti-
nate defence; but they were deceived, for as the wind and tide set strongly
up the River, the boats were under the necessity of assembling at Bushwick
point, in order to be able to fetch the intended place of landing, which was
Kipps bay.
At 12 o’Clock, everything being ready, the boats put off from Bushwick
point, . . . They rowed over in 4 Divisions. This was a grand, and most in-
teresting sight. The boats started off in four Columns, and passing under
Cover of the Ships, which continued their fire, reached Kipp’s bay, to the
right of the Ships, in about half an hour, and immediately landed there,
without firing or receiving a Shot. Parties were instantly sent forward, who
took possession of the ground in front and flanks. As soon as the troops
were formed, they advanced to Murray’s hill, (or Ingleberg) an advanta-
geous piece of ground about 3i/£ miles on the great Road from New York to
Kingsbridge.
A considerable body of the Rebels finding they were likely to be cutoff
from Kingsbridge as soon as the Army landed, made the best of their way
to New York, and crossed the River to Paulus hook, in great confusion.
Some were drowned in attempting to pass on rafts. Had our ships been able
to anchor in that part of the River they would have been prevented. An-
other body of them, as soon as they found the troops had landed, made di-
SEPTEMBER 1776
849
rectly across the Island to the North River shore, and marching along,
made their escape before General Howe could intercept them.
1. Mackenzie’s Diary, I, 46, 47-48, 50.
2. The Roebuck; not the Renown.
Journal of H.M.S. Carysfort , Captain Robert Fanshaw1
Septr 1776. Att Single Anchor off Bushwick Creek East River
Sunday 15th At 5 AM Weighed 8c run over to Reps’s Bay, New York Isld
8c let go the Stern Anchor in 18 fam about 2 Cables length
from the Enemy’s Trenches, Do Veerd away 8c let go the
Bt Br in 5 fam 8c moord head 8c Stern \/2 Cable each way
NNE 8c SSW Do Run our Stream Anchor out a breast to
the Etward, to get the Guns to bear on different parts of
their Trenches - At 7 Our Troops on Long Island began
to move in the Flatt bottom Boats - Ati/2 past 9 Seeing the
Rebels getting into their Trenches the Phoenix began to
fire, as did the Orpheus , Roebuck 8c Rose, they being all
moor’d in a line a head of us, at the distance of a Cables
length from each other, After firing several Broadsides
right a Shore, we hauld in the Stream Cable, and brought
our Guns to bear on their Trenches on our Quarter,
w[h]ere a great Number of the Rebels was assembled, on
which they run off into the Woods - At i/2 past 10 left
of [f] fireing, our Troops being Landed 8c Formed, Do
found we fired 20 broadsides in the Space of an hour, with
Double headed, round 8c Grape Shott, Do the J ibb was
Sett on fire by accident, Several Gun Tackles 8c One Axle-
tree broke, At 11 Unmoor’d Ship, the Rebels having left
their Trenches, Do lost part of a Hawser which was for a
Spring, several Wood and leather Buckets, Do Stove 2
Barrels 8c one Hh’d, to supply the Men wth Fresh water 8c
Cutt one Puncheon for Match Tubbs
Fresh Breezes 8c Cloudy wth Rain - At 5 PM Weighed 8c
came to Sail. Do anchor’d a breast of Bushwyck Creek as
before in Company with the above Ships in 9 fam water.
1. PRO, Admiralty 51/168.
John Mitchell, Jr. to Alexander Mitchell1
St Augustine 15th Septr 1776
. . . about the latter end of June We were Oblig’d to leave Gwyns
Island, the night after We left it it Blew Very hard by which A great
many of the Vessels lost the[ir] Anchors 8c Cables, Some Vessels were
lost, 8c some drove ashore, next day the remainder got into Potowmack,
where Lord Dunmore took Possession of A Small Island on the Maryland
850
AMERICAN THEATRE
side, Call’d St Georges, But there was not Sufficient water in the Island for
the whole Fleet, the Roebuck the Dunmore Sc 2 Transports were Sent up
the River for fresh water for the Fleet after they Came down the Fleet
had Orders to get in readiness to go to Sea, about thirty Vessels were
Burnt that were found incapable to proceed on the 4th of August the
Otter man of War with about thirty Vessels under her Convoy left Virginia,
fifteen of which were Bound to Bermudas Sc the West Indies Sc fifteen for
this place, of them that were Bound to this place none But two Vessels be-
longing to Mr Mitchell 8c the Otter & her tender have as yet arrived, Both
Mr Mitchells Vessels got aground upon the Bar one of them got of [f]
with very little damage the Other which I was in Bilg’d Sc damaged a
great part of her Cargo however he expects to get her repair’d -
... a Vessel that arrived here a few days ago from Savanah in Geor-
gia Brings advice that General Washington was kill’d at New York, how-
ever this wants confirmation, & I am affraid is too Good news to be
true . . .
To Mr Alexander Mitchell
of Halglenmeere in Shire of Air near Cumnock
1. Brown Book, IX, Md. Arch. An intercepted letter.
‘‘A Journiel Kept By Ephraim Briggs On board of the Good
Sloop Warren A Bold Privateer From Dartmouth
to the Lattd. of 33:” 1
Sunday September the 15 Day AD 1776
Latter Part Sunday Morning Six A Clock saw two [Sails] breasing
South From Us the wind at N. Run for them spoke with them
Prov’d to Be two Privateers Belonging to the Continent In New
Lon [d] on Been out three weeks Lattd In 35:56: Capt Harden in
A Brig2
1. rihs.
2. Captain Seth Harding in the Connecticut state brig Defence.
16 Sept.
Petition of William Barret to the Massachusetts Council 1
The Petition of William Barret, an African
Humbly Sheweth
That your Petitioner, being on board the Ship Anna Maria, com-
manded by Capt William Pringle, bound from Barbadoes to London, was
taken by the private Sloop of War Revenge commanded by Capt Joseph
White, and brought into Salem, in this State.
That your Petitioner from various circumstances necessarily arising
from his present situation, is unable to earn his living here —
SEPTEMBER 1776
851
Your Petitioner therefore Humbly Prays, that your Honors would be
pleased to grant him permission to go for Great Britain, in the Ship, lately
purchased by Messrs Ross 8c Morgan. And your Petitioner as in duty bound
shall ever Pray.
his
Willm X Barret
Mark
Salem September 16th 1776
[Endorsed] In Council [Watertown] Sept 17 [th] 1776 Read 8c Ordered
that the Prayer of the Petition be granted and the Said Willm Barret be
permitted to depart from this State to any Part of Great Brittain in such
Vessell as Messrs Willm Ross and Nathl Morgan, who lately obtained Lib-
erty from this Board to depart, may purchase for that Purpose
John Avery Dpy Secy
1. Mass. Arch., vol. 165, 236.
Report of Committee of the Massachusetts General Court 1
furthermore your Comtee having taking into Consideration Mr Fran-
cis Shaw[s] Letter: find in one Paragraft of sd Letter a Complaint, wherein
he saith that the Schooner2 People Complain of not being paid for Past
Services, And Affraid it might be the Same for this Trip; therefore he was
obliged to promis them that theire Musterrole would be paid Immediately
on there Return - Hoping that this Honorable Court would Inable him to
make good his promis to them your Comtee therefore are of Opinion that
as soon as Mr Shaw Shall produce his Musterrole of there Services to This
Court: he may Receive out of the Publick Treasure So much as may be
found Justly due on the Role Legally presented to Court for Allowance: for
the said Sloop people: he giving Rect for the Money he may Receive for
them
And as there is a Complaint against one O briant [Jeremiah O’Brien]
in sundry of the Letters before Mentioned, your Comtee being informed that
a Complaint of the Same Nature; if not the Same: is Soon to be heard before
this Honorable Court: we make no Report thereon and whereas in Sundry of
the before Mentioned Letters an Information is Given of one or More Min-
isterial Tenders are Infesting our Sea Coasts So that it is daingerous for
our Coasters sailing
Your Comtee are of opinion that the Consideration of so Important a
Matter ought to be Considered [by] the whole Court and not so small a
Comtee
Eldad Taylor pr ordr
[Endorsed] In Council Sept 16t 1776
1. Mass. Arch., vol. 210, 337, 338.
2. The Massachusetts state schooner Diligent.
852
AMERICAN THEATRE
Boston Gazette , Monday, September 16, 1776
Watertown, September 16.
Last Sunday se’nnight was taken and carried into Gouldsborough, by
two small boats, a brig from Ireland bound for Halifax, laden with beef,
butter 8cc. She parted company with 12 other provision vessels the day on
which she was taken, all bound for the above port.
List of Prizes lately taken and carried into the West Indies, by some of
the Ministerial Pirates.
The Brigantine Hester , John Marshall, Master, belonging to New
York, was taken on the Coast of Africa the 12th of May, 1776, and carried
into Antigua by the Sloop Weasel , Samuel Warren, Commander, the 12th of
June. Her Cargo consisted of Ivory, Wax, Dry Goods and Wood.
The Brig Duff, Captain Knapp, from Guadaloup, bound to Newfound-
land, with Rum, Sugar and Molasses, was carried into Bassaterre Road the
3d of May by the Pomona Sloop of War, Capt. [Thomas] Eastwood.
May 8. Brig Hero, Capt. Jones, from Saba, in Stone Ballast, taken off
Eustatia, by the Pomona, arrived at St. Kitts this Day.
l[0]th. The Sloop Two Brothers, Sanford Thompson, Master, from
Ocricock for St. Croix, with White Oak Staves and Heading, taken by the
Pomona, arrived at St. Kitts this Day.
June 19. The Sloop Fanny, Capt. Worth, from the Coast of Braziletto,
bound to St. Eustatia, laden with Spermacti Oyl, Sec. arrived at St. Kitts. She
was taken by the Pomona.
20th. The Sloop Prince of Orange, Eber Waterous, Master, from Guad-
aloupe, laden with Sulphur and a small Quantity of Powder, taken by the
Pomona, and sent up to Antigua.
23d. The Brig Regicohus, Captain Booker, from St. Eustatia bound to
Amsterdam laden with Sugar and Coffee; but it is imagined she has a
Quantity of Powder and Warlike Stores in Sugar Casks, taken off St. Eu-
statia by the Pomona, arrived at St. Kitts this Day.
Taken by the Portland, Thos. Dumaresque, Esq; Commander, two Days
after he left the Fleet he was Convoy for; and carried into Antigua, the
Sloop Salley, of 90 Tons, Giles Buckingham, Master, from Philadelphia
bound to St. Croix, taken in Latt. 24:00 North, Long. 62° 30 West. Her
Cargo consists of 650 Barrels of Flour, 300 Kegs of white Biscuit, a few
Barrels of Beef and Pork, a great Quantity of Staves and Heading; also a
new four Wheel’d Waggon with Iron Axeltrees, Brass Bushess for the
Wheels, and Harness compleat.
Two Days after was taken by the Portland’s Tender, and carried into
Antigua the Brig Resolution, of 250 Tons, Robert Stacy, Master, from Pis-
cataqua bound to Martinico, laden with Lumber. When she was taken she
was within Musket Shot of Port Royal Harbour.
July 17. The Schooner Fox, Buckmaster, from New Lon-
don for Curraco, taken by the Seaford, Capt [John] Col[poys], arrived at
St Kitts this Day.
SEPTEMBER 1776
853
Also the Brig Betsey , Dresser, Master, from N. Carolina
for St. Eustatia, laden with Lumber, taken by the Pomona.
19th. The Sloop Maria , Capt. Gurley, from St. Croix for St. Eustatia,
her Cargo consists of 21 H [hds.] Rum, taken by the Pomona.
A Sloop from New London, with Oxen, Horses and Lumber, taken by
the [Pomona], sent into Tortola.
And the Sloop Capt. Butterfield, from St. Eustatia for Ber-
muda, laden with Rum, taken by the Pomona.
The Firing heard last Saturday morning was occasioned by the safe
Arrival of a fine Prize Ship of 300 Tons at Cape Ann. The Contents of her
Cargo at present unknown to us.
John Bradford to John Hancock1
[Extract] Boston 16th Sepr 1776
I am under the disagreeable necessity of representing the Base conduct
of Capt Daniel Waters in the Armed schooner Lee , who has lost two months
meerly from an Obstinate perverse temper, he Arrived here from a Cruise
Abot the last of June. I paid the vessell off, the portledge bill Amounted to
£ 44 5. .6. . he was the best Officer’d and mann’d of any vessel in the Serv-
ice; his first Leiutenant’s time being up for wch he had engag’d he left
him. his second chose to remain in the Service, and his Abilities are al-
low’d (even by Waters) to be equal to any man in the like Station in the
Service and greatly esteem’d by all the men, yet Waters discharged him
from the Service Contrary to my Advice, under the pretext that he refus’d
to go under a first who had never been in the Service and a man who is the
greatest part of his time lay’d up with the Gout; his people all told him if
the 2nd Remain’d they wou’d go, But he has been from that time the first
July till about ten days ago no farther from Boston than Squam, its now a
week since his 2nd Lieut wch he discharged sent into plimouth a West India
man, for he was immediately put in Command of a privateer on his
discharge,2 Finally when Waters had got mann’d, he wou’d not Consort
with the Warren who waited for him tho I endeavour’d to point out the util-
ity of two going together; he told me he shou’d not look on himself under
any Obligation to consult with me. he shou’d go where and when he pleas’d,
unless Gen Washington Or an Officer of his Appointing shou’d give him or-
ders. then he shou’d hold himself bound. I have Just given you a Scetch of
his Conduct Sir as I thought it my indispensable duty to do for I humbly
presume if Conduct like his passes with impunity the little Navy will
rather be a Clog than a Service to the public, you will see by the papers
from time to time that we are Successfull in the privateer way. I wish our
little navy was more so, the Hancock and Franklin arrived some time since
with all their Sp[a]rs defective and we’ve meet some little detention in get-
ting others but they are now ready and sail today the Lynch 8c Lee are on
a Cruise, poor [William] Burke in the Warren taken by the Liverpool. . . .
1. Walter Fuller Don Collection, SI.
854
AMERICAN THEATRE
2. This was John Gill in the Massachusetts privateer schooner Independence. On September 7
he sent into Plymouth a prize brig bound from Antigua to London with a cargo in-
cluding rum, sugar and pimento. Mass. Arch., vol. 6, 128 and N ew- England Chxonicle,
September 12, 1776.
Clarke & Nightingale to the President of the New York
Provincial Congress 1
Sir — Providence, Sept. 16th, 1776.
Last week we received a letter from Capt. William Rogers, commander
of the sloop Montgomery in the service of your State, requesting us to un-
dertake the agency and act in behalf of the State and himself, in libeling
one brig which was returning from a whaling voyage, with about three
hundred barrels of oil, and had been taken by the English, carried into
New-York, and acquitted by them, and afterwards taken by Captain Rogers
in company with the privateers Schuyler and Mifflin, and sent in here. The
Commodore and Continental agent, in behalf of the other two privateers
(which are fitted out by the Continent) gave the brig up, as there were no
papers appeared by which they could condemn her, and they produced a cer-
tificate, a copy of which you have enclosed, of their permission to sail at the
time they did. As matters were thus circumstanced, we imagined it would be
in vain to libel her when the others who were two-thirds concerned saw no
prospect of condemning her, and after consulting with the prize master, we
declined prosecuting. The other is a Bermudian sloop which was taken with
entrenching tools on board; the tools are taken out and were sent to General
Washington, and they put a quantity of flour on board from some other of
their prizes. She is libelled and will be tried the first of October next, and as
there is no claimer she will of course be condemned. We shall now wait your
orders in what manner to proceed, as she was taken in company with the
abovementioned privateers, and shall be glad to hear from you as soon as
possible. We are in the meantime with due respect, sir [&c.]
Clark & Nig[h] tingale
P.S. Enclosed with the certificate you have the affair of the brig stated
by the lawyer.
[Enclosure]
[The case of the Brigantine Temple .]
It appears by her papers that she was owned by Wm. Rotch of Nan-
tucket, and cleared out there on a whaling voyage, the 26th May, 1775, in
common form, but did not sail till the last of October following.
After her clearing and before her sailing, to wit: in the month of Au-
gust, the following resolve was passed in the House of Representatives of
the Massachusetts Bay, and concurred with by the Council:
That from and after the fifteenth day of this instant, August,
no ship or vessel shall sail out of any port of this Colony on any
whaling voyage whatever, without leave first had from the great
and general court of this Colony, or from some committee or com-
mittees, or persons they shall appoint to grant such leave.
SEPTEMBER 1776
855
The brig sailed from Nantucket under the command of Joshua Morris
some time the last of October, for the coast of Brazil, on a whaling voyage.
And upon her passage home, having about three hundred barrels of oil on
board, she was taken by a British man of war and carried into Sandy Hook,
and after being detained a few days was dismissed with a pass from Admi-
ral Howe to proceed to Nantucket. Soon after she left the Hook, to wit, on
the 20th of August, 1776, she was taken by the Continental sloops of war
called the Mifflin and the Schuyler , and by the sloop Montgomery fitted out
by the State of New-York, and carried into a harbour on the south side of
Long island, where she lay till the British troops got possession of Long is-
land, when the captors sent her into this port to be libelled.
At the time of capture she had on board no certificate that she had ob-
tained leave to go on a whaling voyage. Since her arrival here her owner
from Nantucket has sent the following certificate, to wit:
Treasurey office, Sept. 28th, 1775.
I hereby certify that Wm. Rotch hath given bond according to the
direction of the General Assembly of this Colony, in order to send
on a whaling voyage the brig Temple, Joshua Morris, master.
Henry Gardner, Treas.
Quere. Whether it is advisable to libel the brig or not?
1. New York Provincial Congress , II, 216.
Newport Mercury, Monday, September 16, 1776
Newport, Sept. 16.
The Continental Cruiser, Andrew Doria, Capt. Nicholas Biddle, has
taken 4 Prizes since he last sailed, viz. 1 large ship with near 15,000 bushels
of wheat, which the Negro-catcher, Dunmore, loaded at Virginia and or-
dered for Halifax; a brig from Dunmore’s fleet bound to the West-Indies,
with a number of tories, and their household furniture, out of which he took
some of the most valuable articles, and 7 Negroes, and let go; 2 brigs from
the West Indies, loaded with rum and sugar; the 2 latter are safe arrived in
a neighbouring port, and the ship is hourly expected.1
The fore part of last week, the Cerberus frigate retook a prize brig be-
tween Block Island and Norman’s Land; this prize was one of Dunmore’s
motley squadron, bound to Bermudas, with a number of passengers, some
household furniture, and dry goods from Virginia, and was taken by the
Andrew Doria, Capt. Biddle, close in with the Island; the people put on
board to bring her in, made their escape in the boat and landed at Block Is-
land, from whence they came to this place.2
Captain Samson [Simeon Sampson] , in a brig belonging to Plymouth,
has sent a sloop into an eastern port, loaded with rum and cotton, bound for
Halifax.3
Three brigs loaded with rum, sugar and molasses, arrived in some
neighbouring port since our last; and it is said the ship loaded with 1 [7] ,000
856 AMERICAN THEATRE
bushels of wheat taken by the Andrew Doria, is arrived a little way to the
eastward.
Last Tuesday a fine large brig, loaded with about 240 hogsheads of
rum, Sec. went up the east passage; she was taken by the sloop Revenge,
from Swansey, Capt. Samuel Dunn, who was reported to have been taken.4
1. Ship Molly, brig Maria and brigantines Elizabeth and Lawrence.
2. Brig Peggy. #
3. The Massachusetts state brig Independence. Her prize was the brigantine Nabby.
4. Brigantine Ann.
Appointment of Prize Agents for the Rhode Island
Privateer Sloop Lady Washington1
Know all Men by these Presents, That we the Commander, Officers and Men
belonging to the Private Sloop of Warr, called the Lady Washington, bound
on a Cruise against the Enemies of the United States of America, viz.
James Godfrey commander, Henry Weeden first Lieutenant, Daniel Servat
2nd Lieutt Thomas Cotteril master.
do constitute and appoint William Vernon and Benjn Sayer, both of the
State of Rhode Island 8c Providence Plantations, Merchants, our Lawful
Agents 8c Attorneys, for us and in our Names and to our Use, to Ask, Sue
for, and recover 8c receive, of all 8c every Person or Persons, all Prizes and
Shares of Prizes, Moneys, Goods Merchandizes 8cc 8cc, that shall or may be
Taken during the whole Cruise, Granting unto our said Agents 8c Attor-
neys, in all Causes moved or to be moved for or against us, in our Names to
appear Plead 8c Pursue to final Judgment and Execution [illegible Latin
phrase crossed out] as Witness our hands 8c Seals this 16 day of Septem-
ber in the Year of our Lord 1776. the line [e] rased Out is unknown to
the Subscribers2
Jas Godfrey
Henry Pr [ou]d
Eleazer Senior
Henry Weeden
Silas Ligerwood
Jeremiah Simmons
D Servat
John Brothers
Reuben Hart
Thos Cottrell
Silas Turner
George White
John Turner Jur
Samuel X underwood
Seth melville
Donnelly V [ia] 11
mark
William Harrison
August Newman
Seth Godfrey
Benjamin Stephens
Edward Davis
Eza Trowbridge
Job David junr
Godfree Manchester
Weeden Cardscross
Joseph Jeffries
Natha1 Williams
William Ryder
Daniel Smith
Jeh1 Hardy
Jonathan Gibbs
William Brown
Sumner Smith
Joseph Rider
John Smith
Nathaniel Mercer
Benjamin Hart
Benjamin Johnson
his
Ebenezer Bishop
Josias Hall
Nathan X Cooper
Enos Gibbs
John Brewer
mark
Caleb Jenks
Thomas Dring
Thos Foster
Peleg Chapman
Benedict Lewis
SEPTEMBER 1776
857
Hunbeck Huddy
Nathaniel Brownell
Pitre Martin
Job Smith Junr
Henry Young
his
Jeremiah X Whaley
mark
George Ma[cum]ber
David L[ong]
William Haliday
Norton Russell
Philip Harges
Williard Briggs
Robert [Thom] as
1. NHS.
2. This sentence is in the handwriting of Captain Godfrey who apparently placed no trust in
Latin phrases.
Connecticut Courant , Monday, September 16, 1776
Hartford, September 16.
The following Prisoners are still confined in one room at Elalifax,
among felons, thieves, robbers, negroes, soldiers, 8cc. which we here publish
for the satisfaction of their anxious friends.
James Lovil [Lovell] & Rich. Carpenter of Boston.
Consider Howland, master, and Jacob Taylor, mate of the Privateer
Brig Washington.1
Bigelow, Kemp, Peak and Sessions, Bunker-Hill.
Corporal Cruise and Corneliu[s] Turner, Rifle Men.
David Wells, Dorchester Neck.
Capt. Francis Proctor, of Philadelphia.2
Corporal Jeremiah Low, of Fredericksburg.
Col. Ethan Allen, of Bennington.
John Gray, Arlington.
Barnabas Castle, Saratoga.
Preston Danton, Stillwater.
1. See Volumes 2 and 3.
2. See Volume 4.
Brigadier General Benedict Arnold to Major General Horatio Gates 1
Dear General, Isle La Motte September 16th 1776
The hard Gale of Wind yesterday prevented, my sending back Ensign
[Clemens] Botsford. This Morning at one OClock Antoine Geroure [Gi-
rard] whom I mentioned to have sent to St Johns returned, and gave the
following Account vizt. That at Isle aux Noix there are three thousand
Troops encamped, and forty Pieces of Cannon Mounted on their Lines, at
St Johns are three Thousand Men, one hundred & fifty Batteaux, and he
was told by a Frenchman two hundred Batteaux were at Chamblee and a
Party of Men sent down tofetch them up that two Schooners were corn-
pleated and Maned, one mounting Twelve and the other fourteen Brass
twelve Pounders the small Vessels on the Stocks to carry three Guns each
One Gondola taken from us and three new ones Built there to mount three
Guns each, a Number of flatbottomed Boats and Batteaus to carry one Gun
each and a Floating Battery, with two Masts nearly done to carry twenty
858
AMERICAN THEATRE
four eighteen Pounders, and two Mortars, he imagines the whole will be
compleated in a Fortnight, he has brought a Pass from the Isle aux Noix,
from which and the Distance he had to go the bad Weather and Time he has
been gone, I believe he has been no farther than the Isle aux Noix, and that
he has been enjoined by the Officer there to give the foregoing
Account, had not they been convinced he was in their Interest, I dont im-
agine they would have suffered him to return, he formerly lived with Met-
calf whom he says is gone to St Johns, now remains at a French House op-
posite the Isle aux Motte where Serjeant [Thomas] Day, says a Number of
Deserters were lately taken, betrayed to the Indians, by the Frenchman, I
have every Reason to think him placed as a Spy on us I have therefore
sent him to you tobe disposed of as you may think Proper.2 I had promised
him Fifty Dollars provided he procured an exact Account of the Strength of
the Enemy, agreeable to the Accounts I received from others, from the
Accot of the two Men who have viewed the Isle aux Noix, one of whom I
nowsend,3 the Accounts of this Frenchman must be False and a Story
formed for him by some of the English Officers.
I have heard nothing of Lieutenant [Benjamin] Whitcomb or Ensign
[Thomas] MCoy4 and am very apprehensive for their Safety as the Woods
is full of Indians. — I am Respectfully Dear General [8cc.]
B: Arnold
1. Gates Papers, Box 4, NYHS.
2. When Arnold employed Girard, he was unaware that the Frenchman had earlier been
suspected of being a British spy. Girard was interrogated at Ticonderoga on Sep-
tember 20. Two days later Gates sent him on to General Schuyler at Albany. Papers
CC (Letters of Major General Philip Schuyler) , 153, II, 392-97, NA.
3. See next entry.
4. McCoy was taken prisoner October 1, 1776.
Examination of Sergeant Eli Stiles1
The Examination of Serjt Stiles sent from the Fleet with Ensign
McCoy to reconnoitre Sept 6th: 1776
[On board the Royal Savage ]
Sept. 16th Says that on the 9th Inst: he saw all the Tents on Isle aux Noix
and counted them about one hundred and believes there is about one thou-
sand Men there — the 12th arrived opposite St John’s where were a large
Number Tents which could not well be counted, he imagines about three
hundred when there he counted 34 large Birch Canoes paddle by him to-
wards Isle au Noix supposed they contained about six hundred Indians &
one regular officer — Saw a Schooner at St John’s mounting 12 Iron Guns,
suppose six pounders another Schooner lay at the Wharf with a F. Sail
bent which he supposes was not compleated and believes she mounted not
more than 12 Guns one other vessel on the Stocks was planked to her
Wales She appeared built in the common Form and something larger than
the other two Two small Gondalos were at the Wharf, but saw Nothing of
any Rideau or Floating Batteries and believes there was none Their Bat-
SEPTEMBER 1776
859
teaus appear twice as large as ours and carried fifty or sixty Men one of which
row’d near by him — Left St John’s the 12th in Company with Ensign McCoy
& parted with him on the 15th at 10 A. M. opposite Hospital Island, where
are about 20 Tents
Eli Stiles
1. Papers CC (Letters of Major General Philip Schuyler) , 153, II, 413-14, NA.
Journal of H.M.S. Eagle , Captain Henry Duncan1
Sepr 1776 Moored off of Bedlows Island
Monday 16th 14 past 3 AM Saw the appearance of a fire Vessel driving
down the No River with the Ebb, heared the Report of Sev-
eral Guns to the No Wd At i/9 past Saw a Second fire Vessel
on fire in the No River and soon after a third At 34 past 5
the Renown Anchor’d here At 7 made the Signal for Petty
Officers from the Renown & Greyhound
At 10 Sent the Flat Boats on shore to be hauled up
The First 8c Middle parts fresh Breezes 8c fair, latter Modr
Breezes 8c Cloudy
At 5 PM made the Signal for all Lieuts
At 6 hoisted a Blue Red 8c White Pendant the Parole
Signal 1/2 past 9 heared 3 Guns fired from the WNW Sent
a Boat to know the cause, found the Chatham had ran a
Ground upon Robin’s Reef sent the Master to assist in
getting her off
1. NMM, Admiralty L/E/ll.
Journal of Captain Henry Duncan, R.N.1
[On board H.M.S. Eagle, off Bedloe’s Island]
16th [September]. - This morning about three o’clock I was called by
the officer of watch, and informed that a fire-vessel was close on board of us.
I immediately run on the forecastle, and perceived that the light was at
some distance from us, and that it approached us but slowly. By daybreak
we perceived them plainly to be four fire-vessels, that had been sent against
the Renown, Repulse and Pearl. These fire-vessels came near the ships, but
by slipping or veering they escaped them. The Renown slipped one cable
and cut another; she made sail with the wind down the river and an ebb
tide, and joined us here off Bedloe’s Island. The two frigates kept their sta-
tions up the river. ... A little after nine at night, three guns were fired as
a signal. It proved to be the Chatham, in coming up here, had got on Robin’s
Reef. Sent the master to her.
1. Duncan’s Journals, XX, 128.
860
AMERICAN THEATRE
Journal of Ambrose Serle1
[On board H.M.S. Eagle ] Monday, 16th. Septr.
This Morning between 3 Sc 4 o’Clock, we were alarmed with three Fire-
ships, which the Rebels sent down, at a Venture, against the three Ships of
War which sailed up the North River yesterday morning. One of them came
very near to the Renown , but, with the other two, was towed off, and left to
consume upon the Shore. The Renown came down this Morning; and, by
her, we understand, that Capt. [Henry] Davis had one man killed Sc two
wounded yesterday, and that the Renown had two Men wounded. The Re-
nown fired among the Rebels yesterday, as they evacuated the Town, Sc ’tis
supposed, as the Ground was open Sc plain cut many of them off in their Re-
treat.
A Party of Marines was sent by the Admiral [Howe] to take Posses-
sion of the Fort, and to hoist the Union Flag upon the Staff. A great Con-
course of People assembled round the Soldiers, and raised His Majesty’s
Colors with loud acclamations, and every possible Demonstration of Joy. In-
deed the Happiness of the Inhabitants upon the Occasion drives them about
like madmen. They carried our officers, at their first Landing, in Chairs or
upon their Shoulders, up and down the Streets. They have felt so much of
real Tyranny, since the New England Sc other Rebels came among them,
that they are at a Loss how to enjoy their Release. The Rebels carried off
their Bells, and many things of Value some Days before their Departure.
1. Tatum, ed„ Serle’s Journal , 105-06.
Journal of H.M.S. Fowey, Captain George Montagu1
Septr 1776
Sunday 15
Monday 16
At Anchor abreast of the Town - [New York]
i/2 past 5 AM. the Admiral made the Signl for the
Renown , Repulse and Pearl to Weigh — do they
Weighed and run up North River a heavy Cannonading
from the Batteries on both Sides the river, which was re-
turned by the Ships — at 1 1 a very heavy fire with Small
Arms over at the Town, which we suppose to be on
Landing of our Troops. -
1/2 past 2 PM. the Rebels struck their Colours at the
Fort in New York - i/2 past 4 English Colours were
hoisted there — fired 4 Nine Pounders at the Merchant
Boats that attempted to Land — at 6 Came on board an
Order from the Admiral to slip the sml Bower —
Do Shipt and hove up the Best — i/2 past 7 Anchd
abreast of Newyork Fort -
1/2 past 5AM the Rebels sent down 4 fire Ships which
drifted a Shore without doing any damage -
1. PRO, Admiralty 51/375.
SEPTEMBER 1776
861
Journal of H.M.S. Renown , Captain Francis Banks1
September 1776 At Single Anchor off Bedlows Island.
Sunday 15th AM i/2 past 6 the Admiral made the Signal to Weigh,
Do Weigh’d 8c came to sail in Company with His
Majestys Ship Repulse , Pearl 8c Tryall Schooner towards
the No River: When I came within Gun Shot, the
Rebels began a brisk fire upon me, from the Town of
new York 8c Paulers Hook, which they continued till I
was past. As soon as I was abrest of the Town 8c Paulers
Hook, began to fire on both sides, Do discharged sev-
eral broadsides, 8c kept a Constant fire at the Rebels, as
long as I could get my Guns to bear - At 10 Anchor’d in
Hudsons River with the small Br in 6 fm water, and
Veer’d to i/2 a Cable, Paulers Hook SWbS, Hoobuck
SWi/^S 8c the Fort at Moons Head NNE. Distce from
both shores about % of a Mile Found the Rebels had
shott away some of my Rigging, 8c Damaged my sails very
much. Do Anchd here the Repulse , Pearl 8c Tryal
Schooner.
First and Latter parts Modte and Cloudy, Middle fresh
gales and Squally.
at 2 PM fir’d several Upper and lower Deck Guns at a
Number of the Rebels which were Retreating past the
Ship, At 3 came onboard several People for protection,
at 11 sent my Barge 8c Cutter wth a Lieut 8c Petty
Officer to row Guard the other Ships sent two boats also;
Monday 16th AM at 3 the Guard boats made the Signl for a Fire
Vessell coming down, which was repeated by the Tryal
Schooner. We soon perceived her to be close onboard the
Repulse , but found she drifted clear of her 8c coming
down on me Cut my small Br Cable, i/4 past 3 finding
the Fire ship clear of me let go the Bt Br 8c Veer’d to a
Cable; Soon after the Guard boats made the Signl for
more Fire Vessells, perceiving Three to be drifting di-
rectly in my Hawse Cut the Bt Br Cable 8c mde
sail, Do made the Signl for the Repulse 8c Pearl to
cut; at 5 past Paulers Hook from wch place the Rebels
kept a Constant fire on me, which Damaged the sails 8c
Rigging a little; When abreast of the Rebels fir’d sev-
eral Broadsides at them. Found the Town of new York
in our possession at 6 came too with the Sheet Anchor
off Bedlows Isld in 9 fms veer’d to % of a Cable New
York NEbN. Bedlows Isld WNW. 8c Goveners Island
NNE distce abt 1 Mile. Empd over hauling our Rigging
sent one of the Pilots onbd the Eagle. -
1. PRO, Admiralty 51/776.
862
AMERICAN THEATRE
Journal of H.M.S. Preston, Captain Samuel Uppleby1
September [1776] [Off Red Hook]
A M heeled & scrub’d both sides between wind and
water.
Ditto [Little wind and rain]
unmoored, the Phoenix Roebuck Orpheus Sc Carys-
fort passed the Town of New York & went up the East
River Anchored here his Maj: Ship Galatea from
England
A M hauled down Commdr Hothams broad Pendant
Sc hoisted Sir Peter Parkers2
Do Wr sailed several Transports up the East river
sent three flat boats to accompany them,
A M his Maj: Ships Renown, Repulse Sc Pearl passed
Paulers hook Sc the Town of New York Sc went up the
No river several shot were fired at them as they
passed which they smartly returned, weighed Sc
dropt farther up Sc heard a very smart Cannonad-
ing] in the East river, soon after the Troops landed
on New York Island, employed in watering.
Ditto weather moored Ship at 4 P M saw English col-
ours hoisted at New York, rowd guard.
3AM heard several Guns fired Sc saw a Fire Ship on
fire coming down the No river, and after saw two
other Fire Ships on fire coming down the stream got
out all the Boats Sc mann’d them the Fireships were
intended to burn the Renown , Repulse and Pearl but
past them & drove onshore without doing any
damage, Anchored here the Renown, sent a party of
Marines onshore to take possession of New York Sc
sent two Flat boats onboard the Repulse.
Little wind Sc cloudy weather our Marines returned
onboard, Admiral made the Signal for all Lieuts
1. PRO, Admiralty 51/720.
2. Ibid., the flags of Commodore Hotham and Sir Peter Parker alternated on the Preston.
Journal of Benjamin Boardman1
[Paulus Hook, September] 16th.
About 2 o’clock this morning, an attempt was made to burn the ships
that passed up the North-River yesterday, and anchored about three miles
above us; one of them (the Renown of 50 guns) was grappled, but broke
her grappling, and came down by us again — another cannonade ensued,
but no damage was received on our side.
1. Connecticut Gazette, October 18, 1776. Boardman was Chaplain, 20th Continental Infantry.
Friday 13
Saturday 14
Sunday 15
Monday 16
SEPTEMBER 1776
863
Journal of H.M.S. Carysfort, Captain Robert Fanshaw1
Septr 1776. Att Single Anchor off Bushwyck Creek [East River]
Monday 16 Do Had the thanks of the General 8c Admiral, which was
read to the Ships Company, for their behaviour yesterday.
1. PRO, Admiralty 51/168.
Minutes of the Pennsylvania Council of Safety1
In Council of Safety,
[Philadelphia] September 16th, 1776.
A Letter was wrote to Commodore Sam’l Mifflin, requesting his speedy
return to this City, to take the Naval Armaments under his care.
An order was drawn on The Marine Committee, for what Arms are
due from Congress to this State, to deliver Mr. Towers.
Resolved, That Mr. [Thomas] Wharton 8c Mr. [John] Bayard be di-
rected to engage and send off as soon as possible, three fast sailing sloops or
schooners, to bring in such articles of Cloathing, Blankets 8c other necessar-
ies, as are wanted for the use of the Troops belonging to this State.
Resolved, That application be made to the [Continental] Board of War
to employ the Marines now in this City, as Guards over the Frigates,
Prison, and Powder belonging to the Continent, 8cca.
1. Pennsylvania Colonial Records , X, 718-20.
Richard Henry Lee to Samuel Purviance, Jr1
Dear Sir, Philadelphia 16th Septr 1776
Since your brother left this City, Mr [John] Nicholson has been con-
firmed first Lieutenant of the Washington, and his worthy brother may be
assured that in settling the rank of the Captains his merit will not be for-
gotten. It is not probable that the Frigates will sail in fleets for some time;
and therefore tis likely that no higher appointment than that of Captain
will soon take place.
It will be highly proper for Captain [James] Nicholson to hasten on
the Virginia (for that is most certainly the name of the Baltimore Frigate)
as much as possible. Her great obstruction, I fear, will be Anchors — How-
ever, we hope that will be removed eer long, as measures have been taken to
pro [cure] them
You will shortly see published the conference of our Members with
Lord Howe on Staten Island, in which you will find that his Lordships much
talked of powers, are no more than to confer 8c converse with Gentlemen of
influence, and to prosecute the war! We anxiously expect here, the issue of a
864
AMERICAN THEATRE
long Cannonade at [New] York, and another lately on Lake Champlain -
I am Sir [&c.]
Richard Henry Lee
Samuel Purveiance junr Esqr
Merchant in Baltimore Maryland
1. Purviance Papers, MdHS.
Application for Commission of Letter of Marque and Reprisal
for the Maryland Sloop Baltimore Hero 1 *
Name and Burthen of the Sloop Baltimore Hero , Together with her Num-
ber of Guns, and Weight of Metal, The Name and Place of Residence of the
Owners, the Name of the Commander and other officers, the Number of the
Crew and her Quantity of Provisions and Warlike Stores. —
The Sloop Baltimore Hero burthen 50 Tuns - 6 Three pound Carriage
guns 6 Swivels and 8 Muskets -
Abraham Vanbibber Robert Hooe Thomas Ringold and John Crockett
Owners of the Province of Maryland Thomas Waters Commander, Wil-
liam Jones 1 Lieutenant John Pine 2d Lieutenant John Sharp Mate and 20
hands Eight Barrels bread and five Barrels Pork and Ten bbls
flour Sixty Pounds wt. of Powder and 20 C wt. of three Pound Ball and
100 wt. of Muskit Ball —
Given under my hand this 16th day of Sept. 1776
Tho8 Waters
1. Papers CC (Ships’ Bonds Required for Letters of Marque and Reprisal) , 196, I, NA.
Journal of the Maryland Council of Safety1
[Annapolis] Monday. Septr 16th 1776
Permit was granted to Wm Thomas Master of the Sloop Hazard to go
to Martinque & dispose of his Cargo, he having given Bond, and lodged a
manifest against the resolve of Convention. -
Ordered That Captain [Samuel] Smith be directed to let Job Green of
The Schooner Two Brothers to proceed on his Voyage, according to Permit
heretofore granted. -
Permit granted to Thomas Waters Master of Sloop Baltimore Hero to
go to Martinique or any other foreign Port, he having given Bond with se-
curity, agreeable to the Resolves of Convention.
1. Council of Safety Journal, 29 August 1775 to 20 March 1777, Md. Arch.
Captain Francis de Monteil to Vice Admiral Clark Gayton 1
On Board the frigate La Renommee
Port Royal Jamaica 16th Septr. 1776
Sir/
I send to your Excellency Monsr. Desfarge de la Voltiere my Second
Lieutenant who will desire you to permit me to have the Honor of seeing
SEPTEMBER 1776
865
you he will first tell you the urgent reason why I left the Mole St Nicholas
in such a hurry where I was engag’d to repair my Ship.
Monsr. de la Voltierre with respect will tell you concerning the matter
that happen’d on the 14th. His Britanick Majestys Ship the Squirrel with a
Sloop Cruizing a head of her, chased a Schooner with great eagerness and
by means of her Oars took her at a Miles distance from the Shore in my
Sight, and in short so close that three Men belonging to the Schooner had
scarce time to reach the Town with their Papers & other Effects.
In vain I endeavored to tow my Frigate [La Renommee ] out but it
being Calm in the Bay and then the Wind coming contrary prevented me
from getting out before the Night had depriv’d me of the sight of His Bri-
tanick Majestys Ships, three different Schooners told me that they were
gone for Jamaica.
I look’d for the Captain of the Squirrel to observe to him (on account
of the good understanding subsisting between the two Courts) that an
officer who commanded a Frigate in the Mole a Month before had given pro-
tection to a Vessel belonging to Jamaica and therefore I have more reason
to complain of Captain [Stair] Douglas’s Lieutenant for so gross a breach
of the Treaties His going away appear’d to me a matter of so much conse-
quence for the Honor of my King that I was determined to come myself to
demand the Schooner, I flatter myself your Excellency will think that ’tis
very natural for the Schooner to avail himself of the Protection afforded
them by our Court, which would be equally the same to any of His Britanick
Majestys Vessels that might require it, and more particularly in a case of
this kind where our Colours were Hoist’d and under our Cannon where all
your Vessels are receiv’d.
To conclude I have the Honor to remit to you the Memoir of my De-
mand of which I have transmitted an exact Copy to the Marine Minister.2
I will express in Person every thing else necessary to Justify the De-
mand that my Situation obliges me to make and I desire you that if the mat-
ter requires any delay to give an answer, at the receipt of this, to Justify
my Conduct to my Master I would return immediately with the Confidence
of your Justice in a matter which so essentially Interests both our Courts
and without presuming you would be displeas’d at its being Communicat’d
to our respective Ministers. I have the honor to be with every Sentiment
of respect Your Excellencys [8cc.]
Signed Le Chevr de Monteil
A Copy
1. PRO, Admiralty 1/240. Enclosed in Gayton to Stephens, October 8, 1776.
2. See Memoir of the Chevalier de Monteil, September 17, 1776.
Captain Thomas Lloyd, R.N., to Vice Admiral Clark Gayton 1
Extract of a Letter from Captain Thomas Lloyd of His Majestys Sloop
Atalanta, dated at Sea the 16th September 1776.
I am sorry to be under the Necessity of laying a Complaint before you
against the Master of the Packet but his Conduct has been such that I can-
866
AMERICAN THEATRE
not look over it, On Monday the 9th September P M, the Packet went a
head, Fird two, 6, Pounders to make her keep her Station, when she came
within Hail I ask’d him why he did not Obey his Instructions, he answer’d
he did all he could & that he would leave me to Morrow; I told him he should
not if I could come up with him, he immediately shot a head, drop’d in our
Hawse & carried away the Spritsail Yard, which you will see by my Journal
on my arrival and last Night about 7 oClock, I made the Signal 8c Tack d, in
order to speak with the Porcupine } he then took that Oppertunity to make
off, and I have not seen him since I am Sir [Sec.]
Thomas Lloyd
A Copy. Clark Gayton
1. PRO, Admiralty 1/240. Enclosed in Gayton to Stephens, October 8, 1776.
Journal of H.M.S. Atalanta, Captain Thomas Lloyd1
September 1776 Island Tortuga Wi^N 6 Leagues
Monday 16 at 40 Minutes past 10 [A.M.]brot too a Vessel from
Salem, sent a Petty Officer and 5 men on board2
Fresh breezes and fair weather made sail and gave
Chase at 2 P M fired a Gun and made the signal to a
Ship which we took to be the Squirrel at 3 shortned
Sail and brot too, at 4 the Prize parted company wore
and made sail in 2d reef TKd at 6 A M Cape Nichola
So distance 5 Leagues,
1. PRO, Admiralty 51/75.
2. Schooner Benjamin, see Gayton’s Prize List under October 8.
Journal of H.M. Schooner Porcupine , Lieutenant James Cotes 1
September 1776 Cape Nichola SbE 5 or 6 Legs
Monday 16 AM at 5 TAKd at 6 Saw 2 Schooners, One to Wind-
ward 8c the other to Leward 8c gave Chase to the Weather-
most at Noon Saw the Land
Light Airs 8c Rain,
still in Chase, at i/9 past 3 Hoisted the Boat out and
sent her Manned and Armed after the Schooner to
Windward, do brought her to and found her to be a
Prize from the Mole bound to Newberry,2 Sent a Mid-
shipman 8c 7 hands on board her 8c the Master 8c Cooper
to Carry her down to Port Royal, took on bd the Mate 2
Passengers 8c 5 hands At Sun Set Hiniago NE Distce 4
Miles
1. PRO, Admiralty 51/702.
2. Schooner Unity, see Gayton’s Prize List under October 8.
SEPTEMBER 1776
867
Captain William Cornwallis to Philip Stephens1
Pallas at Sea 16th Septr 1776.
Sir Latitude 32° N. Longde 73° W.
I beg you will be pleased to acquaint their Lordships that his Majesty’s
Ship Pallas under my Command has been Six Weeks from Portroyal, Ja-
maica, with a Convoy of 104 Sail a List of which I sent by the Grenville
Packet who parted Company the 6th instant. We have been three Weeks
since we came through the Gulf getting three degrees to the Northward
owing to Calms and light Airs of Wind from the N. Et; We went to as short
an Allowance of water both Officers and Men soon after we sailed, as I
thought we could well be reduced to, the Weather being very hot, we have at
present only Ten Butts besides the Ground Tier.
I intend keeping along the Coast of America in hopes of meeting with
some Man of War upon that Station to enquire at what place we can get a
supply, for unless we have a fair and fresh Wind soon I do not think it will
be safe to Cross the Ocean with the small Quantity of water we have on
board.
Many of the Merchant Ships parted Company as soon as we got
through the Gulf, a great many of the others keep constantly so far off that
we can but just see them from the Masthead, I have sent on board those
that are nearest to us, and find some of them intend parting Company, oth-
ers are as bad off for water as ourselves, and intend going to the Northward
with us, I should hope that two or three days sail will put them pretty well
out of the reach of the American Privateers, however I shall take all the
care I possibly can of those that chuse to keep Company with us. Inclosed I
send a weekly account of the State and Condition of the Ship. I am Sir
[&c.]
W: Cornwallis
Endorsed Reed 4 Nov. & Read
1. PRO, Admiralty 1/1611, 3, 10.
17 Sept.
Condemnation in Halifax Vice Admiralty Court
of the American Schooner Sandwich 1
Nova Scotia
Court of Vice
Admiralty
Cause
Matthew Squires Esqr Commander of his Majestys
Ship of War the Otter V.S. Schooner Sandwich - 28 Au-
gust 1776 - John Buchanan, Midshippman being Duly
sworne Deposeth that the Schooner Sandwich was seiz’d
& taken at a Wharfe in Norfolk in Virginia by Matthew
Squires Esqr Commander of the said Sloop Otter that
she had no Cargo on board or any Papers — that this
868
AMERICAN THEATRE
Deponant was put on board as Prize Master & Order’d
to proceed with her to this Port of Halifax where she
now is that she is about 40 Tons or thereabouts -
31st August 1776. John Buchanan
Sworn to before me, Chas Morris junr Regr
Septr 17th 1776 Court open’d by makeing Proclamation as usual Procla-
mation made for all Claimers to appear and assert their
Claims and Defend their Rights to the said Schooner
Sandwich none appear’d the Advocate General then
mov’d for a Decree which was Pronounc’d as on file
whereby the said Schooner was Condemn’d as lawfull
Prize to the Captors thereof, Court adjourn’d without
Day in this Cause2
1. Vice Admiralty Register, vol. 5, 1769-1777, N. S. Arch.
2. Ibid., schooner Dolphin, taken by H. M. Sloop Otter off Cape Charles, Virginia, about June
17, 1776, was also condemned this date.
Acts and Resolves of the Massachusetts General Court1
[Watertown] Tuesday September 17th 1776.
Petition of Shubael Cottle a member of the House of Representatives
for the Town of Tisbury in Dukes County in the behalf of Nathan Smith
Captain of the first Company of Sea-Coast Men station’d in said Tisbury in
Dukes-County aforesaid for the defence of the said County - setting forth -
That from the Encouragement given by these States to all Persons to
make Captures of Vessels belonging to the Enemy employ’d against the
united States, as also by a Resolve which passed the Honorable Continental
Congress on the 23d of March in 1775, respecting such matters. That the
above said Captain Smith from a principle of serving his Country, and
stimulated with the hopes of Reward, He with divers other persons belong-
ing to a Sea Coast Company station’d on the Island of Martha’s Vinyard,
with some of the Militia of the same place, with three Pilot Boats provided
by said Smith, Sc Company did on the 12th day of April last past at the
risque of their Lives board, take, and bring into the Port of Bedford in this
State a certain Schooner called the Volante of about Sixty Tons burthen
laden with Provisions, and Stores for the use of the Fleet, and Army em-
ployed against the united States of America the said Schooner then being a
part of said Fleet, & Tender to the Scarborough Man of War - One Edward
Marsh Master - The Petitioner at the time of the Capture did humbly con-
ceive after condemnation and deducting the Charges incident thereto, that
the Vessel, Cargo, and appurtunances was to be divided amongst the Cap-
tors, but by a Resolve which pass’d the late General Assembly at their last
Session on the 23d day of April 1775 [ sic 1776]. the State thereby taking
two thirds of all such Captures, and the other third to the use of the Captors
- the Petitioner, humbly suggests that should the Honorable Court take any
part of said Capture by virtue of said Resolve passed the 23d of April afore-
SEPTEMBER 1776
869
said to the use of this State that two thirds is by far too great a part in the
opinion of the Petitioner - He therefore (in the behalf of said Captain
Smith, and Company) prays that the Honorable Court would take the mat-
ter into consideration and as the State were at no Expence, nor suffer’d any
Risque for Vessels, Cannon in making said Capture, that the Honorable
Court would order the whole, or such a part of said Schooner, Cargo and
Appurtunances to the use of the Captors, as they shall think proper.
Resolved that whereas it appears to this Court that certain persons
mentioned in said Petition, [were concerned in taking and bringing into
this State a certain Schooner mentioned in Said petition]2 and it further
appears, that the Vessels, or Boats which attacked, and took said Schooner
were procured by, and at the risk of the Captors -
Therefore Resolved, that after the Charges of Tryal, and Condemna-
tion are deducted from the gross proceeds of said Vessel and Cargo, and the
Share of the other Captors have been assigned, the Colony shall receive one
third and the Sea Coast Men the other two thirds of said Schooner, Cargo,
and Appurtunances.
The Committee of both Houses appointed to take under consideration
the claim this State has to the Prize Ship Queen of England Arnot
[James Arnout] master loaden with Pork, and other provisions for the use
of the Enemy lately taken in the harbor of Boston have attended that serv-
ice, and ask leave to Report as follows.
D Sewall p order.
That since the appointment of your Committee the Trial of the Justice
of the said Capture, has been determin’d in the Superior Court, upon an Ap-
peal made from the Maritime Court in the Middle district, by a Pilot on
Board of the said Ship at the Time, of the Capture, who claimed the whole
prize.
Upon which Trial your Committee are Informed, for they have not
been able to obtain the Record thereof, That one fifth part of the said
Prize, and her Appurtunances have been adjudged to the said Pilot as an
original Captor, and the remaining 4/5 to the said Crafts, & Whitney, Sc
their Regiments, who at the Time of the Capture where in the service, and
pay of the State -
That by a Resolve of both Houses on the 23d of April last “The Sea
Cost men station’d in any Port of this Colony, shall be intitled to one third
part of the neat proceeds, after charges of condemnation, and other exp-
ences are paid of all Vessels Sc Cargoes that have been, or shall hereafter be
taken by them, and legally Condemned by the Court Establish’d to try the
Justice of all such Captures, which shall be divided, amongst them in pro-
portion to the pay of the Officers, Sc Soldiers employed in such port, or place,
and the Remainder shall be to the use of the Colony’’
That your Committee are of opinion there can be no just pretence for
the said Colonels, and their Regiments retaining the whole of the 4/5 of the
said Capture to their own use.
. < x.n: •- . •
z . .•:••; <>;< *>— w*' . v - * >e<
r^a
Now fittine for a
A>
teer
t
In the Harbour of B E VE R L7\
The Brigantine
<■ *
i* A ftrong, good vc.T_! Co-. that purpof- arid a prime {ailer.
i'i
/>.© Any Seamen cr Lanmncn that iiavc an indination to
Make their Fortunes in a few Months,
May have an Opportunity, by applying to
JOHN DYSON.
Beverly, September fjth, 1776.
•w
SEPTEMBER 1776
871
And unless they are to be consider’d in this matter as Sea Coast Men,
they have no legal demand to any part of the said Capture, and that an Ad-
judication of the 4/5 to them is in effect an adjudication of so much to the
use of this State -
But your Committee are of Opinion that the said Colonels, and their
Men, are equitably intitled to 1/3 of the 4/5, and no more, and this they
conceive one of the said Colonels by his memorial laid in, before the Board
is fully convinced of, and is contented with. -
Your Committee are likewise of Opinion, that the Superior Court may
now legally, in Consequence of the Resolution of April last beforemen-
tioned, Order in the Precept for Sale of said 4/5 of the said Prize, a distri-
bution thereof in manner following - viz: 1/3 to the said Colonels, and their
Regiments in proportion to the pay they respectively receive from this
State, and the Residue to this State, and that the agent for the middle Dis-
trict of this State ought to be by this Court directed to apply to the said Su-
perior Court for a distribution accordingly. -
Read, 8c Accepted.
1. Mass. Arch., vol. 35, 266, 269-71, 273-74.
2. Omitted in error from Mass. Arch., vol. 35, but included in vol. 181, 230.
Samuel Cooper to Benjamin Franklin1
[Extract] Boston N. E 17 Septr 1776
We have Nothing new here except Captures from the British Trade, which
are likely to increase — Our own Navigation is almost Wholly turn’d into
Privateering, so that their Cruizers can take little or Nothing from us but
empty Hulls, while their Ships come fast to us richly laden’d -
It is regretted among us that the American Fleet is not in greater For-
wardness. We have two fine Frigates built at Newbury 8c Portsmouth, but
after so long a Time, not yet ready to put to Sea: Many are the more uneasy
at this, as two Frigates of the Enemy have had the undisturb’d Range of
our Bay for five or six Weeks past, retaken some valuable Prizes, and
greatly prevented the Coasters from coming in with Supplies to this Town.
Whether there be any Fault in this or where it lies, I am unable to deter-
mine - I expect Mr [Samuel] Austin, a worthy Gentleman, 8c Select Man of
this Town will call for this Letter and deliver it to you. . . .
1. Franklin Papers, IV, 113, APS.
Shipping Articles for the Connecticut State Ship
Oliver Cromwell 1
We the Subscribers Do hereby severally Acknowledge ourselves Inlisted on
Bord the Armed Ship belonging to the Free State of Connecticut under
Command of Capt Wm Coit and Such other Officers as are or shall be from
Time to Time Appointed to the Several Departments and Duties on Bord
said Ship in Defence of the Rights 8c Liberties of the United States of
872
AMERICAN THEATRE
North America in General 8c of Connecticut in Particular subject to Do the
Duties of our Respective Places on hord and Obey the Commands of all Of-
ficers Superior to us on bord said Ship untill the first Day of May 1777 un-
less Soon[e]r Discharged by Proper Authority. During which Time we
agree to Obey the Commands of our Officers and Do the Duties of our Sev-
eral Places on Bord under the Laws 8c Regulations of the Naval Service of
said State of Connecticut which shall be Similar in Substance to those of the
United States aforesd and for the Wages allowed 8c Agreed upon P Month
as severally Annexed to our Names In Witness Whereof we have hereunto
Set our Hands —
Names
Capacities
Wages p Mo
Times when Inlisted
Ebenr Backus Junr
Christr Prince
Josiah Ware
William Copps
Marine
2. .0. .0
Sept 17: 1776
Sept 17, 1776
Edward X Culver
Benje X Short
Seaman
o
OO
04
August 1st
Do.
John Merrow
Stephen Dewolf
Henry X Kennedy
Seaman
O
OC
CM
August 26
Ichabod Sheffield
Wm. Fagins
1. Conn. Arch., 1st Series, IX,
Seaman
153a, 153b, ConnSL. This document
is incomplete.
Major General Philip Schuyler to Captain John Hunn1
Sir Head Qurs Albany Septr 17th 1776.
You are Immediately to take two Batteaus 8c some of Your best Hands
Sc proceed with the utmost Dispatch to Poughkeepsie; On Your Arrival
there You are to deliver the Letter directed to Mr Van Zandt, Either to him
or any of the Gentlemen to whom the Care of Building the Vessels of War is
Committed, 8c as soon as You receive the Cordage, For which I have wrote,
or such Part as they can furnish You are with the Greatest Dispatch possi-
ble to convey It to this Place 8c deliver It to Mr Ph: Van Rensselaer. —
I Expect that You will push Night 8c Day to accomplish this Service. -
I am sir [Sec.] Ph: Schuyler. —
1. Schuyler Papers, vol. 2, Letters & Orders, 18 April, 1776 - 29 June, 1777, NYPL.
Major General Philip Schuyler to the Committee for Building
the Continental Frigates at Poughkeepsie 1
Gentlemen Albany Septr 17 [th] 1776
I have this moment received a Line by Express from Gen: Gates he is
in the Greatest distress for the Cordage Mentioned In the Inclosed list
SEPTEMBER 1776
873
not a fathom of It is to be had In this place I must therefore Intreat you
to Send It by the bearer who goes Express for It, the row Gallies which
are the Greatest Strength of our Naval force on the lake cannot be
Equipp[ed] unless we are furnished with the Cordage - I am Gentlemen
&c
P Schuyler
do Messrs. [Jacobus] Van Zan[d]t [Samuel] Tudor Sc the other Gentle-
men to whose Care the build[ing] of the Frigates at Pokepsie is Con-
signed]
1. Schuyler Papers, Miscellaneous Military Papers, NYPL.
Journal of the New York Provincial Convention1
Die Martis, 4 ho. P. M.
[Fishkill] Septr. 17th, 1776.
The Convention on information that the soundings of Hudson’s river,
at and about Fort Washington, is not accurately sounded, and thereupon
came to the following resolutions.
Whereas, there is reason to apprehend that the channel of Hudson’s
river opposite to Fort Washington is not yet sufficiently obstructed; And
Whereas it is of the utmost importance to the safety of this State, and the
general cause of America, that the navigation of that river should not be oc-
cupied by the enemy’s ships: Therefore,
Resolved , That Captain Thos. Greenhill be, and he is, hereby requested
and authorized to proceed with all possible dispatch to Mount Washington,
in order to take an accurate survey of the landings of that part of Hudson’s
river, and that he report his proceedings to the Convention of this State
with all possible despatch.
Resolved , That the commanding officer of Fort Washington be applied
to by Captain Greenhill for his permission to sound the river, and for his
assistance in carrying the above resolution into execution.
Resolved , That General James Clinton be requested to furnish Captain
Greenhill with a whale boat, and a sufficient number of hands whose attach-
ment to the American cause may be relied on, in order to assist in carrying
this measure into execution, that General Clinton and Captain Greenhill be
earnestly requested to conduct this matter with all the secrecy possible.
A letter from Gilbert Livingston, Esquire, at Poughkeepsie, was read.
He therein informs that the chain intended to obstruct the navigation of
Hudson’s river, has been delayed for want of iron. He requests that one of
the other members of the committee may come to him to assist him, and
bring with him two thousand pounds, as their treasury is nearly exhausted;
and informs that he expects to go to the fort to see that the apparatus is
ready to fasten and stretch the chain.
Ordered, That the secret committee for obstructing the navigation of
Hudson’s river, have permission to go to the fortifications in the Highlands
to-morrow morning.
1. New York Provincial Congress, I, 628, 629.
874
AMERICAN THEATRE
Major General Nathanael Greene to Governor Nicholas Cooke 1
Sir Camp at Harlam Heights 17. Sept 1776
I suppose you have heard of the Retreat from Long Island and the
Evacuation of New york. The Retreats were both Judicious and necessary
our numbers being very insufficient to hold such an extent of ground. His
Excellency had proposd to Evacuate the City 8c Subburbs of New York
sometime before the Enemy made their last landing, and had the Quarter
Master General been able to furnish the necessary Waggons to remove the
Stores and Baggage, the Retreat would have been effected in good Order,
had the Enimy delay’d their landing twenty four hours longer. Almost all
the Old standing Regiment was drawn out of the City in order to oppose the
Enimy at Hell Gate where they made an appearance of a very large body of
Troops, and movements as if they intended a landing. We made a miserable
disorderly Retreat from New york, owing to the disorderly conduct of the
Militia who run at the Appearance of the Enemies Advance Guard, this was
General [John] Fellows Brigade, they struck a pannick into the Troops in
the Rear and Fellows, and [Samuel Holden] Parsons whole Brigade run
away from about fifty men and left his Excellency on the Ground within
Eighty Yards of the Enemy, So vext at the infamous conduct of the Troops
that he sought Death rather than life The Retreat was on the fourteenth
of this instant from New york, most of the Troops got off but we lost a pro-
digious deal of Baggage 8c Stores On the 15th [sic 16th] we had a skir-
mish at Harlam Heiths a party of about a thousand came and Attackt our
Advance post they met with a very different kind of a Reception from
what they did the day before the fire continued about an hour and the
Enemy Retreated our people pursued them and by the spirited conduct of
General Putnam and Col [Joseph] Read the Adjutant General our people
advanced upon the plain ground without cover and Attackt them and drove
them back. His Excellency sent and order’d a timely retreat to our Advancd
Post for he discovered or concluded the Enemy would send a large reen-
forcement, as their main body lay near bye. I was sick when the Army re-
treated from Long Island, which by the bye was the best Effected Retreat I
ever read or heard off, consedering the difficulty of the Retreat. The Army
now remain quiet but expect an Attack every Day Col [James Mitchell]
Varnum[s] 8c Col [Daniel] Hitchcocks Regiments were in the last Action
and behaved Nobly, but neither of the Cols was with them both being
Absent one Sick the other taking care of the Sick. Time wont Permit me
to say much more as I am wanted to go into the Jerseys -
I had the honnor of seeing 8c conversing with your Committee. I think
and so does his Excellency, That the Opperations of the Campaign will have
no Effect upon you as it will be impossible for the Enemy to detach any part
of the Army while our Army is able to make any stand. I would not Evacu-
ate one foot of ground, as it will tend to encourage the Enemy and disperit
our People I am sure the Government is safe and will remain so unless the
Enemy can ruin this Army, this is their grand Object and every nerve will
\
SEPTEMBER 1776
875
be exerted to effect it, that they will not have opportunity and strength suf-
ficient to molest you. I have not time to add one word more. I am with all
due respect [8cc.]
N Greene
1. Letters to the Governor, 1776-1781, R. I. Arch.
Journal of Benjamin Boardman1
[Paulus Hook, September] 17th.
This day a large quantity of lead musket ball and buck shot was discov-
ered in a suspected house, about a mile and a half above us, and brought
down to this place and properly secured for the United States. — Towards
night the Renown returned back to her station up the North-River, but kept
near the Eastern shore, to avoid the shot from our battery, which, however,
kept up a brisk fire upon her as long as she was within reach.
1. Connecticut Gazette, October 18, 1776.
Journal of H.M. Sloop Tamar, Lieutenant Christopher Mason1
September 1776 Moored off the Town of Amboy
[Tuesday] 17 A M at 10 hove up the Stream Anchor 8c moored with the
Bt Br a Cable each way Longbt Watering
First pt fresh Breezes 8c Clear Middle 8c latter Mode 8c
Cloudy at 1 P M sent our Boats Mann’d 8c Arm’d 8c took
a Boat with 4 Rebell Soldiers, at 2 took a small
Schooner off Amboy Town, they fired several Shot from
their Batteries at our Boats, and the Hessians fired a
Number at them.
1. PRO, Admiralty 51/968.
Journal of the Continental Congress1
[Philadelphia] Tuesday, September 17, 1776
A letter of the 23 August last, from V. De Coetiry Prejent, was laid be-
fore Congress, and read.
Resolved , That the same, with paper inclosed, be referred to the Ma-
rine Committee.
The committee appointed to confer with Lord Howe, agreeable to
order, brought in a report in writing, which was read as follows:
In Obedience to the order of Congress, we have had a meeting with
Lord Howe. It was on Wednesday last, upon Staten island, opposite to
Amboy, where his lordship received and entertained us with the utmost po-
liteness.
His lordship opened the conversation, by acquainting us, that, though
he could not treat with us as a committee of Congress, yet, as his powers ena-
876
AMERICAN THEATRE
bled him to confer and consult with any private gentlemen of influence m
the colonies, on the means of restoring peace between the two countries, he
was glad of this opportunity of conferring with us on that subject, if we
thought ourselves at liberty to enter into a conference with him m that
character. We observed to his Lordship, that, as our business was to hear,
he might consider us in what light he pleased, and communicate to us any
propositions he might be authorized to make for the purpose mentioned;
but that we could consider ourselves in no other character than that in
which we were placed, by order of Congress. His Lordship then entered into
a discourse of considerable length, which contained no explicit proposition
of peace, except one, namely, That the colonies should return to their alle-
giance and obedience to the government of Great Britain. The rest consisted
principally of assurances, that there was an exceeding good disposition in
the king and his ministers to make that government easy to us, with intima-
tions, that, in case of our submission, they would cause the offensive acts of
parliament to be revised, and the instructions to governors to be reconsid-
ered; that so, if any just causes of complaint were found in the acts, or
any errors in government were perceived to have crept into the instruc-
tions, they might be amended or withdrawn.
We gave it as our Opinion to his lordship, that a return to the domina-
tion of Great Britain was not now to be expected. We mentioned the re-
peated humble petitions of the colonies to the king and parliament, which
had been treated with contempt, and answered only by additional injuries;
the unexampled patience we had shown under their tyrannical government,
and that it was not till the last act of parliament which denounced war
against us, and put us out of the king’s protection, that we declared our in-
dependence; that this declaration had been called for by the people of the
colonies in general; that every colony had approved of it, when made, and
all now considered themselves as independent states, and were settling, or
had settled, their governments accordingly; so that it was not in the power
of the Congress to agree for them, that they should return to their former de-
pendent state; that there was no doubt of their inclination to peace, and
their willingness to enter into a treaty with Great Britain, that it might be
advantageous to both countries; that though his lordship had, at present, no
power to treat with them as independent states, he might, if there was the
same good disposition in Britain, much sooner obtain fresh powers from
thence, for that purpose, than powers could be obtained by Congress, from
the several colonies, to consent to a submission.
His lordship then saying, that he was sorry to find, that no accommoda-
tion was like to take place, put an end to the conference.
Upon the whole, it did not appear to your committee, that his Lord-
ship’s commission contained any other authority of importance than what is
expressed in the act of parliament, namely, that of granting pardons, with
such exceptions as the commissioners shall think proper to make, and of de-
claring America, or any part of it, to be in the king’s peace, upon submis-
sion; For, as to the power of enquiring into the state of America, which his
SEPTEMBER 1776
Lordship mentioned to us, and of conferring and consulting with any per-
sons the commissioners might think proper, and representing the result of
such conversations to the ministry, who, (provided the colonies would sub-
ject themselves,) might, after all, or might not, at their pleasure, make any
alterations in the former instructions to governors, or propose in Parlia-
ment, any amendment of the Acts complained of, we apprehended any ex-
pectation from the effect of such a power would have been too uncertain and
precarious to be relyed on by America, had she still continued in her state
of Dependence.
Ordered , That the foregoing report, and also the message from Lord
Howe, as delivered by General [John] Sullivan, and the resolution of Con-
gress in consequence thereof, be published by the committee who brought in
the foregoing report.
1. Ford, ed., JCC, V, 764, 765-66.
Minutes of the Pennsylvania Council of Safety1
In Council of Safety,
[Philadelphia] September 17th, 1776.
Rich’d Wallace, Samuel Walston & Levi Llorner, Prisoners taken on
board the Sloop Lady Susan , commanded by Wm. Goodrich, were dis-
charged & permitted to go to their Families In Maryland.
1. Pennsylvania Colonial Records , X, 720.
Joseph Hewes to Samuel Purviance, Jr.1
Dr Sir Philada 17th Sepr 1776
Agreeable to my Promise to your brother I now send a printed Article
for Seamen, you will observe the wages allowed to able Seamen is eight
dollars p month, ordinary Seamen & Landsmen Six dollars & two thirds of a
dollar p month. I am respectfully [&c.]
Joseph Hewes
1. Purviance Papers, MdHS.
“List of Prisoners of war in the State prison of Philad’a,
September 17, 1776. 9,1
[Extract]
Capt. Wm. Goodrich, of a Cruizer.
Seamen from Virginia:
A. Lybourne,
Wm. Sturt, Seaman belong’g
to the Swan.
Lieut. Andrew Miller,
Brdgers Jones,
R. Hardy,
878
AMERICAN THEATRE
John Ryan, Seaman belong’g
to the Roebuck ,
Capt. David M’Culchen, of New
York.
Capt. Thos. Slater of the Roebuck’s
tender.
Messrs. James Fonest.
James Shanks.
Thos. Bryon.
1. Pennsylvania Archives , 2nd series, I, 423.
Advertisement of the Maryland Council of Safety1
[Annapolis] September 17, 1776.
The Council of Safety want immediately to charter several vessel [s]
to load for the foreign West-Indies. Any persons having vessels to hire, may
know the terms, by applying to the Council at Annapolis.
By order,
R. Ridgely, elk.
1. Maryland, Gazette, September 19, 1776.
Journal of the Virginia Council of Safety1
At a Council, held at the Capitol in the City of Williamsburg on Tues-
day the 17th September 1776.
Pursuant to a former order, Lieutenant Samuel Towls of the Schooner
Revenge in the Naval service of this State, received, and qualified to, his
Commission, dated the 16th Instant.
Captain Ephraim Gilbert of the Sloop, Johns Releif , having laid before
the Board his papers, which were examined, he is permitted to proceed to
any part of this Commonwealth, break Bulk, and dispose of his Cargo.
Ordered that a Warrant issue to Matthew Phripp for seven hundred
and Ninety pounds, for the purchase money due for the Brig Liberty by
agreement with the Committee of Safety.
The Board, having heretofore Ordered that a Suit should be prosecuted
against Matthew Phripp, one of the Owners of the Schooner Polly, John
Middleton Master on the Bond given at her clearance for Hispaniola, the
said John Middleton having violated the condition thereof, by proceeding to
Bermuda; at the request of Mr Phripp. who produced attested Copies of the
Instructions given Captain Middleton, whereby it appears the said Captain
has disobeyed his orders. It is Ordered that to relieve Mr Phripps Character
from any Stigma in consequence of the said transaction, and that his repu-
tation may not unjustly suffer by a proceeding which publick Justice has
rendered necessary, the Clerk deliver him a Copy of this Entry.
Ordered, that the Commissary of Provisions, deliver to Captain Rich-
ard Taylor of the Schooner Hornet four hundred pounds of Bacon, and
one Bushel of Salt for the use of the said Schooner.
1. Mcllwaine, ed., Journals of the Virginia Council, I, 163, 165.
SEPTEMBER 1776
879
Memoir of the Chevalier Francis de Monteil1
Francis Aimar de Monteil, Knight of the Royal and Military order of St
Louis, Brigadier in the Navy, First Captain in Command of the Ships of
War Station’d at the French Islands has the Honor of claiming from His
Excellency Admiral Gayton, the Schooner Lady Caroline , taken three days
ago at the entrance of St Nicholas Mole, as will appear in the annex’d
declaration,2 within a Mile of the Shore and in Sight of the Renommee
which was then getting ready for Sea,
He hoist’d the French Colours several times and Slip’d his Cable useing
his best endeavours to get out of the Bay, in order to Demand the above-
mention’d Schooner and Cargo
The Chevr de Monteil not being able to speak the English Frigate, she
being a little afterwards at some distance from the Coast, judging that he
had a right to claim a Capture made within Gun Shot at the Point under the
Colours at the Mole has not lost a Moment, & the necessity of the case was
such, that he would not dispatch to His Excellency the Officer of the Sloop
of War who went out with him, but thought it most proper to execute such
an important Commission himself.
He hath already set forth his motives in his Letter3 (which are found’d
from the good understanding subsisting between the two Courts) that the
Sloop that went before the Squirrel pass’d the bounds of the Treaty, and vi-
olat’d the Laws of Nations & ought to have relinquish’d his pursuit the
People of the Schooner were so near the Shore, that they came with great
ease to make Depositions of the Act, to a Town; where all British Subjects
trade unmolest’d.
The Chevr de Monteil being persuaded that the Captain of the Squirrel ,
or the Admiral would deliver up said Schooner, has brought down some
French Sailors, who were delivered to him at the Mole, to bring her back,
and altho’ he knew the little Vessel, with which he came in, he prefer’d to
follow her at an easy Sail to ask the Restitution with that Defference which
is due between the Officers of both Monarchs
Whether His Excellency Admiral Gayton immediately consents to this
Restitution (provid’d that the Oaths of the People belonging to the Squirrel
who have brought said Schooner down here, agree with the Tenor of the
above) whether she is not sent back, but to the end of being Deposit’d in the
care of Monsr L’Comte Dennery.
The Chevr de Monteil begs that Admiral Gayton replies in writeing to
this Memorial as it is his indispensable Duty to send a Voucher to the Court
of France, of his having done himself the Honor of addressing Admiral
Gayton, and of sending him a Duplicate of the Declaration of the Master of
said Schooner, and by his desire, and has set forth his reasons for having
made the demand — He must once more repeat the necessity of an answer
(which he hopes to receive) to the end that if the affair is not determin’d
here in its Origin, the French Ambassador at the Court of Great Britain;
shall be able to treat upon the Subject there.
880
AMERICAN THEATRE
And it is in this expectation that the Chevr de Monteil was satisfied to
do nothing else but to follow the Schooner here confiding in the mutual pro-
ceedings of his Excellency the Admiral Gayton
(Sign’d) The Chevr de Monteil
From onboard the Renommee, at Jamaica 17th September 1776.
PS In handing the above Memorial to Admiral Gayton, I beg that he will
take Notice, that the word Protection, is only meant to imply Assylum, the
Sense I use it.
I am Satisfied that his Excellency leave the matter in dispute concern-
ing the said Schooner which I have claim’d in the name of Monsr L’Comte
Dennery Commander in Chief of St Domingo, to be Decided by the two
Courts, and to please to acquaint the same to the said Comte Dennery
(Sign’d) L’Chevr de Monteil
[Endorsed] (A Copy)
1. PRO, Admiralty 1/240. The translation is in the handwriting of Admiral Gayton’s secretary.
Enclosed in Gayton to Stephens, October 8, 1776.
2. See Declaration of John Douglass, master of the Lady Caroline , September 14.
3. See de Monteil to Gayton, September 16.
“A Journiel Kept By Ephraim Briggs On board of the Good
Sloop Warren A Bold Privateer From Dartmouth
to the Lattd. of 33:”1
Tuesday September the 17 Day AD 1776
Latter Part Tuesday Morning Something jumbling the Wind
starts to the NNE Six A Clock saw A sail bearing NE. A stand-
ing For Us We Hug’d our wind she overhals Us Fast Keep
Away Afore it Lattd In by observation 34 33. First Part these 24
hours Good Weather the Wind at NE A small Brease A sail I[n]
Chase of Us two A Clock Fir’d at Us Got Almost Up
with Gave Us Another Gun Came Up With [us] It was A
Privateer From Rhode island Capt Ladd.2 Cheif Commander
Been out Seven Days spoke With A Prize Ship taken By A Privateer
Belonging to Capan [Cape Ann] Capt Ladd. Bound to Newfound-
land if Not Meets With Success Before
1. rihs.
2. Captain William Ladd in the Rhode Island privateer sloop Batchelor.
18 Sept.
Advertisement for Deserters from the Continental Frigate
Raleigh1
5 Dollars Reward.
Deserted from on board the Ship of War Raleigh, commanded by
Thomas Thompson, Esq; Edward Thorp, an Englishman, five feet six
inches high, dark complexion, has a cast with one eye. — William M’Daniel,
SEPTEMBER 1776
881
an Englishman, five feet eleven inches high, dark complexion, — And Mi-
chael Brown, an American five feet eleven inches high, dark complexion. —
Benjamin Gerrish, five feet eight inches high, dark complexion, — Joseph
Howard, five feet, 4 inches high, brown complexion — John Allen, five feet
nine and three quarter inches high, dark complexion. — Whoever will ap-
prehend said deserters, and return them on board said ship Raleigh or se-
cure them in any of the colony gaols shall receive Five Dollars Reward for
each, and necessary Charges allowed.
Peter Shores.2
Portsmouth, Sept. 18, 1776.
1. The Freeman’s Journal, September 21, 1776.
2. First Lieutenant of the Raleigh.
Petition of a Steerage Passenger in the British Prize Ship
Anna Maria to the Massachusetts Council 1
The Humble petition of William Pascall, steerage Passenger, On Board
The Ship Anna Maria William Pringle - Commander from Barbadoes, -
Bound for London and taken by the Privateer sloop Revenge _, of Salem,
Joseph White Commander.
Sheweth, That whereas, I hear of a Ship in Boston Harbour, purchased
by Mesrs Ross and Morgan of said Boston, with intent of carrying Passen-
gers to London. —
I humbly crave the favour, your Honours will, of your goodness, grant
me the Liberty to return in said Ship to London, my native place; as I have
a tender Mother a Widow; and two Children younger than my self, whose
whole dependance (under God) is on my Labour, and industry, for their
support. — I complain not (May it please your Honours) of any ill treat-
ment since my being made a Captive, but on the contrary declare, and will
at all times declare, my being exceedingly well used. — But my money being
on the decline, and a long, and (in all probability) tedious Winter approach-
ing, is the sole cause of this my earnest prayer. I Beg therefore your consid-
eration of my Case, and that this my request and prayer may be granted. —
And your Petitioner as in duty bound shall ever pray. —
William Pascall
Salem 18th Septr 1776.
[Endorsed] In Council [Watertown] Septr 24, 1776 Liberty is hereby
granted to the within named William Pascall to depart this State in the
Ship Creighton (Benjn Moore Master) lately purchased by Mr Ross for the
purpose of transporting himself & others to Great Brittain -2
Jn° Avery Dpy Secy
1. Mass. Arch., vol. 165, 259.
2. Other crew members and passengers from various prizes were granted permission to depart
on board the Creighton.
882
AMERICAN THEATRE
Acts and Resolves of the Massachusetts General Court1
[Watertown] Wednesday September 18th 1776.
Resolved, that this State will furnish the Agent for building the Conti-
nental Ships at Newbury Port with a sufficient number of Guns provided
they can be obtained by purchase, or otherways for the Continental Frigate
called the Hancock, John Manley Commander, and which Ship is built to
carry thirty two Guns, and will afford him every other assistance Possible
for fitting out, and Manning said Ship, and the Honble Richard Derby Jr
Esqr is appointed Agent in behalf of this Colony for the purposes aforesaid
provided leave can be obtained from the Honorable Congress for said Vessel
to Cruise on this Coast for the protection of the Trade thereof. The said
Continental Agent engaging to reimburse all the expences this State shall in-
cur in fitting out, and manning said Sloop [sic] , and return said Guns when-
ever said Ship shall be otherwise employ’d It being of great Importance
that there should be a sufficient Number of Armed Vessels fixed for Sea ef-
fectually to free this Coast from the Enemies Armed Vessels now Infesting
of it. -
1. Mass. Arch., vol. 35 , 279, 284.
Advertisement for a Deserter from the Continental
Frigate Providence 1
Run away from the Ship Providence, William L[i]ng, about 5 Feet 8
inches high, has dark Hair, and dark Eyes: Had on when he went away a
light blue Jacket, a Pair of Canvass Trowsers, and an old Felt Hat; says he
run away from the Phoenix Man of War. Whoever will apprehend said
Runaway, and commit him to any Gaol in the United States of America,
shall have Five Dollars Reward, and reasonable Charges, paid by
William Barron, Lieut.
Providence, September 18, 1776.
1. Providence Gazette, September 21, 1776.
Journal of the Connecticut Council of Safety1
[Lebanon] September 18th, 1776.
Voted, That this Council do advise his Honor the Governor to grant to
Mr. James Church of Hartford a permit to export a cargo of the value of
sixty or seventy pounds to the foreign West Indies, for the purpose of pur-
chasing a load of salt, to be brought into this State for supplying the inhab-
itants with that article.
1. Hoadly, ed., Connecticut Records, XV, 521.
SEPTEMBER 1776
883
Master’s Log of H.M. Brig Halifax 1
Remarks on Wednesday 18th of Septr 1776
[in Huntington Bay]
6 [A.M.] saw a small Schooner Boat to the WWd Sent the Tender2 to
Chace her weighd and Came to sail.
10 [A.M.] the Tender Returnd wt the Chace found Her to be from the
Rebel shore wt four Cask[s] of Po[r]ter took possession of
the Boat, took the po[r] ter out of her and sunk her
At Noon Norwalk Town NNE Janseys point WSW Empd
Twining to the WWd ....
at 2 Came too wt the Small Br at the Mouth of Oyster Bay in 7
fathoms of water Hog Island SWbW NE point of the Bay
NEbN Tenders In Company
1. PRO, Admiralty 52/1775.
2. Ibid., the sloop Sally taken September 9 had been fitted as a tender on September 14. She was
armed with two 2-pounders and four swivels, and manned by a midshipman and six
seamen.
‘Force on the Lake [Champlain] tolerably exact, on
Septr 18th. 1776.”1
Names.
Inflexible Jwill be ready
[in 8 Days
Maria quite ready
Carleton Do
Radeau
Do
retaken Gondola
6
Gun boats
each
8
Do
Do
14
Do
fArmy
Guns.
16. .12 lbs 8c
2. . 9
14.. 6
12.. 6
6 . . 24 on the
lower deck
6. . 12 on the
Quarter Deck 8c
2 . . 12 on the
Forecastle,
2 Howitzers
where most
^of use
6 . . 6 8c
2.12
1. .9
1. .6
Commanded by
Lieut John Schank of his Majts
Armed Ship the Canceaux
Lieut John Starke
Lieut Jas Rd Dacres of the
Blonde
Tieut John Stone of the
Lizard.
Lt Edwd Longcroft of the
Brunswick
Each Commanded by a
Petty Officer.
884
AMERICAN THEATRE
4 Long Boats carrying 1 . . 3 Each
26 other Transport Long boats to Convey Provisions, and about 450 Batoes
for the conveyance of the Troops.
1. PRO, Colonial Office, 5/125, 69c.
Brigadier General Benedict Arnold to Major General Horatio Gates 1
[Extract] Isle La Motte September 18th 1776.
Dear General, My last was the 16th Inst, by Ensign [Clemens] Botsford;
the next Morning, Lieut: Whitcomb and his Party returned from St John’s
with Two Prisoners, Ensign Saunders, and a Corporal of the 29th Regi-
ment, who were taken between St John’s, and La Prairie. The Ensign says
there is a Ship on the Stocks at St John’s, designed to mount Twenty Guns,
Nine, and Twelve Pounders, several Schooners, and small Craft; but seems
ignorant, as to their Size and Numbers. He says there was talk of crossing
the Lake soon; but in general it was thought they would not cross this Fall.
Both him and the Corporal seem cautious of giving any Information . . .
I am inclined to think, on comparing all Accounts, that the Enemy will
soon have a considerable naval Force. The Ship, the Ensign says, will be
completed in a fortnight, and is to be manned from the Navy in the River.
I make no Doubt of their soon paying us a Visit, and intend first fair
Wind to come up as high as lie Valcour, where tis a good Harbour, and
where we shall have the Advantage over the Enemy; and if they are too
many for us, we can retire. I believe their Army crossing the Lake, depends
entirely on the Advice they may receive from New York.
I beg that at least One Hundred good Seamen maybe sent me as soon as
possible. We have a wretched motley Crew, in the Fleet; the Marines, the
Refuse of every Regiment, and the Seamen, few of them, ever wet with salt
Water. We are upwards of One Hundred Men short of our Complement.
Ensign [John] Bush arrived here last Night, and brought four
Beeves, which is all the fresh Provision we have received. By him I send up
Lieutenant Whitcomb and his Prisoners. I could wish to have a Six or Eight
Inch Howitz mounted in Two or three of the Gallies. If they are arrived,
they will be of infinitely more Service than Guns especially to attack a large
Vessel. If the Grape and Chain Shot is arrived, I beg it may be sent with
some good slow Match, and three Cables and Anchors. We have not a spare
one in the Fleet, and the blowing Season is now coming on.
There is a small brass Royal at Ty, which with a hundred Shells and a
Gunner, may be very useful to us . . .
(Copy)
1. Gates Papers, Box 4, NYHS.
SEPTEMBER 1776
885
Journal of the New York Provincial Convention 1
Die Mercurii, 9 HO. A.M.
[Fishkill] Septr. 18th, 1776.
Mr. Hobart, from the committee to report the most proper disposition
of the sloop Montgomerie, delivered in their report, which was read. That
part of the report which respects the condemnation and sale of prizes was
agreed to, Thereupon,
Resolved, That a letter be immediately written to Mr. Joseph Hallett,
the agent for prizes, requesting him forthwith to repair to New-England,
and take the most speedy and effectual measures for the condemnation and
sale of such vessels and goods as Capt. [William] Rogers the commander of
the said sloop may have brought into that country.
The said committee also reported a draft of such letter to Joseph Hal-
lett as above mentioned, which was read and approved of, and is in the
words following, to wit:
Sir — The Convention having received information that
Capt. Rogers of the sloop Montgomerie, has left the south side of
Long island, and is arrived at Norwalk, in Connecticut, with some
of his prize goods, and that some vessels which he brought off with
him are arrived in other parts of New-England, it is their desire
that you repair forthwith to that country, and take the most
speedy and effectual measures for the condemnation and sale of
such vessels and goods; which I am directed to signify to you, and
am, sir [Sec.]
To Joseph Hallett, Esqr.
Ordered, That a copy thereof be engrossed, and signed by the Presi-
dent, and transmitted.
That part of the said report which relates to the sale of the sloop Mont-
gomerie, was recommitted to Mr. Wm. Smith, General Ten Broeck, Mr.
[William] Duer and Mr. Bancker, Mr. Hobart being excused on his earnest
request and reasons assigned.
1. New York Provincial Congress, I, 629, 630.
Vice Admiral Richard Lord Howe to Philip Stephens1
Eagle, New York River,
September the 18th. 1776
Duplicate
Number 8.
Sir, By the Halifax Packet, sent to make known the Progress of the Army
since the Date of the General’s last Dispatches, I have Opportunity to ac-
knowledge the Receipt of your Letter of the 25th of June by the Galatea,
giving Advice of the Reinforcement ordered for the Fleet and Army, and
enclosed with the Duplicates of Letters forwarded by the Captain of the
Diamond, who is charged with the Conduct of that Reinforcement.
I have the Satisfaction of being able to inform their Lordships that a
Disposition having been made for landing the Army on York Island on the
886
AMERICAN THEATRE
Morning of the 15th, the Captains [Hyde] Parker [Jr.] and [James]
Wallace, whose Abilities and distinguished Resolution point them out for
the most important Services; with the Captains [Charles] Hudson, [Rob-
ert] Fanshawe and [Andrew Snape] Hamond, Officers of great Merit,
passed the Fire of the Town of New York with their Ships on the Evening
of the 13th, to wait off Bushwyck Creek, opposite to Kepp’s Bay where the
Landing was proposed to be forced, in the East River. The Flat Boats, Bat-
teaux and Gallies under the Direction of Commodore Hotham, but arranged
in Divisions commanded by the Captains [George] Vandeput, [Benjamin]
Caldwell, [Archibald] Dickson, [Toby] Caulfield, [Charles] Phipps and
[Anthony] Molloy, and the Lieutenant [John] Howorth of the Eagle;
assisted by the Lieutenants [John] Henry, [Anthony] Parrey, [Henry]
Chads and Bristow, Agents of Transports; were manned from the two-
decked Ships and Transports as on the former Debarkation, and sent up at
different times under the Shore of Long Island, undiscovered by the Enemy
on the opposite Side.
Six Transports, which Messrs Robt Roughhead, Richd Fowler, John
Randall, Tho: Brown, Chambers and Stuart, the different Mas-
ters, making a voluntary Offer of their Services engaged to conduct, were
sent up the East River on the 14th, under the Direction of the Agent Lieu-
tenant [John] Knowles, and Lieutenant Laird whose active Assistance in
the most fatiguing Parts of the Debarkation-Duty, the Conveyance of the
Artillery, has marked his Zeal for the King’s Service in a particular Man-
ner. They were appointed to take in a number of Troops from Bushwyck
Creek for facilitating the more timely Support of the first Division em-
barked in the Flat Boats at New Town Creek.
The Pilots declining on Account of the Strength of the Tide, to take
Charge of the particular covering Ships that were intended to be placed to-
ward Hell Gate, for countenancing the Appearance of a Descent on that
Part of the Coast, all the five were placed in Kepp’s Bay on the Morning of
the 15th and having by the Effect of their well-directed Fire compelled the
Rebels to quit their Intrenchments upon the Shore, the Debarkation was
made without further Opposition.
The General’s public Acknowledgments addressed to the Commodore
and the several Officers and Seamen employed, will be the best Testimony I
can render of their meritorious Services on this Occasion.
In order to facilitate the Operations of the Army in the East River, an-
other Detachment of the Ships of War was appointed, by the General’s de-
sire, to proceed up the North River; to give Jealousy to the Enemy on this
Side. The Renown, Captain [Francis] Banks, with the Captains [Henry]
Davis and [Thomas] Wilkinson in the Repulse and Pearl, were ordered for
that Purpose. They passed the Enemy’s Batteries without material Injury
early on the 15th to a Station about six Miles to the Northward of the
Town. On the ensuing Night the Enemy directed four Fire-Vessels in Suc-
cession against them; But with no other Effect than that of obliging the
Ships to move their Stations, the Repulse excepted. The Renown returned to
SEPTEMBER 1776
887
this Side the Town: But the two Frigates remain still in the North River,
with the Tryal Armed Schooner, to strengthen the left Flank of the Army
extending to the Western Shore of York Island, as Circumstances will
admit.
Since my last No 6, of which a Duplicate is herewith enclosed, the Carys-
fort, Pearl and Tartar from the St Lawrence are arrived, and yet remain
here, to be employed as the Service may require.
The Galatea being the first Frigate which the State of Things, with re-
spect to the Operations of the Army, has allowed me to detach for a Contin-
uance to the Southward, Captain [Thomas] Jordan is under Orders to pro-
ceed off the Island of Bermudas; In quest of several small Privateers of the
Enemy ranging the Stream of that Island to intercept the West India
Trade. Concluding the Nautilus will be in great Want of Naval Stores as well
as provisions and probably Repairs, I have sent Orders by the Galatea for
Captain [John] Collins (if still at Bermuda) to join me at this Port.
In the Duplicate of your letter of the 23d of June by the Galatea, on the
Subject of the large Supplies [of] Naval Stores provided, You mention,
Sir, their Lordships Reliance that the Ships will be kept in constant Em-
ployment. I conceive from thence, that they will expect to receive some Re-
port from me touching suitable Disposition of the Ships for effecting the in-
tended Restraint upon the Trade of the Rebellious Colonies, and for
suppressing the Armed Force fitted out from the different Ports along the
Coasts of this extensive Continent.
It is with great Concern that I am still unable to make a satisfactory
Return to their Lordships probable Expectations therein. But I flatter my-
self that my Deficiency will be deemed less singular, when they are pleased
to consider the full Employment which a much inferior Land Force afforded
for the Fleets that attended their Operations in the last War, Tho’ I con-
ceive, it is not from the Numbers in either Profession that a true Judgment
of the Proportion they should bear to each other is to be deduced, But from
the Nature of the Service to be carried on; the Country, and Communica-
tion. Seeing that from the Ships must be provided practised Men to be em-
ployed in Boats, for landing with the requisite Expedition, and transport-
ing, the Troops, Baggage and Artillery; And, where Water Carriage is so
much in Question, the Means also of intercepting the Enemy’s Supplies: Be-
sides the Protection of the Transports, on which the Existence of the Army
has depended, so far as the Operations of this Campaign have hitherto ad-
vanced.
I shall dispose of the Supernumerary Men their Lordships have or-
dered out in the Hulks and Frigates, according to their Qualifications. And
as Reference is had in your said Duplicate to the Provisions in the prohibi-
tory Act amongst the Expedients their Lordships have in Contemplation for
keeping the Complements of the Ships complete; I beg leave to observe of
the Men to be so procured, that the Europeans are unquestionably the most
preferable; And, from all I have yet experienced, the only Men on whom
any Dependence is to be placed. The Prejudices the native Americans have
888
AMERICAN THEATRE
imbibed, disqualify them for every Trust. And the extravagant Advantages
with which they tempt the European Seamen to desert, render their Contin-
uance dangerous in the Ships. Wherefore, I presume to think no Aid can be
derived from the Capture of American Ships at the present Crisis; Except
in the Exchange of their Crews with the British Seamen now Prisoners in
the different Colonies, upon the Plan submitted in my last Letter.
The Want of a sufficient Naval Force for the various Occasions conse-
quent of the Movement of the Army, obliges me still to detain the Frigates
on that Account. The State of many of them, and of the two-decked Ships is
such, as will require their being sent to Europe or different Ports in the
West Indies, when the Operations of the Army become more confined dur-
ing the Winter Season: That they may be made ready with most Dispatch,
for cruizing Service in the Spring. I may then be able to keep them fitted
and employed in more regular Succession. But as no Port on the Continent
is yet open for supplying the Cruising Ships with Water to the Southward,
I must plead for their Lordships favorable Construction of my Endeavors
to use the Means with which I have the Honor of being entrusted, to the
best Advantage, according to the Exigencies of this complicated Service.
Due Attention will be given to the Contents of the Abstract of Lord
George Germain’s Letter to the Generals Carleton and Howe, respecting the
Dismission of the Transports, as they can be spared. I flatter myself his
Lordship will be satisfied from his subsequent Knowledge of the actual
State of the Operations here, that no Want of Regard has yet been shewn to
that highly interesting Consideration.
I have only to trouble you further as of immediate Consequence, with
Relation to that Paragraph in your Duplicate aforesaid, concerning the
Supply of Ordnance-Stores.
The Store-Ships referred to in Mr. [John] Boddington’s Letter of the
9th of June, contained Articles suited principally to the small Armed Ves-
sels and Frigates of the lower Class; But had neither Powder, Ball, or Car-
tridge, in any adequate Quantity for the Ships of superior Rates. Where-
fore, but for the Ball the Enemy have left in and near the Town of New
York, whereof the Numbers of 12 and 18 lb have not yet been ascertained,
the Service of the thirty two and forty Gun-Ships would have been greatly
confined. I have added a State of the Expence of Ordnance Stores in the
Ships here, as a Rule for proportioning the future Supplies, which I am
to request, thro’ their Lordships Interposition, to have sent out by such safe
and expeditious Conveyance, as the Importance of the Concern may induce.
Proper Supplies of Medicines for the Fleet will be equally necessary; the
Surgeons having no Means of providing Medicines in this Country.
I learnt on my Arrival here, from the Accounts Captain [Charles]
Douglas transmitted to Vice Admiral Shuldham, the Progress of the Naval
Operations under his Direction; And the Success of His Majesty’s Arms in
the Province of Canada. By the Carysfort and Pearl he let me know his sub-
sequent proceedings to the 4th and 12th of last Month, as contained in the
Copies of his Letters herewith enclosed. My Letter of the 13th of June, of
Colony of MASSACHtTSETTVBAr, 1775,
WE the Subfcribers, Do each of us fever ally forourfe!vest
profefsy teflify and declare , before GOD and the World \
that we verily believe that the War, Ref fiance and
Oppvjitien in which the United American Colonies
are now engaged, again ft the Fleets and Armies of Great-Britain, is on
the Tart of the [did Colonies , juft and neceffary . And we do hereby
feverally promife , covenant and engage , to and with every Terfon of
this Colony „ who has or fhall jubfcribe this Declaration , or another of
the fame Tenor and Words , that we will noty during the [aid IV arf
directly or mdireBly, in any Ways , u'i, abet or a fit ft, any of the Naval
or Land Forces of the King of Great-Britain, or any employ d by him ;
or J apply them with any Kind ofTrovftons , Military orNavalStores ,
or hold any Correfpondence with, hr communicate any Intelligence to
any of the Officer sy Soldiers or Mariners belonging to the faid Army or
Navy, or inliff, or procure any others to inhft into the Land of Sea-
Service of Great -Britain, 0- take up orhtar Arms again ft this or either
of the United Colonics, or undertake to plot any of the Vejfels belong-
ing to the faid Navy , or in any other Way aid or affifl them : But on
the contrary , according to our left Tower and Abilities , will defend by
Arms, the linked American Colonies, andeveryTart thereof agabtft
every hoftile Attempt of the Fleets and Armies in the Service of Great-
Britain , cr any of them , according to the Requirements and Directions
of the Laws of this Colony that now are , or may hereafter be provided >
for the Regulation of the Militia thereof
\/
A ’ //.
%4S* t f ■€,*»** t
r
f
*
7
/
890
AMERICAN THEATRE
which I likewise trouble You with a Copy, will have informed Captain
Douglas of my general Ideas in respect to the Appointment of the Ships
under his Order at that Time. I have not yet had an Opportunity to forward
any more particular Instructions to him in consequence of his later Infor-
mations. The necessary Preparatives for the Service on the Lakes will have
detained him in the St Lawrence whilst the Season ad[mits] of his Stay
there. And his diligent Attention to that Service will, I make no Doubt, en-
gage further Testimfony] of their Lordships indulgent Approbation.
To the other Papers enclosed, I have added [a] State of the Disposi-
tion of the Ships;2 And am, With great Consideration, Sir [8cc.]
Howe
1. PRO, Admiralty 1/487.
2. See next entry.
Minutes of the Pennsylvania Council of Safety1
In Council of Safety,
[Philadelphia] September 18th, 1776.
An order was drawn on Mr. Nesbitt, in favour of Arthur Donaldson,
for £ 300, on acco’t of the floating Battery building by him, to be charged
to his acco’t.
Mr. Nesbitt was directed to pay Wm. Perkins £ 3 18 1, for Blacksmith
Work, done on board the Gallies.
1. Pennsylvania Colonial Records, X, 721.
Pennsylvania Gazette , Wednesday, September 18, 1776
Philadelphia, Sept. 18.
On Friday last arrived here from Martinico, the Continental ship of
war the Reprisal, Lambert Weeks, Esq; Commander. On board of said ship
came passengers several French Officers, who we hear are strongly recom-
mended to the Honourable the Congress by the Governor of Martinico. One
of them it is said is an accomplished Engineer.1
Since our last a vessel arrived in this port with 2000 bushels of salt.
The whole of it was immediately bought up by a respectable merchant of
this city, who is now selling it out in small quantities, at a very moderate
advance, for the benefit of the public.
Yesterday the Continental brig of war Andrew Doria , Captain Biddle,
returned here from a cruize. We hear she has taken four prizes, viz. a ship
and a brig, from Virginia, a [brig] from North Carolina; and a brig from
Barbados for Newfoundland, which were ordered for any port they could
get in to the Eastward.2
1. The engineer was Jean Louis Imbert, and the other French officers were: Marquis de
Malmedy, Christian de Colerus and Jean Louis de Vernejous. Ford, ed., JCC, V, 783-84.
2. tor names of Biddle’s prizes see Pennsylvania Journal, Wednesday, September 18, 1776.
Disposition of His Majesty's Ships & Vessels employed in North America
SEPTEMBER 1776
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SEPTEMBER 1776
895
Pennsylvania Journal, Wednesday, September 18, 1776
Philadelphia [September 18].
Yesterday arrived the Continental brig, Andrew Doria, Capt. Biddle,
from a cruize, in which he took six vessels, viz. ship Molly , Brigden Good-
ridge, (late belonging to Mr. Jonathan Hudson, of Maryland) brig Peggy ,
[William] Cook, both prizes of Lord Dunmore’s, bound from Virginia for
Bermuda; brig Elizabeth , Capt. [William Ryson] Johnson, a prize taken by
the English, from Cape Fear (North Carolina) for Bermuda; the brig
Laivrence , Capt. [George] Layburn, from Barbadoes to Newfoundland,
and two other brigs in ballast, from Virginia, with Tories, for Bermuda.
7 he two latter, being short of water and, provisions, he let go.
Advertisement of Sale of Prize Schooner Peter and Cargo1
On Friday next, the 20th instant, will be sold at public vendue, on or
near Plumstead’s wharff, Rum, Sugar, Coffee, Cotton, and Cocoa, the cargoe
of the prize Schooner Peter , condemned in the Court of Admiralty.
The said Schooner will be sold [at the same] place, as soon as the car-
goe is disposed of.
1. Pennsylvania Gazette, September 18, 1776.
Samuel Purviance, Jr. to John Adams1
Sir Baltimore 18 Septr 1776
I hope youle excuse the Liberty of this Adress from a Stanger, which I
presume to take on the Strength of my Brothers acquaintance with you,
And he at present is from home. —
The Bearer John Sterrit Esqr my good Freind & Neighbr is Jointly
with myself 8e some other Freinds Interested in the Privateer Enterprize of
this Port, Capt [James] Campbel[l], who has sent in a Valuable Prize to
Dartmouth in N.E, but as appears from the Prize Masters Letter to One of
the Owners which Mr Sterrit will shew you, Capt Campl neglected to put a
Copy of his Comn on board, & besides had taken all the Prizes Papers on
board his own Vesl — The Reason of this may easily be collected from the
Prize Masrs Letter, as Capt Campbel intendd to follow the Prize immedi-
ately to the Eastern Shore of this State. — From the Aforementiond Cir-
cumstances theres a possibility of some difficulties arising abt the Prize, wh
The Owners woud wish to take every rational Means of obviating — For
this purpose we have dispatchd an Express after my Bror who yesterday
set out for Chincotegue where we have heard of Captn Campbels Arrivl with
several other Prizes; to procure the Prizes Papers to be sent after Mr Sterrit
who is directed to take a Copy of Captn Campbels Commission from Congs
where it was taken out. — Shoud there be any Necessity for your Assist-
ance in getting this done, I hope youle be so obliging as to render it. — But
what I woud principally request of you is, the favr of a Line to some of your
896
AMERICAN THEATRE
Freinds at Boston who can serve Mr Sterrit shoud our Claim be litigated
Of several Correspondents wh My Bror 8c I had there, I have no Certainty
where any of them are save Mr Black who is at Philada —
I have taken the Liberty of writing by Mr Sterrit to yr Freind Mr
Sami Adams with whom I had the pleasure of Corresponding some times,
but suppose his being there is uncertain.
I cannot introduce to yo a more firm Freind to his Country than Mr
Sterrit, who woud gladly have Marchd as a Volunteer to New York, coud he
have engaged the whole or the Majority of the Indepent Company of this
Place whereof he is Captn to have gone with. His Brother a Youth of 19
Years who is now a Prisoner at Long Isld Commanded the Company where-
of he is First Lieutt with remarkable Bravery — He is One of the most
hopeful Young men I know. —
Mr Sterrit is accompanied by Capt Nathl Smith [captain of the]
First Artillery Company of this State, And Comdr of Fort Whetstone on
this River, an excellent Officer, and worthy Man. He told me he was for-
merly of yr Acquaintance. He is certainly no Dishonor to your Country
from whence he came. Pardon this freedom 8c believe me to be with great
Respect for your Person 8c Character [8cc.]
Sam1 Purviance Junr
1. Adams Papers, MassHS.
Journal of the Maryland Council of Safety1
[Annapolis] Wednesday. September 18th 1776
Permit was granted to Josh Hayman Commander of Sloop Betsy to go
to Caian [Cayenne] , or any other foreign Port.
Ordered That Western shore Treasurer pay to Captn James Nicholson
five hundred 8c fourteen Pounds for Pay of Defence’s Ship’s Crew. -
Ordered That Western shore Treasurer pay to Captn Jams Nicholson
nine hundred 8c thirty four Pounds, eight shillings and eight Pence Curry
on Acct of Defence
1. Council of Safety Journal, 29 August 1775 to 20 March 1777, Md. Arch.
Certificate of Captain James Nicholson1
I do hereby Certihe that Mr Thomas Walker has served as first Lieutt of
Marines onboard the Ship Defence myself Commander, and as such, did his
Duty as an able Officer, Dureing which Service it appeared Mr Walker had
been brought up to the Sea, and as he is desireous of Serving in that depart-
ment, think him exceeding worthy of promotion -
James Nicholson
Annapolis Septr 18th 1776. -
The particular promotion I would Recommend him to, is one of the Arm’d
Vessels, or Gundeloes
1. Simon Gratz Autograph Collection, Case 5, Box 28, HSP.
SEPTEMBER 1776
897
Vice Admiral Clark Gayton to the Chevalier Francis de Monteil 1
[Copy] On board His Britanick Majestys Ship the
Antelope in Port Royal Harbor Jamaica
Sir/ September 18th 1776
I have the honor of your Letter by Monsr Desfarge de la Valtiere, your
Second Lieutenant concerning a Vessel belonging to His Britanick Majestys
Rebellious Colonies in North America which has been Seiz’d by his Ship the
Squirrel
I beg leave to acquaint you that after the repeatd assurances which
have been given from all the Foreign Powers to His Britanick Majesty of
not Interfereing or affording protection to His Rebellious Subjects, I am
greatly surpriz’d at the part of your Letter wherein you say “You flatter
yourself, that I shall think it very natural for the Schooner to avail herself
of the protection afford’d her by your Court” which is very contrary to the
assurances subsisting between the two Crowns
In respect to this Vessel when His Britanick Majestys Ship saw her,
she was a considerable distance from the Island of Hispaniola and was
chased so near it before she was taken
I have always given particular directions to the Captains of the Kings
Ships under my Command never to approach near any French or Spanish
Possessions, but in cases of the greatest urgency (and in those Cases it has
been Customary for his Most Christian Majestys Ships to come into our
Ports, where they have always met with every Assistance required it being
my most sanguin wish for the good understanding at present Subsisting be-
tween the two Nations to be maintain’d!}]
As this Rebel Schooner has been Seiz’d in concequence of His Britanick
Majestys directions and sent into an English Port, ’ tis not in my Power to
deliver her up, and as ’tis a National matter must be settl’d by our respec-
tive Ministers, which I shall take the earliest oppertunity of laying before
mine for my Kings information. I have the Honor to be with the greatest
respect and esteem [&c.]
Clark Gayton
To The Chevr de Monteil Commander in Chief; of His Most Christian Maj-
estys Ships Station’d at & about the Island of Hispaniola -
1. PRO, Admiralty 1/240.
19 Sept.
Journal of the Massachusetts Council1
[Watertown] Thursday Septr 19 1776
On Motion Ordered That William Seaver Esqr Agent for the Southern
District be and he hereby is directed to deliver to Thomas Ludlow a pris-
oner taken in the Sloop Elizabeth of which he was Master and Owner such
898
AMERICAN THEATRE
Articles of Cloathing and Household Furniture as the said Mr Seaver shall
judge Necessary for the said Ludlow and his Family he the said Ludlow
giving a Receipt to be Accountable for the same when Demanded.
On Motion Ordered That James Bowdoin Esqr William Seaver and
Walter Spooner Esqrs be a Committee to determine the Cruize of the two
Armed Sloops under the Command of Capt John Foster Williams & Capt
John Clouston and Report.
1. Mass. Arch., vol. 19, 236, 237-38.
Order by Massachusetts Council for Supplies for the
State Armed Vessels at Dartmouth1
In Council [Watertown] Sept 19 1776
Ordered that Benjamin Austin Esqr be and hereby is appointed and
Impowered to provide the Vessells of War Commanded by Capt [John
Foster] Williams Sc Capt [John] Clouston2 with such stores Cannon &
other Articles as may be necessary to Equip them for the Sea and the Com-
missary General is hereby directed to Supply the said Vessells out of the
Public Store with such Things as by said Austin shall be required of him
and Wm Watson Esqr of Plimouth who has been appointed Agent to take
Care of the Stores belonging to the Rising Empire Capt [Richard] Welden
late Master is hereby directed to furnish the said Vessells with such Arti-
cles out of the Stores of Brigt Rising Empire as he may be directed to supply
by the Said Austin and it is further orderd that Benjamin Austin be Sc is
impowered to order either of the above named Vessells to sail to Plymouth
Sc there take on board Sc transport such Stores & other [provision] there to
the Harbour of Boston
1. Mass. Arch., vol. 165, 243.
2. Williams commanded the Massachusetts state sloop Republic, and Clouston, the state sloop
Freedom.
“Inventory of Sundries for Capt [John] Clouston dld by
Commis[s]y Genl Sept 19th”1
Boston 1 [9] th September 1776
To Carpenters Stores For the Sloup Freedom
To one 100 foot of Oake Planke — two Inches
To 200 foott of Jack pine planke
To 60 foott 4 Inch planke Oake
To 50 Weight of Spickes 6 Jackes Long
To 28 pound of Decke Nailes
To 1000 Drawing Nailes
To 1000 Shingle Nailes
To 1000 Clap Board Nailes
To 10 pound pump Leather 2000 pump Nailes
To jake plaine I o one Smuthing plain
j- 1 Iron tiler
SEPTEMBER 1776
899
Brigt at Plimo[uth]
To one 100 foott pine Boardes
2 H head Rum
2 Boults Duck
Watersail & Ring [S]aile 8c Gate topsaile
8c topmast stering saile
4 Dubel blocks Iron pins 8c bras cogs
To sundre hucks & thimbles 8c Boults for deck 8c Ring -
1 Yales 17 feet 1 Iron harthe abd the Brig at Plymo
2 Tons Broken Cannon for balust
1 Anchor abt 200 lb. wt for hauser of 6 In.
1 one [Iron] Graplain abd the Brigt
1. Mass. Arch., vol. 165, 242.
Independent Chronicle, Thursday, September 19, 17761
Boston, September 19.
Last Saturday was sent into Cape Ann, by the Schooner Warren, Capt.
William Coas, a Ship of 400 Tons Burthen, called the Picary, commanded
by Breckholt Cleaveland, bound from Tobago to London, having on board
325 Hogsheads Sugar, 161 Bales Cotton, 118 Pipes, 29 Hogsheads and 10
Quarter-Casks Madeira Wine, and some Indigo. And,
On Monday Evening last was also sent into Cape Ann, by the Warren,
a Brig of about 120 Tons, mounting 8 Carriage Guns and 10 Swivels. She
was bound from the Coast of Guinea, but last from Tobago, bound for Lon-
don, with some Elephants Teeth and Gold Dust2
When the above Brig left Capt. Coas, he was in pursuit of a Ship.
Yesterday arrived in this Harbour from Swanzey (where they were
lately built) two armed Sloops in the Service of this State, having 12 Car-
riage Guns, 6 Pounders, 20 Swivels, and 75 Men each.3
Monday last returned to Plymouth, Captain Samson [Simeon
Sampson] , after a short Cruize, in which he has taken five Prizes, three or
four of which are arrived safe in Port.
Yesterday se’nnight arrived at Newburyport the Brig Georgia Diana,
Peter Rigan, Master, bound from Grenada to London, taken by the Wash-
ington Privateer, Nathaniel Odiorne, having on board 60 Hogsheads Rum
and Sugar, and about 20 chaldrons of Coal, 8cc. 8cc.
1. Beginning with this issue the New-England Chronicle became the Independent Chronicle.
2. Brigantine Swallow.
3. The sloops Freedom and Republic.
Sale of Prize Ships and Cargoes at Beverly, Plymouth and Bedford 1
New Advertisements. Sales At Auction.
Of the following Cargoes of Prize Goods, On Wednesday, 25th Septem-
ber, At Ten in the Morning, Will be sold by Public Vendue, at Beverly, op-
posite Salem.
900
AMERICAN THEATRE
The Ship Isaac, with her Cargo, consisting of 600 Hogsheads and
Tierces of Muscavado Sugars, 150 Bales Cotton, 40 Puncheons Rum, and 30
Tons Fustick, four Carriage Guns, with Carriages compleatly equipped.
On Tuesday, the 8th October next, at Ten in the Morning, Will be sold
by Public Vendue, at Plymouth,
The Cargo of the Brigantine Carolina Packet, viz. 151 Hogsheads, 12
Tierces and 10 Barrels of Sugar, 10 Hogsheads of Rum, and 14 Tons of Lig-
num Vitae and Fustick.
And, on Friday following, being the 11th of October, at Ten in the
Morning, Will be sold by Public Vendue, at Bedford, in Dartmouth,
The Cargoes of the Ship Charming Sally, of the Snow Ann, and of the
Brig John, consisting of 634 Hogsheads, 51 Tierces and 61 Barrels of
Sugar, 118 Bales of Cotton, 90 Hogsheads and 2 Tierces of Rum, 40 Bags of
Ginger, and 25 Tons of Fustick.
J. Russell, Auctioneer.
1. Independent Chronicle , Boston, September 19, 1776.
Diary of Benjamin Marston1
September the 19 was taken by the Eagle Privateer Capt Elijah Freeman
Paine commr in Lat:41.2 on the eastern part of George’s Bank.
The Names of the Officers on board the Eagle Privateer as she is call’d
Elijah Freeman Paine Commr
1st Leiutt
Smith 2d Lt
Dodge master Sc Owner
Isaiah Parker Barnstable Prize master on board the Earl Percy 2
1. Marston Diary, UNBL.
2. The schooner Earl Percy, 30 tons, Nathaniel Atkins, master, was libeled in the Admiralty
Court of the Southern District of Massachusetts, October 24, 1776, for trial at Plymouth
on November 12, 1776, Independent Chronicle, Boston, October 24, 1776.
Account of Daniel Bucklin Against the Prize Ship Eagle 1
Providence Septr 19 1776
Ship Eagle To Daniel Bucklin Dr
August
14
To
Cash For quarter of Mutton
£0. .2. .2
15
To
Cash for Do
0. .1.10
17
To
Cash for Do
0. .1. .9
16
Septr
To
Cash for Do
0. .1. .9
4
To
To
Cash For 500 Nails
Cash Paid Thomas Wait for 14 "1
Day Servis on Board down the River J
0. .5. .0
1.10. .0
5
To
one Gallon of Rum
0. .6. .6.
SEPTEMBER 1776
6 To one Gallon of Rum
To Paid London Hoggers for 1 Day Work
To Paid Samuel Holland for 1 Day Do
To Paid Amos Richards for 2 Days Do @ 4/6
To Paid Richard Lowden for 3 days Do 6/
To Paid Prince Power for 1 Nights Watdch
7 To Paid Sullivan for 6 Day Work @6/
To Paid Ned Hunt for 6 Do a 6/
To Paid Thomas Pitman for 6 Do @6/
To Paid Jno Wade for 6 Do @6/
To Paid James Croke for 6 Do @6/
To Paid Isac Sarson for 6 Do @6/
To Paid Henry Rokes for 6 Do @6/
To Paid Wm Lin for 5 Do a 6/
To Paid James McSoley for 6 Do a 6/
To Paid Danl Man for 2 Do @6/
To one Weeks Work My Self @6/
To Cash Paid Jose 8c Wm Russell for 1
Use of His Scales j
9 To Paid Cato Rogers for 7 Day Work a 6/
To Paid Cug Rome for 3 Day Do a 6/
To Paid James Russell for 4i£> Do a 6/
To Paid Wm Bardine for his Bill for Provisions
[illegible] Down the River
To Paid James Croke for [18] Day attendance on
board
Card over
Ship Eagels acct Brought over
To Pade Benoney Pairs for 5 Days waying @ 12
To Pade Wm Cozens Bill for mending 8c maken
Ginger Bag
To Pade John Wade Isaac Pairson 8c Henrey Rokes 5 Days
Worke Each onbending 8c Drying Sail [s] as Capt Bordens 12. .8. .0
acct @4/
' J
To Pade Henrey Rokes 8c John Wade for Careying homej urn
the Scales 8c Wates 8c maken the Ship fast J
To Pade Richard Goseling for 5 Days Work @6/ 1. 10. .0
£43. .3. .0
[Endorsed] Octr 9th 1776 - Reed of Theodore Foster Forty Three Pounds
Three shillings Lawful Money in full for the foregoing Account
£43..3..0 Daniel Bucklin 2
901
0.
.6.
.6
0.
. 6 .
.0
0.
. 6 .
.0
0.
.9.
.0
0.
18.
.0
0.
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.6
1.
16.
.0
1.
16.
.0
1.
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.0
1.
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.0
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16.
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4.
.0.
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.2.
.0
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.0
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. .7.
.0
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.0
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.14.
.0
£
35,
. .3.
.0
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. .3.
.0
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. .0.
.0
}
0
.16.
.0
1. Admiralty Papers, vol. 9, R. I. Arch.
2. Late commander of Rhode Island privateer sloop Montgomery.
902
AMERICAN THEATRE
Major General Horatio Gates to Brigadier General Benedict Arnold 1
[Extract] Ticonderoga September 19th 1776.
... I am much pleased with the Disposition you have made with the
Fleet confident it is the Best. General Waterbury is indefatigable infitting
the Gallies; and if he is not detained for want of proper Rope for Breech-
ings, I see nothing can stop them, more than a Week atmost. This will be de-
liver’d you by Captain [David] Hawley: General Waterbury thinks you
will immidiately appoint him to the Command of the Royal Savage; he
takes all his Seamen with him; Mr. Avery writes you by this Conveyance
and explains the Article relative to Provisions; sufficient of both Fresh and
Salt, shall be sent you by the Gallies. . . .
1. Gates Papers, Box 19, NYHS.
Journal of the New York Provincial Convention1
Die Jovis, 9 HO. A. M.
[Fishkill] Septr. 19th, 1776.
Capt. Samuel Tudor, one of the superintendents for building the Conti-
nental ships at Poughkeepsie, attending, delivered in a letter from General
Schuyler, dated Albany Sept. 17th, 1776, and directed to Messrs. Van
Zandt, Tudor and the other gentlemen to whose care the building of the
frigates at Poughkeepsie is committed, wherein the General informs those
gentlemen that he received a line by express from General Gates informing
him that he is in the greatest distress for the cordage mentioned in a list in-
closed in the said letter for the use of the row gallies, which are the greatest
strength of our naval force on the lake.
Capt. Tudor requested the opinion and advice of the Convention on this
subject.
Resolved , That as a naval strength on Lake Champlain is an object of
the utmost importance, and will greatly contribute to the security of Amer-
ica, that the agents for building the ships at Poughkeepsie be directed to
supply such and so much cordage as General Schuyler requires, and that
this Convention will justify them to the Honourable the Continental Con-
gress.
1. New York Provincial Congress, I, 633.
Diary of Frederick Mackenzie 1
[New York] 19th Sept A great number of flat boats were brought up to
Greenwich on the North River last night.
The Roivbuck 2 of 44 Guns came down the North River this Evening,
and in passing Paulus hook, was fired at from thence — only 3 shot struck
her, but she received no material damage. The other ships remain up the
River in a line with our advanced post.
1. Mackenzie’s Diary, I, 57-58.
2. The Renown; not the Roebuck.
SEPTEMBER 1776
903
Captain William Anthony Halsted, R.N., to Philip Stephens1
Jersey , Hospital Ship, off Red Hook near New York.
Sir, 19th September 1776.
You will be pleased to acquaint my Lords Commissioners of the Admi-
ralty, That I arrived with his Majesty’s Ship under my command at Halli-
fax the 7th July, in a distressed situation after a tedious and fatigueing
passage of nine Weeks.
We parted Company with the Commodore the 28th of May in a heavy
Gale of Wind westerly, and we by our account about 330 Leagues to the
Westward of the Start, the Ship complaining much in all her Upper works
fore and aft, but more particularly forward; was under the necessity of
fraping her in four or five different places, two across the Forecastle the
others in the Waist. The weakness of the Ship forward encreased and be-
came very alarming so that it was absolutely necessary something should be
done to relieve her. On the 29th in the Morning I consulted with my Officers
and it was unanimously agreed to cut away the Bower Anchors, and to
stave and throw overboard the flat botom’d Boat, after which we experi-
enc’d a most sensible alteration in the Ship for the better, for before, every
lee Lurch that she took we had the disagreable prospect, of seeing the
upper Works of the Forecastle carried away with the Anchors, And had the
Gale continued twenty four hours longer, I will venture to assert that we
should not have had a Mast standing, for both main and fore Channel Bolts
work’d out in such a manner, that I myself hauled one of the main ones out
by hand. — The 31st we join’d the Commodore, at which time I was much
indisposed, but communicated to him by Letter the state and Condition of
the Ship, and at the same time enclosed a Copy of the visible defects taken
by the Carpenter the Day before agreable to my Order. — He ordered his
Carpenter on board, with his Mate, and with the Carpenter of the Jersey to
survey the Ship, A Copy of which Survey, with a Copy of that taken by the
Carpenter of said Ship 30th May, I have delivered in to Lord Howe. — We
parted Company again the 3d of July in a very thick Fogg and a strong Gale,
and from the Guns that were fired supposed the Commodore had brought
too with his Head to the Eastward, we being at Noon of that Day by our
reckoning 30 Leagues to the westward of Cape Sambro, at half past 7 that eve-
ning it cleared up and only one Sail in sight. The next Morning I opened my
Rendezvous and found it to be for Halifax. I accordingly made the best of
my way, and arrived there as before mentioned where I stayed twenty
Days to refit If I may be allowed to give it that appelation. — We sailed
from thence the 27th and Anchored without the Barr off Sandy Hook the
14th of August in the Evening, and on Saturday forenoon joined Lord
Howe off Staten Island. — This is the first opportunity I have had of
transmitting to their Lordships any account of the Ship since my leaving
England, but do suppose his Lordship may have made some mention of her
to the Board of Admiralty by a Pacquet which sailed from Sandy Hook a-
fortnight since and that so suddenly that she was under way in two Hours
904
AMERICAN THEATRE
after I received the intelligence and the Jersey at that time laying four
Leagues distance from her, So that I flatter myself their Lordships will not
think me guilty of any omission. - I am with all due respect. Sir [&c.]
Wm Anthy Halsted.
1. PRO, Admiralty 1/1902, 14, 18.
Journal of the Continental Congress1
[Philadelphia] Thursday, September 19, 1776
The Board of Treasury reported, that they have examined the vouchers
brought into their office by Joseph Hewes, Esqr. one of the Naval Commit-
tee, by which it appears, that the Naval Committee have expended the sum
of one hundred and thirty four thousand three hundred and thirty three
dollars and 27 /90 of a dollar in fitting out eight armed vessels.
Resolved , That the same be allowed and passed to the credit of the said
committee.
The Naval Committee having laid before Congress an account of sun-
dry outstanding debts, and of sundry goods by them purchased, and put
into the hands of different persons who have not yet accounted for the
same,
Resolved , That the said account be delivered to the Marine Committee,
and that they be directed to take effectual measures to have the said out-
standing debts collected and accounts settled.
1. Ford, ed., JCC, V, 782-83.
Minutes of the Pennsylvania Council of Safety1
In Council of Safety,
[Philadelphia] September 19th, 1776.
Mr. Nesbitt was directed to pay John Knox £ 19 4 h/2, for Rum sup-
plied Workmen on board the Galleys Congress & Franklin.
Resolved, That Mr. John Coburn be directed to appear before the
Board to-morrow morning at 10 O’clock, to render an Account of all the
necessarys he has had in his care for Sinking the Chevaux De Frize & the
piers at Fort Island, and also to settle his Account.
Resolved, That James Maul be appointed a Pilot to carry Vessels thro’
the Chevaux De Frise, in the room of Daniel Gordon, Deceased.
1. Pennsylvania Colonial Records, X, 722, 723.
Journal of the Maryland Council of Safety1
[Annapolis] Thursday. Sepr 19th 1776
Ordered That commissary of Stores deliver to Captn Cooke two Bolts of
Oznabrigs for the Ship Defence’s Use.
SEPTEMBER 1776
905
The following List of Effects was delivered to the Board by Colonel
Waters, which were taken off the Islands in Somerset County.
3 Clincker built Boats
2 Casks of Train-Oil
200 wt of old Iron, or thereabouts
1 Long Boat
1 Flatt
1 Lame Long Boat
1 Yawl
2 Hogsheads Rum
1 Small Schooner, that will carry about 200 Bushels. -
Ordered That the Flatt and Large Long Boat be sent to Annapolis by
the first convenient opportunity. — and that the other Effects in the above
list mentioned be sold at public Sale to the highest Bidder under the direc-
tion of Colonel Peter Waters after ten day’s notice given of such Sale, and
that the money be lodged in the hands of the Treasurer of the Eastern
shore, subject to the order of Convention. — and Colo Waters is requested
to cause any repairs to be made, that may be necessary to the abovemen-
tioned Flatt.
1. Council of Safety Journal, 29 August 1775 to 20 March 1777, Md. Arch.
“A List of the Officers & Men on Board the Ship Defence the
19th of September Anno Dom. 1776 Geo. Cook Commander” 1
Henry Auchenlick
1st Lieut
John Berryman
Gunner
John Burnell
2d ditto
Henry Rentford
do Mate
James Cordray
Master
William Piercey
Yeoman
John Hall
Chief Mate
James Arne
Qr Gunner
Nathaniel Cooper
2d ditto
Matthew Murray
Armourer
Levin Langle
3d do
George Rowen
Master at Arms
Peter Sharp
Midshipman
William Beauchamp Carpenter
James Rownds
ditto
William prince
do Mate
Archibald Douglass
ditto
Alexander
William Carter
ditto
Cummings
Carpentr Crew
Francis Muir
Capt Clerk
William Howard
ditto
James Glashy
quartr Master
Nathan Ross
ditto
disrated Octr the
Joseph Dunbar
Cooper
23d
Joseph Burge
Ship Steward
John Wright
ditto
Francis Jackquelin
Cabin ditto
James Falconer
ditto
James Gaggen
Cook
Charles
James Green
Armrs Mate
Chamberlane
ditto
Francis Hurburt
Able Seaman
Anthony Hanson
Boatswain
Alexander Duffey
ditto
Benjamin Simpson
ditto
Rated Qr Master
John Barr
ditto
Oct 23d
James Hawkins
Yeoman
James Hogan
ditto
AMERICAN THEATRE
906
Joseph Walpole
ditto
Benjamin
James Gifford
ditto
Thompson
ditto
James Allen
ditto
Jacob Sutton
ditto
William portus
ditto
John Vaughan
ditto
Colin Brown
ditto
Abram Strong
ditto
John Valiant
ditto
Moses Scott
ditto
William Gaggen
ditto
Timothy Kelly
ditto
Dennis Larkins
ditto
John Smyley
ditto
Thomas Howard
ditto
Bazil Smith
ditto
William Hurburt
ditto
Robert McDonald
ditto
Christopher Short
ditto
John Davis
ditto
Alexander
William Adair
ditto
Nicholson
ditto
Thomas Buckley
Cabin boy
David Primrose
ditto
James Brown
ditto
William King
ditto
Nathan Dorsey
Surgeon
John Knight
ditto
Samuel Church
ditto Mate
Henry Carberry
Able Seaman
Francis Muir
purser
William Flemming
ditto
Garret Brown
Capt Marines
John Crapper
ditto
Thomas Walker
1st Lieut
Joseph Jones
Ordinr Seaman
Joseph Smith
2d ditto
Hoshier Cole
ditto
William Morris
3d ditto
Henry Gilbert
ditto
William Radford
Sergeant
Thomas Gilbert
ditto
Vachel Yates
ditto
Robert Fosset
ditto
Michael Craig
ditto
Dennis Folsue
ditto
William DeCoursey
ditto
Richard Sutton
ditto
Thomas Roberts
Drummer
Patrick Cole
ditto
William Matthews
Corporal
Charles Blunt
ditto
Alexander Stanton
ditto
Daniel Nevin
ditto
Ezekiel Disney
Private
Robert Hope
ditto
Robert Conway
ditto
Thomas Green
ditto
Michael Conway
ditto
James Barry
ditto
William Bishop
ditto
John McIntyre
ditto
William Grantham
ditto
Samuel Wolf
ditto
John Schea
ditto
James Bradford
ditto
Charles McNealis
ditto
William Trott
ditto
Simon Trainer
ditto
Joshua Ozier
ditto
William Askins
ditto
Lynn Surmer
ditto
John Squible
ditto
James Collins
ditto
William Judges
ditto
James Green
ditto
John Power
ditto
Thomas Moore
ditto
Benjamin Sutton
ditto
Abel Mason
ditto
John Garvey
ditto
Richard Cockey
ditto
Morgan Murphy
ditto
Samuel Wilson
ditto
James Codey
ditto
Joseph Dennis
ditto
Conrad McGuire
ditto
John McKennie
ditto
John Grant
ditto
SEPTEMBER 1776
907
Bartholomew
James Armstrong
ditto
Deloray
ditto
John Wilson
ditto
Thomas Crow
ditto
William Huggard
ditto
John Donavin
ditto
James McGill
ditto
Moses Greer
ditto
Phillip Handly
ditto
Robert Wilmott
ditto
Waltely Masters
ditto
Henry Carr
ditto
Barny McManus
ditto
William Porter
ditto
William Davis
ditto
John Lemmon
ditto
James Smith
ditto
Edwd Gibbons
ditto
Clement Tossuir
Lobloll
William Sohan
ditto
1. Revolutionary Collection (Ms. 1814) , MdHS.
20 Sept.
Agreement between John Langdon and Daniel Drinkwater1
Memorandum of Agreement, That I Daniel Drinkwater of North Yarmouth
in the County of Cumberland & State of Massachusetts Bay Mariner, do
Contract & Agree to & with John Langdon of Portsmouth in the County of
Rockingham & State of New Hampshire Merchant to deliver or cause to be
deliver’d, to the said Langdons order the following Spruce Spars — (vizt)
Four of Sixteen Inchs each of Fifty eight feet in Length & Three Ditto of
Twelve Inches or upwards & not less than Sixty feet in Length suitable for
Booms — as soon as possible, for which said Drinkwater is to be paid Six
pence Lawf My P Inch for as many Inches as they measure on the delivery
of the same at Portsmouth aforesaid — Witness my hand September 20th
1776 —
NB. The above Contract is for the Continental Use —
Daniel Drinkwater.
1. John & Woodbury Langdon Papers, NHHS. The spars were probably for the Continental
ship Ranger being built by Langdon.
“A J ourniel Kept By Ephraim Briggs On board of the Good
Sloop Warren A Bold Privateer From Dartmouth
to the Lattd of 33:” 1
Fryday September the 20 Day A D 1776
Latter Part Fryday Morning Calm the Wind at NE Put
About stearing NW. Lattd In By Observation: 37: 9 :
First Part these 24 hours Good Weather the Wind at NE
Saw A Ship Bearing SSW Run for Her One Glass Hald by
the Wind Again the ship fir’d A Gun to Windard A
Jumbling sea A Going Our Mast is sprung Badly Went to
Work & Fish’d Him Got Him stedy Againg the Wind Dies
out oars Went to Rowing
1. RIHS.
908
AMERICAN THEATRE
Petition of Officers of the Massachusetts State Schooner
Diligent to the Massachusetts Council1
To the Honl Council of the State of the Massachusetts Bay the Petition of
the Followg Persons
Humbly Sheweth
That We your Petitioners have Serv’d this Colloney in Difft Depart-
ments on Board the Schooner Dilligente John Lambert Commander since
the 16th March last which we are sorry to say to little advantage to the
Publick or Ourselves. We therefore beg that your Hons woud take it into
your Wise Consideration and Honourably Acquit us, Discounting for the
time Serv’d or place us in some way wherein we may serve the General
Cause of America and Ourselves, as we cannot be so happy in any other
way as in the Defence of the Country But in the Channel we are now in
we cannot make ourselves Easy Unless we are lost to a Sense of all Honour
8c Justice, as all the Privates have left the Vessl but as to yo[ur] Petition-
ers we are not willing to leave the Service Unless it meets with the Sanc-
tion of your Hons Approbation. We therefore beg leave to Enquire the Rea-
son of the Detainment of our Wages, is the Captures we brot in Unlawfully
taken or is it for Embezzelments, or are we Accountable for the Captains
Conduct when our Commissions from your Honours obliges us to Obey his
Commands If we are Impeach’d with any thing being Conscious of our In-
nocence we beg to be Brot to an Immediate Tryal by which means we Doubt
not of being able to Acquit ourselves with Honr and to your Satisfaction as
we Esteem our Honour Dearer than our Intrest or even our Lives we there-
fore heave ourselves at the feet of your Honours hopg youll Consider our
Distress’d Situation in so Expensive a place as this, havg Allready ex-
pended a great part of our Wages in the Pursuit of them, we therefore pray
we may no longer be kept in Suspence but have an Immediate Ansr that we
may not loose our [wages] and time, in Complying with which we shall Es-
teem ourselves under the greatest Obligations 8c as in Duty Bound shall
ever Pray
John Obrien 1st Lieut Joshua Wing Master
Willm Perkins 2d Lieut Peter Clark Comr Marines
[Endorsed] In Council [Watertown] Sept 20 [th] 1776 Read 8c Ordered
that Walter Spooner 8c Sami Holton Esqrs be a Comittee to take the within
Petition under Consideration 8c Report
John Avery Depy Secy
1. Mass. Arch., vol. 165, 246.
Massachusetts Council to Captain John Clouston1
The Sloop Freedom Under your Command being in all respects
Equiped in Warlike Manner, 8c being also well 8c properly Man’d, so as to
enable you to proceed on a Cruize —
SEPTEMBER 1776
909
You therefore, are directed to range the Eastern shore of this State
laying between the River Piscatqua 8c Machias, in Order to Clear that
Coast of any of the Enemies Cruizers, that may be Infesting the same, 8c
from thence proceed to the Mouth of the River St Lawrence 8c their Cruize
untill the first of November Next, in Order to Intercept any of the Enemies
Vessels that may be passing that way, and from thence you must proceed to
the Coast of Newfoundland, and there Cruise untill the middle of November
aforesaid in Order to Surprize 8c Seize such Vessels of the Enemy as you
may Meet with upon that Coast or in any of the Harbours of the same af-
terwhich you may proceed upon a Cruise as far to the Southward as Latt
38° North 8c continue upon said cruise so long as you find it practicable or
expedient and then you are to return to the Harbour of Boston, Allways
using every Necessary Precaution to prevent the Sloop under your Com-
mand from falling into the hands of the Enemy — You are to Observe 8c
follow such Orders 8c directions as you shall from time to time receive from
Capt Daniel Souther - provided they are Consistent, with the Instructions
now given You -
And Whereas You have Received a Comission, by Force of Arms to
Attack seize 8c take on the high Seas, all Ships 8c other Vessels belonging to
the Inhabitants of Great Britain or Others Infesting the Sea Coast of this
Continent, you are therefore punctually to follow the Instructions Already
Delivered you, for regulating yr Conduct in this Matter 8c in all things Con-
duct your self Consistent with the Trust reposed in you —
In Council [Watertown] Sept 20 1776 In the name 8c by Order of
Council
John Avery Dpy Secy 2
1. Mass. Arch., vol. 165, 251.
2. Ibid., vol. 19, 242, on September 21 the Council ordered that similar instructions be issued
to Captain Souther of the brig Massachusetts.
Isaac Miles to Captain John Updike1
Sir Milford Septr 20th 1776
I reed your favr of the 17 Inst and observe the Contents, as to the
Sloop of yours she is in our harbour loaded with Coal 8c I have seen Capt
[Charles] Pond2 8c he informs me he cant do anything about it 8c says he has
applied to Colo [Benjamin] Tupper3 to know what shall be done with her
8c his answer was to let her lay at present. Sir I should think it best to apply
to Congress, or to Nathl Shaw of New London as Agent for Congress, Sir
if I can be of any Service at any Time to you shall at all times be ready to
serve you — from Sir [8cc.]
Isaac Miles
Copy
1. Nathaniel and Thomas Shaw Letters and Papers, NLCHS.
2. Commander of the Continental sloop Schuyler.
3. Tupper was in command of the various armed vessels operating under Washington’s di-
rection at New York.
910
AMERICAN THEATRE
Journal of H.M.S. Niger, Captain George Talbot1
Septr: 1776
Sunday 15
Monday 16
Tuesday 17
Wednesday 18
Thursday 19
Friday 20
• Moor’d off Whitestone
Mode Breeze & Fair Wr At 10 P M sent all the Boats
Man’d 8c Arm’d to join the Army a great Fireing about
Hell Gate
Fresh Breezes 8c Fair Wr Fireing as Yesterday
at 8 A M the Boats 8c People Return’d except the Large
Cutter the Army having Landed on York Island wth Very
little loss
At 8 A M came onboard two Deserters from the Rebel
Army sent them to Head Quarters
Fresh Breezes 8c Cloudy Wr
At 7 P M was hail’d from the N Shore sent a Boat to Do
which Return’d with a Rebel Officer a Deserter from their
Army
A M Anchor’d here the Halifax from the Et Wd sent the
Reble Officer to Head Quarters
P M sail’d hence the Halifax 8c 2 Tenders to the Et Wd
1. PRO, Admiralty 51/637.
Captain Joshua Huntington to Jabez Huntington1
[Extract] Camp Near Kings Bridge Sept. 20 [1776].
I Understand that our Family are Conserned in a Privateer from N
London.2 I told Brother And’w I should be glad to be Concerned £ 100 L.
M. Should be Glad to know Wheather he has Engaged any Part for Me or
not, as I Expectd if he was Concerned to take a Part with him.
1. Collections of the Connecticut Historical Society , XX, 44, 45.
2. Brig Ranger.
Commissioners for Restoring Peace to Lord George Germain 1
My Lord New York 20th Septr 1776
We are sorry to inform your Lordship that the Infatuation and Perse-
verance of the People and their Leaders, have hitherto afforded no opportu-
nity for the effectual Operation of the Civil Commission with which His Maj-
esty hath been pleased to charge us:
The Determination of the Congress to discourage amongst the Colo-
nists every Idea of Reconciliation with Great Britain, except upon their
lately assumed Ground of Independency and their Assertions, insidiously
circulated that the Objects of Our Commission were confined to the declar-
ing of Peace and the granting of Pardons, as specified in the Prohibitory
Act, have induced us to publish a Declaration of which the inclosed is a
Copy
SEPTEMBER 1776
911
It is calculated Your Lordship will observe, to apprise the Colonies,
that the Effect of the King’s most gracious Intentions towards them, is ob-
structed by those in whose hands they have entrusted their Government,
and that therefore it now becomes them to turn Arbitrators of their own
Interests and Happiness
As this Declaration is published while the Rebel Army as well as the
Province is labouring under Disappointment and many Sufferings, occa-
sioned by the rapid and successful Progress of His Majesty’s Forces, we are
not without hopes of its producing some Good, although we do not yet per-
ceive any Symptom of that Disposition to Allegiance and Submission to
legal Government which would justify us in expecting to see the publick
Tranquillity soon restored. We have the honor to be My Lord 8cc
Howe
W. Howe
Inclosure — Declaration of the Commissioners for Restoring Peace dated
19th of September at New York
[Endorsed] Commissioners for restoring Peace/ (No 2) Rd 3d November
1. PRO, Colonial Office, 5/229.
Journal of Benjamin Boardman1
[Paulus Hook, September] 20th.
The Renown returned back again to the fleet, and though she passed
close in with New York shore, yet as there was very little wind, above 40
shot from our battery were fired at her, many of which took effect. She lay
all next day upon a careen to repair.
1. Connecticut Gazette , October 18, 1776.
Thomas Johnson, Jr. to the Maryland Council of Safety1
Gent. Phila 20th Septr 1776.
I inclose you a Letter from Mr [Richard] Harrison which came under
Cover together with a Bill of Lading for 74 Casks of Gunpowder each 50 wt
in the Nancy Capt Cirvin, [George Curwen] to Messrs Willing 8c
Morris We have ordered the powder into Mr Hollingsworths Care and re-
quested him to forward it to you - The Bill of Lading is for the Delivery of
the Goods on Paymt of 46.5— in Dollars at 7/6 but the Owner of the Vessel
alledges on agreemt with Mr Harrison that the customary Freight should
be paid nothing of the Kind is mentioned in Mr Harrisons Letter to Willing
& Morris will you be pleased to write us whether Mr Harrison had ad-
vised you of it and what you would have done - The Claim is 10 PCt on the
Powder valued at 5/ p lb which comes to just double the Money mentioned
in the Bill of Lading. I am Gent very respectfully [8cc.]
1. Red Book, IV, Md. Arch.
912
AMERICAN THEATRE
Continental Marine Committee to Captain John Young1
[Philadelphia] September 20th 1776
The Sloop Independence of which you are appointed Commander being
now laden, compleatly fitted, armed, victualled and manned, You are to pro-
ceed with said Sloop and Cargo for the Island of Martinico putting into
Fort Royal or St Piers just as the winds and other circumstances point out
for the best. On your arrival at either place you must enquire for Mr Wil-
liam Bingham our resident in that Island, should he be at the place where
you put in, deliver to him the sundry dispatches now committed to your
care, should he be at any other part of the Island you will send an express to
inform him of your arrival, Sc that you have such dispatches which you are
directed to deliver into his own hands. He will then repair to you immedi-
ately, and you must comply with his Orders by landing the Cargo wherever
he may direct, You must also consult with him and be advised by Mr
Bingham in all things that respects the Interest or honor of the united
states in the concerns of their sloop under your command. If you put into
Fort Royal and Mr Bingham is not there, you must wait on the general and
inform him you belong to the United States of America, ask the liberty of
the Port and protection during your stay there. If you put into St Piers and
dont find Mr Bingham wait on the Governor and Intendant observing the
same conduct. If Mr Bingham is present he will direct what you are to do on
these points. You are to consider the French and all nations but Great Brit-
ain as the Friends of these United States and conduct yourself towards
them accordingly and during your stay in any French Ports be particularly
attentive to the behavour and prudent conduct of your people. You are to
receive on board the Sloop any arms, ammunition or other goods Mr
Bingham may order receive from him also his dispatches and then proceed
back for this Port. You are to consider that we are anxious for you to make
an expeditious voyage, notwithstanding which as you are well armed and
manned and the Sloop sails fast, we do not forbid you chasing such Vessels
either going or coming as you think may become your Prizes for this pur-
pose you have a Commission, a book containing the Resolves of Congress re-
specting Prizes which you must strictly conform to, and a list of the Conti-
nental agents to some of whom you must Address any Prize you take.
Should Mr Bingham find it necessary to detain you any time, and he and
you should think it adviseable to make a short cruize during that Time, we
do not forbid it, but take care not to fall into the enemys hands. It is an Ob-
ject with us that you should pick up and bring home with you as many Sea-
men as possible, the more the better, and you may enter all you get on the
same pay and terms as those you carry out. —
You must sling our dispatches to Mr Bingham, and on your return, his
to us, with a weight sufficient to sink them and always keep them ready to
be thrown over board should you unfortunately be taken for you must not
let these Packets fall into the enemies hands on any Account. You are to af-
ford reliefe or assistance to any of the subjects of the united States that
SEPTEMBER 1776
913
want it if in your power, unless proof should Appear that they are inimical
to their Country and its cause. You are authorized to take, burn, Sink or de-
stroy the Vessels and property of all British Subjects except those residing
in Bermuda and New Providence, but we recommend humanity and polite-
ness to be inseperable companions of the officers in the Continental Service.
It is necessary you should be careful of the Sloop her materials and Stores,
diligent in the discharge of your own duty and careful to make your officers
and men perform theirs — Strict in discipline but attentive to render the
service agreeable to all concerned in it.
We expect you will be frugal in expences and on your return furnish us
with duplicates of your Logbook and Journal giving also a Satisfactory Ac-
count of your voyage, and when you approach this Coast, keep a good look
out as you may expect many of the enemies Ships will be Cruizing for plun-
der. If you cannot get in here you may push for any of the Inlets or other
place of safety the nearer to this the better. We are Sir [&c.]
1. Marine Committee Letter Book, 20-21, NA.
Secret Committee of the Continental Congress to William Bingham 1
Sir Philada Septemr. 20th 1776
You will find inclosed herein Invoice and bill of Loading for
hhds of Tobacco and Tons barr Iron which we have Shipped on
board the Sloop Independance John Young Master for Martinico Consigned
to your order for Sale on accot of the United States of America, you will
please to have this Cargo sold to the best advantage and Credit the Secret
Committee for the Neat proceeds, We hope the Brigt Cornelia & Molly
Capt Lockhard arrived Safe, and that you will have placed the Neat pro-
ceeds of that Cargoe also at our Credit — the two Sloops were very Unfor-
tunate adventures —
You will charge the Cost of the Arms and powder you Sent by the Re-
prisal Capt Wickes to this Committee but if you apply any part of our Con-
signments to making the Needfull Supplies for the Reprisal , Independance
or any other Continental Vessell, you Must Remit us drafts on the Marine
Committee for amount of such and if you make any to private Ships we
charter and Send to your address, then Remit us the Captains drafts on the
Owners for such Amount, and if you apply any part to pay your Own ex-
pences or other necessary charges Relating to the bussiness of the Com-
mittee of Secret Correspondence Send us your drafts on them for Such
amount by this means we can keep perfect accots and each department
will Answer for its proper disbursments
We inclose you herein a List of Medicines which we are ordered to im-
port for the Continental Service, pray collect any part you can get in the
West Indies and send them here Soon as possible, and at the same time send
a Copy of the List forward to Mr Thomas Morris and desire him to order
the full quantity from Europe to your Care which you’l forward as soon as
they arrive, We request you to send us all the good Arms & Gun locks,
WARRANT.
HE MARINE COMMITTEE appointed by Congrefs,
to equip and fit out the Fleet of the United Golonies-, having
received fuch Recommendations as fatisfy them, that you
are duly qualified for the
Office of WE have
therefore appointed you the faid
to be
on board the hereby giving
you full Power to execute the Office aforefaid, agreeable to the Rules
and Regulations of the Sea Service, and fuch Orders as you may
receive from your fuperior Officers. And for your fo doing, this
fhall be your fufficient Warrant,
Dated at
Blank Warrant Form.
SEPTEMBER 1776
915
Powder, Gun Flints, Salt petre, Sulphur Sail Cloth, Blankets, or other
Wool[e]n goods you can possibly get, by return of the Sloop Independance
& we Shall keep making you further Remittances to enable your paying for
whatever you buy in the Service of these States. — With the best wishes for
your health and Success. We remain Sir [Sec.]
Rob1 Morris Josiah Bartlett
Richard Henry Lee Phil. Livingston
Fra8 Lewis
Copy
1. Simon Gratz Autograph Collection, Case 1, Box 19, HSP.
Minutes of the Continental Marine Committee1
In Marine Committee
[Philadelphia] September 20th 1776
Resolved
That Captain Eseiah [Isaiah] Robinson be appointed Commander of
the Brigantine Andrew Doria in the Room of Cap Biddle
Extract from the Minutes
By Order of the Committee
John Brown
l. FDRL.
Minutes of the Continental Marine Committee1
[Philadelphia, September 20, 1776] 2
Resolved That Francis Varrell be Appointed Boatswain of the Frigate
Washington commanded by Thomas Read Esquire — and the Commander
of the Alfred is desired to discharge him.
John Hancock by order
1. Harbeck Collection, HUL.
2. The date is approximate. Varrell had been loaned from the Alfred to the Andrew Doria
on August 8, 1776, and the latter had returned to Philadelphia from her cruise on
September 17. Esek Hopkins, in a list which probably was sent to the Marine Com-
mittee with his letter of June 19, had recommended Varrell as “Boatswain for one of
the Ships in Philada.” Hopkins Papers, RIHS.
Minutes of the Pennsylvania Council of Safety1
In Council of Safety,
[Philadelphia] Sept’r 20th, 1776.
Samuel Mifflin, Esq’r, declined serving as Commodore 8c Com’r-in-
Chief of the Fleet of this State.
Mr. Nesbitt was directed to pay Capt. Jos. Blewer 50s. for scraping the
Galley Convention.
1. Pennsylvania Colonial Records, X, 724.
916
AMERICAN THEATRE
Robert Morris to the Pennsylvania Council of Safety1
Gentn ' Philada 20 Septr 1776
The Bearer hereof James Maul informs me there is a Vacancy in the
Cheveaux de Frize Pilots — I take the liberty therefore of recommending
him to your honorable board as a person well qualified for, and deserving
of the birth — I have the honor to be Gentn [Sec.]
Rob1 Morris
1. NYSL.
Captain Thomas Forrest’s Petition to the Pennsylvania
Council of Safety1
[Philadelphia, September 20, 1776] 2
The Petition of Thomas Forrest Sheweth.
Your petitioner having the Honour Conferd on him by the honourable
Body the late Committe of Safety of an Appointment of Capt of marines on
Board the floating Battery Now Riding at anchor at fort Island.
That your petitioner Ending by daily experience that Marines on board
the floating battery are Quite useless
Begs Leave [ (] If this Honourable Body Cannott Comply with the Re-
quest made by your petitioner for permission to Go to New York) to Offer
himself as a Candidate for the Command of the Floating Battery now
Building for the defence of this State
And your petitioner as in duty Bound will Exert himself To the good of
the Service of this State 8c to the appointment honour
Thomas Forrest
1. Simon Gratz Autograph Collection, Case 5, Box 27, HSP.
2. The date is approximate. The Council of Safety, on September 21, appointed William
Brown commander of the new floating battery. Forrest, on October 5, 1776, was made a
captain in Proctor’s Battalion of Pennsylvania Artillery.
Cumberland Dugan to the Maryland Council of Safety1
Gentlemen. Baltimore 20th September 1776.
Having a large quantity of bread belonging to the publick on hand al-
ready bak’d, and a vessel to dispose of, that we think must answer your pur-
pose, thought it most proper to advise you thereof. She is a large schooner
that will carry about eleven hundred barrells flour, completely found ready
for sea, a good sailer 8c as tight as a bottle, the price we ask for her is £850
- that if she will any way suite you beg you’ll advise me immediately for my
government, as if she does not answer you, hope very shortly to dispose of
her to some people of this place; dare say the quantity of bread we have
baked belonging to you, together with what Mr Spear has baked for you
will intirely load this vessel, and if immediately sent out must certainly
come to a good market almost any where. I myself am just now returned
from Boston where I have been on a visitt to my friends there, where I
SEPTEMBER 1776
917
found both bread Sc flour very scarce and high, indeed scarcely any to be
got, not one barrle of sweet flour was to be had in the whole town of Boston
and bad as it was sold quick at 4 Dollars p cwt: I think this Vessel of ours
loaded with a cargo of bread in bulk to go to Boston must answer well with
a little flour, and for return could purchase West India goods of any Kind
very low, as they are falling still lo[w]er every day from the great quanti-
tys of prizes that are constantly comeing in to them. I was myself for sev-
eral days at there public sales of prize cargoe, where I saw great quantitys
of sugars, spiritt rum, Coffee, cotton, 8cc. sell very low indeed or if them ar-
ticles would not answer it appears to me there might a great deal of money
be made on a cargo of salt. I see it sell in Boston at 4/ p bushl by the quan-
tity, and it was thought by most people there it would be lower, as a great
many of their vessels were gone after salt, thinking it will be scarce and
dear which is thought there will not be the case, that I realy believe salt
may be bought as low in Boston as any where we can safely send for it, as
there is many circumstances in favour of a vessels getting there safe, from
there good forts on Nantaskett and other heigths near which no Kings ships
will dare to come, and their coast is so much of an iron bound one (so
caled) that no ship will dare to lay off there this time of the year. This ves-
sel of ours will carry about four or five thousand bushells of salt, which
would be a very handsome back freight, and she is extreamly well adapted
for the purpose of carrying salt being a very boyent vessel that will not load
too deep. I hope Gent you wo’nt imagine I intend to dictate to you what
should be done in these matters, as you undoubtedly do know much better
than I Can think or imagine; but several of my friends here advised me to
write to this purpose, what I knew of these matters, which I hope you wo’nt
take amiss, as so great a quantity of bread being ready and much in our
way, want to make more room Sc a get it out while they bay is clear. Your
favouring me with a line on this subject immediately will very much ob-
ledge me, and if I can in any wise serve you in loading this vessel shall be
extreamly glad of the favour, in which hope I act to your approbation in
every respect. Gent your [8cc.]
Cumberland Dugan.
1. Correspondence of Council of Safety, Md. Arch.
Richard Graves’ Bill for Building the Maryland
Privateer Brigantine Sturdy Beggar 1
1776 Dr Messrs Kennady McKeel Sc Co To Richd Graves
For a Brigg 127 1/3 Tonns of Measuremts a £6
Walnutt Transoms Aprons 8c dead Wood
24 feet 4 In Oak Plank 8/ - 24 ft 3 In Do 6/ -
- for port Sills
A Beam Sc Knees for Sparr Deck
An Extra Breast Hook
- Extra Sparrs Vizt —
£764.
12.
918
AMERICAN THEATRE
2 Top Gallt Royals [44] ft Long
1 Spare fore Top Mast - 33 Do
An Extra Crutch at Midships the Topsail 8c Fayg
172 ft i/2 Oak Plank for ports
1 y4 Lead Ln for Scuppers
2 Days work of the foreman on port Sills a 10
1.
1.
1.
10. .-
13. .-
5. .-
15.10i/2
4. .-
9 Do
of
a Carpenter — a Do —
1 14 Do
of
Do
Cuttg down the String
1 Do
of
D [0] .
on Sparr deck
1 Do
of
D[o].
fayg an Extra Breast Hook
14i/2 D [0]
of Joiners
plaing Bottom 8c Sides a 6/6
5 1/2 Do
of
Labourers — Do do
15 1/4 do
of
do
Scraping Bottom 8c Sides
3y4 do
of
do
paying the Bottom
1/2 Do
of
do
Boring 8c driving Bolts
in the Extra Breast Hook —
1/4 do
of
Do
Boring 8c Driving Bolts
1 . . .
a 7 / 4. .5. .9
4.14. .3
a 4/6 5 . 14. . 9
on the Sparr deck
27 lb Bolts for Extra Breast Hook 28 lb Pump Hooks
10 lb Bolts for Bowsprit By 3i/£ lb eye Bolt fo Do
16 Middle & 16 Toe Links fo Chain Plates Wt I6OI/2 lb
16 Chain Bolts W 87 lb 14 lb Dead eye Strap
16 Preventer Plates W 47 lb 16 Do Bolts W. 60 lb
14 lb Bolts f[or] Cutwater ly4 Lb Do for Gaft
5 lb D[o] for Sparr deck 20i/2 lb pump Gallows
9 1/2 lb do spear 4 lb Bolts f Boom 16 lb do fo Sheep lethers
25i/2 lb Mast Hoops 16 pr port Hinges W 1 12 lb
2 1/4 lb Bolts for Mast Checks 3 lb spikes fo Do
5 lb Bolts fo Mast Step a Stirrup fo D I0y2 lb
8 lb Ring Bolts 45 Hooks & thimbles W 63\/4 lb
17 thimbles Wt ly4 lb 814 lb Bolts fo Bowsprit
16 lb Crow Barr
— Totale Weight 769.1b 8 a
4 Scrapers 16/ - Rivetg 8c Nailg a Pump Box 1/ -
Rings 8c Rivetg 8c Bolts in Boom 8c Triple trees 3/
2 Pump Bolts 1/ - a Marline spike 3/9
Rivetg a Pump Box 9 - -
16 1/4 Gal Rum a 6/ 97/6 allowance l\/2 Cr. Waistg 7/6
an Express fr Hartford to Baltimore - —
3 Qua[rter] Lamb 7/3-2 Bush Wheat Meal 11
Accommodation of Thos Stainbank 19 days
a Jugg 3/6 Maull 5/ - a Pewter disk 4/11
Liquor at Launch P Kennadys Order
A Cutwater & hxg the Head
25.12. .8
1 . . 5 . . 6
5
1
1
5 _
• • •
18. .3
13. .3
13. .5
3.
15.
£853. .9. .8
£853. .9. .8
Amount brought over
SEPTEMBER 1776
919
Errors Excepted Worton 20th Sepr 1776
Errors Excepted P R Graves
[Endorsed] Reed this 24th of September 1776 from John Kennedy 8c
John McKeel Eight Hundred 8c fifty three Pounds Nine Shillings 8c Eight
pence infull of the within Account for Building the Brigg Sturdy Begger — 2
P Richard Graves
1. Marine Miscellany, LC.
2. Brigantine Sturdy Beggar of 24 guns, crew 100, John McKeel, commander; owned by Lux &
Bowly, Baltimore, Papers CC (Ships’ Bonds Required for Letters of Marque and Re-
prisal) , 196, XIV, NA.
Journal of the Maryland Council of Safety1
[Annapolis] Friday. September 20th 1776
Ordered That Captain Vernon Hebb and Mr Timothy Bowes, or either
of them dispose of, for the use of this state, such Part of the Captures lately
made out of Dunmore’s Fleet, that may be deemed perishable or wasting. -
1. Council of Safety Journal, 29 August 1775 to 20 March 1777, Md. Arch.
Journal of the Virginia Council of Safety1
[Williamsburg] Friday September 20th 1776.
The Brigantine Adventure now lying at York, with Tobacco, designed
by order of the Committee of Safety for Dunkirk, being in an unfit condi-
tion to proceed on such a Voyage. It is Ordered that she proceed to Ports-
mouth, there to unload and refit, and after relading, that she proceed to
Cape Nichola Mola, instead of Dunkirk, as a more desirable mart in the pres-
ent circumstances of things. And the Commissioners of the Navy are di-
rected to carry the design of these Orders into Execution.
A Permit was issued to the Schooner Polly Captain Earle to go to Mar-
tinico, a Manifest of her Cargo being filed, and ordered to be registered.
1. Mcllwaine, ed.. Journals of the Virginia Council, I, 168, 169.
Journal of the Virginia Navy Board1
[Williamsburg] Friday 20th September 1776. -
Ordered that the keeper of the Public Store deliver unto Capt William Saun-
ders a Speaking Trumpett, an hour Glass & Twenty Yards of Bunting for
the use of the Schooner Adventure -
Ordered that the keeper of the Public Store deliver unto Capt Ciley Saun-
ders two half hour Glass’s, three pounds sewing Twine, one Compass, one
speaking Trumpett & one dozen sail Needles [illegible] for the use of the
Lewis Galley. -
Ordered that the keeper of Public Store deliver unto Capt James Mark-
ham two half hour Glass’s one Compass, a Speaking Trumpett, one dozen
sail Needles and a spie Glass for the use of the Page Galley. -
920
AMERICAN THEATRE
Ordered that Mr Augustine Moore be requested to deliver unto Capt
Francis Bright such Anchors as he may want for the use of the Brig No-
hampton -
Ordered that Capt Francis Bright take from the Capitol Landing Fifty
four pound Shott for the use of the Brig N ohampton —
1. Navy Board Journal, 59-60, VSL.
St. George Tucker to Josiah Young1
Sir, Bermuda, Septr 20th 1776.
I take the Liberty of requesting your Care of two Hhds of Rum shipt
by me on board of the Dick Cole , John Seymour Master, and consigned to
Mr Matthew Phripp Merchant in Norfolk Virginia — Should Necessity
compel you to go to any other part of the Continent you will be so obliging
as to dispose of them for my Account, and remit the Proceeds of the same to
Mr Matthew Phripp in Norfolk in good inland Bills of exchange, which I
apprehend you will find no Difficulty of purchasing at present. I heartily
wish you a good Voyage, & am, Sir [8cc.]
S1 George Tucker.2
1. Tucker-Coleman Papers, Earl Gregg Swem Library, CWM.
2. Ibid., in a letter this date, Tucker requested Phripp to use the proceeds from the sale of
the rum to pay off some long standing debts in Virginia.
Deposition of Frederick Sund1
Jamaica ss /
Frederick Sund of the Parish of Kingston in the County of Surry and
Island of Jamaica, Mariner late belonging to a certain Sloop call’d the
Morning Star being duly Sworn maketh Oath and Saith that on the Thir-
tieth day of April last the said Sloop Morning Star was laying at Anchor
near the Bar of Black River on the Mosquitto Shore, And this Deponent
further saith that two Guarda Costas belonging to His Most Catholick Maj-
esty the Pacifico of Fourteen Guns, commanded by Don Juan Gastello, and
the Recurso of twelve Guns command’d by Antonio Yepe under Dutch Col-
ours, bore down upon the said Sloop while at Anchor as aforesaid (she hav-
ing English Colours hoist’d) whereupon the said Guarda Costas haul’d
down the Dutch Colours and the Pacifico haild the said Sloop Morning Star
and ask’d “from whence came ye” and being answer’d “from England &
Jamaica” she again askd “Have you any Flour or other Provisions” only
for our own use And after so hailing the said Sloop they the said Don
Juan Castello, 8c Antonio Yepe, came onboard the said Sloop 8c the said Don
Juan Castello, askd “who the Vessel belong’d to” he was answer’d “to
Messrs Irving 8c Blair” “what is the Masters Name”, and he was an-
swer’d David Millar, who is onshore And this Deponent further saith that
as soon as they the said Don Juan Castello, and Antonio Yepe came onboard
the Sloop Morning Star they order’d the English Colours to be Haul’d down
SEPTEMBER 1776
921
which was accordingly done Sc then ask’d if there were any amunition on-
board when they were answer’d only some Powder and Musquets for our
own use and they also ask’d “Have you sent any Powder onshore” and they
were answer’d “Some to the Superintendant at Black River”
And this Deponent further saith that after their said Questions were
answer’d the said Don Juan Castello order’d some Arm’d Men to come on-
board who by his Command tyed the Sloops crew two by Two (except David
Robinson the Boatswain who continued onboard the said Sloop some days
after) and put them onboard the Pacifico , while the Spaniards took Posses-
sion of the said Sloop Morning Star Sc proceeded to Porto Bello and from
thence to Carthagena from which last mention’d Place this Deponent made
his Escape
Sworn before me his
this 20th day of Septr 1776 Fred X Sund
J: French Custos Sec Kingston mark
[Endorsed] (A Copy) Clark Gay ton
1. PRO, Admiralty 1/240. Enclosed in Gayton to Stephens, October 8, 1776. See petition of
Charles Irving and Alexander Blair, September 21, and Volumes 4 and 5.
21 Sept.
Wage Agreement Between Stephen Cleveland and William Herrick 1
Salem Sept the 2 1 1 1776
it is this Day agreed Between Stephn Cleveland of the one part in behalf of
the Continent By order Sc Consent of Jno Bradford Esqr Continental agent
and William Elerrick on the other part for him Self, that I Sd Cleveland in
Behalf as Before Sd Doth by these presents agree to Give the Sd Herrick
the Sum of four pounds Sixteen Shillings Lawfull money for Each Sc Every
month from this Date till the Brigt Dispach Be armed for Sc in behalf of the
Before Sd., then the Sd Herrick to be intitled to the Same wages Sc prize
money agreable to the Rank of a Lieut or master which we may then agree
on, I the Sd Herrick on my part do by these presents in Consideration of the
above haveing one months advance now paid me do agree to perform all
Reasonable Duty Both Before Sc after the Dispach be armd that he the Sd
Cleveland may from time to time Require of me the Sd Herrick2
this instrument interchangably 1 Stephn Cleveland
Sined Sc Seald in presents of us J William Herrick
Isaac Williams
Ann Jeffry
1. Records of Armed Vessels 1775-76, III, Book 18, BHS.
2. See John Bradford to Robert Morris, October 19, 1776.
Power of Attorney Granted by Officers and Seamen of
Washington’s Schooner Franklin1
Know All Men by these presents that We whose names are hereunto sub-
scribed, Officers Sc Mariners on board the armed Schoonr Franklin John
922
AMERICAN THEATRE
Skimmer Commr have constituted 8c appointed 8c do hereby constitute 8c ap-
point John Bradford Of Boston in the County of Suffolk 8c State of the Mas-
sachusetts Bay Esqr Our Lawfull Attorney, for Us and in oui stead 8c for
our Use to prosecute for, demand 8c receive of all 8c every Person what-
soever, and in all Maritime 8c other Courts for Us to appear 8c demand, sue
for 8c Recover our full shares of all prize Vessells, Prize money, Tackle
Furniture Goods Merchandi [s] e 8c every kind of Prise property that may be 8c
shall be taken in the Cruise in said Schooner untill our Return to Boston
aforesd hereby satisfying 8c confirming whatsoever our said Attorney Shall
do or cause to be done to all Intents 8c Purposes, as much as if We his Con-
stituents were present
In Witness whereof We have hereunto Sett our hands 8c Seals this
21st day of Septembr 1776 —
Signed, sealed 8c dd.
in Presence of Us
Tho8 Jackson
John Lambert Junr
Witness Thos Jackson
William Bradford
to John Lewis
John Skimmer -
Wm Addiscott.
Edward Ruddock
Nathaniel Chadwick
his
Clement X Severy.
mark
Joseph Souther.
John Lewis
1. C. E. French Collection, MassHS.
Abigail Adams to John Adams1
[Extract] [Braintree] Sepbr. 21 1774 [ i.e . 1776]
. . . The Portsmouth Ship has been waiting for Guns these six weeks.
Had an unkle of ours and several other merchants I could mention had the
care of her I dare say she would have long ago had Guns. Private adventu-
rours can get Guns even for large Briggs. - The Boston formerly the
Zechary Baily which was taken as a prize and bought by private persons
has been fitted out, her Guns made and purchased long since the other ought
to have saild.2
So it is we dream away opportunities by misplaceing Buisness.
1. Butterfield, ed., Adams Family Correspondence, II, 129-30.
2. The Zachariah Bayley, taken by the Massachusetts privateer sloop Yankee and condemned
in admiralty court July 30, 1776, was purchased by Paul Dudley Sargent and others of
Boston. She was renamed the Boston and commissioned September 24, under the
command of Captain William Brown. She was armed with 22 guns, and had a crew
of 210 men. New-England Chronicle, July 11, 1776, and Mass. Arch., vol. 5, 100.
Power of Attorney Granted by Officers and Crew of the
Rhode Island Privateer Sloop General Greene 1
To All People to whom these present shall come John Garzie of East Green-
wich in the County of Kent and state of Rhode Island 8cc. Commander of
SEPTEMBER 1776
923
the private Sloop of war called the General Greene and others Subscribers
hereto being officers 8c privates of and belonging to the same Sloop now Re-
turnd from a crusing Voyage against the Enemies of the united States of
America send Greeting —
Know ye that we the Subscribers have made ordained authorized Constituted
and Appointed 8c by these presents do make ordain authorize, constitute and
appoint William Arnold of East Greenwich aforsd Gentleman our true and
Lawfull Agent 8c Attorney for us 8c in our Name and to our Use to Ask de-
mand and Receive our Devidend and Devidends part 8c parts Share 8c Share
Pourtion 8c proportion of all prizes, prize Goods wares Merchandizes Ef-
fects and things whatsoever that shall be Seized captured 8c into port come
or be sent by the sd Private Sloop of war her Captain Officers and People
and in Our Name the same to implead prosecute and pursue either in courts
of Law or Equity to final Judgment Confiscation and Condemnation and on
receipt thereof Acquittances or other sufficient discharges for us and each
of us and in our name 8c Names to make seal and deliver and to do all law-
full Acts 8c things whatsoever Concerning the premeses as fully in every re-
spect as we ourselves and each of us for himself might or could do if we and
each of us were personally present, and an Attorney or Attornies under him
for the purpose aforsaid to make and the same at his pleasure to Revoke
and remove And we 8c Each of us for himself do hereby promise and Cove-
nant to Ratify allow and Confirm all and whatsoever our said Attorney
Shall in our Name lawfully do or Cause to be done, in and About the
primeses by Virtue of these presents In Witness whereof we have here-
unto Set our hand and Seals the Twenty first day of September Annos
Dommini 1776.
Sealed and Deliver’d
in presence of
John Garzia
Philip Peirce
Frans Bradfeild
James Eldred
Nicholas Mathewson
Benj Brown
William Howard
Levi Pearce
Darrill Jones
William Burlinham Ju
Joseph Hopkins
William Spink
Nathan Millerd
Josiah Hopkins
Spink Tarbox Cooper
his
John X Tayler
Mark
his
Samul X Young
mark
his
Thos X Rogers
mark
Gideon Tanner
Stephen Briggs
Sam Rogers
Mychel More
Benjamin Capron
1. Shepley Collection, RIHS.
924
AMERICAN THEATRE
Providence Gazette , Saturday, September 21, 1776
Providence, September 21.
The Privateer General Greene, of East-Greenwich, and the Privateer
Harlequin, of Baltimore, have taken a Jamaica Ship, of 310 Tons,1 and sent
her into a safe Port: Her Cargo consists of 372 Hogsheads of Sugar, 82
Puncheons of Rum, 36 Pipes and 4 Hogsheads of Madeira Wine, 1800
Pounds Weight of Copper, &c. This Ship we hear sailed in Company with a
large Fleet, convoyed by two Men of War, one of which was soon to leave
them; the other, said to be a dull Sailer, was to proceed with them to Eu-
rope.
1. The St. James. Same issue of Providence Gazette carries libel filed against this prize.
Major General Joshua Babcock to Governor Nicholas Cooke 1
[Extract] Westerly 21st Septr 1776
Sir We arriv’d at N York 13th current, in Concert with John Collins
Esqr waited on General Washington with the other Genl Officers, just
after Dinner 3 Frigates 8c a 40 Gun Ship (as if they meant to attack the
City) sail’d up the East River under a gentle Breeze towards Hell-Gate 8c
kept up an incessant Fire, assisted wth the Cannon at Governrs Island: The
Batteries from the City return’d the Ships the like Salutation: 3 Men
agape, idle Spectators had the Misfortune of being killed by one Cannon
Ball, the other Mischief sufferd on our Side was inconsiderable saving the
making a few Holes in some of the Buildings; one Shot struck within 6 Foot
of Genl Washington, as He was on Horseback riding into the Fort.
At Parting with his Excellency [Washington] Saturday Afternoon
15th Instant \_sic 14th] He promised us a Letter to yr Excellency. . . But
the Trobles gathering fast from the Landing of the Enemy under the Thun-
der of their Cannon which was on Sunday Morning 16th [5/'c 15th] his Ex-
cellency from his closest Attention to his Command then found it
impracticable. . . .
... on Sunday-Morning 5 more Frigates saild up the East River, an-
chor’d near the 4 former (which with Wallace, who was there before, aug-
mented their Number to 10) at the same Time 3 Capital Ships went up the
North River, causing a most tremendous Firing, assisted with the Cannon
on Governor’s Island, discharging to no Purpose against our Batteries, tho’
they made a few Holes in some of the Buildings, which Firing was return’d
on our Side as well as could be from the Scantiness, in & about the City, of
heavy Cannon - The Bulk having been carried to a Hill about 4i/£ Miles
South of Kings Bridge, whereat an impregnable Fortress was begun 8c well
nigh perfected, 8c which could not be annoyed by the Enemies Ships.
1. Letters to the Governor, vol. 8, R. I. Arch. Babcock was an officer in the Rhode Island
militia.
SEPTEMBER 1776
925
Libel Against the British Prize Schooner Hannah and Elizabeth 1
State of Connecticut, ss. New London County
A Libel is filed before Richard Law, Esq; against the Schooner Hannah
& Elizabeth , Burthen about 45 Tons, lately commanded by Ronald Bruce,
said to belong to the Subjects of the King of Great-Britain, and fitted out by
the Subjects of the said King of Great-Britain, from the Island of Barba-
dos, in the British West Indies, loaded with Rum and Sugar, and bound to
Halifax; which said Schooner, &c. was taken and brought into the Port of
New London, by Robert Niles, in the armed Schooner Spy, belonging to the
State of Connecticut. — The Court erected to try and condemn all such Cap-
tures, will be held at Norwich, in the County aforesaid, on the 6th Day of
November 1776, at 2 o’Clock in the Afternoon, to try the Justice of said
Capture; of which this Notice is given pursuant to the Laws of this Colony,
that the Owners of said Ship [sic], or any Person concerned therein, may
appear and shew Cause, if any they have, why the said Schooner and her
Tackle Apparel and Furniture, with her Cargo, should not be condemned as
lawful Prize.
New London, Sept 21, 1776.
Per Order of the Judge,
Wint Saltonstall, Regst’r.
1. Connecticut Gazette, October 4, 1776.
Brigadier General Benedict Arnold to Major General Horatio Gates 1
Dear General Bay St Amont Sepr 21st 1776
My last was the 18th Inst by Lieut [Benjamin] Whitcomb, the next
day at Noon weighed Anchor with the whole Fleet, which Arived here the
same Evening, this is a fine bay. 8c good Anchorage, two Leagues to the
No wd of Cumberland Head, on the West shore, the Liberty was ordered
to Cruise of[f] the Isle a La Motte untill 2 oClock, 8c then Join the Fleet
On her return, opposite to the Isle a La Motte, a Frenchman came down, 8c
desired to be taken on board, the Capt Suspected him, 8c went near the
shore with his Boat Stern in, Swivels pointed 8c match lited, the French-
man waded near a rod from the Shore, but when he found he could decoy
the Boat No further he made a Signal, to the Enemy when three, or four,
hundred, Indians, Canadians 8c Regulars rose up 8c fired, on the Boat, they
wounded three Men, the Boat returned the Fire with their Swivels, 8c Small
Arms, 8c the Schooner fired several Broad sides of Grape, before they dis-
persed tho several were seen to fall — On their way down They Discovered a
large Party of Savages on the Western Shore, they imagined Two, or three
hundred — they have a large Number of light Burch Canoes, with which
they can pass us in the night, 8c in the day Time Secure them in the Bushes,
it will be Dangerous sending down, single Boats, I have Sent up the Liberty
to Guard the Return Boats 8c bring down the Medicine, 8cc the Surgeons
can be of no use to us without, Capt [David] Hawl[e]y is appointed to
926
AMERICAN THEATRE
the Royal Savage f I must renew my request For more Seamen, 8c Gunners,
there is a plenty of the former in the Army, provided they have liberty of
Inlisting, tho it is a bad prescident, this emergency will Justify the measure—
I am greatly at a loss what could have retarded the Gallies so long, I
verily believe If we are Attack’d this fall by the Enemy, it will be in the
Course of a week — or Ten days — the want of those Gallies may decide the
Contest against Us —
I am surprised our Intelligence from New York is so imperfect, I hope
we shall soon hear the particulars — The Tobacco Papers were delivered
me I will endeavour to send them soon The Articles I wrote for in my
last. I hope will be Sent if possible — I have sent up Mr Dunn to Collect,
the Shot. 8c other Articles I want, 8c bring them Down — We had an ex-
ceeding hard Gale here the 20th 8c a prodigious sea. the Gallies Rode it out
beyond my expectation, I have sent Two Boats, to sound round the Island
Valcouer, who report, that, it is an exceeding fine, Secure harbour I am
determined to go there the first fair Wind, as the fleet will be secure. 8c we
can discover the Enemy If. they Attempt to pass us up the East Bay On the
Back of Grand Isle — I make no doubt you will approve of this measure, If.
not I will return to any of my former Stations, We are as well prepared
for the Enemy, as our Circumstances will Alow, they will never have it in
their power to Surprise us — the Men are Daily trained to the Exercise of
their Guns, 8c if Powder was plenty I would, wish to have them fire at a
Mark with their Great Guns Often — at present we cannot Aford it — I
wish the Workmen could all be employed, on One Gaily 8c finish her first,
that Something might be Added to the fleet I cannot help thinking that
they are hindering each other, their was all the Materials sufficie [nt] for
One when I came away, I hope they will Not mount Twelve pounders, if
Eigh teens, or Twenty fours, can be procured - I am with great respect 8c
esteem [8cc.]
B Arnold
P S. The Draufts from the regts at Tionderoga, are a miserable Set, in-
deed, the Men on board the fleet In General, are not equal to half their Num-
ber of good men - B A -
1. Gates Papers, Box 4, NYHS.
Journal of the New York Provincial Convention1
Die Sabbati, 9 HO. A.M.
[Fishkill] Septr. 21st, 1776.
A letter from Genl. Washington was read and follows, vizt:
Head-Quarters,
Heights of Harlem, Septr. 20th, 1776.
Gentn. — Having reason to believe the enemy will attempt to
gall us with their ships of war from the North river as soon as they
are ready to open their batteries against the front of our lines, which
we expect them to erect with great industry, I beg leave to mention
SEPTEMBER 1776
927
that I think it may be of immense consequence if your Honourable
Body will order down some of your fire ships, which may lay just
above the obstructions in the river under cover of the guns of
Fort Washington, where they will be ready to act in case the ships
should attempt to come up.
Hurried and surrounded with a thousand things, I have only
time to add, that
I have the honor to be, with great esteem, Gentn. [&c.]
Go. Washington.
On reading the letter of His Excellency General Washington of the
20th instant, requesting this Convention to order down some of their fire
ships to lay just above the obstructions in the Hudson’s river.
Resolved, That the two fire ships charged by Captain [John] Hazel-
wood, be immediately despatched to Fort Washington, or near it, And,
Ordered, That Gilbert Livingston, Esqr. or any other member of the
committee for obstructing the navigation of Hudson’s river who may now
be at Poughkeepsie, do immediately despatch the two fire ships prepared
and charged by Captain Hazelwood, with proper persons to navigate them
under cover of the guns of said fort, and there deliver them to the care of
such person as His Excellency Genl. Washington has or shall appoint to take
charge of them.
Ordered, That a copy of the above resolution and order be despatched
to his Excellency General Washington, and another copy to Gilbert Livings-
ton, Esqr.
A draft of a letter to His Excellency, was read and approved, and is in
the words following, to wit:
Sir — The Convention have received your Excellency’s letter
of Septr. 20th, and have, in consequence, entered into the enclosed
resolution, which I am directed to transmit. We are sorry that it is
not in our power to send down more than two fire ships, as they
have no more charged in such a manner as to be dependend on.
A committee of correspondence has been established by the
Convention, for the purpose of communicating to and receiving in-
telligence from the army. The express will receive orders to call
upon your Excellency daily, and any commands or intelligence
which your Excellency may think proper to transmit, will be
thankfully received and punctually attended to, by
Your Excellency’s [&c.]
By order.
To His Excellency Genl. Washington.
Die Sabbati, 4 ho. P.M. Septr. 21st, 1776.
A letter from Thos. Randall, Esqr. one of the marine committee, dated
at Elizabeth Town, the 7th Septr. was read and filed.
A letter from Thos. Quigley, mate of the privateer Putnam , dated at
Cranberry inlet, the fourth instant, was also read and filed.
928
AMERICAN THEATRE
The petition of the officers and mariners of the said vessel of war, was
also read and filed.
It thereby appears that there is a mutiny on board of the said vessel,
and the mariners and crew demand their wages and refuse to continue in
the said vessels under the command of Capt. Thos. Creiger.
Ordered, That those papers be deferred for consideration.
Resolved , That the secret committee for obstructing the navigation of
Hudson s river, be empowered and directed to purchase and impress for the
service of this State, any number of vessels not exceeding six, which they
shall think best calculated for the purpose of completing the obstructions in
Hudson’s river opposite Mount Washington; that they cause an appraise-
ment of said vessels to be made by persons under oath, in the most equitable
and expeditious manner possible, in order that satisfaction may hereafter
be made by this Convention to the owners of such vessels; and it is recom-
mended to the said committee to request the services of Capt. Thomas Gree-
ned in ballasting and navigating, and delivering those vessels to Capt. Cook
at Fort Washington.
Resolved , That the said committee be directed to send all the oak plank
(which they have in their possession) to Mount Washington, with the ut-
most despatch.
Resolved , That the superintendents for building the Continental frig-
ates be earnestly requested to send as much of their short oak plank as they
possibly can spare, to Fort Washington, with the utmost despatch, and this
Convention do engage to justify their conduct in this particular to the Hon-
ourable the Continental Congress.
1. New York Provincial Congress , I, 637, 638, 639.
Diary of Frederick Mackenzie 1
[New York] 20th Sept - [sic 21st] A little after 12 o’Clock last night a
most dreadful fire broke out in New York, in three different places in the
South, and windward part of the town. The Alarm was soon given, but un-
fortunately there was a brisk wind at South, which spread the flames with
such irresistible rapidity, that notwithstanding every assistance was given
which the present circumstances admitted, it was impossible to check its
Progress ’till about 1 1 this day, when by preventing it from crossing the
Broad-way at the North part of the town, it was stopped from spreading
any further that way, and about 12 it was so far got under that there was
no danger of it extending beyond those houses which were then on fire. It
broke out first near the Exchange, and burnt all the houses on the West side
of Broad Street, almost as far as The City Hall, & from thence all those in
Beaver Street, and almost every house on the West side of the town between
the Broad way and the North River, as far as The College, amounting in the
whole to about 600 houses, besides several Churches, particularly Trinity
Church, the principal one in town.
New York Fire.
930
AMERICAN THEATRE
On its first appearance two Regiments of the 5th brigade went into
town, and some time after, a great number of Seamen from the Fleet were
sent on shore under proper officers by order of Lord Howe, to give assist-
ance. About daybreak the Brigade of Guards came in from Camp, but from
the absence of the regular Firemen, the bad state of the Engines, a want of
buckets, and a Scarcity of Water, the efforts of the Troops and Seamen, tho’
very great, could not prevent the fire from spreading in the manner it did.
The first notice I had of it was from the Sentry at Genl [Francis] Smith’s
quarters at Mr. [Andrew] Elliot’s house, who called me up about 10 Clock
and said New York was on fire; on going to the window I observed an im-
mense Column of fire 8c smoke, and went and called Genl Smith, who said he
would follow me into town as soon as possible. I dressed myself immediately
and ran into town, a distance of two miles, but when I got there the fire had
got to such ahead there seemed to be no hopes of stopping it, and those who
were present did little more than look on and lament the misfortune. As
soon as buckets 8c Water could be got, the Seamen and the troops, assisted
by some of the Inhabitants did what they could to arrest its progress, but
the fresh wind, and the combustible nature of the materials of which almost
all the houses were built, rendered all their efforts vain.
From a variety of circumstances which occurred it is beyond a doubt
that the town was designedly set on fire, either by some of those fellows
who concealed themselves in it since the 15th Instant, or by some Villains
left behind for the purpose. Some of them were caught by the Soldiers in
the very act of setting fire to the inside of empty houses at a distance from
the fire; many were detected with matches and combustibles under their
Clothes, and combustibles were found in several houses. One Villain who
abused and cut a woman who was employed in bringing water to the En-
gines, and who was found cutting the handles of the fire buckets, was hung
up by the heels on the spot by the Seamen. One or two others who were
found in houses with fire brands in their hands were put to death by the en-
raged Soldiery and thrown into the flames. There is no doubt however that
the flames were communicated to several houses by means of the burning
flakes of the Shingles, which being light, were carried by the wind to some
distance and falling on the roofs of houses covered with Shingles, (which is
most generally the case at New York,) and whose Inhabitants were either
absent or inattentive, kindled the fire anew. The Trinity Church, a very
handsome, ancient building, was perceived to be on fire long before the fire
reached the adjacent houses, and as it stood at some distance from any
house, little doubt remained that it was set on fire wilfully.
During the time the Rebels were in possession of the town, many of
them were heard to say they would burn it, sooner than it should become a
nest for Tories — and several Inhabitants who were most violently attached
to the Rebel cause have been heard to declare they would set fire to their
own houses sooner than they should be occupied by The King’s Troops.
No assistance could be sent from the Army ’till after daybreak, as the
General was apprehensive the Rebels had some design of attacking the
Army.
SEPTEMBER 1776
931
It is almost impossible to conceive a Scene of more horror and distress
than the above. The Sick, The Aged, Women, and Children, half naked were
seen going they knew not where, and taking refuge in houses which were at
a distance from the fire, but from whence they were in several instances
driven a second and even a third time by the devouring element, and at last
in a state of despair laying themselves down on the Common. The terror
was encreased by the horrid noise of the burning and falling houses, the
pulling down of such wooden buildings as served to conduct the fire, (in
which the Soldiers & Seamen were particularly active and useful) the rat-
tling of above 100 waggons, sent in from the Army, and which were con-
stantly employed in conveying to the Common such goods and effects as could
be saved; — The confused voices of so many men, the Shrieks and cries of
the Women and children, the seeing the fire break out unexpectedly in
places at a distance, which manifested a design of totally destroying the
City,2 with numberless other circumstances of private misery and distress,
made this one of the most tremendous and affecting Scenes I ever beheld.
The appearance of the Trinity Church, when completely in flames was
a very grand sight, for the Spire being entirely framed of wood and covered
with Shingles, a lofty Pyramid of fire appeared, and as soon as the Shingles
were burnt away the frame appeared with every separate piece of timber
burning, until the principal timbers were burnt through, when the whole
fell with a great noise.
1. Mackenzie’s Diary, I, 58-61.
2. Ambrose Serle noted in his journal: “The New England People are maintained to be at the
Bottom of this Plot, which they have long since threatened to put into Execution.”
Tatum, ed., Serle’ s Journal, 111.
Journal of H.M.S. Rose , Captain James Wallace1
September 1776 Moor’d off the Town of New York.
Saturday 21st AM at 1 a large fire broke out at the SWt end of the Town,
The Adml made Sigl for the Boats to assist at noon the
fire near out near 400 Houses Burnt, a Number of
People taken up Suppos’d to have [been] concern’d in
setting the Town on fire.
Little Winds and Clear Wr Carptrs on Shore making a
Main Mast.
1. PRO, Admiralty 51/805.
Journal of H.M.S. Asia , Captain George Vandeput1
Septr 1776 Moor’d as before in the [North River at New York]
Saturday 21 AM i/2 past one the Town of [New] York was set on Fire in
different places, sent a Boat to assist, at 5 parted the small
Bower Cable Fresh Gales & Cloudy
PM Moor’d Ship, converted the Sheet Cable to the small
Bower & pointed it
1. PRO, Admiralty 51/67.
932
AMERICAN THEATRE
Journal of Captain Henry Duncan, R.N.1
[On board H.M.S. Eagle , off Bedloe’s Island]
21st [September]. - This morning about one o’clock the officer of the
watch called me, and gave information of a house in New York being on
fire. I immediately went on deck, observed the fire to spread and catch sev-
eral houses, and saw the fire break out at different parts of the city. Sent
several boats on shore to the assistance of the place. Made the signal for all
lieutenants, and ordered boats from each ship for the same purpose. It was
evident from many circumstances that the city was maliciously set on fire,
by the fires breaking out at different places at the same time; from lath
wood, split in small slips, tarred and brimstoned, with tow and all manner
of combustibles being placed in different parts of the city. Several people
were taken up, against whom the proof seemed very plain. These the sail-
ors, soldiers, and mob immediately put to death; many others, perhaps
thirty or forty, were put in jail on strong suspicion. This evening the fire is
entirely out; but had the wind come to the westward and blown fresh, as it
did when it first broke out, the whole city would have been consumed. The
loss is not yet accurately ascertained, but I suppose there may be about
one-third or one-sixth of the city burned.
1. Duncan’s Journals , XX, 129-30.
Journal of H.M.S. Preston , Captain Samuel Uppleby1
September 1776 Remarks [off Red Hook]
Saturday 21 2 AM — perceived a house on Fire at New York which in-
stantly spread to many others, hoisted out our boats 8c sent
an Officer to assist in getting the Merchant Ships from the
Wharfs Adml made the Signal for all Lieuts, sent our
Carpenters onshore to repair flat boats, served Onions to
the Ships Company,
1. PRO, Admiralty 51/720.
Journal of H.M.S. Experiment, Captain William Williams1
Septr 1776 Moor’d off Gravesend Bay
Saturdy 21 Modte and fair Wr at 7 P M reed Orders fm Vice Adml Lord
Viscount Howe to bring the Experiment & all the Prison Ships
Wth the Rebel Prisoners Onbd Vizt 748 up to New York
1. PRO, Admiralty 51/331.
Diary of Lieutenant Jabez Fitch1
[On Board the Prison Snow Mentor ]
Saturd: the 21st: [September] About one oClock in the Morning We Ob-
serv d a Considerable Light up toward the Northward, which we sopos’d to
SEPTEMBER 1776
933
be the burning of some Buildings; this Light continued while Day, 8c some
Time in the Morning we were Inform’d that it was in the City of N. York,
and that a considrable part of the City was Burnt, but we are yet Scercely
able to believe this Report.
This morning was Wet 8c Lowery, the Winde was also considrably high,
& the water very Rough; several of our People were Seasick; I kept pretty
Cloos below Deck most of Forenoon ... In the Evening I understand that
Capt: Davis Reed: order to be in Readiness to move up toward the City To-
morow.
1. Sabine, ed., Fitch's Diary, 47.
Journal of Benjamin Boardman1
[Paulus Hook, September] 21st.
At 2 this morning, we were waked by the guards, who informed us that
New York was on fire. As the fire began at the South East end of the city, a
little East of the grand battery, it was spread by a strong South wind, first
on the East River, and then Northward, across the Broad Way, opposite to
the Old English Church (If I mistake not the name) from thence it con-
sumed all before it, between Broad Way and the North River, near to the
college, laying about one third part of the city in ashes [ (] is the opinion of
those best acquainted with it) ; and had not the wind as it veered to the West,
died away, the remainder of that nest of vipers would have been destroyed.
This evening a seaman who said he belonged to Providence, that he was
taken and obliged to fight against his countrymen on board the Roebuck ,
made his escape by swimming from New York to this place — he informed
that the men on board the Roebuck were very sickly, that they had lost 100
since they left the Capes of Virginia. He also gave notice, that preparations
had been made to attack this post — that a number of large ships were to
come up and endeavour to silence our batteries, while a large body of troops
in boats (which we discovered on the opposite shore above us [) ] , and en-
deavour to cut off our retreat — that it was to have been executed this
morning, but the fire prevented.2
1. Connecticut Gazette, October 18, 1776.
2. September 20, 1776: “Preparations were made this Evening for the Attack of [i.e., on] Powley’s
Hook to-morrow - a Post of the Rebels on the North River almost opposite the Town.
They have raised several Works, and have Embrazures prepared for many Guns,”
Tatum, ed., Serle’s Journal, 110.
Continental Marine Committee to Thomas Cushing1
In Marine Committee Philadelphia Septem 21: 1776.
Sir; In Consequence of a letter from the president of Massachusetts Bay
dated the 13 Instant to the President of the Congress which was by Con-
gress referrd to this Committee; We have determined to Comply with the
wishes of your assembly by Ordering the Frigate Commanded by Capt
934
AMERICAN THEATRE
[Hector] McNeill and that by Captain [Thomas] Thompson2 of newhamp-
shire to be fitted immediately and proced on a Cruize on your Coasts in
hopes of taking the milford Frigate or of driving her or any other Enemy
away from those Seas -
We therefore Authorize you to accept the Profferd assistance of the
said assembly or any Committee they appoint to assist in fitting equipping
arming 8c manning th [is] Frigate you are also to Accept their offer of
Twenty four nine Pounders (cannon) and to Cooperate with them in get-
ting this Ship to Sea with the utmost Expedition, and we agree to reim-
burse the state of Massachusetts Bay for all Just 8c necessary Expences
they incurr in Effecting this Bussiness we Shall in due time also cause
their Cannon to be returned unless they think proper to make Sale of them
for the use of this ship and in that case we woud choose to purchase them
provided their are Good Guns quite suitabl for the service
You will please to purchase a proper number of swivell Guns, good mus-
ketts, Blunderbusses, cutlasses Pikes 8c other arms 8c instruments Suitable
for this Ship you will apply to your state for powder — Ball, muskett
shott other military Stores to be paid or returned by the Congress and in
Short as this Ship will instantly go into Danger we hope nothing will be
Neglected that ought to be done in fitting 8c manning her - We are very
Sincerely [8cc.]
John Hancock Samuel Huntington
Rob1 Morris Samuel Chase
Joseph Hewes - Josiah Bartlett
Richard Henry Lee
PS if Mr [John] Langdon3 applys to you Mr [John] Bradford4 or to
your state for assistance in fitting out the Frigate under his care we hope it
will be granted 8c we shall re[i]mburse all Just Expences 8c Charges — the
intended Enterprize should Be Kept As secret as possible—
[Endorsed] the above is a True Coppy Thomas Cushing Junr
1. MassHS. Cushing directed building of the Continental frigates in Massachusetts.
2. The Continental frigates Boston and Raleigh.
3. Continental agent for New Hampshire.
4. Continental agent for Massachusetts.
Continental Marine Committee to John Bradford 1
Sir [Philadelphia] September 21st. 1776
In consequence of some overtures from the Assembly of your State
[Massachusetts], we have determined to order the Continental Frigate com-
manded by Hector McNeill Esqr to be immediately armed manned and
fitted for the sea and accordingly have this day written what we judged nec-
essary to Mr. Cushing and the Captain on that subject.
1 he present is to desire you will give them all the aid and assistance in your
power in this business. You are to supply them with any Continental Stores
you may have in your possession that are wanted or assist in procuring
such.
SEPTEMBER 1776
935
Similar orders are sent to John Langdon Esqr of New Hampshire respect-
ing the Frigate there and should he apply to you for any assistance we pray
it may be granted. We are Sir [8cc.]
1. Paullin, ed., Out-Letters of the Continental Marine Committee, I, 11.
Continental Marine Committee to Captain Thomas Thompson1
Sir [Philadelphia] September 21st 1776
The assembly of New Hampshire and Massachusets having offered
their assistance in equipping arming and manning the Frigate under your
command2 we have accepted their kind offers and hope in consequence
thereof, you will soon be ready for sea, we expect the same will be the case
with the Frigate commanded by Captain [Hector] McNeill3 of Massachu-
sets and our design is that you should join Company soon as possible and
cruise in consert.
We are informed the Millford Frigate now infests the Coast of those
States and does much Injury to their commerce. It is our duty to prevent
the continuance of this soon as we can, and as the two Frigates mentioned
will be an overmatch for the Alillford or any single Frigate of the enemy,
you are to join Captain McNeill and go in search of that or any of the ene-
mies Ships in those seas that you can cope with, and we hope in due Time
that you have taken destroyed or drove off the said enemy. The Rank
betwixt you and Captain McNeill is not yet established you are there-
fore to act in concert and consult each other in all things that relate to the
good of the service, to the safety and preservation of your ships or to the
Interest and honor of the United States of America. — The Continental
Agents in any State you put into will supply provisions or any necessarys
that may be wanted — to some of them you are to address your Prizes, and
you must advise the Committee of your proceedings as opportunitys occur.
You are also to furnish us in due Time with Copies of your Log Book and
Journal, and advise us of any important intelligence that may come to your
knowledge. With the best wishes for your success We are sir [&c.]4
1. Marine Committee Letter Book, 22-23, NA.
2. The Raleigh.
3. The Boston.
4. Ibid., 23-24, similar orders were sent to Captain McNeill this date.
Continental Marine Committee to John Langdon1
Sir [Philadelphia] September 21. 1776. —
The Assembly of Massachusets Bay having represented the necessity
and utillity of fitting out with all possible expedition One of the Frigates
built in that State and that under your direction, to Cruize on your Coasts,
in order to take or drive off the enemy that now infest them, and having of-
fered their Assistance to equipp and man these Ships, and also handed us
the Copy of a Vote or resolve of your honorable Assembly to the same pur-
936
AMERICAN THEATRE
port — We have determined to comply with their wishes, so far as depends
on us, and have this day given the necessary orders to Mr Cushing Captain
McNeill and Captain Bradford for getting their Ship ready.2
We are therefore to request that you will exert your utmost endeavours
to have the frigate under your care compleated immediately.3 You will ac-
cept the assistance of your Assembly or the Committee the [y] appoint for
that purpose - You may either purchase or borrow suitable Cannon, Swiv-
els, Blunderbusses, Muskets, Pistols Cutlasses, Pikes, Ball, Shott, Powder
&c: &c: You May apply to the State of Massachusetts, to the Honble Mr
Cushing, or to any of the Continental Agents in the neighbouring States for
Materials or other assistance you stand in need of and this Committee on
behalf of the United States, will pay all just equitable Charges that you or
any of them incur in effecting this business, so that we hope Captain
[Thomas] Thompson will soon be able to join Captain McNeill in this en-
terprize which ought to be kept as secret as possible. We are Sir Your
freinds &c &c
1. Marine Committee Letter Book, 24, NA.
2. The frigate Boston.
3. The frigate Raleigh.
Continental Marine Committee to Captain Isaiah Robinson1
Sir Philada Septr 21st 1776
This Committee being very desirous of sending the Andrew Doria
under your command on immediate Service — desire that you forward her
Outfit, — take in provisions and Stores for two Months and get ready for
Sea with the Utmost expedition— 2 And All commanders and officers of the
Fleet now in this port, as well as all other persons in the Continental em-
ploy, are hereby desired to aid and assist you in geting your Ship immedi-
ately fitted and Manned. We are Sir [8cc.]
Rob1 Morris, V. P.3
1. FDRL.
2. “Capt. Robinson then got command of the Brig Andrea Doria of 14 Guns & I went on
board as his Lieut.” Manuscript Autobiography of Joshua Barney, DARL.
3. The same orders this date were sent to Captain Lambert Wickes of the brig Reprisal. Marine
Committee Letter Book, 25, NA.
Committee of Secret Correspondence of the Continental
Congress to William Bingham, Martinique1
Sir Philada. Septr. 21st. 1776
Your several letters of the 4th. 15th & 26th August to this Committee
have been duly received with the several enclosures and the whole have been
laid before the Congress. We can therefore communicate that satisfaction
which we dare say it must afford you to know that you have so far obtained
the approbation of that august Body
SEPTEMBER 1776
937
It is not necessary that we shou’d enter into minute reply to the Con-
tents of your letters, therefore we shall only Notice such parts as seem to
require it
Capt Wickes’s behaviour meets the approbation of his Country 8c For-
tune seems to have had an Eye to his Merit when She Conducted his three
Prizes safely in, You made a very proper use of his engagement, by your
Question to the General and it is extreamly satisfactory that our Prizes may
be carried into & Protected in the French Ports, but hitherto the Congress
have not thought proper to entrust Blank Commissions beyond Seas, Nei-
ther can their Resolve for bringing Prizes into some of these States for
Condemnation be dispensed with. These matters are now under Considera-
tion of a Committee 8c shou’d any alteration take place you shall be in-
formed of it. We are bound to return thanks to His Excellency the General
for the information he authorized you to give us, as mentioned in your let-
ter of the 4th. 8c particularly for his disposition to favour our Commerce in
Port & Protect it at Sea and likewise for that Concern he expressed at not
having it in his power to assist us with the Arms 8c Powder we requested
You will therefore, signify to His Excellency that this Committee entertain
the warmest sentiments of Esteem 8c respect for his person 8c Character,
and of Gratitude for His Favourable attention to the Concerns of our much
Injured Country, that we request the Continuance of His Friendship and
hope during your residence at martinico there will be many opportunities of
benifiting by His favourable disposition — particularly in Countenancing
you in the purchase & Exportation of Arms, Ammunition 8c Cloathing —
We are not Surprized that admiral Youngs letter should have altered
the Generals Sentiments respecting Convoys, but we esteem much his spir-
ited Answer to the admiral which may probably be productive of some al-
tercation. We like well your proposal for a Constant intercourse by Packets
and the Sloop Independence Capt Jno Young is now Sent on that Service in
which we hope she will be successful and Continue, more of the like kind
shall follow and probably this may be found the best Method of supporting
our intercourse with Europe and as these Vessells are properly Commis-
sioned we cannot see any Impropriety in fitting out Tenders with Copys of
their Commissions provided the Commanding officers of those Tenders are
really officers belonging to the Vested whose Commission they bear, but the
Prizes must be sent to America for Condemnation (unless the Cargoes are
perishable 8c in such Case if properly Certifyed we suppose it might be best
to make Sale of them —
We thank you for Mr. [Richard] Prices Pamphlet2 and wish you woud
write to Mr Deane 8c Mr [Thomas] Morris to Contrive you a constant 8c
ample supply of the English, Irish 8c French News Papers Political Publica-
tions &c. We send you by this opportunity The Journals of Congress as farr
as Published 8c the News papers to this time.
We received the Arms 8c Powder by the Reprisal They came Seasona-
bly 8c we wish there had been more of them. The Secret Committee will sup-
ply you with Funds for the payment for these 8c more Since the arrival of
938
AMERICAN THEATRE
Ld Howe 8c General Howe in the neighbour hood of New York with their
Forces, they have been rather too strong for our People to Cope with and
Consequently have succeeded in their Enterprizes which however have not
been of that Importance that they will probably represent to the World,
they have been ten tor twelve Weeks with a powerfull fleet & a Numerous
Army well provided 8c appointed with every thing necessary and what have
they done,
They have got possession of three small Islands on the Coast of
America, these were hardly disputed with them 8c yet if every Acre of
American Territory is to Cost them in the same proportion, the Conquest
would ruin all Europe. Our Army are now Collected to a point, and are
strongly entrenched on New York Island 8c at Kingsbridge so that in Fact
Mr Howe is Hemmed in as he was at Boston, except that he has more Elbow
Room 8c a powerful Fleet commanding an extensive Inland Navigation. Our
Northern Army are strongly Posted at Tyconderoga 8c expect they will be
able to keep Mr Burgoyne from Crossing the Lakes this Campaigne. We are
worse off for Woolen Cloathing for our Army than any other matter and
you must exert your utmost Industry to buy 8c send us every thing of that
kind you can meet with in Martinico or any of the Neighbouring Islands.
We have gone into this detail of our present situation, that you may have a
just Idea of it 8c be able to make proper Representations to the General 8c
Inhabitants of Martinico
We Recommended the French officers that came with Capt Wickes to
Congress 8c the Board of War have provided for them to their satisfac-
tion, on this Subject your remarks have been very proper. officers un-
acquainted with our Language cannot be useful therefore we do not wish
to encourage such to come amongst us, at the same time Men of Merit 8c
abilities will always meet with suitable encouragement. You must therefore
pursue the line you set out in, give general discouragement to those that
apply 8c recommend none but such as the General will pledge his word for
and you may even intimate to him that if too many come over the Congress
will not know what to do with them.
1. Papers CC (Other Reports of Committees of Congress, 1776-88) , 37, NA.
2. Observations on the Nature of Civil Liberty, the Principles of Government, and the Justice
and Policy of the War with America (London, 1776).
Court Martial of Lieutenant Luke Matthewman,
Continental Brig Lexington 1
At The Court Martial Held on Board the Brigantine Andw Doria
[Philadelphia] Septbr21t. 1776 Were present —
Nicholas Biddle Esqr President
Capt Lambert Weeks [Wickes]
Capt John Berry [Barry]
Capt Charles Alexander
Capt Thoms Reed [Read]
Capt Esiah [Isaiah] Robinson
SEPTEMBER 1776
939
Capt Miles Pennington
Capt Samuel Shaw
Lieutt William Barn[e]s
Lieutt John Allen
Lieutt Benjamin Dunn
Lieutt. Elijah [Elisha] Warner
Lieutt. Isa[a]c Craigg
Before whome Capt William Hallic [Hallock] Charged Lieutenant Luke
Mathriman [Matthewman]
1st of Disobeying of Ordres
2d of Insulting Capt Hallic at his Lodging on the Evening of the 1 9th
of Septembr between 9 & 10 OClock
The Court having heard the Evidences on Both sides do Resolve —
1st That Mr Mathriman has been guilty of breach of Ordres
2d That he has been Guilty of a Breach of the 30th Article in insulting
Capt Hallic —
3d That it is the Judgment of this Court, that Lieutt Mathriman for the
above Offences: bee Order’d to ask Capt Hallies Pardon before said
Court, and that he does not presume in future, to be guilty of the Like
Offences, on pain of being Cashiered —
1. Captain Nicholas Biddle Letters, 1771-1778, on deposit at HSP.
Minutes of the Pennsylvania Council of Safety1
In Council of Safety,
[Philadelphia] Septem’r 21st, 1776.
Order'd , That Capt. John Rice be directed to raise men for the Armed
Boat call’d the Convention, with all expedition.
Resolved , That Capt. Wm. Brown be appointed Commander of the
Floating Battery now Building by Mr. Arthur Donaldson.
Ordered, That Capt. Wm. Brown do raise men for the Floating Battery
now building by Mr. Arthur Donaldson.
1. Pennsylvania Colonial Records, X, 725.
Memorandum Book of the Pennsylvania Council of Safety1
[Philadelphia] September 21st, 1776 - Upon application of the Marine
Committee for the Mooring Chains on board the Ship Montgomery , for the
service of one of the Continental Frigates, an order was given for Mr. Feris
to deliver them.
1. Pennsylvania Archives, 2nd series, I, 489.
Advertisement for Deserters from the Pennsylvania Galley Ranger 1
Deserted from the Ranger, armed vessel, the 13th of September,
Thomas Ward, a seaman, born in Dublin, about twenty-two years of age,
940
AMERICAN THEATRE
near five feet seven inches high, fair complexion, fresh coloured, little pitted
with the smallpox, is pretty fat, and much given to drink and swearing. He
had on when he went away, a red jacket, striped trousers, and a round hat,
and was seen two days ago at Chester.
On the 17th inst. Andrew Hancock, country born, about five feet nine
inches high, has a sickly look, and black curly hair. He had on when he went
away, a thickset waistcoat without sleeves, striped shirt and oznabrug trou-
sers. Whoever secures said deserters and puts them on board any of the
armed gallies, or in jail, shall have Four Dollars reward for each.
1. Pennsylvania Evening Post, September 21, 1776.
Woolsey 8c Salmon to John Pringle, Philadelphia Merchant 1
[Extract] Baltimore 21st September 1776
. . . Wm Woolsey is Come to town a few Days Since, has Taken one
large Ship in partnership with a Road Island privateer, also on the 7th Inst
he took Another Ship him Self but no Accot. yet of there Arrival he fears
from the winds we have had that the last is gone to New England, the
first was Ordered to Dartmouth the first Ship Was Called the St James.
Capt Edwards the last Ship was Called the Caroline , Capt Denness so
Keep a good Look out for them.2 we talk of Sending her out again
Soon it will not take much to fit her out . . .
1. Woolsey & Salmon Letter Book, LC.
2. The Maryland privateer schooner Harlequin, six guns and twenty-one men, William
Woolsey, commander. Papers CC (Ships’ Bonds Required for Letters of Marque and
Reprisal), 196, VII, 14, NA. The St. James was taken in company with the Rhode Island
privateer sloop General Greene. The Caroline arrived in Chincoteague, Virginia, was
condemned and offered for sale through an advertisement dated Williamsburg, October 5,
printed in the Pennsylvania Gazette , October 16, 1776.
Journal of the Virginia Council of Safety1
[Williamsburg] Saturday, 21st September 1776.
Samuel Darrell, Master of the Schooner Fanny lately arrived in James
River from Bermuda, laden with Salt, Coffee and Claret, appeared in Coun-
cil and prayed permission to dispose of his Cargo, and trade for the same
with the Inhabitants of this State. Resolved that he be permitted so to do to
the amount of his Cargo.
1. Mcllwaine, ed., Journals of the Virginia Council, I, 170, 171.
Journal of the Virginia Navy Board1
[Williamsburg] Saturday 21st September 1776. -
Ordered that the keeper of the public Magazine deliver unto Capt Celey
Saunders half Rheam of Cartridge Paper and thirty pounds of Lead or Ball
for the use of the Lewis Galley. —
SEPTEMBER 1776
941
Ordered that the Keeper of the Public Store deliver unto Capt Celey Saun-
ders four Lanthorns for the use of the Lewis Galley. — 2
Ordered that the keeper of the Public Store deliver unto Capt George Muter
a speaking Trumpett and that the said Muter take from the Capitol Land-
ing ten double Leaded Chain eighteen pound Shot for the use of the Hero
Galley -
1. Navy Board Journal, 61, VSL.
2. Ibid., the Navy Board ordered similar stores for the galley Page on this date.
Journal of the South Carolina General Assembly 1
[Charleston] Saturday the 21st Day of September. 1776
Message from the President by the Clerk of the Legislative Council.
Mr Speaker and Gentlemen,
On considering Captain Lamprieres Letter herewith sent and
other Representations respecting the Ship Prosper it was thought
expedient at the Time of the late Invasion to apply her Guns to the
use of some of the Batteries and put her out of the way of Danger.
In my Opinion it will be most for the Public Advantage to
sell her or employ her in Trade, but I think my self not authorized
to do so you will therefore Judge in what manner it will be best to
dispose of her
The appointing Commissioners to superintend the naval af-
fairs of this State would I hope place them upon a better Footing
than the present— I therefore recommend it as a matter worthy of
your attention
John Rutledge
21 September. 1776
Read Captain Lamprieres Letter which accompanied the message dated
the 28th May last— which Letter is preserved among the Papers of the present
sessions
The House being informed That Captain Joseph Turpin Commander
of the armed Brigantine Comet belonging to this State is absent and gone
to Georgia without leave
Ordered That Captain Turpins Letter of the 16th Instant addressed
to this House laid before them on the 17th Instant and then ordered to lie
on the Table be now read
And the same being read accordingly is as followeth
Honourable Gentlemen
Having had the Honour to serve in your navy with some
Reputation— think it my Duty to acquaint you before I quit that
Service with my Reasons for so doing —
The Navy of England have ever been invincible from no other
Cause than the great Encouragement they give their Officers and
942
AMERICAN THEATRE
People and the wise and honourable Footing they are set on.
All Prizes taken from their Enemies are divided into Eights in
the following manner.
Three Eights to the Captain
One to the Lieutenants master and Officers of Marines, if a
Captain
One to the warranted Officers
One to the Petty Officers
And Two to the men before the mast
One of these Two Eights George the Second gave to the Sea-
men in the year Forty, as an Encouragement
All Ships of War either King’s Ships or Privateers taken from
the Enemy or destroyed the King allows Ten Pounds for each man
and Ten Pounds for each Gun the Enemy had on Board
Captains of the Navy serving under an Admiral gives up
one of his Three Eights to that Officer no other Deductions are
made whatever
As to Rank— all Post-Captains rank with Colonels of Horse
or Foot in the Land Service Commanders who have not taken
Post with Majors and the Lieutenants of the Fleet with Captains
of the Army
To conclude— I humbly offer this Plan for your Perusal and
on those Terms shall be ready and proud of the Honour to serve
you And am Honourable Gentlemen [8cc.]
Joseph Turpin
Charles Town South Carolina
16th September, 1776
Resolved That this House will on Monday next ballot for another
Commander of the Brigantine Comet
upon motion
Resolved That the armed Ship Prosper belonging to this State be sold
and that the monies to arise from such sale be deposited in the Public
Treasury
Ordered That a Copy of the above Resolve be sent to the Legislative
Council for their Concurrence
Ordered That the Honourable Mr Justice [John] Matthews and Mr
[Arthur] Middleton do carry the Resolve to the Legislative Council
Ordered That a message be sent to the President requesting that His
Excellency will be pleased to give directions for the sale of the ship Prosper
her apparel and Furniture
Message to the President
May please your Excellency
This House having resolved That the armed ship Prosper be-
longing to this State with her apparel and Furniture be sold and
the money arising by such Sale lodged in the Treasury request that
SEPTEMBER 1776
943
your Excellency will be pleased to give Directions accordingly
Ordered That the message be ingrossed and that Mr Speaker do sign
the same
Ordered That the Honourable Mr [John] Edwards and Mr [Philo-
theos] Chiffelle do wait on His Excellency with the said message
Ordered That Leave be given to bring in a Bill for appointing Com-
missioners to superintend and direct the Naval Affairs of this State And
that the Honourable Mr Edwards Captain Roger Smith Mr [Thomas]
Corbett Mr [John] Neufville and Mr [Thomas] Ward be a Committee
to prepare and bring in the same
1. A. S. Salley, Jr., ed., Journal of the General Assembly of South Carolina September 17, 1776
-October 20, 1776 (Columbia, S.C., 1909), 33, 36, 37-38, 39. Hereafter cited as Salley, ed..
South Carolina General Assembly Journals.
Journal of the Council of West Florida1
At a Council held at Pensacola the 21st September 1776.
His Excellency laid before the Board the following Letter which he had
received from Captain Thomas Davey of His Majesty’s Sloop of War the
Diligence wch being read is in these words
f Diligence Pensacola Harbour
ir [ 19th September 1776.
Lieut [Charles] Cobb having informed me that he has in
Consequence of your Excellencys Application detained in this Har-
bour His Majesty’s Armed Sloop West-Florida — I am to request
your Excellency will do me the Honor to let me know if you and
the Council still think it necessary to detain her here. If you do
not, I propose to Order her into the Lakes agreeable to the Orders
I have received from Vice Admiral Gayton. I have the honor to
be &c
His Excy Governor Chester. Tho8 Davey
Upon which the Board were of Opinion that as the Diligence is Ar-
rived it is not Necessary to detain the said Armed Sloop West Florida any
longer — And that Capt Davey be requested to follow the Orders respecting
her that he had received from Vice Admiral Gayton —
1. PRO, Colonial Office, 5/634, Part II, 396, LC Photocopy.
Petition of Charles Irving and Alexander Blair1
To Clark Gayton Esquire, Vice Admiral of the White & Commander in
Chief of all His Majestys Ships &: Vessels Employ’d and to be Employ’d at
& about Jamaica and in the Gulf of Mexico from the River Mississippi to
Cape Florida
944
AMERICAN THEATRE
The Humble Petition of Charles Irving and Alexr Blair both of
the Town of Kingston in the said Island Officers in his Brittanic
Majestys Service.
Sheweth /
That your Petitioners being the Owners 8c proprietors of a certain
Sloop or Vessel call’d the Morning Star whereof David Millar late was Mas-
ter did in or about the Month of April last past send the said Sloop or Ves-
sel on a Voyage to the Mosquitto Shore, loaden with the following Commod-
ities, Three thousand two hundred pounds weight of fine fowling Powder at
Five Shillings p pound, of the value of Eight hundd pounds, Five large Cop-
per Boilers for making Pot Ash of the value of One thousand pounds, Four
Iron Potts for the same purpose weighing Three Tons of the value of Sixty
pounds, Iron hardware in various Tools of husbandry to the value of two
hundr’d and fifty pounds, Iron Potts small Anchors and small Lead Shot 8c
Sheet Lead of the value of One hundred pounds, Twenty six Fuses 8c Mus-
quets of the value of Fifty two pounds, a quantity of Osnaburghs 8c Cheeqs
8c Linen of the value of One hundred 8c fifty pounds, Eighty Guineas in
Cash, and sundry Pieces of Plate, 8c wearing apparel of the value of Sixty
pounds, which together with the said Sloop or Vessel which was then worth
One thousand pounds amount together in the whole to the sum of Three
thousand, seven Hundred 8c twenty two pounds Current Money of Jamaica
That on the Thirtieth day of the said Month of April the said Sloop
Morning Star was lying at Anchor near the Bar of Black River on the Mos-
quitto Shore, and then and there boardd and taken by Two Guarda Costas
belonging to his most Catholic Majesty the Pacifico , of Fourteen Guns com-
manded by Don Juan Castello, and the Recur [so] of Twelve Guns com-
manded by Antonio Yepe, and carried into Porto Bello, and from thence to
Carthagena as in and by the Affidavit hereun[der] annex’d will more fully
appear 2
Your Petitioners therefore most humbly pray you to take their Case
into consideration and to obtain Restitution to them of their said Sloop and
Cargoe or the Value thereof
And your Petitioners shall ever pray 8cc
(Sign’d) Cnarles Irving
Personally appear’d before me Charles Irving one [of] the Petitioners
above nam’d and being sworn upon the Holy Evangelists of Almighty God
deposeth 8c saith that the several Allegations in the said Petition contain’d
are true
(Signed) Charles Irving
Kingston Sworn before me September 21st 1776
(Signed) J. French Custos 8cc Kingston
[Endorsed] (A Copy) Clark Gayton
1* PRV Admiralty 1/240. Enclosed in Gayton to Stephens, October 8, 1776.
2. See Deposition of Frederick Sund, September 20. See also Volumes 4 and 5.
SEPTEMBER 1776
945
Disbursements for the Pennsylvania Letter of Marque Brigantine
Venus at St. Eustatius 1
The Owners of the Briganteen Venus for Disbursements
To Joseph Leland Sc Theo: Barrell
1776
Sepr 7. To Cash paid for two Carriage Guns 55..-..-
ditto takeing up two Anchors Sc 1 Cable 22. .-. .-
ditto Canoe hire with a Cable and
Anchor on Board 1 . . 3 . . -
ditto Cleaning 8c repairing Arms 2 . . 7 .
ditto Mr Hills Account repairing the Yawl 8.. 2..-
ditto Mr. Lewis’s Account 11.. 7.. 3
ditto a piece of Hardwood for Carriage
trucks 2 . . - . .3
ditto Francis Savages Accot makeing ditto 6.. — ..—
ditto Herman Gosslings Account 6..6..—
ditto a Caulker caulking a Canoe 1..3..—
ditto John Low Sailmakers Account 35.. -..5
ditto Joseph Hoveys Account for a Canoe
8cc 46. .7 . .-
ditto John Wedgs Account for Musquet
Ball 23.. 3.. 3
ditto Reuben Reilys Accot for Water 9.. — ..—
ditto Thomas Wallaces Accot for Sail
Cloth 79.. 7..-
ditto Joseph Lelands Account for Colours
8cc 48 .
ditto James Muckels Accot for Hand Cuffs
Sec 6 . . 2 . . -
ditto Milner Burch Sc Haynes’s Accot 338. .3. .5
ditto Theodore Barrells Account 74.. 6.. 4
ditto paid Capt. Raddon by Order the
owners 2 88 . . — . .-
ditto Advanced Capt Raddon to Ship
Men 8cc 32 1 . . 7 . . —
ditto Advanced Capt Raddon to Ship
Men 8cc 32 1 . . 7 . . —
ditto Amount Messrs Teniers Accot. for a
Launch lost by the People, Borrow’d to
> 55.
. — . . —
Weigh Anchors 8cc
ditto Powder, Match, 8c Anchorage, to
Fort Orrange
27.
. 5 . .—
Charges of Protest
9.
.6. .-
ditto Connell Sc Richard Smiths Account
29.
.4. .-
ditto to Capt Raddon 2d time
29.
.2. .-
Milner Burch Sc Haynes’s 2d Accot
13.
.6. .4
Dr
117. .5. .-
749. .6. .5
486. .6. .4
946
AMERICAN THEATRE
Freight of Guns to & from St Martins 8cc
20. .3.
Ps 1374. .5. .3
Commissions on 1374 . . 5 . . 3 a 5 PCent
Errors Excepted
68 . .5 . .5
Ps~1443. .3. .2
Joseph Leland Theo: Barrell
St Eustatius 21st Sepr 1776
Copy
1. Stephen Collins Accounts, vol. 13 (January 1 - December 31, 1776) , LC.
2. The Brigantine Venus had been commissioned at Philadelphia, July 13, 1776. She carried
six guns and had a crew of twenty-hve. Her owners were Daniel Roberdeau and
Thomas Pryor.
Governor Craister Greathead to Vice Admiral James Young 1
(Copy) St Christophers 21st September 1776.
Sir I have received your Letter of the 19th Instant and am extremely
sorry to acquaint you, that the Accounts you have had of the dreadfull Dis-
asters which have happened in this Island are too true, for on the 5th Instant
about one or two in the Morning a Fire broke out in the Town of Basseterre
and from the fury and continuance of its Progress consumed all the Store-
houses except one or two, and most valuable Buildings therewith the Pro-
visions and Lumber contained in them and their adjoining yards, being
nearly the whole that were for Sale in this Island, and in the Night of the
next Day great Mischief was done by Inundations from excessive Rain and
a Storm of Wind that blew at the same Time has injured the Canes and
Ground Provisions tho’ no Buildings were thrown down.
These Calamities which gave great Occasion to apprehend a Famine,
induced me to grant my Licence dated the 9th Instant, for two Vessels
named therein, to bring Provisions and Lumber from St Eustatius, but lim-
itted the Continuance of such Licence to fourteen Days from the Date. I
heartily wish the immediate Wants of the Inhabitants may be supplied by
this Means.
Your Attention to them under their great Distresses merits their grate-
full Acknowledgements, and should they point out to me any Method
whereby you may be serviceable I will most readily communicate the same
to you.
The Apprehensions of many that an Insurrection was intended from
some Fires happening in two or three Estates at the Time the Town was in
Flames, occasioned me to write to you the same Day by a hired Vessel to de-
sire, if his Majesty’s Service wou’d admit it, you woul’d be so good to Order
one of His Majesty’s Vessels, to repair with all convenient Dispatch to our
Assistance, but as we have heard Nothing of the hired Vessel since I must
suppose she was lost in the Storm on her passage to Antigua. I have the
honour to be Sir [8cc.]
Craister Greatheed
1. PRO, Admiralty 1/309. Greathead was governor of St. Christopher.
St. Eustatius Merchants’ Account with the Pennnsylvania Letter of Marque Brigantine Venus1
SEPTEMBER 1776
947
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Rum Hogsheads, Received by the Briga Venus. William Raddon Master from Philadel-
phia, on Account of the Owners of said Briga.
948
AMERICAN THEATRE
22 Sept. (Sunday)
Journal of H.M.S. Liverpool, Captain Henry Bellew1
Cape Codd No 86Wt 34 Lgs
at 5 AM gave chace to two sail at 6 came up with a Ship
which the Rebels had taken, took the Rebels onbd sent a petty
Officer & 8 Men to take charge of her,2 made sail after a Brig
Prize in Co
First part fresh Breezes and cloudy, middle strong Gales, latter
fresh breezes and fair, fir’d several shot and brot too the
Chace, found she was a Brig taken by the Rebels, took the
Rebels on bd & sent an Officer to take charge of her, at 3
made sail, at 4 shortned 8c reefed all the sails,
at 5 AM fir’d a gun for the Prizes, at 7 Do i/£ past 9 Do —
made more sail, gave chace to a Brig, Prizes in Co
First part fresh Breezes and fair, middle light Breezes with
Rain, latter light airs and hazey, brot too, sent a Boat onbd
the Chace, found she had been taken by the Rebels; took the
Rebels onboard, and sent an Officer to take charge of her
Sent a Cask of Beef onboard the Ship, hoisted the Boat in 8c
made sail.3
1. PRO, Admiralty 51/548.
2. The ship Hester, David Crombie, master. Vice Admiralty Register, vol. 5, N. S. Arch.
3. The brigs retaken on September 21 and September 22 are not further identified.
Commodore Esek Hopkins to Governor Jonathan Trumbull, Lebanon 1
Sir Providence Septembr 22nd 1776
When I left you, I went to New London and see your Ship and came
from there here, and I am of Opinion that the two Frigates here will be
ready for the Sea by the time your Ship will be ready, if it is possible to
Mann them - 2 If I receive no Orders to the Contrary from the Marine
Committee by my Brother,3 who I expect every hour Shall be ready to fol-
low any Orders or Advice you may think best to give me respecting their
Operation — I am with great Respect Sir [8cc.]
E.H.
1. Hopkins Letter Book, RIHS.
2. The ship at New London was the Oliver Cromwell, and the two Continental frigates at
Providence were the Providence and Warren.
3. Stephen Hopkins.
Commodore Esek Hopkins to the Continental Marine Committee 1
Gentlemen Providence Septr 22nd 1776.
Since my last I have been to See Governor Trumbull on the business of
his Letter to me, a Copy of which you have Inclosed — from there I went to
Septr 1776
Saturday 2 1
Sunday 22
SEPTEMBER 1776
949
New London which place I left the 19th instant - Captn Hacker is there
with the Hampden, he has Graved her and she will be Ready for Sea in a
few days but not full mann’d - have Order’d her round to Newport there to
join the Alfred who I expect will be Clean’d and ready for the Sea in a
Week - The two Frigates here will be ready for Sea in a week or 10 days,
but it will be very difficult to mann any of them without you will make the
Chance of Prize Money as good as they get in the Privateers, which is one
half and large Sums advanc’d to the People before they go to Sea -
I expect Governor Hopkins every day, hope he will bring with him the
Commissions for the Officers of the New Ships - The Alfred and Hampden
Shall send as soon as possible on the Station you Order’d, and if Governor
Hopkins brings no other Orders for the New Frigates I think it will be the
best Use they can be put too to attempt to clear the Sound with them as
Governor Trumbull advises — as that if effected will give great ease to
Supplying our Army near New York -
Since I wrote you there has arrived here seven or eight valuable Prizes
Sent in by the Privateers out of this place — and a Brig Captn Biddle’s
Prize was taken by the Cerberus, a few days ago the people got onshore in
their Boat, and are Sett out for Philadelphia - 2 There is a Report that a
Prize Brig taken by the Columbus was Spoke with a few days ago -
Inclosed you have a List of the Privateers out of this Place, them that
are call’d Letters of Marque expected to get mann’d in the French Islands -
You likewise have a List of the Prizes brought in here - I am with great
Respect Gentlemn [&c.]
E. H.
1. Hopkins Letter Book, RIHS.
2. Prize brig Peggy, Philip Brown, prize master, ran close in to Block Island where the prize
crew made its escape on September 11. Clark, Captain Dauntless, 147-48.
Governor Jonathan Trumbull to William Williams 1
[Extract] Lebanon 22nd Septr 1776
. . . The People with their Effects Stock &c are comg fast from Long
Island, few Troops are sent from hence to the Island. I have Letters from
the Northward just received — the Army in that Quarter appears to be in
good Circumstances growg more healthy and Effective — The Fleet is very
respectable, gone down the Lake and will soon be joined with 2 or three
Row Gallies, carrying down General Waterbury, who is second in Command
upon the Lake -
1. Trumbull Papers, YUL.
Journal of Ambrose Serle1
[On board H.M.S. Eagle] Sunday, 22d. September. Through some unac-
countable Conduct, the Renown of 50 Guns, wch was to have led the Attack
upon Powley’s Hook, was prevented in her Operations, for which Reason
the Expedition was deferred to another Day.
1. Tatum, ed., Serle’s Journal, 112.
388-825 0-73-62
950
AMERICAN THEATRE
Diary of Lieutenant Jabez Fitch1
[On board the Prison Snow Mentor ] Sund: the 22nd [September] This
is the 4th: Sund: of our Imprisonment. In the Morning the Seamen turn d
out at 4 oCock to bend the Sails, 8c make the other Preparation for geting
under way, they were very Industrious most of the Morning, in making
those preperations.
At about 8 oClock we had a Comfortable Breakfast of warm Chocolet,
which was very agreable, in our present Cituation.
About Noon all the Ships, who had Prisoners on board with the Expe-
riment and the Resolution , Men of War, got under way, in Order to go up
toward the City, the Wind being unfair, the Ships were Obliged to beat up,
8c at 4 oClock came too of[f] between Red hook 8c Gibbit Island,2 in midst
of a very great Number of Ships, among whome is the Eagle, the Admyral,
or Lord Howes Ship, which lay Just ahead of us, 8c the Rainbow (another
large Man of War) 3 is near us on the other hand, 8c besides those, a number
of Frigates, 8c other Ships of War; Here at Night we again turned in, 8c I
Rested on my narrow plank again as well as Usual.
1. Sabine, ed., Fitch’s Diary, 48, 49.
2. Ellis Island.
3. Fitch was mistaken. Rainbow was at Halifax.
Journal of Benjamin Boardman1
[Paulus Hook, September] 22d.
As no reinforcement could be sent us, we received orders this morning
to remove our artillery, stores and baggage, and hold ourselves in readiness
to retreat, and before night most of them were removed.
About 9 A.M. we saw the enemy troops embarking in flat bottom’d
boats, about two miles above us, who appeared in large numbers on the
shore, after their boats, (about 30) were full. Four ships at the same time
came to sail below, and stood up towards us, but they soon came to anchor
again, and the boats which had pushed off, returned back. Had they come at
this time, we must either have retired and left them large quantities of ar-
tillery stores, or fought their army and navy at the same time, with our
small detachment, and that under every disadvantage; but they saw fit to
retire to get more strength, as appeared afterwards, tho’ they could not be
ignorant of our weakness, as our men were paraded every day in full view
of them.
1. Connecticut Gazette, October 18, 1776.
Caesar Rodney to Thomas Rodney1
[Extract] Philada Sepr 22d 1776
I am glad you are Sending the Sloop up to Sell, and hope you’l not delay
doing it least some of the men of War now at New York Should be thought
no longer necessary there, and be sent to our Capes, A Circumstance of
SEPTEMBER 1776
951
this Sort would inevitably knock up the Sale of all kinds of Veshells, for it
is the Trade they are now pushing that keeps up the demand for them, and
the men of War Comeing to the Cape would put an Emd [ sic end] to that
Trade ... I should have no objection to Your Sending the Schooner also
— But am Doubtfull Shee is too Flat and therefore would not answer the
purpose of foreign trade and of Course not sell well — If the Sloop is not
Come away before you Get this Letter, would advise you to get John Bell to
Come in her. He has been dealing in that way and would be of Great [use]
to me in Selling her here — But if Shee is Come away and You Should Con-
clude to Send the Schooner pray Get him to Come in her — I had some Con-
vention [sic conversation] with Bell while in Town, and he promised to
Call on You Concerning the Sale of them . . .
1. Ryden, ed., Letters to and from Caesar Rodney, 125.
Thomas Rodney to Caesar Rodney1
[Extract] Dover Septr 22d 1776 -
N.B. I expect the sloop from Egg-Harbour every day & shall send her up
immediately — 1 wrote in my last to sell the schooner too if you choose &
can git a good price — Brown has no Objection; & he has not pd any thing
towards her yet — If it will be any advantage you may purchase his part
before you sell
1. Ryden, ed.. Letters to and from Caesar Rodney, 126, 127.
23 Sept.
Captain Charles Douglas, R.N., to Captain Philemon Pownoll, R.N. 1
Dear Sir
Elaving received yours of the 19th I have the pleasure of assuring you that
the Inflexible , the prowess of which will give us the dominion of Lake
Champlain beyond a doubt; will be ready to sail with the Expedition: the
dispatch which is making with her is really amazing! Some dozens of Car-
penters work at her as Carpenters. The Gondolo cuts a very good appear-
ance and is to carry Six Nines and (in the Bow) an Army 24 pounder —
The Radeau would be more formidable did she carry her Six Battering 24
pounders below a little higher — I find by Mr [James Richard] Dacres
that in the event of absolute necessity obliging you to winter in Canada
you’d prefer one of the Three Rivers for the Blonde but from the Report of
Captain [Joseph] Nunn’s Survey there of which I send you I fear there
will not be water sufficient for her — Tho’ to prevent mistakes at all events
1 send you the St Peter Brig and Chabotes Sloop I cannot procure a state
of the Provisions for the Army from Sorel to this place however it must do
952
AMERICAN THEATRE
good to send up more be that as it may Hoping to call upon you some
Eight or Ten days hence I ever remain with the most sincere esteem and
perfect confidence Dear Sir [8cc.]
Chs Douglas
St Johns Septr the 23d 1776
1. Sir Henry Clinton Papers, CL.
William Whipple to Josiah Bartlett1
[Extract] Portsmouth, 23 Sept., 1776
A transport was sent in here yesterday, by a small Privateer, belong-
ing to Newbury. She was bound to St. Vincent, in the West Indies, with
seven others, for Soldiers. She has on board 20 Chaldron coals & 6 months
Provision for 100 men.2 . . .
I this moment hear that a Vessel is off this Harbour, bound to New-
bury, 29 days from Martinique. She sail’d from thence in company with the
Reprisal.
1. The Historical Magazine , VI, 74.
2. She was taken by the Massachusetts privateer schooner Washington. See next entry.
Boston Gazette , Monday, September 23, 1776
Watertown, September 23.
Yesterday Se’nnight arrived at Newbury Port the Brig. Georgia Diana,
Peter Rigan Master, bound from Grenada to London, taken by the Wash-
ington Privateer, Nathaniel Odiorne, having on board 250 hogsheads rum
and sugar, and about 20 chaldron of coal, Sec. Sec.
Monday last return’d Captain Samson [Sampson] , after a short
cruize, in which he has taken 5 Prizes, three or 4 of which are arriv’d safe
into Port.
On Monday evening last, was sent into Cape Ann, by Capt. [William]
Coas of the Warren privateer, a brig of about 120 tons, mounting 8 carriage
guns and 10 swivels; she was from the Coast of Guinea, but last from To-
bago, with some Elephant’s teeth and gold dust.1 When she left Capt. Coas,
he was in chase of a ship.
The ship which the Warren sent in last Saturday, was from Tobago
bound to London, called the Picary, Capt. Breckholt Cleveland commander,
having on board 325 hogsheads of sugar, 50 hogsheads of rum, 161 bales of
cotton, 118 pipes, 29 hogsheads and 10 quarter-casks of Madeira wine and
some indigo.
1. Brigantine Swallow, Benjamin Griffith, master.
SEPTEMBER 1776
953
James Bowdoin to John Hancock1
Sir Boston, Septr. 23. 1776
I have the honour to transmit to Congress the enclosed Resolve of the
General Court passed the 18th. Instant, relative to the fitting for the Sea,
the Continental Frigate Hancock of 32 Guns, now at Newbury Port. If this
Frigate with the other at the same Port could be expeditiously fitted out, it
is very probable several of the Enemy’s Cruizers, which have much infested
our Coast, would be soon brought in, and made a valuable addition to the
naval strength of the united States.
You will please to lay the said Resolve before the hon’ble Congress,
whose Speedy determination, corresponding with the Resolve, may be at-
tended with many happy Consequences. In the mean time every aid in our
power will be given to the Continental Agent, for getting the said Frigates
in readiness with the utmost Expedition. — In the name of the Council of
the State of Massachusetts Bay I am with great Respect [8cc.]
James Bowdoin
1. Papers CC (Massachusetts State Papers, 1775-87), 65, I, 113-14, NA. Bowdoin was president
of the Massachusetts Council.
John Bradford to Robert Morris1
Dear sir — Boston the 23 Sepr 1776
I took my leave of Mr Merkle2 Saterday Morning, at Beverly only
waiting for a fair wind, it proved favourable Yesterday, I make no
doubt they Sail’d, I think their prospect of getting Clear is fair, as I have
hired a pilot to carry them so farr as the Bay of fundy if need be. the
Capt.3 has his particular instructions relative to Mr Andrew Lemoines
Letter,4 The Dispatch' s Accounts I shall forward by next weeks post
I have been in pursuit of a Suitable vessell for your purpose, have
agreed for her Conditionally, but have not yet been able to procure the Salt,
none being to be purchased in this Government, excepting a Cargo belong-
ing to Capt [Richard] Derby which has been in the marine Court and its
fate will be known to day, whither its condemned or not, I shall procure a
quantity if it’s to be done within the Price Emitted, I have made inquirery
both at Salem and here in regard to insurance to Virginia, and find they
wont at present take the Risque at any rate
I shall write you at large by next mondays post In the Interim I am
with due respect yours Sec.
1. John Bradford Letter Book, LC.
2. Johann Philip Merkle, a Dutch adventurer whom John Jay introduced to Congress, and who
was engaged to import goods for the Secret Committee.
3. Stephen Cleveland of the brig Dispatch.
4. Andrew Limozen, American agent at Le Havre, France.
954
AMERICAN THEATRE
James Warren to Brigadier General Joseph Otis1
Sir ' Plymo 23 Septem: 1776
In Pursuance of Orders Receivd from the Major part of the Honble
Council, You are hereby Requird In Conjunction with Brigadier [Joseph]
Cushing2 to Cause the Men drafted from your Several Brigades In Conse-
quence of the Resolves of the General Assembly of this State of the 12th
And 13 Instant, Or As Many of them As Are Necessary to take Charge of
60 Whale Boats to be Provided By a Committe of the Genrl Assembly
aforesd to march to Falmouth Or Buzzards Bay In the County of Barnstable
Or Dartmouth In the County of Bristol Or to all said Places According As
said Boats May Be Provided with their Arms And Baggage And In said
Boats with All Possible Dispatch to proceed to Rhode Island And them to
Deliver to the Honble Nicholas Cooke Esqr Governor of sd State thereof
fail Not And make Return of your Doings to Me as Soon as May Be. I am
[8cc.]
J Warren -
1. Special Ms. Collection, CUL.
2. Otis and Cushing were Massachusetts militia officers.
William Sever to James Bowdoin1
Sr Kingston 23d Septem 1776
Capt. Samson waits upon the Council to make report, 8c receive further
orders.
As some small repairs are wanting on the Brigantine he commands - 2
and if the Honble Council should order him out Again, some provisions 8cc
will be necessary I imagine it will be thought needful, that some person
should be appointed for these purposes, as I do not know that any provision
has been made in these respects
Capt Samson thinks that it might have been advantageous to the State,
as well as to the Ships crew if he had not been so restricted by his orders in
his last cruise - I presume your Honors will give him such Instructions as
shall be thought most conducive to the good of the State - I am Sr [8cc.]
W Sever
1. Mass. Arch., vol. 165, 284.
2. The Massachusetts state brigantine Independence.
Journal of the Committee Appointed to Build Two Continental
Frigates in Rhode Island1
[Providence] Sepr 23. 1776
Me [e] ting Convened. Present the Honble Stephen Hopkins and several
of the Comtee.
Voted That The Ships be Equipped with all Expedition and Fitted for
the Sea by the 10th of October at furthest, for the Effecting of which it is
SEPTEMBER 1776
955
Voted that Daniel Tillinghast Esqr be sole director of the Business that the
officers apply to him for all necessaries they may stand in need of and all
the Members belonging to the Comttee present (being nine in Number) to
engage to supply or procure the Articles wanted according to the Memoran-
dams that shall be given out to them by CoE Tillinghast from time to Time.
1. Journal R. I. Frigates, RIHS.
Assignment of One-Sixteenth of a Prize Share in the
Rhode Island Privateer Sloop Yankee Ranger 1
North Providence September, 23th [\sic] 1776
This Witnesseth that I Joseph Bagley of North Providence in the County of
Providence for and in Consideration of Two Pounds Five Shillings to me in
hand well and Truly Paid by George Jenks of North Providence in the
County aforesaid have Sold unto him the Said George Jenks one Sixteenth
part of one Share of all Prizes which Shall bee Taken by the Sloop Yankey
Ranger Samuel Trip Master Now bound on a Cruise agnst the Enemies of
the united Colonies in wittness whareof I have here unto Set my hand in the
Second year of the American Congress the Date above
Witnesses present Joseph Bagley
Jona Jenks Junr
Stephen Jenks Junr
1. Miscellaneous Collection, RIHS.
Governor Nicholas Cooke to George Washington1
Sir Bristol Septemr 23d 1776
Having seen in the publick Papers that your Excelly and the British
Admiral have agreed upon an Exchange of Prisoners in the naval Depart-
ment I beg Leave to apply to you in Behalf of a Mate of a Vessel, and Four
Seamen, all belonging to Warwick in this State, some of whom are con-
nected with very reputable Families. They were all taken in the Merchant’s
Service, and are Prisoners on board One of the Ships of War now in the
Sound. — We have a Mate of a Merchant Ship, and Four Seamen who were
taken in a Transport with Part of One of the Highland Regiments, to give
for them. I request your Excellency’s Directions as soon as may be whether
we shall send the Prisoners directly to you or how I shall proceed to procure
the Exchange, which will very much oblige many worthy People here I
am with great Esteem and Respect [Sec.]
1. Letters from the Governor, 1768-1777, vol. 2, R. I. Arch.
Newport Mercury , Monday, September 23, 1776
Newport, September 23.
Last Monday a ship and a brig taken by the Montgomery , went up the
east passage;1 on Wednesday a large ship taken by the General Greene and
956
AMERICAN THEATRE
a Baltimore schooner,2 and a brig taken by the Revenge / got safe into a
neighbouring port; on Friday another ship, taken by Capt. [James]
Munro, went up the bay;4 and the same night another brig, taken by the
Revenge , passed the east passage. All the above are valuable prizes;
1. The prizes of the Rhode Island privateer sloop Montgomery were the ship Betsey, 210 tons,
James Ramsey, master, and the brigantine Try ton, 140 tons, Thomas Martindale, master.
2. The brig St. James, taken by the Rhode Island privateer sloop General Greene, John Garzia,
commander, and the Maryland privateer schooner Harlequin, William Woolsey, com-
mander. See Providence Gazette, September 21, 1776.
3. The Brigantine Ann, 120 tons, Diederick Wise, master, was taken by the Rhode Island
privateer sloop Revenge, Samuel Dunn, commander.
4. Ship Blaze Castle, taken by the Rhode Island sloop Sally.
Nathaniel Shaw, Jr/s Account Against the
Continental Brig Hampden 1
The Continental Brig Hampton Hoysted Hacker Commander Dr
1776
To Cash as p Rect
60. .0. .0
Sepr
To Sundry Slops as p Rect
47.13. .6
To Spy Glass
2. .0. .0
To Tea kettle 8/ 2 Brushes 4/
0.12. .0
To 137 feet Oars
1.14. .3
To Rheem Writing paper
0.15. .0
To Lanthorn 3/, Speking Trumpet 5/
0. .8. .0
To 2 Canvas Chairs 2/6
0. .5. .0
To 327 ib Cordage / 1 0
13.12. .6
To 1 Cable wt 7. .0. .22 lb 50/,
17.19. .4
To 3 pr Blocks Straps Hooks Sc Thimbles
7. .6
To 5 lb Cooper Nails 1/6
7. .6
To 45i/2 lb 20d do @ 1/2, 13i/2 lb 6d do 1/6
3.13. .4
To 93 1/2 lb Tallow @ /8
3. .2. .4
To Use fall Blocks Stage Kettles &c
1.14. .0
To Stewards Bill Warfage
1.10. .0
To pd Carpenters Sc Labourers
8.16. .6
To pd Jas Harris 1 Days work
0. .4. .0
To pr Timber Chocks for the Boat
0. .7. .6
To 394 feet pine boards Id
1.12.10
To pd Daniel Colver the Joiner
1.16. .0
To pd N Hempsteds Bill for 43 lb Bolt
Rope @ / lOd
1.15.10
To James Tilleys Bill
29.14. .9
To Joshua Starrs Bill
2.16. .8
To George Colefax’s do
3. .3. .8
To 80 yd Oznabrigs 2/6
10. .0. .0
To 54 yd Duck 3/6
9. .9. .0
To Black Smiths Bill
6. .4. .6
To Clark Elliotts Bill
0.11.10
107.13. .6
5.14. .3
36. .0. .2
20.19. .0
SEPTEMBER 1776
957
To John Wards ditto
0.18.10
To 10 Iron Bound Water Cask
7.10. .0
To pd Smith for onions 8c potatoes
1. .2. .2
To 328 bunches onions @ 2 1/2
3. .8. .4
To 30 bus potatoes @2/,
3. .0. .0
77: 19. .9
Carried over
£ 248. .6. .8
1776
The Brig Hampden
Dr
Sepr
To Sum brot over
248. .6. .8
To pd Jona Douglass Bill Storage
To 2 Nine pound Cannon for Ballace
2. .0. .0
37.2.10 lb @ £ 8 p ton
15. .0. .10
To Cartage of ditto
0. .1. .6
To 54 four pound Shott 1 . . 3 . . 20
2. .8. .3
To 382 Swivel ditto
3 . . 3 . .8
To 1 pr Carriages for Fore pounders
4.10. .0
25. .4. .3
To 8 lb powder @5/4 2.. 2.. 8
To 2 lb Brimston /8 0..1..4
To 3 lb Salt Petre 5/ 0.15..—
To 1 Qt Spirits turpentine 3.. 6
To 4 Qr Cartrage paper 16..0
3.18. .6
To pd John Potter 4 days Work
16. .0
To pd Wm Brooks the Butchers Bill
To pd Danll Latham piloting the Brig to
11.12. .334
Newport
3 . . 0 . .0
To 36 lb Tallow from Ship Oliver Cromwell
0.18. .0
To pd Nathan Baleys Bill
6.11. .7
To pd Henry Bates for frt Riging from New Haven
0 . . 6 . .-
302. 13. .334
Commissions 5 PCt
15 . . 2 . .714
317.15.11
By 2 bar powder 300 lb
1. Shaw Collection, Book 39, 17, 18, YUL. A rough draft of this account is i
n Ledger 9, ibid.
The rough draft supplies dates for entries, running from September 9
to September 23,
1776.
Nathaniel Shaw, Ir/s Account Against the Connecticut State
Brig Defence1
1776
To Brig Defence
Dr
May
30 To Cash p Rect
100. .4. .
July
17 To Cash
£ 50..-..-
18 To ditto
30. .-. .-
26 To ditto
21. .-
Augt
4 To ditto
21. .-. .-
8 To ditto
22.19. .6
ll To ditto
50. .0. .-
958
AMERICAN THEATRE
1776 The Brig Defence
14 To ditto
21 To ditto
22 To ditto
24 To ditto
Dr
Augt
July
Augt
17
8
22
23
2
20
21
22
By his order on Govr 8c Council for
To 2 bottles Claret 1 do 1 do
To 3 bottles do 12/, 3 ditto 12/
To 2 Cases Claret @90/
To 54 Gal Rum
To 52 Gal ditto
To 6 Gal Brandy
To 56 Gal Rum
To 57 Gal ditto
To 166 Gal ditto
To 46 Gal ditto
100.
100.0. .6
100. .-. .-
30
625. .4. .(T
625. .4. .-
0. 16
1. .4
.0
.0
437 Gal @5/
625. .4. .0
24 To 2% Gal do
Augt 20 To 6 G do 6 G do
19iA Gal @7/6
2. .0.
9 . . 0 .
.0
.0
109. .5. .0
To 114 Gal Jamico ditto
@ 6/4
36. .2. .0
To 8 Iron Bound Qr Cask
a 15/
6 . . 0 . . 0
Augt 3
To 1 Keg Brandy
3 . . 0 . . 0
22
To 2 ditto
60/
6 . . 0 . . 0
July 23
Augt 22
To 1 bar Sugar 3. .0. .20^
To 1 bar ditto 2 . . 2 . . 0
>5. .2. .20 a 60/
17. .2. .0
July 23
To 514 Gal Melasses
To 6 Gal ditto
Ml 3/4 Gal @3/,
6. .5. .3
Augt 22
To 30i/2 Gal ditto - v
To 20 bunches Onions
To 2 Firkens Butter
a /4
0 . . 6 . .8
174 lb @ lOd
To pd [Seth] Hardings
■
7. .5. .0
order to Moses Peirce
for a firken butter
>3.13. .0
3.13. .0
To 56 lb Coffee
T 0 pd Archa Robeson for
2.16. .0
Candles
1.16. .3
1.16. .3
£ 844. .2. .8
To the Sum Brot over
£ 844. .2. .8
July 23
To 1 bar Tallow 215 lb
29
To 1 bar ditto 222 437 lb @
8d
14.11. .4
July 23
To 434 Gal Oile
7. .6. .3
SEPTEMBER 1776
959
29 To 1 bar Tarr 1..4..0
To 1 bar Pitch 1 . 10. .0 >
To 1 bar Turpentine 1.10..0
4. .4. .0
To 53 lb Old Junk
a /6
1. .6. .6
To 208 feet pine plank
a /2
1.14. .8
To 30 lb Nails @ 1 /
1.10. .0
To 10 lb 4d ditto @ 1/4
0.13. .4
To pd Jona Brooks for Nails
6. .6 ]
To pd ditto for Varnish
18. .0
To pd Guy Richards for Nails
17. .6
To pd ditto for Nails Se Locks
1.0. .8
To pd ditto for Locks
3. .6
To pd Owen for Lamp black
8. .0
To pd Deneman for Locks
4. .6
To pd Silas Church for Hinges
2. .2
To pd Davd Gardner for do.
2. .8
To pd Wm Stewart for 6 lb twine
18. .0 ,
To pd Jona Baleys Bill the Joiner 1.10. . 0
6.11. .6
To pd Thos Hutchinsons Bill foi
paint Sec
0.12. .0
To pd Thos Mumfords Bill for boards 8cc
10. .0. .0
To 2 bottles Oile for the Armorer @ 3/6
0. .7. .0
To Eb Goddards Bill Carpenter
44. .4. .3
To Samel Latimers Bill Smith
48.19. .4
To Alex Merrels Bill Block maker
11.14. .5
To ditto after Bill
1. .5. .8
To pd Robt Ushers Bill for Doctering
2.15..-
To pd Mrs. Skiner boarding Jas
Wailing
0. 10. .-
To pd Ros Saltonstall Bill for plank
3. .5. .-
To 4 bar Lampblack from Owen
0. .8. .0
To 6 bar ditto from ditto
0.12. .0
To pd David Gardiner’s Bill for
Nails Sec
1. .4.10
To James Tilleys Bill
8.14. .4
To 10 bus Corn a 3/0
1.18. .0
To 14 barrels Beef a 50/
35. .0. .0
To 25 bar Pork a 80/
100. .0. .0
p Bill from Squier frt of do
—
To 5 Cask Bread from C £ 5 . . 1 . .
21 a 20/
5. .8. .9
To do from Capt Kenedy 17. 3. .
17 a 20/
17. 18. .0
To pd Jas Peneman for Loaf Sugar
Sc Chocolat 8..4..41/2
To 30 Double headed 4 lb Shott
3. .0. .0
To 2 barrels Powder Contg 220
a 5/4
58.13. .4
To Iron Cabbuse from the Jno & Eliza Prize 12..0..0
To 1/2 bus Lime
0. .2. .0
To pd Sam Cheeny the Mason
To pd Jona Douglass Bill
4 . . 9 . . —
1016.12. . 1
r#S§i
View of Ticonderoga.
SEPTEMBER 1776
961
The Brig Defence
£BrotOver 1016. 12.. 1
To 17 Iron Bound Cask for Water a 15/
To 1 Cable 75 fathom 14. .0. .7 lb @ 110/
To 1 Spy Glass
To 4 Cord Wood a 12/
To paid William Brooks the Butchers Bill
Sept 11 To Cash pa Cornelias Dunham a Wounded
Seaman on accot his board as p Rect
To pd Jona Starr Junr Bill
15 To Cash advanced Thos Greystock a Sick man
Left at N [ew] L[ondon] -
23 To pd Cornealias Dunham a wounded Sea- "1
man on Accot his board as pr Rect J
To Cash advanced Thos Greystock
To pd Doc Coits Bill for ditto
To pd Charles Walker Bill
To pd Nicholas Starr
To pd Davd Lewis Bill boarding Thos Gray-
stock & Geo Gee & Samuel Hamond
To pd Benja Malleson for boarding Cornelias
Duning as p Rect
To pd William Skinner boarding Thos
Graystock
To pd James Robinson for boarding p Bill
12.15. . 0
77. . 7. .0
3. .0. .0
2. .8. .0
42 . . 3 . 1 1
2. .0. .0
1.12..-
0.18. .-
2. . 5. .-
0.12. .-
26.18. . -
1.11. .6
5.15.. -
7.16. .0
3.10. .0
254. 16. lli^
1. Nathaniel & Thomas Shaw Collection, YUL.
Major General Horatio Gates to Major General Philip Schuyler 1
Dear General Ticonderoga September 23d 1776
Inclosed, I send you General Arnold’s Letter of the 18th together with
the Examination of Sergeant [Eli] Stiles The General makes no Doubt
the Enemy will soon pay him a Visit: I hope not before we get the Row Gal-
lies to his Assistance: — then succeed or fail, we have done our best. It is a
lamentable Case that our Gallies must wait for Cordage and for Gun Car-
riages to be completed. So long ago as the Middle of July I acquainted the
Congress, that we were necessitated to make all the Carriages upon the
Spot. Surely, a Supply might have been sent us before this Day, to provide
against the worst. It will be proper to send all the Troops that are below to
Lake George and Skenesborough and direct the Militia to be every where in
Readiness to march to us upon the first Alarm. The powder Lead and Flints,
I wrote for so long ago is not yet, even in part arrived. Pray hurry it up.
The Moments are precious, and not one of them should be lost. I have said
962
AMERICAN THEATRE
much to Major [Henry Brockholst] Livingston,2 but my Hands are too full
to write more. I am Dear General [&c.]
Horatio Gates
1. Papers CC (Letters of Major General Philip Schuyler) , 153, II, 390-91, NA.
2. Schuyler’s aide-de-camp who was returning to Albany.
Major General Horatio Gates to Brigadier General Benedict Arnold 1
[Extract] Tyonderoga 23d September 1776.
... I also wrote to the General [Schuyler] , pressing him in the most
Earnest manner, to forward us every necessary Succour, both of Men &
Materials. Believe me, dear Sir, no man Alive could be more Anxious for the
Welfare of you Sc Your Fleet, than General Waterbury, Sc myself; we are,
Early Sc Late, labouring to get the Gallies to your Assistance; one will Sail
Thursday at farthest, Sc the Two Others, we hope, on Saturday. It is the
Blacksmiths Work that has delay’d us somuch, notwithstanding we have got
more Forges, and altho, with different Gangs of Men, they are Work’d
Night Sc Day . . .
1. Gates Papers, Box 19, NYHS.
Captain Richard Varick to Sergeant David Ensign 1
Sir Head Qrs Albany Septr 23d 1776
You will immediately embark on Board of a large Batteau and proceed
from this place to poghkepsie, where you will deliver the Letter for Capt:
Samuel Tudor (herewith delivered you) Sc receive from him two Cables,
with which you will return to this place with all possible Dispatch. By order
of the General
Richd Varick Secy
1. Schuy ler Papers, vol. 2, Letters & Orders, 18 April, 1776 - 29 June, 1777, NYPL.
Memoirs of Major General William Heath1
[Harlem, September] 22d. - [to September] 23d. — Two seamen, belong-
ing to La Brune , a British ship of war, which lay near Montresor’s Island,
deserted, and came to our General’s quarters; and informed him, upon ex-
amination, that the British had then but a few men on the island, stating
the number; that the piece of cannon, which had been put on the island, was
taken back again, on board La Brune; that there were a number of officers
at the house, in which there was a considerable quantity of baggage depos-
ited, Sec. Our General supposed that these troops might be easily taken; and,
having called the General Officers of his division together, took their opin-
ion, who all coincided with him in sentiment. He then communicated his in-
tention to the Commander in Chief, who gave it his approbation. Two
hundied and forty men were destined for this enterprise: the command was
given to Lieut. Col. Michael Jackson, of the Massachusetts line, with Majors
SEPTEMBER 1776
963
[Samuel] Logan and , whose name cannot be recollected, of the New-
York troops. They were to embark on board three flat-boats, covered by a
fourth with a detachment of artillery, with a light three-pounder, in case it
should be found necessary in retreating from the island. The mode of attack
was settled, and every circumstance secured, to promise success. They were
to fall down Haarlem Creek with the ebb. The time was so calculated, that
the young flood was to be so much made, at the break of day, as to cover the
flats at the island, sufficiently for the boats to float. Matters being thus set-
tled, our General ordered the two sailors to be brought in: he then told them
that in consequence of their information, an enterprise against the British
troops on Montresor’s Island was to take place that night; that he had or-
dered them to be kept in safe custody until the next morning, when, if their
declarations respecting the state of the British on the island proved to be
true, he would give them a passport to the back country, whither they
wished to go; but, in case their information was false, he would order them
hanged immediately, as spies; that he gave them the opportunity, if they
had made a wrong statement to him, then to correct it. They both answered,
with perfect composure, that they would cheerfully submit to the condition.
Major Thomas Henly was now one of our General’s Aids-de-camp. He im-
portuned that he might go with the detachment. He was refused, and told
that he had no business there; that he could exercise no command. He grew
quite impatient, returned again to the General’s room, and addressed him:
“Pray, Sir, consent to my going with the party — let me have the pleasure
of introducing the prisoners to you tomorrow.” All his friends present ad-
vised him not to go. The General finally consented. The troops, at the hour
assigned, embarked. Our General informed them, that he, with others,
would be spectators of the scene, from a certain point near Haarlem Creek.
[23d] Notice had been given to the guards and pickets on the York Island
side, not to hail the party as they went down. Unfortunately, the lower cen-
tinel had not been so instructed. He was nearly opposite to the point where
our General was to be; and just at the instant when he arrived, had chal-
lenged the boats, and ordered them to come to the shore. From the boats
they answered, “Low! we are friends.” The challenge was repeated. The an-
swer was, “We tell you we are friends — hold your tongue.” A bounce into
the water was heard; and instantly Maj. [Thomas] Henly came wading to
the shore, stepped up to our General, catched him by the hand, and said,
“Sir, will it do?” Our General, holding him by the hand, replied, “I see noth-
ing to the contrary;” to which Henly concluded by saying, “Then it shall
do.” He waded back to his boat, and got in. The centinel called again: “If
you don’t come to the shore, I tell you I’ll fire.” A voice from some one in the
boats, was, “Pull away!” The boats went on and the centinel fired his piece.
The boats reached the island almost at the moment intended, just as the
glimmer of dawn was discoverable. The three field-officers were in the first
boat. Their intention, on the moment of landing, was, for the two seconds in
command to spring, the one to the right, and the other to the left, and lead
on the troops from the other two boats, which were to land on each side of
964
AMERICAN THEATRE
the first boat. The field-officers landed, and the men from their boat. The en-
emy’s guard charged them, but were instantly driven back. The men in the
other two boats, instead of landing, lay upon their oars. The British, seeing
this, returned warmly to the charge. The Americans, finding themselves
thus deserted, returned to their boat; but not until Lieut. Col. [Michael]
Jackson received a musket-ball in his leg, and Maj. Henly, as he was getting
into the boat, one through his heart, which put an instant end to his life.
The boat joined the others, and they all returned, having, in the whole,
about 14 killed, wounded and missing; Maj. Henly deeply regretted. Had
only one of the other boats landed her men, the success would have been
very probable; but the two would have insured an execution of the whole
plan, in the opinion of all concerned. The delinquents in the other boats
were arrested, and tried by court-martial, and one of the Captains cash-
iered.
On the night of the 23d, the British got possession of the works of Pau-
lus Hook. The Americans had previously taken off all the cannon and stores.
1. Abbatt, ed., Heath Memoirs , 55-58.
Diary of Frederick Mackenzie 1
[New York] 23d Sept - At 1 o’Clock this day, the 3rd Battalion of Light
Infantry, and 2nd and 6th Brigades, marched to Greenwich in order to em-
bark for the attack of Paulus hook. Three Ships of War came up at the
same time, and anchored off the principal Battery, at which they fired a few
shot, but none of the Rebels appearing, the 57th Regiment only received or-
ders to embark; which they did and soon after landed without any opposi-
tion. They immediately took possession of the Peninsula, and all the Rebel
works thereon, in which they found 2 32 prs, and forty Casks of biscuit.
The possession of this post secures the principal anchorage in the North
River, and renders the communication with the North part of the town, by
water, safe.
1. Mackenzie’s Diary, I, 62.
Journal of H.M.S. Emerald , Captain Benjamin Caldwell1
September 1776 Off Bedlow’s Island.
Monday 23d At 12 Lord Howe Vissited the Ship; at 1 Got under Sail,
with the Roebuck & Tartar, at 2 Anchd off Powles
Hook, began to fire at the Redoubts, at 3 Weighed &
went above the Hook, & fired several Shot at the
Redoubts; at 4 Made the Signal that the Rebels had left
their Works, at 5 our Troops landend & took possession
thereof
1. PRO, Admiralty 51/311.
SEPTEMBER 1776
965
Master’s Log of H.M.S. Roebuck 1
Septr 1776 Long Isld SE
Monday 23d A M, at 5 Unmoor’d Sc Barrocaded the ship at noon weigh’d
and made sail with the Tartar , Emerald Sc Carcass Bomb -
First and latter parts Modt Sc fair at 2. P M. Anchor’d of [£]
Paulus hook in i/4 less 4 with the Stern Anchor and vore
away, Sc let go the small Br Sc begun to fire on the Enemy’s
Works on Paulus Hook Sc Continued about i/2 an hour, Do
sent Assistance to Warp the Carcass in, about 6 the Troops
from New York side came over in the flat Boats & Landed, Sc
the Carcass got underway and join’d the fleet
1. PRO, Admiralty 52/1965.
Journal of H.M.S. Tartar, Captain Cornthwaite Ommanney1
At Single Anchor Bedlows Isld Red Hook Et
Light airs and clear Wr at 1 P M hove up and made
Sail in Co with his Majestys Ships Roebuck and
Emmerald the Enemy began to Fire on us, one Shott
went through the Foresail and Main Staysail at \/2
pt 2 brought to Head and Stern abreast of Paulus
Hook in 3i/£ fm two Cables length off shore at 3 we
began to Fire on the Battery and continued till \/2 past 4
when our Troops landed with some Artillery and took
possession of the Works
1. PRO, Admiralty 51/972.
Journal of H.M.S. Preston, Captain Samuel Uppleby1
September [1776] [Off Red Hook]
Monday 23 AM Admiral made the signal for an Officer
the Roebuck weighed sent boats to tow her, the Emer-
ald Tartar Sc Carcass bomb weighed ran up Sc An-
chored off Paulers hook the Rebels fired several shot
at them from thence whilst running up Sc then deserted
the hook at 2 the Ships began to fire at the hook to
scour it and to see if any of the Rebels was left there in
ambush at 4 the 57 Regt with some Artillery landed
and took possession of it, rowed guard on the Jersey
shore.
1. PRO, Admiralty 51/720.
Septr 1776
Monday 23rd
Journal of Ambrose Serle1
[On board H.M.S. Eagle'] Monday, 23d. Septr. The Roebuck, the Tartar,
the Emerald, Sc the Carcass Bomb, went up to Powley’s Hook, and took it
388-825 0-73-63
966
AMERICAN THEATRE
without Molestation. The Rebels have raised considerable Works there also,
and have as meanly deserted them. They fired 3 Random Shot only, and re-
tired long before our headmost Ship could come near them. I was at New
York at the time; and it was a pleasant Scene to view the Ships and the De-
barkation; and the more pleasing to me, as no Blood was shed on the Occa-
sion.
1. Tatum, ed., Serle’s Journal, 112.
Journal of Benjamin Boardman1
[Paulus Hook, September] 23d.
At 1 o’clock P.M. having removed every thing of value, we were or-
dered to retreat from the Hook. As soon as we began our march, four ships
came up and anchored near the shore around the Hook; at the same time a
number of boats, and floating batteries, came down from just above New
York; the latter run up into the cove, opposite the causeway, that leads to
Bergen. After taking a considerable time to see that there was no body to
hurt them , they began a most furious cannonade on our empty works, which
continued till they had wearied themselves. In a word, they dared to come
much nearer, and displayed the boasted British valor in much brighter col-
ours; than ever they had while there remained a single man to oppose them.
Mean while our little battalion retreated with drums beating, and colours
flying, to Bergen; and before night the brave Britons ventured on shore,
and took possession of our evacuated works, where they have taken every
precaution to prevent our formidable detachment from returning and driv-
ing them from a post which with so great a display of heroism , they have
got possession of.
1. Connecticut Gazette, October 18, 1776.
Journal of the Continental Congress1
[Philadelphia] Monday, September 23, 1776
Resolved . . . That two companies of the marines lately raised, and
now in Philadelphia, be also ordered to march immediately to fort Mont-
gomery [New York] :
1. Ford, ed., JCC, V, 809, 811.
Minutes of the Pennsylvania Council of Safety1
In Council of Safety,
[Philadelphia] Sept. 23rd, 1776.
Resolved, That Capt. [Joseph] Blewer, Capt. [Francis] Gurney, Mr.
Sam 1 Cad. Morris, be appointed to form a regular Muster Role for the
Navy of this State, & produce the same to this Board.
SEPTEMBER 1776
967
Mr. Nesbitt to pay Capt. Jno. Hazlewood fifty Pounds on acco’t of the
Fire Rafts, to be charged to his acco’t.
Mr. Nesbitt to pay Mr. Thos. Davis, £ 250, on acco’t of Peers Built by
him, to be sunk in the River Delaware, near Fort Island, to be charged to
his acco’t.
An order was drawn on Mr. Nesbitt, in favour of Williams 8c Clinton,
one Hundred Pounds on acco’t of the Armed Boat Delaware , building by
them, to be charged to their acco’t.
An order was drawn on Mr. Nesbitt, in favour of Robins, Dun 8c Hails,
£ 60, on acco’t of the Armed Boat Convention , Built by them, to be charged
to their acco’t.
Resolved, That the Officers recruiting for the Naval Armament of this
State, be allowed 20s p Man in lieu of all Expences for Enlisting, 8c that
each man be allowed One Month’s pay advance at their enlistment, to be
continued in service untill discharged by this or a future Council of Safety.
1. Pennsylvania Colonial Records , X, 726, 727.
Continental Bond for the Pennsylvania Letter of Marque
Brigantine Three Friends 1
1776 Three Friends, brigantine.2 Guns: 8. Men: 20
Sept. 23 Commander: Daniel Jackson
Bond: Continental, $5,000.
Bonders: John Donaldson, Jacob Sheafe, Jr., and Daniel Jack-
son, all of Philadelphia.
Owners: Moore, Donaldson 8c Mercer, Philadelphia.
Witnesses: Daniel Evans, William Trepethen.
1. Papers CC (Ships’ Bonds Required for Letters of Marque and Reprisal) , 196, XV, 30, NA.
An abstract from the bond.
2. The Three Friends was the brigantine taken and brought into Philadelphia, a prize of the
Continental sloop Sachem, Captain Isaiah Robinson. She had been libeled against on
September 11, for trial September 27. Thus she was given an American commission
four days before official condemnation.
Lieutenant Richard Boger, R.N., to Robert Morris1
Sir York Town Jail Septr [23] 17762
I received your letter, am sorry to find you cou’d not comply with my
request. You say the Congress never tenderd a Parole to any Officer that
was inconsistant with his Duty and Circumstances to sign. The Parole tend-
ered to Mr [George] Ball and my self came from the Committee of Safety,
a Copy of which I wou’d have sent you, but the officer took it back with him,
but belive me Sir no officer cou’d sign it with propriety. Mr Ball and my self
will esteam it a Singular favour if Mr Morris will interced and send us a
Parole that we can sign as officers in His Majestys Navy. We offer’d to sign
the Parole given by the officers now Prisoners at York but was refus’d it. I
968
AMERICAN THEATRE
thought it very hard as we was to reside with them, A Copy of which I beg
leave to inclose to you; likewise a letter for Lord Howe I hope you will send
it to him. I apply’d to this Committee for leave to walk on the Common now
and then to repair my health having had a touch of the Gout — but was re-
fus’d that small favour. I am Sir [8cc.]
Rd Boger3
To Robt Morris Esqr in Congress
1. FDRL.
2. The date is approximated. On September 25, 1776, Congress resolved that lieutenants Boger
and Ball be released from prison upon signing “the like parole as the other officers,
prisoners in York Town in Pennsylvania.” Copy of this parole was enclosed in Boger s
letter.
3. See Volume 4 for capture of Lieutenants Boger and Ball.
Jesse Hollingsworth to the Maryland Council of Safety1
Sirs/
I understand your Going to Strip the Schooner Resolution I Dont
Pretend to Direct you But think shee had Best Bee Loded With Bread
Which you Now have Redy and Sent to Sum Market Where it Mout Be Sold
to Advantage, and Loded home With Salt Perhaps shee May have a Second
Sute of Sales that May answer, this Shall Leave to yore Beter Gugment
from your Humbl Servant
Jesse Hollingsworth
[Baltimore] September 23 - 1776
1. Red Book, XII, Md. Arch.
Captain George Cook to the Maryland Council of Safety1
Gentlemen Patomock Ship Defence Sept 23d 1776
I have thought it Necessary to send the Tender up as her Mainmast
head is sprung, and is under the Necessity of keeping Mr [Gilbert] Middle-
ton as a pilot to carrey the ship down the bay, I have endeavoured to get
one at Smith’s Creek but could not, I am informed by Commadore [John
Thomas] Boucher that he was chased by the Fowey off our Capes, I shall
use every proper method in my power for the safety of our Ship; - I have
the Pleasure of informing you that the greatest Harmony Subsists amongst
the whole Ships Crew, and all in high Spirits and good health; I shall in-
form you fully of our State by the return of Mr Middleton. I have the
Honor to be Gentlemen [&c.]
George Cook
NB Commadore Boucher was chased the 14th of this Instt G. C.
1. Red Book, XII, Md. Arch.
SEPTEMBER 1776
969
Journal of the South Carolina General Assembly 1
[Charleston] Monday the 23d Day of September. 1776
Ordered That the Order of the Day to ballot for another Commander
of the Brigantine Comet be discharged
Ordered That a Committee be appointed to receive the Names of Per-
sons desirous or proper to be appointed to the Command of the Brigantine
Comet that they do sit forthwith for that Purpose and give Public notice
thereof
I. Salley, ed., South Carolina General Assembly Journals, 39, 40.
“A Journiel Kept by Ephraim Briggs On board of the Good
Sloop Warren A Bold Privateer From Dartmouth
TO THE LATTD OF 33:” 1
Munday September the 24 [sic 23] Day 1776
Latter Part Munday Morning the Wind starts to the NW.
Heads NNE. Five A Clock Put About stood to the West-
ward Heads W. the Wind Dies Saw Whales to Windard
A school of them In A Fine Humour Hove out the Yall
Rowd for Fird two Guns at them Latd In 40:4
First Part these 24 hours small Brease to the NNE stearing
NW. Twelve A Clock A squall struck Us Topsails & Top
Gallant Out Handed them setled the Mainsal took I[n]
two Reafs Han[d]ed the Jib the wind starts to the Nothard
And Westward
l. rihs.
24 Sept.
Captain Maximilian Jacobs, R.N., to Philip Stephens1
[Extract]
Copy. Amazon at Quebec Sepr 24th 1776.
Sir, Please to inform their Lordships that I arrived here with His Majts
Ship Amazon under my Command the 16th Inst, but the Garland Sc the re-
maining part of my Convoy did not come in till the 19th ... I found rid-
ing here His Majts Ship Isis Sc Triton; Capt Douglas who commanded the
former being at St Johns to forward the equipment of all the Vessels who
are to act on Lake Champlain, it is hoped, very early in next Month — I
have enclosed a Copy of the return he has sent me of the Vessels to be em-
ployed in that Service. . .
Max11 Jacobs.
[P. S.] In consequence of Genl Carleton’s request communicated by Capt
Douglas Sc just now received, I have been under a necessity of directing
970
AMERICAN THEATRE
Capt [Richard] Pearson of His Majesty’s Ship Garland to send up 30 Sea-
men to reinforce the Squadron on Lake Champlain 8c shall agreeable to the
Generals desire direct Capt Pearson to remain during the Winter at Quebec
in order to assist in forwarding the Spring Operations, which I hope their
Lordships will not disapprove of.
1. PRO, Colonial Office, 5/125, 69b.
Condemnation in Halifax Vice Admiralty Court of the
American Prize Sloop Baltimore 1
Cause
Henry Mowat Commander of the Sloop Albany VS the
Sloop Baltimore one William Clesby Master -
j>Libel file’d 8c entred Order made thereon as on file
George Sybels Commander of the Arm’d Sloop Gage being Duly
sworne Deposeth that he seiz’d 8c Detain’d the Sloop Baltimore
William Clesby Master on the 18th of August last about four-
teen Leagues to the Westward of the Seal Islands Bound from
the East Passage near Cape Sable to a Race call’d Narrow
Guerres near Mechias had on Board one Hogshead Melasses 8c
about £100 lb of Coffee that she had no Register or any other
Paper on Board except a few letters the Deponant got out of a
Passengers Chest —
George Sibbles
24th SeptrJ Court opend by makeing Proclamation as usual
1776 J Proclamation for all Claimers none appear’d
Decree Pronounc’d as on hie whereby the Sloop Baltimore was
Condemn’d as lawfull Prize to the Captors thereof
Court Adjournd without Day in this Cause.
I. Vice Admiralty Register, vol. 5, 1769-1777, N. S. Arch.
4th Sept
1776
Receipt for Stores Supplied the Brigantine Dispatch 1
Portsmo Sepr 24 1776
John L an gel on Esqr to Geo Gains Dr
To two Brass Blunderbusses @ £4.16 9.12..0
To 4 lb Powder @7/ 1 . . 8 . .-
To 10 lb musquet ball @ 6. .-
To 1 Doz flints 1 . . 6
To 1 Iron bound Cagg @5/ 5. .-
£ 11.12. .6
NB The above were Deld to Capt [Stephen Cleveland] of the Brigt Dis-
patch in Continental Service
[Endorsed] Rec’d the Contents in full Geo Gains
1. John Langdon Papers, HSP.
SEPTEMBER 1776
971
Bond of Timothy Parsons as Prize Agent for the Eastern
District of Massachusetts1
Know all Men by these Presents that We Timothy Persons of
Pownalborough in the County of Lincoln, and State of Massachusetts
Bay Gentleman, and
stand firmly bound and obliged to Henry Gardiner Esqr Treasurer of
the State aforesaid, in the sum of Ten Thousand pounds to be paid the
said Treasurer or his Successors in said Office; to the which payment
well 8c truely to be made, We bind ourselves, our Heirs, Executors and
Administrators Jointly and severally and firmly by these presents. In
Testimony whereof we have hereunto sett our Hands 8c Seals, this
Twentyfourth Day of September Anno Domini 1776.
The Condition of the foregoing Obligation is such that whereas the
said Timothy Persons Esqr is appointed Agent for the Eastern District for
all Captures made by any Vessel or otherways in which this State is any-
way interested or concerned whose Authority as Agent shall be limited to
and Confined within the Limits of the aforesaid District for holding the
Court of Captures as set forth by an Act of this State for the trying 8c Con-
demning of all Vessels as aforesaid - If therefore the said Timothy Persons
shall in all things observe and conduct himself according to the Orders 8c
Directions given him respecting his Office as Agent as aforesaid, and shall
duly Account when thereto legally required for all Moneys and Effects by
him received in Virtue of his appointment as aforesaid, Then the above obli-
gation to be Void, otherways to abide 8c remain in full force 8c Virtue.
1. Mass. Arch., vol. 165, 272.
Petition for Commission for William Brown to Command the
Massachusetts Privateer Ship Boston1
To the Honb The Council of the State of the
Massachusetts Bay
The Petition of Capt William Brown
Sheweth
That your Petitioner is appointed by Messrs Paul Dudley Sargeant,
James Swan, Mungo Mackay 8c Thomas Adams, to the Command of the Pri-
vateer, frigate Ship named the Boston, of which they are proprietors, which
is almost ready to Sail upon a Six Months cruize against the Enemies of
America. She carries twenty two Guns — ten, nine pounders; Six, six poun-
ders, and Six, four pounders; — With two hundred 8c ten hands, including
officer, 8c Marines; — Is burthen’d about four hundred Tons; and has on-
board 90 bis of Pork; 90 bis of Beef, with small Stores. — The first Lts
name is Hemar Doan, the 2d Lts name John Snoddin, Capt of Marines
Gawen Brown jr, the Lt of Marines Willm Nichols
972
AMERICAN THEATRE
Your Petitioner therefore Prays Your Honors wou’d Commission him
Commander of said frigate; and give him the necessary papers 8c instruc-
tions: And as in duty bound Shall ever pray. -
William Brown
[Endorsed] In Council Sept 24th 1776 Read 8c Ordered that the Prayer of
the Above Petition be granted and that a Commission be issued out to the
Above Commander he complying with the Resolves of Congress
John Avery Dpy Secy 2
1. Mass. Arch., vol. 165, 271.
2. Ibid., 261, 262, commissions were also issued this date to Ebenezer Pierce to command the
privateer schooner Liberty, and to Joseph Cunningham, sloop Phoenix.
Richard Derby, Jr. to Governor Nicholas Cooke1
Sir Watertown Septr 24, 1776
The General Court of this State have come to a Resolution to Equip the
Two Continental Ships Built in this State, in order that they may be imme-
diately sent to Cruise, and clear the Coast of the Enemys Ships of
War, The smallest Ship is already furnished with suitable Cannon, and
Twenty six twelve pounders are now waiting [ sic wanting] for the Largest
Ship. Six only can be procured here, and as I am informed your Honor has
it in your Power to procure from the Works in the Government over which
you preside the Guns now wanted.
I pray leave to Inform you that I am directed to procure them if to be
found, and to pay ready money for them, and as I have been Informed the
Guns provided for the Continental Ships at Providence are not immediately
wanted, Sc should this be the Case and I can have Twenty of them I will im-
mediately Contract with your Honor and oblige myself on the part of this
State to furnish the Guns again as soon as they can be procured from the
Works at Providence. I shall be ready to enter into such Obligation as your
Honor shall think reasonable, and as this is a Matter of public Importance,
I may not doubt but you will use your kind offices in this affair and favour
me with your Answer proposing the Terms on which I can have them, and
when, as soon as may be I have the Honor to be with great Regard [Sec.]
Richard Derby Junr
Please to direct to Me at Salem — for any other Particulars Please to be
Referred to Genl Lincoln the Bearer —
1. Letters to the Governor, vol. 8, R. I. Arch.
Commodore Esek Hopkins to Nathaniel Shaw, Jr1
Sir Providence Septr 24th 1776
A Ship arrived here yesterday of 8 Iron 8c 8 wooden Guns, of 860 Tons,
taken by Captn [Janies] Munro in Lattd 33 — Longd 552 The Prize Mas-
ter informs that a day or two after he left the Privateer he saw a Brig and
a Sloop both Armed he is certain the Brig was Captn Harding3 — they
SEPTEMBER 1776
973
both stood for the Ship, till he knew the Brig when he hawl’d up his Courses
& hove too — when they spoke with each other and stood off — the Reason
he does not know. I am Sir [Sec.]
E. H
1. Hopkins Letter Book, RIHS.
2. The prize was the Blaze Castle taken by the Rhode Island privateer Sally.
3. Seth Harding commanded the Connecticut state brig Defence.
Journal of the New York Committee of Safety1
[Fishkill] Tuesday Afternoon, Septr. 24th, 1776.
Thomas Creiger, commander of the schooner General Putnam, a vessel
of war fitted out by, and belonging to this State, waited upon the Commit-
tee, and informed them that the said schooner is very much out of repair,
and as the winter is approaching, submitted to the Committee whether it
would be proper to keep the said schooner longer in service.
The Committee were of opinion that this matter be referred to the con-
sideration of the Convention.
Capt. Cregier was called in, and directed to wait the meeting of the
Convention.
1. New York Provincial Congress, I, 642.
Captain Andrew Snape Hamond, R.N., to Hans Stanley1
[Extract] RoeBuck , at New York, 24th Sepr 1776
As soon as I heard from Sir Peter Parker Sc General Clinton of their
being unsuccessful in South Carolina, and that instead of joining us at Vir-
ginia as I had all along been taught to expect They had sailed for New
York, and being myself most heartily tired of carrying on a sort of Pirati-
cal War, that tended in no degree to benefit his Majestys service, I consulted
with Lord Dunmore, and found his Lordship equally desireous of quitting a
situation that was every day growing more Sc more distressing; we there-
fore disposed of our Floating Town in the best manner we could, by sending
them to places of security, and with the few Troops we had left, set sail for
New York, Sc arrived just as the opperations against the place were begin-
ning.
I need not tell you My Dear Sir, the pleasure I recieved in finding My
Friend Lord Howe entrusted with the conduct of the American business
(the most important perhaps that Great Britain ever was concerned in) be-
cause I know his abilitys for carrying on a war are not to be excelled; and
am perfectly convinced, that nothing but success in the war, and reducing
the Americans to the utmost extremity, will ever bring about a Peace or
reconciliation, in terms the least honorable for Great Britain. It has long
been too late for Negociation . . .
. . . after the Enemy abandoned Long Island they imediately saw the
Town of New York was not tenable. They therefore lost no time in clearing
974
AMERICAN THEATRE
it of all the stores valuable effects & most of the Artillery; but still kept pos-
session of it, as well as a very considerable work, called Bunkers Hill, imme-
diately at the back of it, and had a very large Body of Men in the Neigh-
bourhood. Our Army took their Post opposite to Hell Gate, and Batterys
were erected and feints were made to shew the Enemy that we intended
landing there. However nothing was done untill the 15 Instant, when Gen-
eral Howe landed with about twelve thousand five hundred men at Reps’s
bay, a place about 3 Miles above the Town in the East River, under cover of
the Fire of several of the Ships of war, without the least opposition. Not-
withstanding a deep entrenchment had been made by the Enemy on every
accessible part of the coast of the Island of New York, which they manned
at the place, opposite to where our Troops were in Motion, The Ships no
sooner began to fire than they immediately deserted their lines and took to
their heels. This seemed to be a signal for those quartered in the Town 8c
the Neighbourhood; as they all did the same, and never stoped untill they
got into their works at Kingsbridge: where they at present remain, we have
also taken possession of Paulus Hook, which is the point on the West Side of
Hudsons River which the Enemy had very strongly fortified, where they
kept a large Garrison, and where they behaved exactly as they had done at
every other place where the ships had been carryed to.
From what I have said, you will concieve that we shall have no diffi-
culty in driving the Enemy from the Sea Coast, which indeed they dont
scruple to say that they will give up to you, knowing that the more posses-
sions you have the weaker you will be in the feild: and they seem to place
their entire depenclance on their being able to hold out longer than we can:
their Emissarys in England having assured them that the present arma-
ment is the utmost efforts of Great Britain for one year, and cannot possi-
bly be continued a second which gives them great confidence.
It is most certain that a war was never carryed on upon more unequal
terms; whilst we are treating them with openness & generosity, they are
daily practising every kind of Art treachery & cruelty to destroy us. They
gave us up the Town quietly, and as soon as they imagined, the People that
had been driven out of it by them had again got settled in their Houses, and
that a number of our Stores were got on Shore, They took the opportunity
of a windy dark night, and set the Town on fire in many different places, by
people that they had concealed in certain Houses for that purpose, with all
kinds of combustibles prepared. . . .
We are at present perfectly quiet, and as we are making a Line of
works from River to River a cross the Island about 6 or 7 miles beyond the
Town, which can not be finished in less than 10 days or a fortnight, it is
natural to conclude no attack will be made on the Rebel Army untill the Ar-
rival of the last division of the Hessians, which we hourly expect to see. The
Enemy has taught us how to deal with them; which is to get behind them,
and shew them that their retreat is in danger; and they never will make any
stand: I hope we shall never attack them any other way, unless we should,
by accident get them into the open feild.
SEPTEMBER 1776
975
The Fleet Se Army are in great spirits and tolerable good health, and
for the present live exceedingly well: but the Ships are ill mann’d Se very
short. You can have no Idea of the Number of Men it takes to attend upon
such an Army as this is; with the Ships we have here (which is two thirds
of those employed in America) when all the Flat Boats, Galleys, Gondalas,
[illegible] stages Sec Sec Sec are mann’d, there is scarce Men enough left on
board many of the Ships to move them. So that we really want Six or Eight
Line of Battle Ships; not so much perhaps for the use of the Ships, as for
their large Complements of Men for the purposes before mention’d. I have
allways been of opinion that the principal means of putting an end to the
war was to put an entire stop to the trade of America, which was only to be
done by having a great Number of cruizers, and a constant succession of
clean ships. Unfortunately this expedition against New York has necessar-
ily required the attention of so many ships, that all the Southern Ports are
now left open, and there is no doubt but they will embrace this opportunity
to send away their Tobacco and Grain. The Merchants in the French Se
dutch west India Islands tell the Merchts at Philadelphia (many of which
letters I have intercepted) that if they will send them very small fast sail-
ing Pilot boats, they can supply them amply with Powder Arms Se Cloathing
at very little risk, but as they have no money to send in return, and these
Vessels will not convey the bulky commodities of America, they can not de-
vise any mode for remittances to be made, and unless that can be done the
trade must drop of course. Therefore the necessity of shutting up the Ports
is obvious, and the small inlets is not of so much consequence as one at first
would imagine.
Dont be too sanguine my Dr Friend about the extent of the present
campaign. If we can drive the Enemy from Kings bridge, Secure this Port
as an establishment, and take possession of Rhode Island, for a winter Har-
bour for our Ships, it will perhaps be as much as will be done: and by tak-
ing the Field early next Spring, and joining the army in Canada we shall be
strong enough to pursue vigorously any plan that may be adopted. I have
taken the liberty to mention my Friends in the lower Counties of the Dela-
ware and eastern shore of Maryland, as people worth cultivating, but have
been told all that must be a future Consideration. However I am still of
opinion that Philadelphia is an object of the first consequence to us. . . .
1. Hamond Papers, UVL.
Petition of Benjamin Marshall Se Brothers to the
Continental Congress1
Philada Septemb 24th 1776
In January 1775 the Subscribers by Orders from London exported a
Cargo of Flour, Wax, Staves Sec. to Terceira one of the Western Islands.
The Vessel in which they were shipp’d belonging to us, was purchas’d at the
Island aforesaid Se Payment made in Bills of Excha on London, One of
976
AMERICAN THEATRE
which to the Value of about £800 Currency was return’d Protested for non
payment in March last Since which have had no Oppertunity to send it for
Recovery therefore are under the Necessity, as the only probable Means of
Saving it, to purchase a small Vessell, but lest any thing should prevent our
Recovering it, the Expences of the Voyage would be Considerable And as
Pipe Staves are an Article in demand there 8c small value here 8c less detri-
mental to the State of the Colonies than Flour Should She be unhappily
taken by our Enemy, induces us to request the Hble Continental Congress to
Crant us Liberty to Export Pipe Staves any Quty not Exceeding Twenty
Thousand which Indulgance will be Esteem’d as a Favour Confer’d on Your
Erds
Benjamin Marshall 8c Brothers
1. Papers CC (Letters addressed to Congress) , 78, XV, 97, NA. The petition was referred the
same day to the Marine Committee whose report on October 16, 1776 was “postponed to
Wednesday the 23d instant,” and thereafter disappears from the journals of Congress.
Ford, ed., JCC, VI, 882.
Secret Committee of the Continental Congress to William Bingham1
Sir Philada Septr 24th 1776
We have shipped 1000 bbls flour onboard the Ship Betsey — Capt Wm
Stevens for your address on Account & Risque of the United States of
America agreeable to the enclosed Invoice 8c bill of Loading The Captn
has liberty either to go into St Lucia or Martinico just as winds or other
Circumstances may serve. You will therefore receive this flour at either
place and cause it to be sold to the best advantage, pay the freight as p bill
of Loading 8c place the Nt pceeds to the Credit of this Committee. We hope
the Brigt Cornelia & Molly Capt Lockhart arrived safe 8c delivered her
Cargo in good order if so you will no doubt have paid for the Muskets 8c
Powder you remitted by Capt Wickes, out of that Cargo, but if it did not ar-
rive you will have to pay for them out of the present one, or from that of
the Sloop Independence also sent to your address.
You must dispatch this Ship back as expeditiously as possible and if
the Sloop Indepejidence does not arrive whilst she is there you may remit us
back in her the value of £ 1500 to £2000, in Good blankets and other
Woolen Goods suitable for Soldiers, with some more Muskets, Powder, Gun
Flints, Salt Petre, Sulphur Sec just as you can obtain them to the best ad-
vantage observing that we now want Cloathing for our Troops beyond any
other Articles. Shou’d the Sloop Independence arrive safe, you may then
remit the less Value in the Ship because we deem the Sloop a safer convey-
ance but still we wou’d have some Goods by each The Value proportioned
to the Effects you have in hand unless you can obtain Credit 8c then you may
encrease it one half. We are Sir [8cc.]
Rob1 Morris Joseph Hewes
J osiah Bartlett Thos M : Kean
Phil. Livingston Richard Henry Lee
1. Simon Gratz Autograph Collection, Case 1, Box 9, HSP.
SEPTEMBER 1776
977
Willing, Morris 8c Co. to William Bingham, Martinique 1
Sir Philadelphia Septr. 24, 1776
We have wrote you very fully by Capt. [John] Young which are hope-
ful may reach you soon as this in that letter you were advised the safe Ar-
rival of the Reprisal Capt. Wickes who delivered us safely the sundry Goods
you shipped by him of wh before long we shall render you a pleasing Ac-
count Sale and in order that you may be able to pay for them in due time we
now ship you by this Ship Bettsy Capt. William Stephens 44 hhds of To-
bacco agreable to the enclosed Invoice & Bill of Loading for one half the
Amount whereof we charge you in Account Current and hope it will get
safe to Market in which case we shall make a pleasing Expedition all round,
most of this Tobo is very good but it is not of equal Quality and you had
best sell the worst first unless you can sell it alltogether at a good price
which is most likely as we don’t think much has been yet sent your way and
it is got very high in France, the freight is high but we thot it better to give
that and run no risque of the Ship than to have it fixed lower 8c become In-
surers of a proportionable Value of the Ship — We Chartered the Ship
from Mess. Geo: Meade 8c Co and have assured them of your best Services
to their Interest not doubting but you will chearfully make good our prom-
ises and we shall embrace the earliest Opperty of sending forward more
Consignments.
We do not write you on any other Matters as Capt. Young in the Sloop
Independence sails in a day or two being a fast Sailer well Armed 8c
Manned We think it best to trust to her 8c are [8cc.]
1. Papers of Robert Morris, Accession 1805, LC.
Robert Morris to the Pennsylvania Council of Safety1
Gentn, Philad’a, Sept. 24th, 1776.
The ship Betsey , Cap. Stevens, being in the Service of the Continent,
We request you will grant permission for a good Pilot to carry her down the
Bay 8c due care will be taken that he does not fall into the hands of the
Enemy.
By order of the Secret Committee.
Robt. Morris.
To the Honorable, The Council of Safety.
1. Pennsylvania Archives, 1st series, V, 28.
Pennsylvania Packet, Tuesday, September 24, 1776
Philadelphia, September 24.
Tuesday last arrived the Continental brig of war Andrew Doria, Capt.
Biddle, from a cruize, in which he took 6 vessels, viz. ship Molly, Brigden
[sic Bridger] Goodrich, (last belonging to Mr. [Jonathan] Hudson of Mary-
978
AMERICAN THEATRE
land) , brig [Peggy] > [William] Cook, both prizes of Lord Dunmore s,
bound from Virginia for Bermuda; brig Elizabeth [William Ryson] John-
son, a prize taken by the English, from North Carolina for Bermuda, brig
Laivrence , [George] Layburn, from Barbados for Newfoundland; also two
brigs in ballast from Virginia, with tories for Bermuda, both of which
being short of provisions, Sec. he let go.1
1. The Maria , John Marshall, master, and the Betsey, John Bynoe, master.
Daniel Joy to Robert Treat Paine1
Sir/ Warwick Furnace Sept the 24th 1776 -
Since my arrivel here I have been at Mr Birds Furnace to know how
they were like to Succeed in casting their contract of cannon, and find Mr
Bird hath Sold one of his Teams of horses Sc Ordered the Manneger to cast
the few Moulds they had made Sc no more, and put the furnace out of Blast,
and then bore the remainder of the guns. They have cast in all 60-12 poun-
ders 19-9 pounders Sc 17 - 4 pounders, That is
13-12 lbrs'i
proved
7-12 ]
proved
38-12
lb ]
2-12 lbrs'
To
8-9 Do
Sc sent
2-9
Sc not
8-9
Do
not
1-9 Do
cast
to
>
yet sent
bored
\
7-4 Do .
Philada
4-4 ,
down
5-4
Do „
1-4 Do ,
Bore
By which you’ll see he will fall vastly Short of the compt he was to cast. I do
not know the Number of Nine Pdrs the Frigate is to carry but Suppose
you’ll not have enough by 5 or 7. If you want a few 12 & 9 cast Messrs Rut-
ter Sc Potts have don with their contract with the council of Safty and are
at lesure to do it if you can agree with them. Mr Samuel Potts will be in
Philada in a day or two — As they intend to put their Furnace out of Blast
in 10 or 15 day they will not cast them without you give them enough Shot to
keep the Furnace going that is to use all the Metal She make — They have
cast some prity nice 9 pdrs about two Inches longer than Birds one of which
you may See on Capt Andrew Caldwells warff. If you cannot agree with
them You may prevail with the council of Safty to let Mr Old cast what few
12, 9, Sc 4 pounders you may want I am almost sure he will do it, he has
cast some very neat 3 Sc 4 Pd[r]s for Mr Nathl Tyson of Virginia Some of
which will be in Town this week I shall go to Mr Grubbs to morrow Sc as
soon as I have used what powder they have there shall return to these Fur-
naces & If you have sott either of them to worke shall prepare Draufts for
them &ca In the Interim I remain [8cc.]
1. Robert Treat Paine Papers, MassHS.
Daniel Joy
SEPTEMBER 1776
979
“Stephen Steward's Acct of Tackle, Stores 8cc taken from
Schooner Resolution ” 1
[West River] Septr 24th 1776
Mr Stephen Steward Reed of Roger Horace Pratt of the Schooner
Resolution2—
12 Guns with Carraiges Britchens Tackel Compleate
1 Swivel 8c 350 Piggs of Iron Ballast 206 round Shott
90 Double Headed Shott. 106 Swivel Shott
6 Buckets of Landgradge, 9 Crow Barrs 11 Nets with Wads
8 Releiveing Tackels. 16 Gunner’s Handspikes
18 Carraige Truck’s 10 Rammers 8c Spunge Rope
10 Rammers Sc Spunges Wood 2 four pound Ladles 8c Worms
8 3 pound Ladles Sc Worm’s 1 Swivel Ladle 8c 2 Rammers
13 Match Staves 8c Formers Sc spear Tompions
35 Gun Tacle Blocks. 16 Hooks Sc Thimbles
10 Copper Lan thorns 8 Copper Hoops 4 Copper Measure’s
2 Funnels 1 Scoope 8c pr Gunners Sheers
2 Gagezine Lights. 6 Bouck Barrels 21 Qur Cattrich Paper
25 Cattrich Boxes 4 Tinder Boxes 1 Serving Mallet 1 fid
2 Waste 4 Quarter 8c 1 Stern Cloth 1 1 Lances 8c 33 Tommy Hauks
8 Stools 19 Cans 17 Mess Tubs Sc a Coper Funnel
5 Barris 10 Hhd Sc 2 Butts Iron bound 8c 1 Hhd Wood Hoops
2 Bladders putty the Quarter 8c Waste Netting’s
25 Bags of Oakham 4 half ports
Square Sail Water Sail Ma[in] Topmast Staysail
Topmast Steering Sail Spritsail Topsail
2 Pump Can’s 3 Match Tubs Iron bound
c qr lb
9 . . 1 . . 12 Old Iron - which Gallaway 8c Steward is Charged with -
1. Executive Papers, Box 2, Folder 72, Md. Arch.
2. The Maryland Council of Safety ordered on September 17 that Steward take possession of
all the military stores, guns and rigging of the schooner Resolution which had been
serving as a tender for the Maryland state ship Defence , Council of Safety Journal, 29
August 1775 to 20 March 1777, Md. Arch.
Captain Georce Cook to the Maryland Council of Safety 1
[Ship Defence'] Off Point Look Out September 24th 1776
Gentlemen, I Honoured myself by writing you by the Amelia Tender. At
that time was in hopes of having a fine Night and good run down the Bay. —
At 10 P M the wind came round to the Eastward, the night had all the ap-
pearance of a gale insueing. I thought it Prudent to have the ship brought
at anchor under point look out and this morning early when hove Short the
small bower cable parted near the Anchor, We got the Pilot boat to the
B[uo]y rope when a strain hove on it parted the bouy rope at the Crown of
980
AMERICAN THEATRE
the Anchor, the wind blowing a fresh Gale at N W puts it out of our power
to get the Anchor at this time We have left a watch bouy at the Place and
sett Several places for finding it some other time. Mr [Gilbert] Middleton
will have the Marks and knows the Place where the Anchor lies -
At 10 A m I purpose going down to Gwyns Island, as I’m informed by
some Gentlemen on board of Sundry Anchors being there 8c purpose getting
one I have the honor to be Gentlemen [8cc.]
George Cook2
1. Red Book, XII, Md. Arch.
2. Ibid., Cook again wrote the Council later the same day that weather prevented him from
making Gwynn Island, and that he hoped “to be at Sea by 10 oClock at Night.”
Captain George Cook to Commodore John Thomas Boucher 1
Sir/ Ship Defence Septemr 24th 1776 -
Unluckily this morning our small Bower Cable parted near the An-
chor. I Endeavoured to weigh it by the Bouy Rope, that also parted at the
Crown of the Anchor. I have left a watch Buoy near the Place - Em afraid
it will intrude on you too far to ask your kindness, should it be calm whilst
you’re hear, to suffer some of your Boats to endeavour to get the Anchor for
the good of the service - It will so far suffice that on seeing the Buoy, that
is to shew where our Anchor lies I am Sir with Esteem [8cc.]
George Cook
Commodore Boucher of the Congress
or Capt [Walter] Brook[e] of the Liberty 2
1. Red Book, XII, Md. Arch.
2. The armed ship Congress and the schooner Liberty were vessels of the Virginia Navy.
Journal of H.M.S. Galatea, Captain Thomas Jordan1
Septr 1776 Island Bermuda So 31.00[W] 93 Leagues
Tuesday 24th Strong Gales and Squally wth much rain at 2 P M fired a
Shot and brot too the Favorite Brigg from Antigua,2 taken
by the Providence Privateer of 14 Guns belonging to Phila-
delphia3
1. PRO, Admiralty 51/380.
2. Favourite, John Davis, master, from Antigua for Liverpool, with sugar. Howe’s Prize List,
March 31, 1777, ibid., 1/487.
3. The Continental sloop Providence, John Paul Jones, commander.
Journal of H.M. Schooner Porcupine , Lieutenant James Cotes1
Septem: 1776 The East end of Hineago NNW 3 or 4 Miles
Tuesday 24 AM at day break Saw a Sail in the N Wt Quarter, Gave Chase,
found her to be a Sloop from Virginia bound to the Mole,
sent a Quarter Master & two Men on board her, The Master
SEPTEMBER 1776
981
and one of the Passengers we took out of the Schooner, 8c
sent her down to Port Royal.2
1. PRO, Admiralty 51/702.
2. Sloop Charlotte, John Williams, master, with a cargo of tobacco and flour; see Gayton’s Prize
List under October 8.
25 Sept.
Journal of H.M.S. Triton, Captain Skeffington Lutwidge 1
Septemr 1776 Moor’d in the Bason of Quebec
Wednesdy 25t A M, a part of the foreign Troops disembark’d2 - heard
from Captn Charles Douglass that Lieut Hervey had seen
the Rebel Fleet (consisting of 12 Sail) retiring on the Lake,
and kill’d 7 or 8 in a Boat belonging to the Sternmost, a
a Schooner of 8 guns.3
1. PRO, Admiralty 51/1013.
2. Ibid., the second division of Hessian troops which had arrived under convoy of H. M. S.
Garland on September 18.
3. The schooner Liberty. See Arnold to Gates, September 21.
Order of Massachusetts Council for Cannon for the
Continental Frigate Boston 1
In Council [Watertown] Sept 25 1776
Whereas by a Resolve of the General Court passed Sept 16, 1776 the
Committee for fortifying the Harbour of Boston were directed to send
forthwith by Water so many Cannon nine pounders with Carriages 8c other
Apparatus from those in and about Boston as shall be sufficient to Arm the
Continental ship called the Boston to the Town of Newbury Port, 8c whereas
a sufficient number of nine pound Cannon Cannot be procured out of those
in and about the Town of Boston for the purpose Abovementioned There-
fore Ordered That the Committee for fortifying the Harbour of Boston be
8c hereby are directed to send to Newbury Port for the Purpose aforesaid forth-
with by Water four Twelve pound Cannon with their [illegible] 8c other
[apparatus] from those in and about Boston in leiu of the Nine pound Can-
non that are wanting & they were directed to send to the place before men-
tioned 8c also to Supply the Said Ship with Two Six pounders 8c four four
pounders if to be procured
1. Mass. Arch., vol. 165, 274, 274a.
Deposition of Elisha Cole1
I Elisha Cole, master of the schooner Triton, bound from Kennebec to
Cape Francois, testify and declare, that on the twentieth day of July last, I
was taken by the Milford man of war, John Burr commander, who took
from me my bed, bedding, sea cloaths, and every thing else, except what I
982
AMERICAN THEATRE
had in my chest; when I got on board Capt. Burr he asked me, after taking
my papers, where my money was, I answered that I had not any, then he or-
dered his Clerk to search me, and I was searched accordingly: He then took
away my watch but returned it. Next morning the Captain called for me
and demanded the key of my chest, and when opened, took every thing out
of it to search for money, finding none, they gave me the chest, and ordered
me to carry it to my birth. — On the twenty fifth of July we discovered a
ship, which he took near Newbury-Barr. — Capt. Burr then ordered me to
the fourth gun, and the opposite forward, and compelled me to go, which I
was obliged to do after a long dispute, and my mate and all my men were
put on the ship’s books and compelled to do duty, and obliged to fight
against their American brethren, as are all the prisoners they take, which I
often heard the officers of the Milford declare. I left Halifax the eleventh
day of August, leaving my mate and men all on board the Milford. — I told
Capt. Burr our people gave the masters, mates, &c. their adventures, and it
was very hard to have my all taken from me. He replied he could not do it,
his people would not allow it, and swore by God he would not give me any
thing. — The Yankey Hero’s men, by the information of the steward and
others belonging to the Milford, had but three quarters of the common al-
lowance of provisions to seamen for their support, and no allowance of cloa-
thing.
Elisha Cole
Suffolk, ss. Elisha Cole made oath to the truth of the above deposition, by
him subscribed before me.
Boston, Sept. 25, 1776
Joseph Greenleaf, J. P.
1. Pennsylvania Journal , October 9, 1776.
“A Journiel Kept By Ephraim Briggs On board of the Good
Sloop Warren A Bold Privateer From Dartmouth
to the Lattd of 33:” 1
[Wednesday, September 25, 1776]
Latter Part Wednesday Morning Blows Quick Lattd in 40: 122
1. rihs.
2. The journal ends at this point. Latitude indicates the Warren was approaching her home
port, Dartmouth.
Lieutenant Colonel Henry Beekman Livingston to Robert R.
Livingston1
Dear Brother [New Haven, September 25, 1776] 2
Since my Last I have been to Long Island with My Detatc[h]ment and
Part of Colonel [William] Richmonds Regiment of Rhode Island Troops in
all amounting to 250 Men the Rest of Colonel Richmonds Regiment with
their Colonel and Lt Colnel not careing to arrive time enough we had pro-
SEPTEMBER 1776
983
digious Rough weather of it were on the Water from two OClock in the
Afternoon untill 2 at Night many of the Men Chilled Almost to death (On
their Arrival in Setalket Harbour) with wet and Cold in Order to Remedy
this inconvenience after we had wiped our Guns Dry I ordered them to
March to the two Houses Captain Smiths Company (of Oliver Delancies
Brogade) were Quartered at, we found them up and in Arms expecting
us, they began the Fire and killed one of the Rhode Island men and
wounded Another we in Return killed 7 wounded 2 and took 23 with their
Captain Prisoners I should at this time have broke up Master Olivers Bri-
gade but was Oposed by the Rhode Island Officers who declared they would
not Continue in so dangerous a Situation any longer this Obliged me to
Quit and retreat to New Haven I have brought of [f] with me two New
Vessels Loaded with Wood intended for New York Markets have entered
a Libel against them and am in a fair way of having them Condemned they
will be worth and Sell for £800 New York Currency we have also brought
off the Arms and Military Stores of Said Smiths Company3 I have also sent
Over for a Shooner an exceeding Fine Vessell lately Possessed by sd Smiths
Company, And Mr John Broom is to fit her out as a Privateer for the
Halves if She is Condemned I expect in a Day or two to be Ordered to Head
Quarters I Remain Your Most Affte Brother
Henry B. Livingston
Pray Excuse Haste -
I have just received an Aprobation of My Conduct in Genteel Terms from
Govenor Trumbull and an Order to Proceed for Head Quarters -
Robert R: Livingston Esqr in Convention Fish Kills -
1. NYHS.
2. The date is approximated.
3. For account of arms taken by Livingston, see Force, comp., American Archives , 5th, III, 1144.
Nathaniel Shaw, Jr. to Governor Jonathan Trumbull1
Sir New London Septr 25th 1776
Inclos’d is a Certificate from the Committe of this Town to shew the
Importation of Warlike Stores into this Port by Capt Merry Young in the
Sloop Bountifully which Sloop I Purchas’d & Gave thirty Six hundred
pounds York currency for with Twelve Cannon and Twelve Swivels the Re-
mainder of the Stores were Sold as p the Inclos’d Invoice, and he wants a
Certificate or Permission to Export any kind of Goods for the Amount
Agreeable to the Resolution of Congress which I beg you will procure and
Incl [ose] to me, I think the Sloop may with Propriety Come in as she was
fitted out as a Warlike Vessell — and you’l Oblige [&c.]
Nath1 Shaw Junr
P S she will not want to Carry much Provissions or Goods that are
Prohibited.- N S -
1. Conn. Arch., 1st Series, IX, 311, ConnSL.
984
AMERICAN THEATRE
Nathaniel Shaw, Jr. to Governor Jonathan Trumbull1
Sir New London, Sepr 25 1776
This Serves Just to let you know that the Ship Oliver Cromwell will be
Ready to Sail as Soon as we Can git our People, Muskitts, Pistils & Cut-
lasses. the Row Galleys have a Sufficiency, & if your Honour Sends for
them, I Suppose it will be done Imediately — The Brigg Defence is fitting
as fast as Can be Expected, and it would forward the Affair much to have
the Officers who are to Command her to be on the Spott — I hinted this in a
letter I wrote to your Honour before, I am Sir [&c.]
Nath1 Shaw Junr
1. Conn. Arch., 1st Series, X, 314, ConnSL.
“Pay Roll of Captain David Hawley's Company of Seamen raised in
the State of Connecticut for the Naval Service of the American
States in the Northern Department, commencing on the Day of their
INLISTMENT 8c ENDING THE 25 SEPTEMR 1776 AGREEABLE TO ENCOURAGEMENT
OF FIRST MO ADVANCE WAGES - ...” 1
[Extract]
Officers & Seamens
Names
when
enter’d
the
Service
No Days from
inlisting to
Sept 5
Inclusive
Wages
per
mo
Total Amot
of wages
David Hawley Capt
Augt 9
48
192/
£ 15. .7. .2
John Fairweather Lieut
19
38
120/
7.12. .-
Ephraim Hawley Do
38
7.12. .-
Michael Jennings Sea.
38
48/
3. .0. .9
Samuel Hawley do
38
3. .0. .9
Andrew Patterson
24
33
2.12. .9
Jesse Burr
33
2.12. .9
Joseph Mather
33
2.12. .9
William Brothwell
33
2.12. .9
Mel Waklee
33
2.12. .9
Samuel Hendricks
33
2.12. .9
Enoch Lacey
33
2.12. .9
Daniel Winifred
33
2.12. .9
John Haye
33
2.12. .9
William Duncomb
33
2.12. .9
Abner Hendricks
33
2.12. .9
John Lyon
33
2.12. .9
Samuel Daniels
25
32
2.11. .2
Samuel French
32
2.11. .2
Peter Butler
32
2.11. .2
Levy Goodrick
32
2.11. .2
SEPTEMBER 1776 985
Sami Treedswell
32
2.11. .2
Edmund Pulford
32
2.11. .2
George Leemon
32
2.11. .2
Darius Fisher
32
2.11. .2
Squire Breadsley
32
2.11. .2
£ 91. .6. .22
[Endorsed] Register
Office Philadelphia 6 Janu
1784 Copy from the
Original Pay Roll in this Office — Jos. Nourse Reg
1. Conn. Arch., 1st Series, VI, 116, ConnSL.
2. Columns showing allowances for blankets, bounty for entering, etc. have been omitted from
this extracted entry. The total bill was £275 . . 6 . . 0.
“Pay Roll of Captain Frederick Chapels Company of Seamen, raised
in the State of Connecticut, for the Naval Service on the Lakes in
the Northern Department commencing on the day of their Inlistment
& ENDING THE 25 DAY OF SEPTR INCLUSIVE . . 1
[Extract]
Officers & Seamens
Names
when
enter’d
the
Service
No Days from
time of In-
listing to
Sept 25
Wa2,es
O
per
month
Amount of
Wages
Fredrick Chapel Capt
Augt 9
48
192/
£ 57. .7. .2
Ephraim Goldsmith Lt
18
39
120/
7.16..-
Stephen G. Thatcher do
< c
39
7.16.
Samuel Little Seaman
39
48/
3. .2. .5
John Miller
< <
39
3. .2. .5
James Benham
c <
39
3. .2. .5
John Martin
t c
39
3. .2. .5
Joseph Hosmer
i c
25
32
2.11. .2
Stephen Willson
c c
32
2.11. .2
John Wilson
L i
32
2.11. .2
Reuben Hadlock
i i
32
2.11. .2
Frederick Standley
i <
32
2.11. .2
Benjamin Almstead
< <
32
2.11. .2
Benjamin Kenny
< i
32
2.11. .2
John Wilcott
< c
32
2.11. .2
Joseph Wise
i <
32
2.11. .2
Benjamin Osborn
< i
32
2.11. .2
Thomas Mix
i 6
32
2.11. .2
Amos Potter
t C
32
2.11. .2
William Ives
< i
32
2.11. .2
Benjamin Cook
i <
32
2.11. .2
Abraham Sugdon
< <
32
2.11. .2
986
AMERICAN THEATRE
when No Days from
Officers 8c Seamens enter’d time of In- Wages Amount of
Names the listing to per Wages
Service Sept 25 month
Ebenezer Ailing
i i
32
2.11. .2
Ephraim Hotchkiss
26
31
2. .9. .7
Robert Hotchkiss
c c
31
2. .9. .7
Joseph Cooper
t c
31
2. .9. .7
Nathaniel Stacey
i c
31
2. .9. .7
Samuel Tharp
i 6
31
2. .9. .7
Clement Tuttle
i <
31
2. .9. .7
Eliada Parker
t <
31
2. .9. .7
Eliakim Parker
i 6
31
2. .9. .7
Joshua Parker
< <
31
2. .9. .7
Levi Parker
< C
31
2. .9. .7
Ebenezer Merry
i c
31
2. .9. .7
Reuben Judd
C i
31
2. .9. .7
Samuel Holmes
i i
31
2. .9. .7
Abraham Hays
6 i
31
2. .9. .7
Nehemiah Knap
C i
31
2. .9. .7
Samuel Morwin
23
34
2.14. .5
John Gardner
26
31
2. .9. .7
James Taylor
( 6
31
2. .9. .7
Edward Neile
t t
31
2. .9. .7
John Kelly
t 6
31
2. .9. .7
William Briggs
6 i
31
2. .9. .7
John Knap
6 l
31
2. .9. .7
[Endorsed] (Copy from the Original) ,
£ 182. .3. .22
Register Office 6th January 1784
(signed) Jos. Nourse Reg.
1. Conn. Arch., 1st Series, VI, 23a, ConnSL.
2. Columns showing bounty for entering, allowance for blankets, etc. have been omitted from this
extracted item. The total bill was £ 498. .8.
.8.
Captain Richard Varick to Captain John Hunn1
Sir Albany Septr 25th 1776
You will immediately embark on Board of three Batteaus and proceed
with all possible Dispatch by Night and Day from this place to poghkepsie
- where you will deliver the Letter directed to Messrs [Augustin] Lawrence
and Tudor [Samuel Tuder] herewith delivered you and take on Board such
Cables and Cordage as shall be delivered you by them — You will
the[n] reimbark for this place without the least Delay. By order of the
General
Richd Varick Secy
1. Schuyler Papers, vol. 2, Letters & Orders, 18 April, 1776 - 29 June, 1777, NYPL.
SEPTEMBER 1776
987
Committee for Obstructing the Hudson River to Peter B. Livingston 1
Poughkeepsie, Wednesday, 25th September, 1776.
Sir: We’ve obtained two sloops, two brigs, and two large ships, for the pur-
pose of obstructing the channel at Fort Washington. One of the sloops, the
Clinton , heretofore purchased by the Committee, we found here; the other
we’ve ordered from Fort Montgomery. The two brigs are here also, one of
which belongs to Malcom, Kip Sc Lott; the other is a New-England vessel,
about one hundred and twenty tons burthen, loaded with wheat, staves, and
a considerable quantity of inch boards. The wheat and staves we’ve ordered
to be stored; but sent down the boards for publick use. The ships are in
Esopus Creek; owners, Messrs. Franklin. They are two very fine vessels, in
the building of which much extraordinary pains have been taken, both as to
timber and workmanship. On our going there, we ordered them to be hauled
out, and expect they will proceed to Fort Washington this day. The two
sloops, the Clinton and that from Fort Montgomery, we think are almost ar-
rived by this time, as the Clinton sailed yesterday, with a fair wind, and the
other must have proceeded from the fort shortly after the Clinton’ s arrival
there; and as to the brigs, we shall be able to despatch them to-day also. The
Cambden, Captain Castle, with near two thousand feet plank, and Captain
Donaldson, with upwards of six thousand ditto, sailed yesterday also. The
ships and brigs aforesaid we are to have appraised by the time they are
ready to set off from here, and we imagine the ships will run very high.
Our stock of money is very low, and our contracts far exceeding the
sum we were furnished with. The demands on this Committee are frequent
and urgent. Upon these considerations, we hope the Convention will, by
some means or other, furnish us with a further supply. We are, sir [See.]
Robt. Yates, Chairman.
1. Force, comp., American Archives, 5th, III, 204. Livingston was President of the New York
Convention.
Journal of the New York Committee of Safety1
Wednesday Morning, [Fishkill] Septr. 25th, 1776.
A letter from Messrs. Clark and Nightingale, dated Providence, Sep-
tember the 16th, relative to two prizes, to wit: The brig Temple , from a
whaling voyage, and a Bermudian sloop, both taken on the south side of
Long island by the armed Continental sloops Schuyler and Miflin , and the
armed sloop Montgomerie , fitted out by the State of New-York. A state of
the case of the brig, drawn up by a lawyer, was also enclosed, were respec-
tively read and filed.
Ordered, That the said letter be referred to the Convention on their
first meeting.
1. New York Provincial Congress, I, 642.
988
AMERICAN THEATRE
Journal of H.M.S. Eagle, Captain Henry Duncan1
Sepr 1776 At Single Anchor off Do [Bedloe’s Island]
Wednesdy 25th At 9 AM unmoor’d Ship took up the Best Bower 8c hove
into 1/2 a Cable on the Small Bower At Noon Punished
William Lacey and Dougal M’Kenzie Seamen with a
Dozen lashes each for Drunkeness
The first part Light Breezes 8c Clear, Middle 8c latter
Modr 8c Clear, At 4 PM Weighed 8c Run up near the
Town, At 6 Anchor’d with the Bt Br in 11 fm water
Veered away 8c Moored Ship a Cable each way when
Moored the Flagstaff on the Fort at New York EbNi/^N
Bedlows Island SWbW Bargan Church NW14W2 at 12
Anchor’d here the Tartar
1. NMM, Admiralty L/E/ll.
2. “In the afternoon, the Eagle moved up near to the Fort 8c Town; The Admiral [Howe] having
taken a House, designing to make up his Winter-Quarters in New York.” Tatum, ed.,
Serle’s Journal, September 25, 1776, 113.
Ambrose Serle to Lord Dartmouth1
My Lord,
I had the Honor in my last Letter of the 5th of Septr. to acquaint Your
Lordship with the Success of His Majesty’s Arms upon Long Island: I now
beg leave to congratulate You on the entire Possession of New York City,
and almost all the Island on which it stands; which, together with Long and
Staten Islands, now reduced, form the principal and most important Parts
of the Colony, and on which eventually all the others do and must depend.
On the 7th of September and the five or six following Days, the Fleet
was busily employed in fitting, manning and carrying up their flat-bottomed
Boats to the Place of Embarkation, which was at or near Bushwyck Creek
upon the East River, or rather Branch of the Sound which divides New
York Island from Long Island 8c the Continent towards the East.
The Engineers opened a Battery, on the 12th against a strong Post of
the Rebels on the opposite Shore, near the intended Place of Debarkation,
and a warm Cannonade was maintained on both Sides for two or three
Hours. What Damage was done to the Rebels, beside beating their Battery
into Ruins, we know not, but we suffered no Loss on our Part, except one
Sailor, who was killed by a Cannon Ball as he lay sleeping on the Grass. —
Capt. [1 homas] Wilkinson arrived on this Day from Quebec in the Pearl ,
and brought agreeable News from the North and about 500 Prisoners, with
whom, as well as with those taken before; the Commanders of the Fleet and
Army scarce know what to do. To keep them is expensive; to dismiss them
dangerous.
The next Morning, after another Cannonade, the Troops took Posses-
sion of two Islands in the East River very near the Rebel Fortifications.
SEPTEMBER 1776
989
In the Afternoon, the Phoenix and Roebuck of 44 Guns each, the Or-
pheus of 32, and the Carysfort of 28 Guns, sailed up the East River to
Bushwyck Creek. The Rebels fired a few Guns from the Fort and their Bat-
teries along the Shore, as the Ships went up; but they passed on in silent
Contempt without returning their Fire, and with the Loss of only one
Man. Our Batteries, in the meantime, played upon the Enemy from Gover-
nor’s Island and from the Heights of Brookland opposite the Eastern Shore
of the Town. These Batteries were originally constructed by the Rebels with
such immense Labor and Art, that they seem almost impregnable. Next to
the Works themselves, nothing astonishes our People more than their sud-
den and uncontested Abandonment.
Many Deserters from the Rebels have daily come over. They all concur
in representing the Jealousy, Discontent and Fears, which prevail among
them, and the cruel and compulsive Methods they have taken to keep up
their Army. Though their Leaders endeavour to conceal or exaggerate their
Numbers, ’tis not found, that they make or have made at any time more
than 30,000 Men, notwithstanding their vaunted Ability of bringing 80 or
100,000 into the Field. That this is an empty Bravado, calculated to amuse,
it is sufficient to mention, that though they have draughted, at two several
Times into their Army, every fourth Man in this Colony, capable of bearing
Arms; they were obliged to impress them by Force, and to keep them by the
strictest Compulsion. From almost all the Provinces they have dragged
them (as it were) to the Camp; nor have they many real Volunteers but
from the New England Colonies. They have fed their Troops tolerably well,
but their Pay has been very irregular and is much in Arrear, and their Cloth-
ing wretched.
In the Morning of the 15th the Renown of 50 Guns, and the Repulse
and Pearl of 32 each, with a Schooner, sailed up the North River to invest
the Town, and to draw off the Attention of the Rebels on that Side, while
the Debarkation under five other Ships of War was effecting on the other.
The Morning was clear, the Tide served, and there was a fresh Breeze. The
Rebels all-alarmed, began a Cannonade as furiously as they could, but with
very little Effect, as their Guns were but indifferently served. As these were
the grand Batteries of the Enemy, of which they had boasted that no Vessel
could possibly come near them, the Ships returned a most heavy Fire of
round and grape Shot, and passed to their Station with the Loss of one Man
killed and three or four wounded. Removing from one’s Thoughts the mel-
ancholy Seriousness of the Business, the Hills, Woods, Town, River, Ships,
and Pillars of Smoke, illuminated by a brilliant Morning, formed the finest
Landscape that the Imagination can conceive. Soon afterwards, a most tre-
mendous Discharge of Cannon was made by the Men of War on the opposite
Shore in the East River, under Cover of which the Troops were landed with
great Ease and Dispatch, and without the least Opposition. A Feint was
made, at the same Time, about 3 or 4 Miles higher up; so that the Rebels
were distracted to know, which to oppose or which way to run. They retired
towards the Northern Part of the Island with great Precipitation, where, as
990
AMERICAN THEATRE
their last Resource, they had constructed the strongest of their Works upon
very advantageous Ground; though, indeed, the Island itself is covered and
intersected with Fortifications from one End to the other. In the Afternoon,
His Majesty’s Colors were hoisted upon the Fort, instead of the Rebel
Standard, which some Women had previously taken down and torn in
Pieces.
Nothing could exceed the extravagant Joy of the People left in New
York, on their Release from the Tyranny of the Rebels. They chaired some
of the King’s Officers up and down the Streets, amidst Shouts and Acclama-
tions. They could not demonstrate their Satisfaction by ringing the Bells;
for these the New England Rebels, among other things, had plundered
away. I believe His Majesty’s Name was scarce ever so loudly or so affec-
tionately shouted, as it was in this and the ensuing Day in the Streets of
New York.
The Rebels made a Stand behind the Redoubts of their great Work to-
wards Kingsbridge, as there was nothing behind them wch threatened to
cut off their Retreat. Two or three Companies of our Light Infantry, in the
Heightt of that Ardor and Impetuosity, which sometimes forgets even Dis-
cipline itself, pressed upon the Rebels to the very Cover of their Lines, suf-
fered a little, and would have suffered more but for the Magnanimity 8c
Heroism of the Grenadiers and Highlanders, who ran (it is said) about two
Miles in 15 Minutes to their Relief. The Rebels, seeing the Smallness of
their Number, came out of their Works by Thousands in order to cut them
off. The little Party, with the greatest Bravery, kept their Ground till the
Relief came up; They then retreated and the Rebels advanced, till two
Field-Pieces, with the Grenadiers and Highlanders, which the General con-
cealed till they were within 30 Yards Distance took them full in Flank,
when they immediately ran with the utmost Confusion to their Works, leav-
ing many dead behind them. We had 9 Men killed and about 80 wounded in
this Affair. The Officers hope, that this will be an Instruction to the Soldiers
in future not to go beyond or faster than their Command; an Error, which
partly from Contempt of the Rebels, and partly from the Heat of Resent-
ment, they have been too apt to fall into. The Confidence of the Fleet and
Army in their two great Commanders seems equally affectionate and un-
bounded. I speak the Sentiments of every Body here, when I say, that the
Choice of them was the wisest and the happiest for Great Britain that could
have been devised.
Great Numbers of Emigrants, particularly Irish, are in the Rebel
Army, some by Choice and many for mere Subsistence. They have also
many transported Felons, who have exchanged Ignominy and Servitude, for
a Sort of Honor and Ease, by entering among them. This is a further Argu-
ment against the Transportation of such People from England in future.
Confinement to hard Labor at Home might answer some valuable Purpose
there, and would be a real Punishment to the Convicts: Here, they do Great
Britain much Injury, by bringing over Numbers and Trades, and so adding
Strength, already too great, to the Force of America against her.
Shot Gauge.
Swivel Gun.
992
AMERICAN THEATRE
We hope for General Burgoyne and his powerful Army in a short
Time; as, by the last Advices, he was passing, and now must have passed,
the Lakes above Albany. It is understood, through the Rebels themselves,
that their late Affair in Canada, has not cost them, through the Sword and
Disease, much fewer than 5000 Men.
I will say nothing about the Attempts to effectuate the Civil Commis-
sion, as Your Lordship will, I presume, with more Propriety and Precision,
receive due Information through the official Channel.
On the 23d of September, three Frigates and a Bomb were sent against
Powley’s Hook, which lies opposite the Town on the North River. They cov-
ered a Debarkation of about 450 Men, who took this Post, fortified strongly
as all the others have been, without a Blow; the Rebels, in two large Bodies,
running away upon the first Motion to approach them.
I am happy to inform Your Lordship, that the Fleet and Army are
comfortably supplied with fresh Provisions and Vegetables from the re-
covered Territories, and that there is no Probability at present of exhaust-
ing our Resources of that kind: This will be a great Saving to Government,
as well as Benefit to the Troops. It may be hoped, that, in another Year, we
shall want but little Provisions from Home.
We wish exceedingly for the second Embarkation of the Hessians; but,
as we learned by Capt. [Thomas] Jordan of the Galatea , who left Plym-
outh on the 10th of July, that they were not then sailed from England, there
is no reason to expect them here soon enough for Service in this Campaign:
The Galatea , though a very fast Sailer, was full 9 Weeks in her Passage.
Some Villains, who had concealed themselves for the purpose, set the
Town on Fire in several Places in the Night of the 20th instant. The Flames
spread with great Rapidity, the Wind being high, and the Houses chiefly
covered with Shingles. ’Tis supposed, about a fifth Part of the Town is con-
sumed. Every possible Precaution is taken to prevent the like in future.
The Rebels have left many Cannon, some say above 60 in all, chiefly old
Pieces, behind them in their several Retreats, a Magazine of 5000 Barrels of
Flour [ sic powder] , and great Quantities of Shot with some Ammunition.
Upon the whole, the King’s Forces have obtained with Ease and Advan-
tage, and in a short Time, what, from a Review of the Works and Prepara-
tions of the Rebels, it might have been thought, would have cost them at
least a whole Campaign. I have the Honor to be, with the warmest Grati-
tude and Respect, My Lord, [8cc.]
Ambrose Serle.
New York, 25th Sept. 1776.
1. Stevens, ed., Facsimiles, No. 2043.
Journal of the Continental Congress1
[Philadelphia] Wednesday, September 25, 1776
The committee appointed to hear and determine upon the appeal
against the sentence of condemnation passed upon the schooner Thistle ,
having reversed the decree,
SEPTEMBER 1776
993
Resolved , That a passport and safe conduct be granted to Charles Rob-
erts, master of the schooner Thistle, for himself and the said schooner, for
the space of 60 days.
1. Ford, ed., JCC, V, 818, 827.
Pennsylvania Journal, Wednesday, September 25, 1776
Philadelphia [September 25] .
Extract of a letter from Ticonderoga.
A letter from General Gates, enclosing one from Gen: Arnold, is just
received, which acquaints us, that our fleet is safe, and that a party of our
sailors, who had imprudently trusted themselves on shore, were attacked by
a number of savages, at Wind Mill Point, about 90 miles from Crown Point
— In the skirmish three of our men were killed and five wounded. — The
Indians afterwards coming near the shore of the lake, several cannon were
discharged at them, which dispersed them, and must have been the firing
heard by Colonel [Thomas] Hartley. - Gen. Arnold imagines the enemy
will double man all their batteaus and attempt to board the gundalos, and
has begged an addition to the fleet. More row-gallies and gundalous are
building, and will shortly be fit for action. As a further addition several
double manned batteaus are to be sent him, with a swivel on each side, to
fight under cover of the larger metal; by this means our fleet on Lake
Champlain will soon make a very respectable appearance, and give Carle-
ton, with his Hessians, Westphalians, Waldeckers, and other mercenaries,
more trouble in crossing the Lakes to Ticonderoga than they at first ex-
pected; indeed several hundred of the enemy were advanced as far on their
jotirney as the Isle aux Fate, but precipitately fled at the approach of our
Navy.
Maryland Journal, Wednesday, September 25, 1776
Baltimore [September 25] .
One of the Prize Ships, taken by the Harlequin, Capt. [William] Wool-
sey, of this Port, is arrived at Chinquetague and most of her Cargo safely
landed.1
1. The ship Caroline.
Maryland Council of Safety to the Secret Committee of the
Continental Congress1
No 193
Gentn Your favor of the 13th we only received the 23rd inst; the delay
was occasioned by y[ou]r letters being delivered to a member of our
Board, who resides on the Eastern Shore, which through hurry of business
for Some time escaped his memory. -
994
AMERICAN THEATRE
We have ordered our Commissary of Stores at Baltimore Town to de-
liver one Ton of Powder to Messrs Lux, Proviance & Stewart for proving
the Cannon intended for the Frigate,2 & the further quantity that you de-
sire for the use of her, shall be supplied, when she is ready, — should it not
in the mean Time be convenient for you to send it from Philadelphia. - It
is true, that we have a considerable quantity of Powder at Baltimore down;
but as we have and are equipping 16 armed vessels of one Sort or other, we
shall in all probability have use for all the Powder we have by us, and in-
deed more. -
Upon all occasions we have furnished the Honble Congress 8c our
neighbours with whatever has been requested of us, and we wish the same
measure had been dealt out to us; if it had, we should not have been deny’d
14 p[iece]s of Canvass, which we were in the greatest want of, to compleat
the Sails for Some armed vessels that we were fitting out, and for want of
it, we have been obliged to substitute Ozns - had we christened our own
Child first. - We could not have let Congress 8c our Friends of Virga have
had 240 ps Sail Duck, nor yet the Canon, Musqts 8cc, which we Supply’d for
the Hornet and Wasp.3
You will be pleased to excuse our reminding yr Board of these things,
for we are exceedingly hurt by it’s refusing us so trifling a Quantity of Can-
vass, at a Time, when we were informed, that not less than 2,000 Bolts were
imported to Phila by Congress in one vessel. We are 8cc:
[Annapolis] 25th Sepr 1776
1. Council of Safety Letter Book, No. 1, Md. Arch.
2. Continental frigate Virginia.
3. The Continental sloop Hornet and schooner Wasp outfitted in Baltimore.
Maryland Council of Safety to Captain James Nicholson 1
No 189.
Sir, We wish to avoid being thought troublesome, but conceiving it to be
indispensibly our duty to have all Accts with this Board adjusted as Speed-
ily as possible, are obliged again to repeat our Request, that you will imme-
diately render us a compleat Acct of all pecuniary Matters, which you have
had the transaction of, relative to the ship Defence, Since you took the Com-
mand of her - The Sooner this Matter is brought to a Conclusion, the bet-
ter, as our Convention, as well as this Board are anxious to have these Accts
adjusted, and yr Attention to the Frigate2 may render it more inconvenient
to you some time hence. We are 8cc:
[Annapolis] Sepr 25th 1776.
1. Council of Safety Letter Book, No. 1, Md. Arch.
2. Continental frigate Virginia.
SEPTEMBER 1776
995
Journal of the Virginia Council of Safety1
[Williamsburg] Wednesday, 25th September 1776.
William Lux Esquire of Baltimore having informed the Board that
Captain Lilly being in want of Sail Cloth for the Brigg Revenge he had sup-
plied him with eleven Pieces of Duck and desiring to have it immediately
returned him; it is ordered that the Commissary of Stores send the same by
Captain Eleazer Callendor, which was signified by Letter to Mr. Lux.
1. Mcllwaine, ed.. Journals of the Virginia Council, I, 174.
Journal of the Virginia Navy Board1
[Williamsburg] Wednesday 25th Septr 1776. -
Ordered that a Warrant Issue to Thomas Hughes for Two hundred and
eight pounds five shillings for the use of Alexander Sinclair for Hemp fur-
nished Capt Charles Thomas for the use of the Rope-Walk.
Ordered that a Warrant Issue to Moses Hunter for the use of Thadeus Bow-
land for Eighty three Pounds three shillings and one penny for Spirits fur-
nished John Rogers for the use of the Workmen at Portsmouth -
Ordered that Mr Joseph Hawkins deliver unto Capt [Alexander] Guthrie
two Barrells of Pork and that Joel Childers deliver unto the said Guthrie
one Barrell of Bread, for the use of the Schooner Flat Peace & Plenty.
1. Navy Board Journal, 62-63, VSL.
Virginia Navy Board to Captain Eleazer Callender of the Defiance 1
Sir, Williamsburg 25th Sepr 1776 —
You are immediately to proceed with your Vessel to Portsmouth then
to wait on the Commanding Officer at that place and inform him that you
are ready to assist in carrying the Troops up the Bay, after you have deliv-
er’d the Troops you are to proceed to Baltimore and there to deliver unto
Messrs Lux and Bowley eleven pieces of Duck which you will receive from
Lieut. Bowling of the Schooner Flat, Peace and plenty and from thence you
are to return to York Town, and upon your arrival there give us immediate
Notice.
(Signd) Thom8 Whiting
NB. You are to leave your Marines 1
at york Town untill you return J
1. Navy Board Letter Book, VSL.
Journal of the South Carolina General Assembly 1
[Charleston] Wednesday the 25th of September. 1776
The Order of the Day being read. . .
A Petition of John Berwick Esquire was presented to the House and
read in the words following
996
AMERICAN THEATRE
That on or about the night of the 16th of July last while your
Petitioner was called from the Care of his private Concerns and
bearing Arms in Charles Town in Defence of this State against the
cruel Invaders of its just Rights and Priviledges an armed Vessel
supposed to be that commanded by Captain Osborn commissioned
by the Province of East Florida to cruize against the United States
of America landed his men and carried off by violence Eight of
his most valuable Slaves compelling the Overseers Wife to conduct
them to those Houses where the best of his negroes were known to
reside to the great Injury of the Estate of your Petitioner said
Slaves together with a Loss sustained in his Crop being in the
Opinion of your Petitioner to the value of Seven Thousand Pounds
Currency at a moderate Computation
Your Petitioner also begs Leave to represent to the House that
he is well informed that John Moultrie Esquire Lieutenant Gov-
ernor of East-Florida from whence the said piratical cruizer was
commissioned and John Stuart Esquire late Superintendent of
Indian Affairs are possessed of certain Estates or other Property
within this State and the said John Moultrie and John Stuart
Esquires having taken an active Part with our Enemies against
these United States
Your Petitioner therefore encouraged by some recent Prece-
dents in which Individuals have been permitted to make Reprisals
and to indemnify themselves for their Losses by seizing upon the
Property of the Enemy within this State prays that the House would
take the Premises into Consideration and enable your Petitioner
to attach and convert to his own use so much of the Property or
Effects of the said John Moultrie or John Stuart Esquires or any
other known Enemy of this State and of the Liberties of America in
general found within this State as shall fully indemnify him for his
great Losses or that the House would be pleased to grant your Pe-
titioner such other mode of Redress as to their wisdom may seem
more fit and proper
Ordered That the Petition be referred to a Committee
Ordered That the Honourable Mr [John] Edwards and Captain
Joiner do wait on the President to acquaint him that this House and the
Elonourable the Legislative Council have jointly by Ballot duly elected
James Dogharty Esquire Captain and Commander of the armed Brigantine
Comet belonging to this State and to request that His Excellency will be
pleased to cause him to be sent for Express and to commissionate him
accordingly
1. Salley, eel., South Carolina General Assembly Journals, 47, 48, 51.
SEPTEMBER 1776
997
Journal of H.M.S. Maidstone , Captain Alan Gardner1
[September 1776] Running thro’ the Turks Island Passage. -
Wednesday. 25 AM 1 Saw a Sail in the SE. Gave Chace — 2 and 3
TKd Ship. Fired a Gun and brot too a Sloop from Cape
Francois to - under Dutch Colours said to be Bound
for St Eustatia with Molasses and Rum, mann’d with
Americans; no Dutchmen, and no Papers only an old
Dutch Register, & Seized her, took out the Master and
Men, Sent a Mate and 4 Men to take Charge of her.2
1. PRO, Admiralty 51/572.
2. Sloop Dolphin , see Gayton’s Prize List under October 8.
26 Sept.
Journal of the Massachusetts Council1
[Watertown] Thursday Septemr 26, 1776
On Motion Ordered Thomas Cushing Esqr be directed to make some
Alterations in the Orders agreed upon by the Board last Saturday to Capt
John Clouston Commander of the Armed Sloop Freedom and that similar
Orders be given to Capt [Simeon] Sampson Commander of the Brig Inde-
pendence as Also similar Orders be given to Capt John Foster Williams
Commander of the Sloop [ Republic ] .2
On Motion Ordered That the Secretary be directed to apply to Mr Edes
Printer and get printed forwith 1000 Copies of General Instructions agreed
upon in Congress April 3d last to the Commanders of private Ships or Ves-
sels of War authorizing them to make Captures of British Vessels and Car-
goes.
Simeon Sampson’s Muster Roll of Officers and Men on board the Brig
Independence to the 22d September last Read and Ordered that a Warrant
be drawn on the Treasury for £ 670 - in part of Wages due on said Roll a
Warrant was drawn accordingly and Signed by 15 of the Council.
Letter from the Honorable William Seaver Esqr relative to some Re-
pairs wanting to the Brigt Independence as Also some Provisions Read
and Ordered That the Honorable Mr Seaver be appointed Agent and he
hereby is directed to supply the said Brig with such Stores and other Articles
as may be necessary to equip said Brig for the Sea. Ordered the Secretary
draft an Order for this Purpose which was read and Accepted.
Bonds being given by Walter Hatch Simeon Sampson and Samuel Nut-
ting a Commision was issued out to the said Walter Hatch as Commander of
the Schooner Hope.
1. Mass. Arch., vol. 19, 247, 248, 249.
2. See Council to Captain Clouston, September 20.
998
AMERICAN THEATRE
Order of the Massachusetts Council Appointing William Sever
Agent for the Massachusetts State Brig Independence 1
In Council [Watertown] Sept 26th 1776
Ordered — That the Hon’ble William Seaver Esq. be appointed to pro-
vide the armed Vessel commanded by Simeon Sampson with Such Stores
and other Articles as may be necessary to equip Said Vessel for the Sea and
the Commissary is hereby directed to supply said Vessell out of the Public
Store with Such things as by said Mr Seaver shall be required of him.
John Avery Dpy Secy
1. Mass. Arch., vol. 165, 285.
Petition for Commission for Walter Hatch to Command the
Massachusetts Privateer Schooner Hope 1
State of Massachusetts Bay -
To the Honble the Council of Massachusetts Bay-
The Petition of Watson and Spooner, Sami Jackson & Jno Grey in the Town
of Plymouth, In behalf of themselves 8c Others Owners of the Schooner
Hope , Burthen ’d About forty Seven Tons, Armed with Five three Pounders
and Ten Swivels - Three hundred wt Powder, One hundred 3 lb 8c 20 double
head’d Shott, 300 Swivel Shott 40 2y2 lb do 800 Grape Shott - Provisions,
25 Bbls Pork & Beef and 2000 Bread, Navigated By 45 Men, Walter Hatch
Commander, is designed to Cruise Against the Enemies of the United
States of America
Your Petitioners Would therefore humbly request Your honors, to
Commission the said Vessel 8c Capt for the purpose Aforesaid, and Your Pe-
titioners as in duty Bound shall ever pray —
N B John Churchill firs Leut Watson 8c Spooner
Solomon Whitton 2 Leut Sam1 Jackson
Sibeline White Master John Gr[a]y
[Endorsed] In Council [Watertown] Sept 26th 1776 Read 8c Ordered
that a Commission be issued out to the above named Walter Hatch, he
complying with the Resolves of Congress
Jn° Avery Dpy Secy
1. Mass. Arch., vol. 165, 286.
Order of the Massachusetts Council to the Boston Committee
of Safety Regarding the Ship William 1
In Council [Watertown] Sepr 26, 1776 —
Ordered 1 hat the Committee of Safety Inspection 8cc of the Town of
Boston, be, 8c they hereby are Directed to Deliver to Mr William Ross owner
of the ship William (Lately the Creighton ) the sails, or any other Articles
SEPTEMBER 1776
999
now in their Possession belonging to said ship, And the said Committee are
further Directed, Carefully to Inspect the said ship, 8c to take Care that no
one Person takes Passage in the said ship but such as have a Certificate in
Writing under the hand of the Secretary of this State or his Deputy Certi-
fying that Liberty has been Granted them for that Purpose.2 And the said
Committee are also Directed to see that no other [s] but such as Produce a
Certificate as aforesaid take passage in said Vessell, And the Committee are
Directed to Permitt Mr Ross to take onboard as Provision for the Voyage
Such Articles named in a Bill of Stores this Day Deliver’d Mr Ross signed
by the Secretary, which has been alo[w]ed by this Board — 8c the Commit-
tee are also Directed to Return a List of the names of the Persons who shall
actually Sail in the said ship to this Board as soon as may be.3
1. Mass. Arch., vol. 165, 278.
2. See following entries.
3. To sail for England.
List of Persons Permitted to Sail in the Ship William for England 1
[September 26]
3 Children 8c 3 Servts
Willnr Ross 8c Wife
Nathl Morgan dead
Paxton Hatch
Hugh Mtmrcr fc- Servts- fc Black Woman 8c Boy
George Campbell 8c a Black Boy
John Barslet 8c White Boy 8c Girl
John Grant 8c White Serv[t]
William Jones
Wm Pringle
James Dillon
Willm Le [s] ly Wife 8c 2 Children
Joseph Dowse
Thos Cragg 8c Servt
Walter Logan Wife 8c Son
Ann {illegible]
George Keys
Mainsweet Walrond 8c Servt
> 21 Augt
inquire relative
to Kennedy
Philip Hicks 8c Servt
Charles Grant 8c Servt
Eliz[a] Fenton w[th] her 3 Children 8c one Servt
Willm Williams a free Negro
Patrick Power
Willm Barret a free Negro
Capt Lionel Bradstreet
George Ashburne
John Frazier
Willm Jenkins w[th] his Servt Boy
1000
AMERICAN THEATRE
Robert Browne
John Moon
John Stalker
Peter Gourlay
Adam High
Thos Lemon
Wm Pascall
John Brown
John Emmes
J. B. Barnard
Danl Donovan 8c Servt
Mark Sedden 8c Servt
George Bates
Hugh Walker
Arc[h] Bog
Robt Park
Charles Reid
Alexr Tough
Thos Mahoney2
1. Mass. Arch., vol. 165, 111.
2. Ibid., 282-83, 288, 297, additional names were added to the passenger list this date: James
Hodges, William Ernie, James McGill, Alexander Lidell and Thomas Cromarty. And,
on September 27, Jonathan Dudfield and “a Young Son with him about six Years old
& a Black Boy” were granted premission to leave.
Stores Permitted by the Massachusetts Council On
Board the Ship William 1
In Councill [Watertown] Sept 26, 1776 —
Ordered that Mr Ross lie Permitted to take onboard the ship William
the Articles hereafter named as Provisions for the Voyage.
4 Tr[ce]s 8c 4 blls Salt Beeff
2 blls Pork 8c 1 bll Pease
1 bll Herrings 8c 1 do Meal
2000 lb Bread 3 firkins of Butter 8c 2 boxes Candles
20 Sheep 30 young Sho[a]ts, 12 dozn fowls, 3 dozn Geese 8c 100 lb fish
100 lb Coffee 6 lb Tea 200 lb Sugar 12 Cheeses 8c 12 Hams
1 hhd Madeira & 1 hhd Porter in bottles, 40 Galls Rum 6 Casks Cyder
2 Cases Gin — 100 lb Spare rope
A few Vegetables of difft kinds
50,000 Galls water
Hay 8c Corn for the live Stock
1 Chaldron Coals 8c fire wood —
1. Mass. Arch., vol. 165, 110.
SEPTEMBER 1776
1001
Independent Chronicle , Thursday, September 26, 1776
[Boston, September 26]
Last Tuesday the Washington Privateer sent into Newbury-Port a
Prize Bark, one of the Enemy’s Transports, bound from the British Fleet at
New-York, to St. Vincents. Her Cargo consists of Provisions and some
other Stores.1
Last Sunday was sent into Providence, by Capt. Munroe, the prize ship
Blaze Castle, from Barbados, bound for London, having on board 100 Pipes
Madeira Wine, 120 Hogsheads Sugar, 18000 Weight Whale-Bone, 120 Bar-
rels Oil, &c.2
Last Thurday Afternoon arrived in this Harbour the prize ship Venus,
from Honduras, about 200 tons burthen, taken by Elijah Freeman Paine, in
the schooner Eagle, from Providence, on the 23d August at Night, in
Lat. 35, Long. 57, W. Her Cargo consists of 100 Tons of chip Logwood, 400
Logs of Mahogony, and 150 Weight of Turtle-Shell. The next Day Capt.
Paine discovered a Brigantine, save Chase, and took her: she was from Vir-
ginia, bound to Hamburgh, laden with Tobacco, belonging to one Smith of
that Place; but by the Papers and Letters found on board, it appeared she
was destined for London.3
Last Monday was also sent into this Harbour by the Eagle, Capt.
Paine, a Ship of 160 Tons, from Grenada, bound for London, having on
board 150 Puncheons of Rum, 109 Hogsheads of Sugar, some Cotton, 8cc.4
A Letter from Providence, of 23d Instant, says, “The Columbus Vessel
of War, has sent a prize Brig into Newport, loaded with Lumber, bound for
Europe.”5
Yesterday morning a Sloop, laden with dry Fish, was carried into
Salem, by Capt. [Samuel] Waters, in the schooner Dolphin, mounting only
six Swivels.6
1. The ship Georgia Diana taken by the Massachusetts privateer schooner Washington, Captain
Nathaniel Odiorne.
2. Captain James Munro of the Rhode Island privateer sloop Sally.
3. The brig Fanny, Captain William Tokely, loaded on account of the Secret Committee, sailed
from Virginia in July. On August 24 Payne took her and carried her into Plymouth, but
did not libel against her. There was much subsequent dispute regarding this brig.
4. The ship Caledonia.
5. The brig was not a prize of the Columbus.
6. The schooner Prosperity.
Continental Journal, Thursday, September 26, 1776
Boston, September 26.
On the 31st of August last was taken by the Schooner Hannah and
Molly, and the Dolphin privateers, and carried into Frenchman’s Bay, the
Brigantine Royal George, commanded by Dennis Doyle, having on board the
following articles, viz. 200 tierces of Pork, 231 barrels of Beef, 270 firkins
of Butter, 169 barrels of Oatmeal, 11 tierces of Beef, 1 crock of Butter, 25
1002
AMERICAN THEATRE
sacks split Peas, 25 boxes Candles, 30 boxes of Soap, 20 barrels Pork, she
was bound from Waterford in Ireland to Hallifax, out 10 weeks, brings no
news, excepting that they had an account in Ireland, that the British troops
had taken possession of the greatest part of Philadelphia, and had taken the
Continental Congress prisoners.
Yesterday Capt. [Nathaniel] Odiorne, in the Washington privateer,
carried into Newbury-Port, a bark from New York, bound to St. Vincent s,
with provisions for 120 men for 6 months. - She sailed in company with 5 or
6 transports, under convoy of the Solebay frigate, in order to fetch troops
from thence.
A French schooner which sailed from Newbury-Port, about a month
ago, was taken by one of the ministerial pirates, re-taken by the Washing-
ton privateer, from thence, and is now safe arrived there.
Libels Filed Against Various Prizes in the Massachusetts
Admiralty Court 1
State of Massachusetts-Bay
Middle District, ss
j>To all whom it may concern.
Notice is hereby given, That Libels are filed before me, against the fol-
lowing Vessels, their Cargoes and Appurtenances; to wit: — in Behalf of
the Officers, Marines and Mariners of the armed Sloop called the Rover , and
the Owners thereof, against the Sloop J antes , of about sixty Tons burthen,
laden with Tobacco and Turpentine, and commanded by one Thomas Bar-
ker, an Officer of the Ranger Sloop of War, by which the said Sloop James
had been before taken from some of the Inhabitants of the United States
of America: — In Behalf of Captain Sampson and his Company of the
armed Brigantine Independence , in the Service of the State of the Massa-
chusetts-Bay, against the Brigantine called the Nabby, burthened about 150
Tons, Jonathan Mason, late Master: — In behalf of William Cows [szc
Coas] and Company of the armed Schooner Warren, and the Owners
thereof, against the ship Picary, burthened about 300 Tons, Breholt Cleve-
land, late Master; and against the Brigantine Swallow, burthened about
seventy Tons, Benjamin Griffiths, late Master: — In Behalf of the Officers,
Marines, Mariners and Owners of the Privateer Schooner Washington
against the ship Georgia Diana, Peter Regan, late Master: — In behalf of
Capt. Nathaniel Perley and his Company, and the Owners of the armed
Schooner Success against the Sloop Hero, of about seventy Tons, Jabez Per-
kins, late Master; and against the Sloop Lord Howe, burthened about 60
Tons, Elisha Coffin late Master: — In behalf of Capt. John Fisk and his
Company, in the armed Sloop Tyrannicide, in the Service of this State,
against the Snow Anna, of about 90 Tons Burthen, Jonathan Dudfield, late
Master: — In Behalf of Capt. Daniel Waters and his Company, in the Con-
tinental armed Schooner Lee, against the Sloop Betsey, of about 60 Tons
burthen, which has been before taken by the Milford Man of War from
SEPTEMBER 1776
1003
some of the Inhabitants of the American States. All which Vessels, their
Cargoes and Appurtenances, so libelled, are said to have been taken and
brought into the Middle-District aforesaid.
And for the Trial of the Justice of these Captures, the Maritime Court
for the said Middle-District, will be held at Salem, in the County of Essex
on Tuesday , the Fifteenth Day of October, 1776, at the Elour of Ten in the
Forenoon; when and where the Owners of said Captures, and any Persons
concerned, may appear and shew Cause, if any they have, why the same, or
any of them, should not be condemned.
Timothy Pickering, jun. Judge of said Court.
[Boston, September 26]
1. Independent Chronicle, Boston, September 26, 1776. Same issue contained libels against
brigantine Henrietta and brig William and Mary taken by Massachusetts privateer sloop
Revenge.
Advertisement of Sale of Prize Ships and Cargoes1
On Tuesday, the 1st October, at Ten in the Morning, Will be Sold by
Public Vendue, At Newbury-Port, The Ship Nancy , and her Cargo, consist-
ing of 360 Hogsheads of Sugar and 40 Puncheons of Rum.
J. Russell, Auctioneer
On Wednesday, October 2d, At Ten in the Morning, Will be sold by
Public Auction, At the Wharf of Richard Derby, Esq; in Salem, The Ship
Anna Maria, and her Cargo, consisting of 250 Hogsheads of the best clayed
Sugar, 50 Hogsheads of best white ditto, and 150 Hogsheads of brown
ditto; likewise, 30 Bales of Cotton 280 Bags of Ginger, 160 Goards of Aloes, 2
Hogsheads of Barbados Tar, 10 Hogsheads of Barbados Rum, and 48 Pipes
and 6 half Pipes of Sterling Madeira wine.
N. B. The ship is 300 tons burthen, a fine vessel, River built and well
found; she will be put up precisely at 12 o’Clock.
Walter P. Bartlett, Auctioneer
On Thursday, October 3d. At Ten in the Morning, Will also be sold at
Public Auction, At the Place above-mentioned, The Cargo of the Ship Polly,
consisting of 350 Hogsheads of the best Muscavado sugars.
Walter P. Bartlett, Auctioneer.
On Thurday, the 3d of October next, at Eleven in the Morning, Will be
sold by Public Vendue, at Capt. William Fleet’s store, On the Long Wharf,
7Te Ship Queen of England, and her Appurtenances, together with her
Cargo, consisting of 800 Barrels of Pork, and 270 Firkins Butter.
J. Russell, Auctioneer.
1. Independent Chronicle , Boston, September 26, 1776.
1004
AMERICAN THEATRE
Petition of Samuel Lightbourn and Others to Return to Bermuda1
Port of Providence. September [26], 1776.
To the Honorable Nicholas Cooke Esquire Governor and Commander in
Chief of and over the State of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations.
The Petition of Samuel Lightbourn, late Master of the Brigantine
Fanny, Elizabeth Key, Hannah Keele for herself and Charlotte her infant
Daughter, John Noble Taylor for himself and John Hollingsworth his Serv-
ant, and Edward Brickwood Passengers on board said Brigg and all Inhab-
itants of the Island of Bermuda humbly Sheweth, That they were bound in
said Brigg from Antigua to London, and on their Passage were taken by the
Independence a private Vessel of War Commanded by Capt Jabez Whipple
and brought into Providence in the State aforesaid, and that their Affairs
make it absolutely necessary for them to return as soon as possible to Ber-
muda. They therefore, as no Opportunity offers, nor will probably soon
Offer, of their procuring a Passage to said Island humbly pray your honor to
permit them to purchase a small Vessel to transport them thither, with
their Chests, Apparel &c. and also to take on board some Corn and Flour
for the Use of the Inhabitants of said Island who are suffering for want of
Provisions. — And as in Duty bound will ever pray 8cc.
Samuel Lightbourn E: Key
Hannah Keele for self and Daughter Charlotte
John Noble Taylor for self and John Hollingsworth
Edward Brickwood 2
1. Account of Permissions granted by his Honor the Governor, R. I. Arch.
2. Ibid., permission was granted this date, and Lightbourn was allowed to take on board “a
Lading of Corn and Flour for the Use of the Inhabitants of that Island.”
Journal of the Connecticut Council of Safety1
[Lebanon] September 26, 1776.
Voted, That Messrs John Hudson 8c Co.2 from Long Island be en-
couraged to depend on purchasing four four-pounder cannon and four swivels
from this State as soon as they can be cast and finished. And the overseers of the
furnace at Salisbury are hereby directed to deliver the same to them accord-
ingly, they paying the customary price therefor.
Voted, That Messrs. Lyon 8c Co. at East Haddam be encouraged to de-
pend on purchasing two six-pounders and eight four-pounders of cannon
from this State as soon as they can be cast, for their privateer.3 And the over-
seers of the furnace are directed to deliver them accordingly at the price
given by others for cannon of the same sizes.
Voted, That Capt. Jabez Perkins be encouraged to depend on pur-
chasing two four-pounders of cannon from this State as soon as they can be
cast, for the use of his privateer4 or letter of marque. And the overseers of
SEPTEMBER 1776
1005
the furnace are directed to deliver the same accordingly, at the customary
price.
1. Hoadlv, ed., Connecticut Records, XV, 524-25.
2. Owners of the privateer sloop Revenge, commissioned October 23, 1776, Joseph Conkling,
commander.
3. Privateer sloop Lyon, commissioned November 27, 1776, Timothy Shaler, commander.
4. Privateer sloop Nancy, commissioned October 5, 1776, William Wattles, commander.
Richard Law to the Connecticut Committee of the Pay Table 1
Draw on the Treasurer of the State of Connecticut in favour of William
Coit Esqr Commander of Ship Oliver Cromwell for the Sum of Six hundred
pounds LMy for the Use of this State to be in Account with said Ship -
£ 600 LMy
Draw on the Treasurer of the State of Connecticut in favour of Capt
Ephraim Bill for the Sum of three hundred pounds LMy to be on Acct of
the Ship Oliver Cromwell.
Sign’d pr order
Lebanon Sept 26. 1776 Richd Law Clerk
1. Conn.Arch., 1st Series, IX, 123a, 123c, ConnSL.
Nathaniel Shaw, Jr. to Governor Jonathan Trumbull1
Sir New London Sepr 26th 1776
The barer Daniel Deshon is a Person who has Saild in my Imploy Sev-
eral Years last Past & has behav’d himself well as a Seaman, and last April
was taken by the Scarborough Man of Warr in a Schooner that I Imported
Powder in for the Continent. -2
I think he is Qualified for a Second Lieutenants birth in the Brigg De-
fence, 8c if your Honour has no objection should be Glad he may have an
Appointmt to that office — I am Sir [8cc.]
Nath1 Shaw junr
1. Conn.Arch., 1st Series, IX, 315, ConnSL,
2. The John and Joseph. See Volume 4.
Nathaniel Shaw, Jr. to Barnabas Deane, Wethersfield1
New London Sepr 26 1776
I Reed yours 23d Inst, this moment & observe what you say about Iron,
am sorry I cannot have it as my Vessell will be delay’d unless I can procure
it. Note your wanting many articles for the Ship as stores of every kind are
Scar[c]e I think you had better git as many of the articles you shall want
in the River before the Ship comes round, and we will then endeavour to
make up the Remainder here, the anchor you mention may be had, also
two of a less Size that will answer if you want. I know not how we shall git
the Cables unless sum of our Crusing Vessells should bring in some large
Ships, in that case we can Strip them & take their Stores - 2 If you’l
1006
AMERICAN THEATRE
Send me the Receipts for the Continental Goods at Providence I will send a
Boat to bring them Round - As to underwriting I confess I am too much of
a Coward to Venture — I have orders to purchase all the Cloth that is Suita-
ble for Tents that is to be bought, can you let me know if their is any to
be had with you 8c what number of yards I would purchase tow Cloth if I
can get nothing better I am Sir [8cc.]
1. Shaw Collection, Letter Book, YUL.
2. Stores were wanted for the Continental frigate Trumbull at Chatham.
Advertisement for Deserter from the Connecticut Ship
Oliver Cromwell 1
Deserted, last Friday, from the ship Oliver Cromwell, lying in the Har-
bour of New- London, an Indian named Oliver Blossom, who said he was
born at Montauk, is tall and strait limb’d, pitted with the Small-pox, pretty
Talkative, says he ran away from a Man of War, and has a Pass from Gen.
Washington’s Aid de Camp: Had on a green short Jacket, striped Trowsers,
a small round felt Hat, and a check’d woollen Shirt. Whoever will return
him to said Ship shall have a handsome Reward, and all necessary Charges
paid by
William Coit
New-London, Sept. 26, 1776.
1. Connecticut Gazette, October 4, 1776.
Master's Log of H. M. Brig Halifax1
Septr 1776 Remarks off Citty Island Long Island Sound.
Thursdy 26 AM at 6 weighd and Came to sail Kitty 8c Swift Tenders In
Company at 10 saw two Sail to the Nt Made the Tenders
signl to Chace at 11 perceived the two Vessels to be Sloops
the[y] bore away for Norwalk Made the signal to leave off
Chace at Noon Jiney cook point - South 2 Miles
Fresh Breezes and Cloudy P M at 1 Came too in Huntington
Bay: Edens point NE - the Entrance of the Harbr SSW.
Sent the Tenders 8c Boats in to the Harbour to search for two
Rebel Vessels Reported to be there at 10 they came back
having found an empty Brigg 8c Sloop in the Harbr
1. PRO, Admiralty 52/1775.
Major General Horatio Gates to Brigadier General Benedict Arnold1
Dear General [Ticonderoga] 26th September 1776
Yesterday I received Your Letter of the 21st Instant I hope your little
Schooner had ample satisfaction for the Injury her people suffered in the
Batteau —
1 his will be deliver’d you by Captain [Seth] Warner of the Trumbull
Row Galley. She carries you a fine reinforcement of Seamen, 8c besides is
SEPTEMBER 1776
1007
herself a considerable Addition to your Squadron. The Schooner, & the Two
Other Gallies will follow Sunday, or Monday at Farthest; but the Cordage
is not yet Arrived; and General Waterbury assures me, that if your Esti-
mate was as large as you Mention it to have been, not more than a Third of
it can have been sent; as, more than Twenty Coils of Rigging are now
Wanted for the Gallies already built. — The powder wrote for so long ago is
not even in part received at Tyonderoga; Oconomy is the Word — You can-
not be more Anxious to have all the Gallies with you, than we are to send
them. Be satisfied; more cannot be done than is done to Dispatch them —
Col [Jonathan] Trumbull [Jr.] writes you an Account, or rather, ru-
mour of an Action, that happen’d last Sunday, near Turtle Bay. When any
thing to be depended upon, Arrives, I will send it you without Delay — In-
closed is Dr [Jonathan] Potts’s Letter to me, which I received last Night.
My Affectionate Compliments to Col: [Edward] Wigglesworth. I am [&c.]
1. Gates Papers, Box 19, NYHS.
Captain Thomas Cregier to the New York Committee of Safety 1
Gentlemen — Fishkill, September 26, 1776
I have done myself the honour of waiting upon your Honourable
House, in order to lay before you the state and condition of the schooner
General Putnam , under my command, and finding there can be no Conven-
tion by reason that some of the members are absent, and it being uncertain
when those gentlemen will return, I, to avoid the expenses which myself and
horse are at, think it prudent to return to my house at the King’s Bridge,
where I shall remain at my own expense until I do receive farther instruc-
tions from your Honourable House.
Gentlemen, I must in the first place acquaint you, that my provisions
being expended, having not more on board than will support the company
about fifteen days; in the next place, my vessel being very small and low in
the water, my largest ordnance being twelve swivel guns, the shrouds very
old and not trustworthy, my best bower cable but very poor, the vessel very
weak and leaky, which weakness proceeded from her lying on a bar and a
heavy surf breaking over her when I was run on shore by a man of war, the
people much exposed when under sail or even in hard rains, the water pour-
ing into their cabins which prevents them from lying in their beds. Diligent
search has been made in order to stop the leaks, but all to no purpose, daily
complaints being made by my people in regard to the vessel’s condition, and
the season of the year advancing toward cold and stormy weather — this,
gentlemen, is certainly the condition of the vessel. The people almost naked,
having no shoes nor stockings, and the most part of them not the second
shirt to their backs; no money has been advanced to them but from my own
private purse; no fresh meat allowed, although I have applied for it; no
rum allowed them, which has occasioned much disturbance on board; they
have demanded an allowance of a half pint of rum per day, which is allowed
1008
AMERICAN THEATRE
the men in the Continental fleet, and insist upon it that the Provincial Con-
gress gives that allowance: A riot was made just before I left the vessel in
regard to their allowance of rum, in which affair I was obliged to make use
of my authority amongst some of the principal ringleaders, upon which
some of them have undertaken to complain of my conduct to your Honours
by letters. I never heard that the conduct of a commander was to be taken
notice of from a report made by a common boatswain, carpenter, or gunner,
&c., men who sacrifice every thing that is dear to them for a single can of
grog; men whom I have picked up and put in office on purpose to have the
vessel manned, and as the vessel is but very small I was glad to pick up any
trash. I am very clear you will not find any of my principal officers’ names
in that complaint; they are men of good families and characters, hearty in
the cause of liberty; if such men were to complain of my conduct, I confess
I ought to stand corrected. Perhaps the names of my chief officers you
would be glad to know; my chief lieutenant is Thomas Quig[l]y, David
Walker is my second lieutenant, Eliakim Little is the master, and Cornelius
French is my mate; and upon the whole, I would recommend it to your Hon-
ourable House to give directions to lay the vessel up as unfit for any farther
service this season, as I look upon keeping her any longer in commission
will only be a great expense without the gleam of any profit or service. As
for my part, I am determined not to enjoy a commission unless I can be of
service to my country, for I should, on that part of the coast where the ves-
sel is, only be picking the public’s pocket, as nothing is to be met with there
but frigates, sloops of war, and large tenders, which we are not able to en-
gage. I am determined to serve in the present cause, and will spend my last
moments in serving my country, and fix myself at the seat of war, and
whenever I am called on will cheerfully join heart and hand with my
staunch countrymen. The accounts of the vessel should be settled and the
people paid off, which matters I leave to be determined by your Honours,
and shall wait your command with due respect, and am [Sec.]
Thomas Cregier.
1. New York Provincial Congress, II, 217-18.
Major Charles Stuart to his Father, the Earl of Bute1
[Extract] Blomindel Heights Camp, Sept. 26, 1776
On the 16th of this month we marched from Newtown Camp, and the
Corps de Reserve, consisting of three Battalions of Lt. Infantry, the Ger-
man Jagers, my Battalion of Highland Grenadiers, and 42nd and 32nd
Regts., embarked on board flat-bottomed boats in Newtown Creek, from
whence we proceeded on our way to land upon New York Island. A 50 gun
ship and two Frigates were drawn up to cover the landing.
Upon the enemy perceiving our boats, they sent several columns of
men to line sunk breast-works that they had previously made to prevent a
landing. We steered to the right and landed about three miles above the
town under an incessant fire from the shipping.
SEPTEMBER 1776
1009
A more glorious scene I never beheld; the thunder of the ships, the ap-
pearance of the enemy, the ardor of our troops, the whole army drawn up
on Long Island ready to support us, surpassed everything of magnificance.
So well did the army do their business that the enemy evacuated their lines,
and we landed without opposition.
We immediately rush’d for wood [ sic forward] and took possession
of a Hill about a mile from the spot where we landed. In our way we
had some skirmishes in which our Brigadier Gen. [John] Vaughan was
wounded, and some few men of the Hessians; when the whole army was
landed we proceeded on the Harlem road to these Heights. The enemy made
a show of giving us battle several times as they retreated; we lay on our
arms that night . . .
The day we landed, great numbers of the enemy escaped by the North
River, which gave people room to conjecture that had our army crossed
quite to the River we should have shut up near 6,000 of them in the town.
Some days after two Brigades took possession of New York, which
they found almost entirely evacuated, but the houses in tolerable order.
I went a Volunteer upon an expedition against Paulus Hook on the
20th of this month with Ld. [Hugh] Percy, who with 3,000 men had orders
to reduce it, as it annoyed our shipping as they entered the North River. It
is a small peninsular on the west side of the River. We expected much op-
position, but the rebels, after firing a few cannon shot, ran away. There are
no fewer than five works there, and during the winter they might have
made it very disagreeable in the town.
1. New Records of the American Revolution. The Letters, Manuscripts and Documents sent
by Lieut.-Gen. Sir Charles Stuart, to his Father, the Earl of Bute, 1775-79 and Letters
of General Howe, General Clinton, and other Officers to Sir Charles Stuart, during the
Revolution, 1779-81 (privately printed, n.d.) , 10, 11.
Minutes of the Secret Committee of the Continental Congress 1
[Philadelphia] 26th Septr 1776
Ordered, That Mr Morris employ a proper Person to go to New Eng-
land to charter Vessels to proceed from thence to Chesapeak Bay, there to
load with Tobacco, now purchasing for account of the Continent.
1. Henry Laurens Collection, SCHS.
Minutes of the Pennsylvania Council of Safety1
In Council of Safety,
[Philadelphia] Septem’r 26th, 1776.
Resolved , That Thomas Seymour, Esq’r, be appointed Commodore &
Commander-in-Chief of all the Naval Armaments in the service of this
State.
Resolved , That the members of this Board, or as many as Conveniently
can, go down to Fort Island to-morrow morning to accompany Commodore
1010
AMERICAN THEATRE
Seymour to the Fleet; That Instructions be drawn up to deliver the Commo
dore with his Commission.
The following are the Instructions deliver’d to the Commodore, vizt
In Council of Safety, Septem’r 26th, 1776.
The Council having thought proper to appoint you Commo-
dore & Commander-in-Chief of all the Naval Armaments of this
State in the River Delaware, which you are to notify to the
Officers of the Fleet by publishing to them your Commission, It be-
comes necessary to give you some Instructions to regulate your
Conduct in some points of this Important Trust.
And First: You are, by all Possible means, to establish such
a proper sense of Subordination in the Fleet, that all the Orders
you think necessary to Issue be punctually and implicitly obeyed, a
loose and relaxed discipline utterly enfeebling every Military Es-
tablishment, however respectable it may otherwise be in the Cir-
cumstance of number & force.
Secondly. As it is the duty and Inclination of this Council to
Maintain the Fleet in a Constant preperation to receive the enemy,
you must Immediately take an exact survey of its present Condi-
tion, and whatever may be wanting in its equipments to make re-
port to Capt. Wm. Richards, who is appointed and directed to sup-
ply all its deficiencies.
Thirdly. An attack from the Enemy being highly Probable,
tho’ the time uncertain, it is necessary that every part of the Fleet
should have its proper Station assigned, in such way as to afford
Mutual Support, and that the whole may act to the best effect.
Fourthly. You must particularly attend not only to the situ-
ation of the Fleet, but take great care that the Officers and Men
are not absent from their respective Vessels any length of time
and at any great distance, but as it is probable that some of the
Officers of the Boats may be desirous of coming up to this City,
you may give leave of absence to them in such number and for so
long a time as the service may admit, so that not more than one-
third be absent at any one time or longer than Forty eight Hours,
from their respective Vessels.
Lastly. Should any accident or Circumstance happen in the
Fleet that has the least tendency to effect the service, you are to
give the earliest Information of it to the Council of Safety, that
they, if they have the Means of Remedy, may apply such as the na-
ture of the Case may require.
These being the Principal Matters that have occured to the
Council, they earnestly recommend to you however, that you en-
deavour to promote the Utmost Harmony between you and the
Officers of the Fleet, and between one another, on which depends
so much the success of every undertaking where men are to act in
concert, and Mutual assistance required.
SEPTEMBER 1776
1011
Resolved , That the Officers of the Fleet belonging to this State be al-
lowed the same pay that the Officers in the Continental Service have, from
the first of October next.
1. Pennsylvania Colonial Records, X, 730, 731-32.
Memoir of Richard Dale1
[On board the Continental brig Lexington,
July 27 to September 26, 1776] 2
. . . upon his return from Bermuda — whither he had gone with Wil-
liam Gutteridge [ sic Goodrich] — he was captured by captain John Barry,
commander of the United States’ brig Lexington, and on the same day en-
tered as a midshipman on board said brig. This occurred in July, 1776. Not
long afterwards, the brig, whilst cruising, was struck with lightning: Dale,
with many others, were prostrated, senseless, upon the deck. They were all,
however, providentially restored in a few minutes.
Soon after this the brig arrived at Philadelphia. . . .
1. The Port Folio, III, No. VI, June, 1814.
2. The Lexington returned to Philadelphia on September 26. Clark, Gallant John Barry, 101.
Trial and Condemnation of the British Prize Sloop Betsey
in the Pennsylvania Admiralty Court 1
And now to wit the twenty sixth Day of September aforesaid [1776]
at a Court of Admiralty held at the State house in the City of Philadelphia
aforesaid Before his Honor the Judge the Register certifieth that in Obedi-
ence to his Honor’s Order he had caused due and publick Notice to be given
of the Time place and Cause of holding this Court by causing to be pub-
lished in the Pennsylvania Packet and Evening post two of the publick
News papers printed at Philadelphia the following Advertisement to wit
[Here is inserted the text of the libel of September 9]
And thereupon cometh the Marshall of the said Court namely Matthew
Clarkson Esquire and returneth the Warrant aforesaid and certifieth unto
the Judge by Way of Indorsement thereon that he hath summoned the
twenty four Jurors in the Pannel to the said Warrant annexed named so
that they should be and appear at the Day and place in the said Warrant
specified as therein he was commanded -
And hereupon the Bill aforesaid being read Proclamation was pub-
lickly made That if any Persons had aught to say why the said Sloop with
her Tackle Apparel Furniture and Cargo and the Negro Slaves mentioned
in the said Bill should not be condemned according to the prayer of the said
Bill they should come forth and be heard when no person appearing to claim
or defend The Jurors in the Panel aforesaid named were severally called
and William Adcock John Ashmead Woolman Sutton Joseph Wetherill
Thomas Nevil Benjamin Worrell Evan Evans Daniel Dolby Benjamin
Jones Robert Fitzgerrald Robert McKnight and Jedediah Snowden being
1012
AMERICAN THEATRE
the first twelve of the said Jurors who appeared were severally and respec-
tively sworn and affirmed to try the Truth of the Facts alledged in the said
Bill and to return a true Verdict thereon according to their Evidence
And thereupon the Advocate for the Libellants with Leave of the said
Judge read unto the Jurors aforesaid the Bill aforesaid as the same is above
set forth and following Exhibits produced in this Cause on the part of the
Libellants to wit —
I do hereby certify that John Barry was duly commissioned
and appointed to command the Brigantine of War called the Lex-
ington fitted out at the Continental Charge and employed in the
Service of the United States of America Witness my Hand this
26th Septr 1776 — John Hancock Presidt
In Congress — The Delegates of the United Colonies of New
Hampshire, Massachusetts Bay, Rhode Island, Connecticut, New
York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, the Counties of New Castle Kent
and Sussex on Delaware, Maryland, Virginia, North Carolina,
South Carolina and Georgia To all to whom these presents shall
come Greeting Know Ye — That we have granted and by these
presents do grant Licence and Authority to James Robertson Mar-
iner Commander of the Sloop called the Chance of the Burthen of
thirty Tons or thereabouts belonging to James Craig and William
Erskine & Co of Philadelphia in the Colony of Pennsylvania
mounting six Carriage Guns and navigated by thirty four Men to
fit out and set forth the said Sloop in a warlike manner and by and
with the said Schooner and the Crew thereof by Force of Arms to at-
tack seize and take the Ships and other Vessels belonging to the
Inhabitants of Great Britain or any of them with their Tackle Ap-
parel Furniture and Ladings on the high Seas or between high
Water and low Water Marks and to bring the same to some con-
venient Ports in the said Colonies in order that the Courts which
are or shall be there appointed to hear and determine Causes civil
and maritime may proceed in due Form to condemn the said Cap-
tures if they be adjudged lawful Prize The said Craig Erskine
and Co having given Bond with sufficient Sureties that nothing be
done by the said Robertson or any of the Officers Mariners or
Company thereof contrary to or inconsistent with the Usages and
Customs of Nations and the Instructions a Copy of which is here-
with delivered to him And we will and require all our Officers
whatsoever to give Succour and Assistance to the said James Rob-
ertson in the premisses — This Commission shall continue in
Force until the Congress shall issue Orders to the contrary — By
Order of the Congress Dated at Philada 2nd July 1776 — John
Hancock President
By his Excellency John Earl of Dunmore his Majestie’s Lieut
Governor of the Collony of Virga &c 8cc 8cc And Andrew Snape
Hammond Esqr Commanding Officer of his Majesties Ships on
SEPTEMBER 1776
1013
that Station — Being fully satisfied that great Inconvenience
arises to his Majesties Service from the Detention of the many
Vessels containing the Families and Effects of his Majesties well
affected Subjects who have from Time to Time put themselves
under the Protection of this Fleet And in Consideration of the
Losses they have already sustained and are likely to sustain from
a further Detention We do hereby take into his Majesties Service
the Sloop Betsey Samuel Kerr Master Sqr sterned Burthen about
forty Tons navigated with seven Men for the purpose of trans-
porting said Samuel Kerr his Family and Effects to a place of
Safety And we do hereby require sd Sami Kerr to proceed with sd
Sloop Betsey in his Majesties Service to the Port of St Augustine
in E Florida laden with seventeen Hhds Molasses one Hhd and
four barl Coffee eight Hhds Rum two quarter Casks Wine twenty
five barl Sugar thirty barl Flour & one Cask Tobo (with a Variety
of Household Goods) for the Use of his Majestie or for the Use
of the Inhabitants of any Town or Place garrisoned and possessed
by his Majesties Troops and no others And this We do on Condi-
tion that sd Sloop Betsey shall not be any Expence to Government
for the above Service further than his Majestie shall be pleased to
allow on a future Application This Licence to continue three
Months and no longer -
Given under our Hands and Seals in the River
Potowmack this thirty first Day of July 1776
Dunmore A: S: Hamond
Samuel Kerr a Witness produced sworn and examined on the part of
the Libellants in this Cause To the first Interrogatory deposeth and saith
That he doth know the Brig called the Lexington abovementioned and did
sail in her as Prisoner after the Capture of the Sloop Betsey that the said
Brig was fitted for War commanded by John Barry and employed in the
Service of the American States as he hath been informed and believes —
To the second that he doth know the Sloop called the Betsey abovemen-
tioned and did sail in her that about the twenty fourth Day of August last
the said Sloop was taken at Sea by the Brig Lexington and that the private
Sloop of War called the Chance commanded by James Robertson was in
Sight at the Time of the said Capture that the said Sloop was then com-
manded by one Monroe but this Deponent doth not know of what place the
said Commander was an Inhabitant —
To the third that the said Sloop was not fitted for War that the said Sloop
at the Time of the said Capture had on board a Cargo of several Kinds of
Merchandize and other Effects That the said Sloop and chief part of the
Cargo at the Time of the said Capture was the property of this Deponent
and George Kerr and part of the Residue of the Cargo was the property of
Robert Shaddon of Portsmouth in Virginia and the Residue thereof to wit
four Barrels of Coffee the property of Henry and Thomas Brown of Ports-
mouth aforesaid which had been taken on board in the Absence of the Own-
388-825 0-73-66
1014
AMERICAN THEATRE
ers to prevent it being burned in Case the Town should have been
fired that he knows the said Owners are Friends to the American Cause
that the said George Kerr is an Inhabitant of Cabbin point in Virginia and
this Deponent an Inhabitant of Edenton in North Carolina That the last
port or place the said Sloop sailed from next before the Time of her Capture
was Potowmack River in Virginia aforesaid and was then bound for St
Augustine That the Cargo on board the said Sloop was intended for Sale
except the Articles of Household Furniture which were intended for the
private and particular Use of him the Deponent That there were on
board the said Sloop at the Time of her Capture the following Negro Slaves
to wit Harry and James (who were put on board by Mackam Herbert of
Virginia to be delivered him at St Augustine aforesaid) Chloe and Sam her
Child (to be disposed of at St Augustine aforesaid for the Benefit of James
McCaw late of Virginia) Phillis (the Property of Mrs Bruff of Hampton in
Virginia who had run away from her Mistress and had been taken on board
for the purpose of redelivering her to her said Misstress) and Peter the
property of this Deponent
To the fourth that there were no papers or Writings thrown overboard or
destroyed on board the said Sloop to this Deponent’s Knowledge except
some in the presence and by the permission of Captain Barry afterwardsaid
and not at all relating to the said Vessel or her Cargo -
Sworn September 26th 1776 In open Court Geo: Ross
And hereupon Proclamation was again made as is above set forth when
Samuel Kerr the Deponent abovenamed appeared personally in Court and
with his Honor’s Leave addressed himself to the Jurors and advocated a De-
fence as well on the part of himself as of Henry and Thomas Brown and
Mrs Bruff in the above Deposition named -
Whereupon the Jurors aforesaid having heard the Proof Exhibits and
Allegations and taken Time to consider thereof upon their Oath and Affir-
mation aforesaid respectively do say That they find all the Facts alledged
and set forth in the Bill aforesaid are true And hereupon Proclamation
being again made in manner above set forth and no person appearing to
claim defend or object The said Judge proceeded to the publication of his
definitive Sentence or Decree in the Words following to wit —
It appearing to me from the Verdict of the Jury impannelled sworn
and affirmed in this Cause upon the Evidence produced to them That all the
Facts alledged and set forth in the Bill are true I do thereupon adjudge and
decree that the Sloop or Vessel called the Betsey, with her Tackle Apparel
and Furniture and the Goods Wares and Merchandizes found on board the
said Sloop at the Time of her Capture and the Negro Slaves in the said Bill
named and mentioned be condemned as lawful Prize and I do order the
Marshall of this Court to sell the same at publick Vendue, and after deduct-
ing the Costs and Charges of the Tryal Condemnation and Sale thereof to-
gether with the Wages due to the several Seamen and Mariners belonging
to the said Sloop out of the Monies arising from the said Sale to pay forty
one one hundred and thirty fifth parts of the Residue of the said Monies
SEPTEMBER 1776
1015
unto the said James Robertson his Agent or Attorney for the Use of him-
self his Officers Mariners Seamen and all others belonging to or concerned
in the said Sloop Chance And to pay the remaining ninety four, one
hundred and thirty fifth parts of the said Residue unto the said John Barry
his Agent or Attorney Two third parts thereof for the Use of the thirteen
United States of North America and the other third part thereof for the
Use of himself the Officers Mariners and Seamen belonging to the said Brig-
antine Lexington And I do order the said Marshall to pay the said Wages
to the several Seamen and Mariners entitled to receive the same And to pay
the said Costs and Charges into the Hands of Michael Hillegas Esquire
Treasurer of this State according to the Resolutions of the honorable Conti-
nental Congress and of the honorable House of Representatives of this
State.
September 26th 1776 Geo: Ross2
1. Revolutionary War Prize Cases, No. 4, Court of Appeals, 1776-1787, NA.
2. Ibid., the condemnation was appealed on September 28, and the verdict upheld on November
23, 1776.
Journal of the Maryland Council of Safety1
[Annapolis] Thursday. 26th September 1776
Copy of Letter No 189 was sent to Captn James Nicholson.
Ordered That Commissary of Stores deliver to Messrs [William]
Lux, [Samuel] Purviance [Jr.] & Steuart [David Stewart] one Ton of
Gun Powder for the Continental Frigate at Balt: Town.2
Ordered That the commissary of Stores deliver to Mr William Patter-
son twenty Bolts of Canvass.
1. Council of Safety Journal, 29 August 1775 to 20 March 1777, Md. Arch.
2. The Virginia.
Advertisement for Deserters from the Virginia State
Brigantine Liberty 1
Deserted, from the brigantine Liberty , lying at Baltimore, the follow-
ing seamen, viz. On the 10th inst. William Puckinghorn, a native of New-
England, about five feet six inches high, has light coloured hair and yellow
at the top: had on when he went away, a drab coloured jacket with a blue
cape; when in liquor is subject to fits. On the 17th, two lads, Thomas Cane
and Jesse Clarkson; Cane is a native of Ireland: had on a red jacket and os-
nabrig trousers, is lame by reason of an imposthume rising in one of his
thighs. Clarkson is a native of Maryland, about fourteen or fifteen years of
age, has light hair, a mild countenance, and engaging address. On the 20th,
Samuel Mercer, Andrew Baxter and Thomas Tivy; Mercer is of low stature,
a native of Ireland, apparently about forty years of age, halts in walking.
Baxter is about five feet seven or eight inches high: had on a red jacket,
and is remarkably fond of liquor. Tivy is a native of Ireland, about the size
1016
AMERICAN THEATRE
of Baxter, has a bad sore on one of his great toes, is fond of liquor, and
when drunk very noisy. Any person who secures them, so that I get them
again, shall be paid three pounds reward for each, by
Thomas Lilly
1. Maryland Gazette, September 26, 1776.
Journal of the Virginia Council of Safety1
[Williamsburg] Thursday September 26th 1776
Ordered That Captain Charles Harrison of the Artillery be empowered
to take possession of and apply to the use of his Company in transporting
the same or any ordnance Stores, a Boat now lying at Porto Bello lately the
property of Lord Dunmore, first having the same appraised & returning the
appraisment to the Governor and Council.
A permit was issued to Captain Osburn of the Sloop Packet to go to
Hispaniola or other port allowed of by Congress, with her laden as per man-
ifest filed; the said Osburn having executed Bond with security which is or-
dered to be recorded.
1. Mcllwaine, ed., Journals of the Virginia Council, I, 175, 176.
Journal of the Virginia Navy Board1
[Williamsburg] Thursday 26th September 1776. -
Ordered that a Warrant Issue to John Hawkins for nineteen pounds four
shillings for Whiskey furnished Capt George Muter for the use of the Hero
Galley — Also for nine pounds twelve shillings for Whiskey furnished Capt
Celey Saunders for the use of the Lewis Galley. And also for Thirteen
pounds for Whiskey furnished Capt James Markham for the use of the
Page Galley. -
Ordered that a Warrant Issue to David Low for the use of James Gray for
Three pounds fifteen shillings for Freight of Rigging from Warwick to the
College Landing, for the Brig Nohampton.
Ordered that a Warrent Issue to Edward Champion Travis for One pound
Twelve shillings & one penny half penny for Beef furnished Capt Markham
for the use of the Page Galley — Also for One pound twelve shillings and
one penny half Penny for Beef furnished Capt Celey Saunders for the use
of the Lewis Galley. -
Robert Gayle, Peter Whitehurst, Joshua Foster, Christopher C[u]lley, Al-
bion Robins, Edward Anderson, Malachi[a] Oldner, Peter Smith, Houlder
Hudgins and Henry Knight appeared before the Board and undertook to
Build for the use of this Commonwealth large flat Bottom Boats for the
purpose of Transporting Troops, that is to say, the same Robert Gayle,
Peter Whitehurst Sc Houlder Hudgins two Boats each and the said, Joshua
Foster, Christopher Cully, Albion Robins, Edward Anderson, Malachi Old-
ner, Peter Smith and Henry Knight one Boat each of the following Dimen-
SEPTEMBER 1776
1017
sions, Vizt, Forty foot Keel, fourteen Feet Beam, three feet four Inches
Deep to the Top of the Gunnall, eight Inches Wash Board, and to be Ceiled
in the same manner as the Boat lately Built by Mr Herbert, to be Built with
good white Oak Plank one Inch and a half thick, the Ceiling to be of Pine
Plank clear of Sap three Quarters of an Inch thick, to Row with Twenty
Oars fixed upon Iron Swivels, to be fitted with Proper Stern Sheets, every
other Thwart Bound and to be Built after the manner of the Boat lately
Built by Mr He[r]ber except the Gun Carriages, to be properly Tar’d and
finished in a Workman like manner and delivered to the Board, with proper
Oars for each Boat on or before the fifteenth day of December next, for
which they are to be allowed, for each Boat, the sum of One hundred and
seventy Pounds. The said Robt Gayle, Peter Whitehurst, Houlder Hudgins,
Joshua Foster, Christopher Cully, Albion Robins, Edward Anderson, Mala-
chi Oldner, Peter Smith and Henry Knight having respectively entered into
and acknowledged Bond for their duly Performing the above Contract. -
Ordered that a Warrant Issue to Robert Gayle & Peter Whitehurst for the
Sum of Thirty pounds each, upon Account, for the purpose of Purchasing
Necessaries for Building Boats for the Transportation of Troops -
Ordered that Warrant Issue to Joshua Foster, Christopher Cully, Albion
Robins, Edward Anderson, Malachi[a] Oldner, Peter Smith Houlder
Hudgins & Henry Knight for fifteen Pounds each, upon Account, for the
Purpose of Purchasing Materials for Building of Boats for the Transporta-
tion of Troops -
Ordered that George Hope be empowered to employ Workmen and superin-
tend the Building of six Flat Bottom’d Boats for this Commonwealth for
the Purpose of Transporting of Troops which said Boats are to be of the
following Dimensions, to wit, Forty feet Keel, fourteen Feet Beam, three
feet four Inches Deep to the Top of the Gunnell, eight Inches Wash Board,
and to be Ceiled in the same manner as the Boat lately Built by Mr
Herbert to be Built with good white Oak Plank one Inch and a half thick
the Ceiling to be of Pine Plank clear of Sap three Quarters of an Inch thick,
to Row with Twenty Oars fixed upon Iron swivels, to be fitted with proper
Stern Sheets, every other Thwart Bound and to be Built after the manner
of the Boat lately Built by Mr Herbert except the Gun Carriages to be prop-
erly Tar’d and furnished in a Workman like manner and delivered to the
Board with proper Oars for each Boat on or before the fifteenth day of De-
cember next -
Adjourned till tomorrow morning nine of the Clock.
Signed,
Thomas Whiting 1st Comsr. -
1. Navy Board Journal, 63-65, VSL.
1018
AMERICAN THEATRE
Master's Log of H. M. Brig Diligent 1
The SE part of the Isle Madame North dist. 3 or 4
miles
AM at 5 Saw 2 Sail to the Eastwd wore 8c made Sail Fired
a gun 8c made the Private Signal which was answered, one
prov’d to be the Hope the other a Brig from Halifax for Span-
ish River, at 8 Cape Canso N 2 or 3 Leags at 10 Stood in
for Canso Harbour, Saw a Schooner make sail from
thence, the Hope made our Sigl to chace her, wore 8c made
sail; at Noon In Chace, In Compy. the Hope
First part modt breezes 8c fair, Middle 8c latter fresh breezes
8c Squaly. PM at 1 the Hope made our Sigl to leave off
Chace, wore 8c work’d up to her; the chace ran into the Har-
bour of Petit De Grat followed her with the Hope , the
chase ran ashore 8c the People forsook her, the Hope's boat
boarded her 8c got her off; at 2 Anchd with the Bt Br in 9 fm
blue clay bottom, the chace proved to be a Schooner priva-
teer of 4 Carriage 8c 8 Swivel guns, belonging to Salem. At 7
Shipped 8c endeavoured to work out of the Harbour but could
not, So Anchd with the SI Br & Steddy’d with the Kedge
1. PRO, Admiralty 52/1669.
Journal of H. M. S. Perseus, Captain George Keith Elphinstone 1
September 1776 Latde in 41 : 13 No Longde mde 52:29 Wt
Thursday 26th At 5 (A M) 1 1 Sail in sight much scattered — shorten’d
Sail for the Convoy to join us;2 the Grand Duke and
John missing — at 10 found a Schooner, among the Con-
voy, bore down and found her to be an Armed Rebel Ves-
sel; gave Chace - made and repeated the Signal for the
Convoy to come under our Stern. At Noon the Convoy
in sight.
Fresh breezes and Clear (P M) Continued the Chace;
got one of the Nine Poundrs on the Forecastle — gaining
very fast on the Chace with every Sail out possible — At
4 began firing at the Schooner which continues rowing
and Sailing. At 5 the Convoy in sight — continuing to
fire Shot at the Chace from the Gun on the Forecastle —
damaged the Spreetsail and Yard accidentally by the
Shot — At 8 fir’d many great Guns Swivels and Small
Arms at the Chace which struck and proved to be the
Viper Sloop of War by Commission from the Congress of
America, 9 Days from Boston.3 Brot too and fired Guns
27 Sept.
Septr 1776
Fridy 27th
SEPTEMBER 1776
1019
every hour for the Convoy, also hoisted lights — brot the
Prisoners on board — Sent the Gunner with a Petty Of-
ficer and 6 Men to take charge of the Prize.
Friday 27th At 7 A M made Sail - Wore. At Noon the Prize in Com-
pany.
Fresh breezes and Clear. At 5 (P M) Saw a Sail to the
WSW standing a cross us — at 7 do bore SSW, gave
Chace, at 9 finding the Chace to be a Rebel, began to
fire — At 10 she struck and proved to be the Betsey
Schooner, from Boston to Bordeaux,4 sent 2 Petty
Officers and proper People to take charge of her with Pis-
tols, Shot, 8cca for her defence.
1. PRO, Admiralty 51/688.
2. Ibid., the Perseus had sailed from Spithead on July 28, convoying “17 Sail of Victuallers and
Transports.”
3. The Massachusetts privateer schooner Viper, Captain Benjamin Wormell, of six guns, eight
swivels and a crew of fifty men, was commissioned September 9, 1776, Mass. Arch., vol.
7, 276.
4. Schooner Betsey, Alexander Wilson, master, John Pain, owner, with a cargo of dye wood,
potash, etc., Howe’s Prize List, March 31, 1777, PRO, Admiralty 1/487.
Essex Journal , Friday, September 27, 1776
Newbury-Port, September 27.
Last Monday arrived here, the Brig Stork. Philip Aubin master, from
Port Royal, in Martinico, which place he left the 24th of August, in com-
pany with Captains Clowin and Derry, bound to Philadelphia.
Last Tuesday was brought in here by the Washington Privateer, a
Bark bound to the West-Indies, to fetch soldiers for the enemy; she had on
board a quantity of provisions, and a few pieces of cannon.1
Yesterday was brought into this harbour, taken by a privateer belong-
ing to Salem; a ship from Grenada, bound to London, having on board 290
hogsheads of Sugar, 40 of rum, and 2 of coffee.2
The same day was carried into Portsmouth, a ship of between 2 and
300 tons, laden with about 230 hogsheads of sugar, 50 of rum, and some
wine. We also hear that a Schooner of about 90 tons, laden with salt, linen
and Household Furniture, was carried into Ipswich, about two days ago.
1. The Millham, 200 tons burden, John Johnson, master.
2. The Batchelor, a prize of the privateer Sturdy Beggar.
Journal of the Massachusetts Council1
[Watertown] Friday Septemr 27th 1776
Letter from Capt Alexander Cofhn representing he was taken 8c
Robbed by a Continental Privateer in his Passage from London being in-
trusted by the Friends of America there with important Intelligence Read
and Ordered That Thomas Cushing Esqr be directed to take the same under
1020
AMERICAN THEATRE
Consideration and draft a Letter to the President of Congress inclosing a
Copy of said Letter and Report who reported a draft which was Read and
Accepted.
Petition of James Kennedy late Master of the Ship Peggy setting forth
that he has before made not his situation known and still continues in a bad
State of Health and a Family depending upon him for support and praying
that Permission may be granted him to depart this State in the Ship Wil-
liam purchased by William Ross with a servant Man and Girl named Sophia
Kennedy.
In Council Read and Ordered that the Prayer of the Petitioner be so
far granted that he have Liberty to depart this State with his Servant Girl
named Sophia Kennedy (but his Servant Man not permitted to go) in the
Ship William Commanded by Benjamin Moore lately purchased by Mr Ross
for the purpose of transporting himself and others to Great Britain pro-
vided the said Ross permit him to go in said Vessel.2
1. Mass. Arch., vol. 19, 249, 251.
2. Ibid., vol. 165, 290-91, others granted permission on this date to depart on board the William
included: James Fulton, Richard Pyne, and John Denniston.
Governor Jonathan Trumbull to George Washington1
[Extract] Lebanon Septemr 27th 1776
Can your Excellency spare our Row Galleys from further Continental
Service? The men and their arms may be used to great advantage on board
our Ship and Brigantine. The enterprize formerly mentioned to you; in
which I have the promise of Admiral Hopkins concurrence. Your advice on
this head is wanted as we are not so well acquainted what alteration your
present situation makes in regard. An early answer will be necessary, if
they can be spared, and the intended naval expedition is yet pendent and
practicable.
1. Trumbull Papers, XXIX, Letter Book IV, 350, ConnSL.
Benjamin Huntington to the Connecticut Committee of the
Pay Table1
Lebanon Septr 27th 1776
Draw on the Treasuror of this State for the Sum of thirty Pounds in Fa-
vour of Capt John Skinner to Enable him to Escort the Governors Brown
[Montfort Browne] 8c Skeen [Philip Skene] to Genl Washington to Ex-
change them for other Prisoners and to Render his Acct
By Order the Govr 8c Council of Safety
Benj Huntington Clerk P.T.
1. Conn. Arch., 1st Series, VI, 390a, ConnSL.
SEPTEMBER 1776
1021
Journal of the Connecticut Council of Safety1
[Lebanon] September 27th, 1776.
Voted , That the overseers of the furnace at Salisbury be and they are
hereby directed to deliver to the agents for building the continental ship at
Chatham2 twenty-four twelve-pounders and six six or four-pounders of
cannon: they receiving the same at said furnace and paying at the rate of <£
3 10 0 per hundred weight for the twelve pounders, and £4 0 0 per
weight for the smaller cannon. Order delivered to Mr. Dean [Barnabas
Deane] Sept 27th 1776.
Voted That Dr. Joshua Elderkin of Windham be impowered and di-
rected to provide a sufficient quantity of tow cloth for one [73] hundred
and forty hammocks for the ship Oliver Cromwell , and that he forward
what tow cloth he has on hand and purchase a further quantity, if to be had
soon, for said use, to the amount of four hundred yards in the whole, and
forward the same to Capt. [Ephraim] Bill for said purpose.
1. Hoadly, ed., Connecticut Records, XV, 526-27.
2. The frigate Trumbull.
Nathaniel Shaw, Jr. to Governor Jonathan Trumbull1
Sir New London, Sepr 27th 1776
The barer Capt [Charles] Walker2 has had an Oppertunity to see one of
his Friends who Just now Came from New Providence with a Load of Salt,
and as that Island is so Situated for Trade Capt Walker is very Certain it
will be of great Advantage to the American States to have Supplys from
that Quarter, and att Present the Person who is Principal in the Custom
House their makes all the Difficulty in his Power in Clearing out the Ves-
sells for Halifax &c — This Person is Acting as Deputy to Mr [James]
Babbage who is a Prisoner att Middletown Sc was brot into this State by Co-
madore Hopkins,3 and Capt Walker is of Opinion that if Babbage Could be
Releas’d or Sufferd to Return on his Parole he would be of Infinite Service
to the trade of that Island in persuing the trade to these States, for the
Particulars must refer you to him — I have att all times when Babbages
Name was Mentioned heard Comodr Hopkins give him a Good Character as
doing Every thing in his Power to Serve the People in trade I am Sir
[Sec.]
Nath1 Shaw Junr
[Endorsed] Re Mr Babbidge reed p Capt Walker 28th inst
1. Conn. Arch., 1st Series, IX, 316, ConnSL.
2. Walker was owner of the sloop Endeavour, engaged by Hopkins to carry the cannon taken
from New Providence. See Volume 5.
3. See Volume 4. Babbidge was granted his parole on September 28, Trumbull Papers, V,
349, ConnSL.
Governor Jonathan Trumbull and His Wife Faith Robinson Trumbull.
SEPTEMBER 1776
1023
Journal of Lieutenant William Digby 1
[Isle aux Noix]
27 [September], Had the pleasure of seeing two of our schooners, the
Maria and Carlton come up to us from St Johns. Captain Pringle was ap-
pointed Commodore of the Lake-Champlain, and to command on board
the Maria, so called after lady Maria Carlton.
1. Digby’s Journal, BM.
Robert R. Livingston to Edward Rutledge1
[Extract] Fish kill 27th Sepr 1776
. . . with respect to [Esek] Hopkins — you have but one way left, ap-
point an Admiral — but dont flatter yourself that even that will bring about
a resignation. A sense of honour must exist where in dignity produces a
sacrifice of interest — If you have not the courage or interest to carry this
as the next wise step sell your ships to private adventurers2 . . .
. . . Our affairs to the Norward are pretty favourable tho’ we had an
alarm last week in consequence [of] which all the militia of the northern
counties marched but are since returned — had you built some vessels on
Lake Ontario as p orders we shd have been perfectly safe on that quarter,
upon which alone in my opinion we are accessible — 3
1. Robert R. Livingston Papers 1765-1776, LC.
2. Referring to congressional censure of Esek Hopkins. Ford, ed., JCC, V, 660-62.
3. Ibid., 539, 542, Schuyler was given a recommendation by Congress on July 11, 1776 to “take
proper steps for erecting a fort at Oswego and building gallies on Lake Ontario.”
Certificate of Colonel Stephen Moylan in Favor of
Benjamin Eyre1
Harlem heights 27th September 1776
I do hereby Certify that Captain Benjn Eyre, built & completely finished
two Gondolas or Row Galleys, one other, is finished all but the smiths
work, and one was Left on the Stocks at Newyork entirely Timberd &
Rigged
that he was actively employed about the Water frize, Sunck in the
North River & has been allso employed to appraise sixteen vessells taken up
to sink in the North and the east River, that he has gone up to Albany to en-
gage & hurry down plank and boards for the use of the Army, all which he
has to my Certain Knowledge faithfully executed.
Stephen Moylan
[Endorsed] I certify as above
Thomas Mifflin
1. Papers CC (Memorials addressed to Congress) , 41, III, 11, NA.
1024
AMERICAN THEATRE
Journal of H. M. Sloop Senegal , Captain Roger Curtis1
Sepr [17] 76 Moor’d with the Stream Anchr In Amboy Channel off
Red head.
Friday 27th AM Employ’d on Sundrys — Sent the Boat Watering
Moderate 8c Clear
at 3 P M two of the Long Boat Men run away with the Long
boat Loaded with Water from the Waterg Place, Man’d
and Arm’d the Pinnace and sent after her, but her getting on
Shore brot down a party of Rebels could not get her off for
the fire from them —
1. PRO, Admiralty 51/885.
Journal of the Continental Congress1
Philadelphia Friday, September 27, 1776
Resolved , That the Marine Committee be empowered to pursue such
measures, as they judge proper and effectual, to import as much salt as pos-
sible.
The Marine Committee, to whom was referred the petition of Francis
Guillot, brought in their report, which was taken into consideration;
Whereupon,
Resolved , That Francis Guillot be permitted to fit out and arm a priva-
teer, under the colours of the United States, and that he be permitted to
equip and arm the said vessel in such place as he thinks he can do it at the
smallest expence; he giving the usual securities in such cases directed by
Congress.
1. Ford, ed., JCC, V, 830-32.
Secret Committee of the Continental Congress to John Ross1
Mr John Ross2 Philada Septr 27th 1776
Sir
As Several of the Vessells by which we have heretofore ordered out
blankets 8c cloathing for the use of the Publick, have unfortunately been
taken We think it prudent to give fresh orders in hopes the Goods may yet
reach America in time to be Very Serviceable, We therefore request of
you to purchase on the very best terms in your power immediately on the
receipt of this letter
Ten Thousand Striped blankets
Thirty Thousand Yards of 6/4 broad cloth brown
8c blue Colours from 3/ to 6/ Stg p Yd
Three Thousand Yards different Coirs for
Facings at about 4/ Stg P Yd
One Thousand pieces of Dufffelds or some such
Cloth at about 90/ -
SEPTEMBER 1776
1025
We will immediately set about making you remittances to pay for these
Goods, therefore You may either employ any money already in your hands
on Publick Acct in this purchase or pledge your Credit for speedy Payment
as we are making large purchases of Rice Indico Tobacco &c for immediate
Exportation and the approaching Season will give us fair opportunity’s of
getting these Goods to Market whereas we have been much hampered dur-
ing the Summer by the Cruizers on our Coast. You will buy these Goods
where ever You can soonest get them, Great Britain Sc Ireland excepted,
and you may send them out by any good Vessell belonging to America but if
none such offers immediately, You may Charter a Foreign Vessell to take
them Sc proceed for this Coast immediately with orders to get into the
first place of Safety She possibly can in these united States of Amer-
ica, whatever terms you fix shall be Complyed with, depending that
you will have them as moderate as possible and we will load the Vessell back
to Europe immediately. If any difficulty Occurrs about getting these Goods
out to America direct, you may then Ship them out, to Wm Bingham Esqr
at Martinico, to Mr Cornelius Stevenson at St Eustatia Mr Isaac Governeur
at Curracoa or to Mr Stephen Ceronio at Cape Francois with orders for
them to forward them to us with all possible dispatch by different Convey-
ances. We beg your utmost attention & dilligence in the execution of this
order the Goods are extreamly Wanted Sc you must not loose one Moment
of time. You may rest assured of soon being enabled to pay for them & We
remain Sir [8cc.]
B Franklin Fra8 Lewis
Rob1 Morris Phil. Livingston
Richard Henry Lee
1. Signers of Declaration of Independence, vols. 1-2, PML.
2. Ross was a Philadelphia merchant who had gone to Europe in February 1776 to contract for
supplies.
William Hooper to Samuel Johnston 1
[Extract]
Our privateers have been successfull - I will not say any of our Conti-
nental Ships lest I should infringe upon Hews’ department2 I fear that
the Want of Men Sc Cannon will prove an insuperable Obstacle to their
Movements.
Philadelphia Sept 27 1776
1. Samuel Johnston Papers, NCDAH.
2. Hewes, who carried this letter, was on his way home to Edenton, his health having been
much impaired from “the large share of naval & mercantile business which has been
allotted to his attention by Congress,” North Carolina Delegates to the Council of
Safety, September 26, 1776, Continental Congress Delegates Letters, NCDAH.
1026
AMERICAN THEATRE
Willing, Morris & Co. to William Bingham, Martinique1
[Extract] Philada Septr 27th 1776
We have wrote fully to our Mr Thos Morris respecting Insurances 8c
desired if he can effect Insurance on Ships 8c Goods from the West India Is-
lands to this Continent 8c Vice Versa, to inform you of it immediately. We
have wrote him 8c several of our Friends to send us letters News papers,
Goods 8c Merchandize, Via Martinico under your care 8c we beg your partic-
ular care of them. You will know the Events of War are most uncertain, our
American affairs have not at this time so pleasing an aspect as we cou d
wish 8c shou’d they grow much worse, it may not be a desirable thing to
bring property hither, therefore we are determined to give you early infor-
mation of such material Changes as may happen, at present we Continue
in oppinion that Mr Bealle shou’d ship all his Goods back in this Sloop Inde-
pendance as the Captain has orders to Receive onboard whatever you desire,
or if there are other Good Conveyances you may divide them sending part
to the care of Messrs Hewes 8c Smith at Edenton No Carolina, part to Mr
J. H Norton at Wmsburg Virginia 8c the rest by Capt [John] Young, the
whole however to be forwarded to Mr. Norton in Virginia agreable to Con-
tract. We also Continue of opinion that you shou’d ship back by the Inde-
pendance the Value of Two Thousand pounds in dry Goods taking care to
buy in this parcell as many Woolens of every kind as possible, for Woolens
are exceedingly wanted any Number of Blankets the more the better, Rugs,
Cloths, 8cc 8cc next to these Sail Cloth, Coarse Linens, Warm Coarse Stock-
ings and inshort any thing fit for Winter Wear. . . . We sold the Goods
by Capt Wickes for 100 PCt adva[nce] on the Invoice 8c intended to send You
Actt Sales by this Conveyance but cannot the purchaser complains that
many things were laid in very dear at Martinico. If you think proper you
may write to our T M [Thomas Morris] under Cover to Messrs Delap
advising him the Value of the Goods you ship back by this or any other Vessell
8c desire him to procure Insurance if he can Effect it against British Cruiz-
ers at about 10 to 12l/£ pCt on such Vessells as the Independance, or for 20
to 25 PCt on unarmed Vessels, 8c if Mr Bealle 8c you judge it most prudent
you can do the same with respect to his Goods, but we are really of opinion
there is not much danger of this Sloop which is well Armed 8c Sails very
fast We think you shou’d give her the utmost dispatch in your power 8c as
its probable that another will soon follow you can prepare more Goods if
any fit for Winter can be got. We mentioned above that it is possible our
affairs may go so wrong that the property will be safer with you than with
us, We hope this will not be the case nor is there any present danger of it,
but its well to be guarded at all points 8c if such event is like to happen we
will Contrive you the earliest Notice of it, to prevent your Shipping Goods
either on your or our Account at any time when they might be likely to
come into the Jaws of the Enemy. It may be well therefore that You make
some strickt Friendship with a Man of known Integrity 8c honor into whose
Trust You can safely Commit any property that may be in your hands
SEPTEMBER 1776
1027
shou’d such unhappy News come to you This Friend shoud recive Sc Cover
it as his own untill You order otherways, for if America proves unfortunate
in this Contest, We doubt much if the French Govermt. will protect her
Agents, or if they do it may not be Safe to have much property in their
power, but all this is meer apprehension you’l keep it closely to yourself Sc
only take the previous measures for such a Cover without imparting Your
Design to any person living. . . .
1. Papers of Robert Morris, Accession 1805, LC.
Libel in Pennsylvania Admiralty Court Against Slaves
Taken in the British Armed Sloop Edward 1
Port of Philadelphia, 1 „ A11 ,
, . > 1 o All whom it may concern.
Pennsylvania, ss. J 7
Notice is hereby given, that a Court of Admiralty will be held at the
State-house, in the city of Philadelphia, on Tuesday the fifteenth day of Oc-
tober next, at ten o’clock in the forenoon of the same day, then and there to
try the truth of the facts alledged in the bill of John Barre, commander of
the brigantine of war called the Lexington (who as well, Sec.) against
James and Joshua, Negro Slaves, lately taken on board the prize sloop called
the Edward , commanded by Richard Boger. To the end and intent that the
owner or owners of the said slaves, or of either of them, may appear and
shew cause, if any they have, why the same should not be condemned ac-
cording to the prayer of the said bill.
By order of the Judge,
Andrew Robeson, Register.
[Philadelphia] Sept. 27, 1776.
1. Pennsylvania Evening Post, September 28, 1776.
Journal of the Maryland Council of Safety1
[Annapolis] Friday. Sepr 27th 1776
Warrant issued to William Patterson to enlist twenty five men for the
marine service. -
Ordered That Western shore Treasurer pay to Captain Wm Patterson
seventy five Pounds for enlisting men, as above.
1. Council of Safety Journal, 29 August 1775 to 20 March 1777, Md. Arch.
Maryland Council of Safety to Lux & Bowly1
No 194
Gentn,
We are told by Mr Stephen Steward, that you heretofore engaged to
furnish him with Some Cordage for our armed vessels by this time, but that
you have not got any ready for him; - we are in very great want of that
1028
AMERICAN THEATRE
Article, and desire to be immediately informed, when you can supply him,
that if it cannot be done within a reasonable Time at yr Yard, we may en-
deavour to provide it some where else - disappointments of this Nature es-
pecially ought to be avoided, as the Consequences may prove very
injurious. We are &c:
[Annapolis] Sept 27th 1776.
1. Council of Safety Letter Book, No. 1, Md. Arch.
Journal of the Virginia Council of Safety1
[Williamsburg] Friday September 27th 1776
Ordered that a permit issue to James Darrel, Master of the Brig Anne
from Bermuda laden with Salt, to proceed up James River and dispose of
his Cargo.
1. Mcllwaine, ed., Journals of the Virginia Council, I, 177.
Purdie's Virginia Gazette , Supplement, Friday, September 27, 1776
Williamsburg, Sept. 27.
Since our last two vessels have arrived at Hampton, one with 800 bush-
els of salt, the other with 300; and one is just come up to Jamestown with
2500 bushels, and some fruit.
A small Baltimore privateer carried into Chingoteague, upon the East-
ern Shore, the beginning of last week, a brig from Jamaica laden with 400
hogsheads of sugar and 140 hogsheads of rum.1
1. The Caroline, taken by the Maryland privateer schooner Harlequin, Captain William
Woolsey.
Captain Francis Parry, R.N., to Captain Anthony Hunt, R.N. 1
Copy
Sir,
I received your Letter of this Day’s date, wherein, in Consequence of
an Order from the Viscount Howe, I am ordered to give in Writing the
State Sc Condition of His Majesty’s Sloop Cruizer under my Command, and
if she is found as represented by former Examinations Sc Surveys; without
a Moment’s Loss of Time, to cause all the Furniture, Stores and Ammuni-
tion, with the Officers and Men to be sent on board such Ships as You shall
order to receive them, and then to destroy the Sloop; I am to inform You
that the Cruizer is much worse than when surveyed, and that I expect she
will sink at Anchor, as We are continually pumping; so that I have given
the Orders for the Stores to be ready for Removal when ordered, and shall
then destroy the Sloop. I am, Sir [Sec.]
Fran8 Parry.
Cape Fear Harbour, Septr 27th 1776.
Capt Hunt of His Majesty’s Ship Active Sc Senior Officer in Cape Fear Har-
bour
1. PRO, Admiralty 1/487.
SEPTEMBER 1776
1029
Journal of H.M.S. Galatea, Captain Thomas Jordan1
Septr 1776 Bermuda So 16.23 W 305 Miles
Friday 27th at 1 1 AM Saw 7 Sail in SW Quarter suppos’d to be the Pallace
[Pallas] and her Convoy.
Modt and Clear Wr at 8 P M Saw a Sail, do gave
Chace at 12 brot too a Brig2 from Dominica bound to Liver-
pool who was taken by the Joseph Privateer of 12 Six
pounders.3 do took Possession of her.
1. PRO, Admiralty 51/380.
2. Identified in a journal entry of October 20, as the " Alice Brigg.”
3. The Joseph, a Rhode Island privateer, John Field, commander, commissioned in August
1776.
Journal of H.M.S. Boreas , Captain Charles Thompson1
Septemr 1776 Monte Christa SWBS abt 3 Lea[gue]s
Friday 27 Light Breezes & Cloudy at 5 P M Saw a Sail made Sail
spoke a french Ship from Nantz bound to Portau
prince at 7 fird a Shott Brought too & [examined] a
Sloop from Nantucket for Hispaniola Loaden with pro-
visions & Lumber2 took possession of her Brot her men
onboard & sent a Petty Officer with 4 Men to take charge
of her.
1. PRO, Admiralty 51/125.
2. Schooner Adventure, see Gay ton’s Prize List under October 8.
Journal of H.M. Schooner Porcupine , Lieutenant James Cotes 1
Septem: 1776 Saw the land [Haiti] bearing SbE 13 or 14 Lgs
Friday 27 A M at 4 Saw a Sail in the N W Qutr Gave Chace, hoisted the
Boat out & sent her Manned & Armed, Spoke the Chace,
proved to be a Schooner from Cape Francois to Philadelphia2
Sent the Mate & 4 hands to Conduct her down to Jamaica,
bore up in Co with the Schooner
1. PRO, Admiralty 51/702.
2. According to Gayton’s prize list, the vessel was the sloop (not schooner) Hannah, Silvester
Gray, master, with a cargo of molasses and sugar.
28 Sept.
Master's Log of H. M. Brig Diligent1
Septr 1776 In Petit De Grat Harbour Island of Madame.
Saturdy 28th AM at 7 Sent the Marines ashore with the Hope’ s People
in pursuit of the Men belonging to the Privateer, came on
board a Pilot, at 10 weigh’d the Kedge & hove Short on the
SI Br it blowing Strong we could not get out, veer’d away
again
1030
AMERICAN THEATRE
First part Squaly with hail 8c rain, Middle 8c latter light
breezes 8c Cloudy PM at 2 got on Bd the End of the Bt
Br Cable 8c weigh’d the SI Br Anchor at 5 our Marines 8c
the Hope's return’d, having taken 33 Men belonging to the
Privateer; reed 16 of the Prisoners; at 8 weigh’d made
Sail 8c turn’d out of the Harbour 8c Stood over for Canso.
1. PRO, Admiralty 52/1669.
Master’s Log of H. M. Sloop Hope 1
Remark’s 8cc on Fridy the 27th Septr 1776
4 [A.M.] Fresh Breezes and Hazy
the Diligant Joind Compy White Point NBE 5 Leagues
6 Saw a Sale in the NE Qr out all Reefs and made Sail 8c
Chaced fired 2 four Pounders Shoted at her to Bring her
too found hir to be a Brig from Halifax bound to Spainish
River, at 9 standing in to Canso, Discovered a Rebel Pri-
vatteer at Anchr who Imeadly got under Sail md the Signl
to the Diligant to Chace to the NE work thro Canso Harbr 8c
ran threw the SI Gut 8c Chaced the Privater
12 [M.] Remark’s Sec in Petet De grat Harbour
First Party Light Breezes and Hazy Wr Midi fresh Gales and
Squaly Latr Stronge Gales and Hard Squals P M at 2 the
Rebels ran the Privateer on shore and left her Sc Set hir on
fire Fired 3 Foure Pounders Shoted at the Rebels on Shore,
sent the Boats mand 8c armd to tacke Posesion of hir at l/2
Past 2PM Anchored in Pitit De Grat Harbour with the SI
Br in 4i/2 fms and Vrd to % of a Cable the Privater prov’d a
Schooner from Salem Caled the General Gates of 4 Guns and
40 Men2 took 2 men English Prisoners out of her one belong-
ing to the Renown Sc the Other to the Dispatch Schooner Sent
the Kedge Anchor out with a Hawsor to Warp the Sloop in
to the Road, at 6 they got the Prize off and Anchor’ed her in
the Road, Warped up to the Kedge Anchor and made fast a
Hawsor to the Diligants Cable who Soon after Slipt and Saild,
Warpt up to her Anchor and took the Cable in at 8 the Dili-
gant Anchored again,
Saturdy 28th at 10 AM Landed a partey of men with the Capt 8c Lutenant
in Persute of the Rebels, at Noon Slipt the Diligants Cable
and Anchored with the SI Br in 6 fms Sc Vr’d to \/2 a Cable
Wt Pt WSW Et Pt SBE the Island NE Lost a Lead and Line
First Part Fresh Gales and Squaly Midi and Latr Light
Airs and fair Wr at 8 P M the Officers with the Partey Re-
turned with 34 Rebel Prisoners belonging to the Rebel Pri-
SEPTEMBER 1776
1031
vater, sent 17 of them onbd the Diligant at 12 She Sail’d
hence.
1. PRO, Admiralty 52/1794.
2. Commissioned August 8, 1776, William Carleton as commander, owned by John Gardner, Jr.
and partners of Salem. Mass. Arch., vol. 5, 322.
The Freeman's Journal , Saturday, September 28, 1776
Portsmouth [September 28].
On Thursday last arrived here the Prize-ship Royal Exchange , Law-
rence Bowden, late master, she was taken by the Continental ship Colum-
bus, Abraham Whipple Esq; commander, on the 29th ult. on her passage
from Grenada to London, having on board a valuable cargo, consisting of
two hundred and eighty four hogsheads and 2 tierces of Sugar, fifty-five
hogsheads of Rum, 14 hhds Coffee, 2 bales of Cotton and some Madeira
Wine. The Prize Master (Mr. Onely [Joseph Olney]) informs of two other
prizes being taken by the Columbus , just before this, on their passage to
Europe from the West Indies, and in his passage hither spoke with the
Providence Brigantine belonging to the United States, who informed him
of her taking two valuable prizes, and sent in to Providence.1
1. The Continental sloop Providence, Captain John Paul Jones.
John Langdon to Josiah Bartlett1
[Extract] [Portsmouth, September 28, 1776]
and his Mate Mr Hopley Yeaton were Americans, and high Liberty men,
and the Ship Sailed from London, before the Ninth of September 1775 in
the same Voyage ours did from the Continent yet the Jury, who are sup-
posed, nearby connected, with the Owners, of the Privateer, contrary to the
most upright charge given by the Judge, condemn’d her, not even allowing
the adventure, or any thing else, this I and many others look upon as abso-
lute Piracy, and hope a redress, [Tobias] Lear2 demanded an Appeal to
Congress, but the Act of Massachusetts, would not allow it, therefore was
Oblig’d to appeal to their Superiour Court, but hope the Congress, will sup-
port their Resolutions and grant an appeal to Congress, as this matter is be-
tween Colony and Colony, or rather the Subjects of State, with those of
another, and therefore the appeal, should lay to Congress or some body ap-
pointed by them, otherwise they will be Judges, in their own Cause. This is
a matter I should be glad to know whether, an appeal does not lay to Con-
gress, in all cases whatever, as to Marantime affairs. — Your Friend [&c.]
John Langdon
1. John Langdon Letter Book, Captain J. G. M. Stone Private Collection, Annapolis. First part
of letter torn off. Date established from position in Langdon letter book.
2. The ship Polly, of seventy tons burden, with a cargo of 350 hogsheads of best muscovado
sugar, owned by Tobias Lear, and Hopley Yeaton, mate, was taken by the Massa-
chusetts privateer sloop Revenge, Captain Joseph White, and condemned in the
Massachusetts Middle District Admiralty Court on September 17. See Independent
Chronicle, Boston, September 26, 1776, for notice of sale of Polly’s cargo.
1032
AMERICAN THEATRE
Captain John Clouston’s Receipt for Money Received for
Enlisting Seamen for the Massachusetts State
Sloop Freedom1
Boston 28 [th] September 1776. Received of Benjamin Austin Esqr Four-
teen pounds being So much he paid me for One Months Advance Wages to
Seven men Enlisted on board the Sloop Freedom belonging to this State
£ 14. 0. 0
1. Mass. Arch., vol. 165, 3131/2-
Providence Gazette, Saturday, September 28, 1776
Providence, September 28.
Major Crane, of this Town, was wounded in the Foot by a Shot from
the Ship Rose, commanded by the infamous Wallace, when he was attacked
and so roughly used in the East River, a short Time since.
Captain James Monro, in the Privateer Sally, of this Place, has taken a
large Frigate-built Ship, laden with Sugar, Rum, Cotton, Madeira Wine,
Whale Oil, 8cc. bound from Barbados to England, and sent her into a safe
Port.1
1. The Blaze Castle. This issue of the newspaper contains Captain Munro’s libel against the
prize.
Brigadier General Benedict Arnold to Major General Horatio Gates 1
[Extract] Isle Valcouer Sepr 28th 1776 —
Dear General My last was from the Bay St Amont the 22d Inst by Capt
[Isaac Budd] Dunn, which make no doubt you have received. — the next day
the Fleet arived safe at this place, (which is an excellent harbour) we are
moored in a small Bay, on the West side the Island, as near together as pos-
sible. & in such a form that few Vessells can attack us at the same Time, 8c
then will be exposed to the fire of the whole fleet
The 25th I dispatched into Canada a German who. was Mate of the Re-
venge. 8c a New England Man, who speaks French well, both are Sensible
Fellows, 8c may be depended on, they are extremely well acquainted with
the Country, go in Character of Deserters, 8c have proper Instructions 8c
Credentials. (Sixteen of each sort.) sewed up between the Soals of their
shoes. — As they run a great Risque, I have promised them (In Case they
succeed) Five hundred Dollars, between them; As soon as they know the
Success of their Embassy, they are to return - One of them was a Ranger
with [Robert] Rogers all last Warr, has since lived in Canada 8c Knows the
Woods perfectly. — Two Men are stationed on the Isle A La Motte to watch
the motions of the Enemy -
Early yesterday morning Serjt Strictland with Twelve Men in a provi-
sion Batteau passed this place, 8c went as farr as Point Au fere, but not find-
ing the fleet returned, the revenge (on a Cruise) picked them up at 6
SEPTEMBER 1776
1033
oClock last night, the Serjt. Took the Schooner for an Enemy, & stupidly,
destroy’d All his Letters & papers, when she was at a distance from him,
which was very mortifying to me as I am deprived the pleasure of your Let-
ter, & have a long time Anxiously waited for the particulars of the Affair at
New York — This Fellow can give me no manner of Intelligence respecting
the Gallies, or any thing else. — I expect them every minute, as the Time is
elapsed in which you wrote they would be ready —
Colonel [Thomas] Hartley writes me tha[t] One Gaily was expected
at C[rown] Point the 26th & that. t[he] Others would be there the
27th, there is a fine wind for the Enemy to come down, If. they appear
too Strong For us, I will retire untill I meet the Gallies
1. Gates Papers, Box 4, NYHS.
Journal of the New York Convention1
Saturday Morning,
[Fishkill] September 28th, 1776.
Captain Rogers being called in and examined, as to the condition of the
sloop Montgomery , says, that the vessel is in good repair; that she wants
nothing but provisions and a little gunpowder; that one of the prizes which
he formerly took, to wit, a small Bermuda sloop, is at Rhode Island, as he
hopes, by this time, condemned; that she had also on board some sails and
rigging, taken from the other vessels of which he made captures; that he
brought off a few things in a boat from Huntington, at the time he took
Isaac Ketcham and Samuel Skidmore; that the latter was a person who had
taken possession of a farm of a brother of Capt. Zeph. Platt; that he came
to the Convention to request their directions how to dispose of the vessel,
the Montgomery.
Resolved , That the vessel of war, the Montgomery, be continued in the
service of this State.
That Mr. Harper, Mr. Bancker and Mr. Zeph Platt, be a committee to
give such instruction to Capt. Rogers, as they shall think proper, to enable
him to proceed on a cruise with all possible expedition; and also that the
said committee give such directions to Capt. Rogers relative to any prizes or
prize goods, remaining on Nassau island, as they shall think proper.
A letter from Robert Yates, Esqr. chairman of the secret committee
for obstructing the navigation of Hudson’s river, was received and read,
and is as follows, to wit:
Poughkeepsie, Wedy. 25th Septr. 1776.
Sir — We have obtained 2 sloops, 2 brigs, and 2 large ships, for
the purpose of obstructing the channel of Fort Washington; one
of the sloops, the Clinton, heretofore purchased by the committee,
we found here, the other we have ordered from Fort Montgomery;
the two brigs are here also, one of which belongs to Malcom, Kip
and Lott, the other is a New-England vessel, about 120 tons burthen,
1034
AMERICAN THEATRE
loaded with wheat, staves, and a considerable quantity of inch
boards; the wheat and staves we have ordered to be stored, but send
down the boards for public use. The ships are in Esopus creek,
owners Messrs. Franklin; they are two very fine vessels, in the build-
ing of which much extraordinary pains have been taken, both as to
timber and workmanship. On our going there, we ordered them to
be hauled out, and expect they will proceed to Fort Washington this
day. The two sloops, the Clinton and that from Fort Montgomery,
we think are almost arrived by this time, as the Clinton sailed yester-
day with a fair wind, and the other must have proceeded from the
fort shortly after the Clinton s arrival there; and as to the brigs, we
shall be able to despatch them to-day also. The Camden , Capt.
Castle, with near 2,000 feet plank, and Capt. Donaldson with up-
wards of 6,000 do. sailed yesterday also. The ships and brigs afore-
said, we are to have appraised by the time they are ready to set off
from here, and we imagine the ships will run very high. Our stock
of money is very low, and our contracts far exceeding the sum we
were furnished with; the demands on this committee are frequent
and urgent. Upon these considerations we hope the Convention will,
by some means or other, furnish us with a further supply. We are,
sir [&c.]
By order of the committee,
Robt. Yates, Chairm.
A letter from Mr. Samuel Tudor, one of the agents superintending the
building of the Continental frigates at Poughkeepsie, was read, and is as
follows, vizt:
Gentlemen — Enclosed I send you General Schuyler’s two let-
ters of the 23d and 25th inst. with an order for more cordage; I
am, on my own part, extremely anxious to serve, to the best of my
abilities, each department, wherein the defence of our country is
aimed at; but having this day received a letter from Mr. Van
Zandt, (one of the commissioners for building the ships,) wherein
he expresses his disapprobation of my sparing any of the mate-
rials belonging to the ships, without an express order from Con-
gress or the commissioners. If I have hitherto erred, it is in judg-
ment only, and with the advice of your Honourable House. This
second demand from Genl. Schuyler coming to hand unexpectedly,
and immediately after the receipt of Mr. Van Zandt’s letter, has
put me to a stand. An indemnification, or letter of approbation,
from Congress, for our former proceedings, which you promissed
to procure for us, I believe is the reason of the commissioners dis-
approving our going further, (as that has not yet appeared either
to them or us) ; if you have procured it, pray send it, as also your
most candid advice to me in the premises. I am, gentlemen [8cc.]
Sami. Tudor.
1036
AMERICAN THEATRE
Poughkeepsie, 27th Sept. 1776.
Convention of the State of New-York.
Two letters from General Schuyler, signed by the one bearing
date on the 23d, and other on the 25th instant, directed respectively to the
superintendents of the Continental ships now building at Poughkeepsie, were
read.
The General thereby applies to the superintendents for rigging out of
the Continental stores at Poughkeepsie, to fit out some row gallies on Lake
Champlain.
A list of the stores wanted for the said row gallies, was also enclosed in
the said letters, which was likewise read.
A letter from Robert Yates and Gilbert Livingston, Esqrs. two of the
committee for obstructing the navigation of Hudson’s river, was received
and read, and hereafter follows, vizt:
Poughkeepsie, Septr. 27th, 1776.
Sir — The bearer hereof, Capt. John Hun, is come down with
three batteaux from Genl. Schuyler, for cordage; Capt. Tudor, to
whom he is directed, informs us that he cannot spare the quantity
the General requires.
Out of one of the new ships belonging to Franklin, we have
taken all the new cordage and stored it with Capt. Schenk. We ac-
quaint you with this circumstance, that in case the Convention
should judge it necessary, they may give directions to complete the
remainder of the General’s orders out of this store. We are, sir,
[See.] .
Robt. Yates,
Gilbert Livingston.
Capt Schenk has the charge of the cordage, and if any orders
are given they ought to be directed to him.
Ordered , That the said letters from Genl. Schuyler, and inventory of
rigging wanted, the said letter of Capt. Samuel Tudor received this day,
and the letter from Messrs. Yates and Livingston of the 27th instant, be
committed to Mr. Gansevoort, Mr. Duane, and Mr. Cuyler,
1. New York Provincial Congress, I, 649, 650.
Governor Josiah Martin to Lord George Germain 1
Duplicate No. 4. Long Island near New York
My Lord September 28th 1776
I have the honor to offer Your Lordship my sincerest congratulations
on the successes of His Majesty’s Arms, that have already Secured at least the
important point of good Winter Quarters for the troops by the possession of
the City of New York, and this Island, which although very greatly ex-
hausted by the depredations of the Rebels, will yet contribute much to the
support and comfort of the Fleet and Army, if the parts of the coast, most
SEPTEMBER 1776
1037
exposed, are timely protected against the New England People, who have
crossed the Sound, and made Several descents on the North side of this Is-
land, for the purpose of driving off Cattle, and seizing persons well affected
to Government, since the troops took possession of the Western part of it.
It being manifest My Lord that my return to North Carolina, to lie on
board Ship can answer no sort of purpose, and Lord Howe having seen it
expedient to call away His Majesty’s Ships that are stationed at Cape Fear
River rendering it impossible for me to resume that very irksome situation, I
remain here in readiness to take any part that may be assignd me, until
further operations, shall open a way to my wishes, and my particular duty
to promote his Majesty’s Service in that Province.
Since my arrival at this place I have received My Lord, but I have not
been able to find out through what Channel, the original and duplicate of
The Earl of Dartmouth’s letter of the 8th of November last, signifying The
King’s Pleasure that I should inform His Majesty’s Officers within the Gov-
ernment of North Carolina, that they were not expected by His Majesty to
remain in their present stations at the hazard of their lives and properties, and
that they were therefore at liberty to withdraw themselves from the Colony
whenever their personal safety should make it necessary so to do. - I should
have been happy My Lord to have received this letter while it was possible for
me to communicate it: for I am persuaded the assurance it gives of attention
to the unfortunate circumstances of the Servants of the Crown is a grace that
would mitigate the sufferings of every other individual in the proportion it
does my own.
The Transport Ship on board which I left at Cape Fear the loyal refu-
gees from the shore of North Carolina I expect My Lord will come here
with The King’s Ships which are ordered from that Port, when I shall dis-
charge her, and I presume, most of the Refugees, who for their good be-
haviour, and encouragement, I had formed into Companies, and entitled to
pay pursuant to the powers vested in me to levy Provincial troops, will be
ready to serve The King in such Corps, as The Commander in Chief shall
please to consign them to
I have had the happiness to find my Family in safety, which, all circum-
stances considered, is better Fortune than I could reasonably expect. I have
the honor to be [&c.]
Jo: Martin
1. PRO, Colonial Office, 5/318.
Journal of the Continental Congress1
[Philadelphia] Saturday, September 28, 1776
The committee appointed to prepare letters of credence, Sec, brought in
their report which being taken into consideration, the letters of credence
being read and amended were agreed to.
1038
AMERICAN THEATRE
The delegates of the United States of New Hampshire, Mas-
sachusetts Bay, Rhode Island, Connecticut, New York, New Jer-
sey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, Maryland, Virginia, North Carolina,
South Carolina, and Georgia, to all who shall see these presents,
send greeting.
Whereas a trade upon equal terms between the subjects of his
most Christian majesty the king of France, and the people of these
states, will be beneficial to both nations — Know ye therefore, that
we, confiding in the prudence and integrity of [Here were in-
serted the names of Franklin, Deane and Lee] have appointed and
deputed, and by these presents do appoint and depute them the
said [names] our commissioners, giving and granting to them the
said [names] or any two of them, and in case of the death, ab-
sence, or disability of any two, to any one of them, full power to
communicate, treat, agree and conclude with his most Christian
majesty, the king of France, or with such person or persons as
shall by him be for that purpose authorized, of and upon a true
and sincere friendship, and a firm, inviolable, and universal peace,
for the defence, protection and safety of the navigation and mu-
tual commerce of the subjects of his most Christian majesty and
the people of the United States; and to do all other things, which
may conduce to those desirable ends; and promising in good faith
to ratify whatsoever our said commissioners shall transact in the
premises. Done in Congress, at Philadelphia, the thirtieth day of
September, in the year of our Lord, one thousand seven hundred
and seventh six. In testimony whereof, the President, by order of
the said Congress, hath hereunto subscribed his name, and affixed
his seal.
Resolved That the Commissioners should live in such stile and manner
at the court of France, as they may find suitable and necessary to support
the dignity of their public character, keeping an account of their expences,
which shall be reimbursed by the Congress of the United States of Amer-
ica.
That besides the actual expences of the commissioners, a handsome al-
lowance be made to each of them as a compensation for their time, trouble,
risque and services.
That the Secretary of the Embassy be allowed a Salary of one thousand
pounds sterling per annum, with the expences of his passage out and home.
That the Secret Committee be directed to export produce, or remit
bills, until they make an effectual lodgment in France of 10,000 sterling,
subject to the orders of the said commissioners for their present support,
and report to Congress when it is effected, in order that Congress may then
consider what farther remittances to order for this purpose.
1. Ford, ed., JCC, V, 832, 833-34.
SEPTEMBER 1776
1039
Captain James Nicholson to the Maryland Council of Safety1
Gentlemen. Baltimore Sept 28th 1776.
I received yours desiring my attendance to adjust the Defence’s ac-
counts. I was under the necessity immediately upon my return here of send-
ing the Clerk and Purser down to the Eastern Shore after men of the
Frigate2 and expect their return in five or six days, when I certainly will
attend with them for that purpose, let my business with the Frigate be ever
so pressing. I am Gentn [&c.]
James Nicholson
1. Correspondence of Council of Safety, Md. Arch.
2. The Continental frigate Virginia.
Maryland Council of Safety to Colonel John Hatton Read1
No 195. Colo John Hatton Read of St Mary’s County
Sir We do not address this letter to Colo [Richard] Barnes, because we
expect he will be at the Convention. - We request you would assist Mr
[Gilbert] Middleton in geting a nine Pounder on board his boat - and also in
geting up a Small anchor lost by the Defence.
[Annapolis] 28th Sepr 1776
1. Council of Safety Letter Book, No. 1, Md. Arch.
John Hall to Matthew Tilghman1
Sir since my appointment of Judge of the Admiralty I have had the hon-
our of being chosen one of the Delegates for Annarundel County — I have
receiv’ed no Commission nor acted in any manner under the appointment.
— and am determined to decline acting in that Department of Judge Admi-
ral. — be pleased to signify this to the Honble Convention with my thanks
for their favour in appointing me. — I am [8cc.]
[Annapolis?] 28. Sepr 1776 — J Hall
1. Red Book, XII, Md. Arch. Tilghman was president of the Maryland Convention.
Carter Braxton to Isaac Governeur, Curasao Merchant 1
Copy Virginia September 28th 1777 [ sic 1776]
Sir Altho’ an entire Stranger permit me to address you in behalf of
Messrs Willing & Morris Merchants in Philadelphia & myself & to unfold a
Scheme of Trade we have Entered into with Mr John Philip Merckle Mer-
chant in Amsterdam & to inform You that through you this our Scheme is
to be executed, and that we Esteem you as Umpire between Us. — Your
General Character and not any Personal Acquaintance hath entitled you to
this Confidence, & we rest Assured Your Utmost Endeavours will be Ex-
erted for Our Interest. While I had the Honor to Attend the Continental
Congress at Philadelphia as a Member from Virginia, Mr Merckle was In-
1040
AMERICAN THEATRE
troduced from New York to that Body as a Gentleman of Family Fortune,
Sc Integrity, Sc one in whom we might confide to Negociate a Supply of Nec-
essary’s for America. This Gentlemans good Behaviour and Attention to
Business while at Philadelphia induced us to conclude he merited the Char-
acter given of him, In consequence of which Mr Morris & myself Set on
foot with him a Private Mercantile Adventure, which we propose to Con-
duct in the following manner, We made a Contract with Mr Merckle for
Ten Thousand Pounds Sterling worth of Goods Six Thousand of which he is
to send us to America on his Own Account and the other Four are to be sent
to Cura^oa to be delivered to you Sc Shipt as Mr Merckle shall direct for Us
— For these Four Thousand Pounds sterling Cargo, We are to lodge with
you as much Tobacco as will pay for it allowing Thirty Shillings P Hundred
as pr Contract. We propose to send to your Care three Hundred Thousand
Weight which will command a larger Sum 8c which you will retain for the
Use of Mr Merckle but not to be delivered to him until you have a Cer-
tainty that the Goods amounting to Four Thousand Pounds Sterling have
been sent us agreeable to the Contract which I inclose you for your Guide,
the Quantity of 42,283 being Part of this Three Hundred Thousand
now Comes to you by Captn Meredith, Commander of the Sloop Content and
for which you will be pleased to pay Your receipt to the Captain. The To-
bacco to be retained by you for the Use of Mr Merckle, he paying all Costs
and Charges attending it after delivery. The other part of the Cargo agree-
able to a seperate Bill of lading comes also consigned to You and which You
are to dispose of for and on Account of Messrs Willing Sc Morris Sc myself
and to send the return in as much salt as the Vessel can bring 40 or 50
dozn Cotten Sc Wool Cards, 30 or 40 Barrels of Limes of such as the Captn
approves, some Hhds of Brown Sugar, Sc some single 8c double
refined some rum of best and middling Qualities, a few Hhds of
Molasses, Salt being a necessary not to be dispenced with by our People,
and they being now much Pinched by the want of it, I must earnestly re-
quest You, at all events, to procure as much of it as will nearly load this
Vessel, Sc to procure a Sufficient Quantity for the Vessels that are to follow
with the remainder of Our Tobacco all of whom I cou’d wish to load back in
a great Measure with salt, If it is not to be had in Your Island at present,
I wish you to import a large Quantity for our Vessels that are to go to you Sc
who I hope will be with you in 3 or 4 Weeks after this.
As much depends on our Secresy in this Adventure you will keep the
Purport of this Contract within your Own Bosom Mr Merckle sail’d from
Boston about the 15th of Augst for Holland Sc I hope will get safe; as he is a
stranger to Us in Point of General & Certain Character, will you do us the
favour to say what you know of him Sc his Connexions —
If a Dutch Bottom cou’d be taken out for the Sloop to gain her protec-
tion to our Cape it wou’d do us a favour, Sc if any Dutch Seamen were to
come to Colour the Design, they shou’d meet with proper Encouragement,
besides the Bounty that is given of 40/ to each Man. - You will address the
Vessel Sc Cargo to me Sc be so obliging as to give Us at large your Opinion
SEPTEMBER 1776
1041
of the West India Trade at present, the danger attending it, the Articles
brought to you for market, 8c what Prices the Commodities of America will
bear, 8c the Demand for them as well as the General appearance of things in
the Political Hemisphere 8c the part that Holland is about to take. Is there
any Insurance Office with you, and how are the Premiums. You will give
this Vessel all the Dispatch in your Power. Cou’d you procure me a large
Jack Ass Stallion. I wou’d give a good Price for such a One — As you will
probably retail in small Parcels the Articles Shipped on our Accounts to you
for sale, I shou’d be glad You will attend to Our two Hhds No 1 8c 2 mark’d
RWE, remarked WMB. If I am not mistaken, the scent of it will prove a
nosegay, 8c recommend it to great Price. I shall be much obliged by your
sending about 400 Bushels of White English salt, if to be had in sack Bags
containing about four Bushels. If no such salt is to be had put as much of
the Bay Salt in the sack Bags, you will Oblige me in forwarding the In-
closed Letter to Dunkirk.
The Vessel deceived us greatly in loading and did not carry so much as
we Expected by several Hhds of Tobacco, 8c many of flour, however Mr
Merckles Quantity of Tobacco that we intended by her is sent 8c we hope the
Ballance will load her with salt if not, you will supply it 8c be paid out of
the next Cargo. I am Sir 8cca
Carter Braxton
1. PRO, Colonial Office, 5/126, 243-46. An intercepted letter.
John Page to St. George Tucker1
[Extract] Wm’sburg Sepr the 28th 1776 -
... I wish you would seriously consider the Scheme of Trade, Vessels
loaded with Salt & Fruit, consigned to you in Virginia, to be loaded with
Flour 8cc for Bermuda, or with Flour 8c Tobo for Martinique, the Mole 8cc
8cc 8cc to return to Carolina, Virginia, or Maryland as may best suit with
Rum Sugar 8cc Arms, Powder 8c Medicines, would put you into a way of
making a very considerable Fortune. Several People in Maryland 8c the
Northern States have made such already — Now I have mentioned the
States it will not be amiss to say something of them - I suppose you have
long since been informed of the Glorious Revolution which has taken Place
in the 13 united Colonies as they were at first called — Our Constitutions I
suppose too you are acquainted with — I believe ours is the most perfect in
the World — It hath pleased the Almighty Ruler of the Universe to pro-
duce Good out of Evil — The insulting insolent Pride 8c Tyranny of the brit-
ish King 8c Parliament have been the Means of freeing Millions from Bond-
age, 8c of erecting one of the noblest Republics the World ever saw - 8c
have given Opportunities for such Display of true Patriotism Fortitude 8c
Valour as are unparalleled in History - America now justly claims the At-
tention of the whole World, 8c well deserves the Pen of a Livy or Polybius -
1042
AMERICAN THEATRE
Consider the Situation of a Country destitute of Ships Guns, Powder, 8c
even of Clothes & Salt for the Inhabitants, On their Frontiers fierce, perfid-
ious, 8c Savage Nations ever ready to attack the Defenceless, in almost
every Part, Multitudes of Slaves encouraged, by the Hopes of gaining that
Liberty their Masters were contending for, to strike the deadly Blow when-
ever they could be certain of doing it with Impunity, consider A Country in
this Situation, engaging in a War with a Nation which has held the World
in Awe, & which is at this Time possessed of the most Powerful Fleets 8c the
bravest Troops upon Earth, rather than wallow in Peace 8c Luxury, if they
must be deprived of the Privileges of free Men to obtain that Happiness.
But I have neither Time nor Abilities to describe the true public Spirit, 8c
glorious Struggle of America. I could produce many Instances of the Gal-
lantry of the Troops of every State from Boston to Georgia as are scarcely
to be found in th[e An]nals of any Country . . .
1. Tucker-Coleman Papers, Earl Gregg Swem Library, GWM.
Journal of the Virginia Navy Board1
[Williamsburg] Saturday 28th September 1776. —
Present The same Members as Yesterday. -
Joseph Selden appeared before the Board and undertook to furnish George
Hope, who is employed to Build six Boats at Hampton for the use of this
Commonwealth, with whatever Iron he may be in want of for the purpose
of Building the said Boats which said Iron is to be Worked up by the said
Selden in such manner as may best suit Mr Hopes Purpose for which the
said Selden is to be allowed, for the Nett Iron, eight pence pr Pound. -
1. Navy Board Journal, VSL.
John Green to Cornelius Hartnett1
[Extract] New Bern September 28th 1776.
. . . The Letter of Marque Schooner Johnston , the Lilly (now the
Caswell ) and the Schooner Polly all belonging to Several of us at this port
are safe arrived in the West Indies, One of which (the Caswell ) is Just
returned the Neat proceeds of the Two first is Chiefly laid out in powder
Oznabrigs Rum and shipped on Board the Johnston, which may be shortly
expected, She Sail’d with the Caswell as a feint and Intends waiting in the
passage for a Brigg Laden with Sugar 8c Rum 8cc. which was to sail soon
after he left St Croix bound for Europe. - If the Public shou’d have Occa-
sion for the Powder 8c Oznabrigs on her Arrival here I shou’d be glad to
have timely Notice. . . .
John Green
1. Secretary of State Papers (Council of Safety, 1775-1776) , NCDAH. Hartnett was chairman of
the North Carolina Council of Safety.
SEPTEMBER 1776
1043
Deposition of Robert Spence, Master of the British
Schooner Peggy 1
Jamaica ss /
This Deponent Robert Spence, Master of the Schooner Peggy, belong-
ing to St Augustine in the Province of East Florida, Voluntarily maketh
Oath that on or about the fifth day of August last past, He left St Augustine
with a Cargo of Rice bound to Jamaica That on or about the Sixth or Sev-
enth of September in his Passage to this Island, he fell in with His Majestys
Ship Squirrel and her Tender, the Latter of which order’d him to Hoist his
Boat out and come onboard of him, But this Deponent told him that his
Boat leak’d very much, but if he would bring too, he would run alongside of
him, which this Deponent did, and the Officer Commanding the Tender or-
der’d him to Bear away for the Squirrel .
And this Deponent further saith that he saw a French Frigate Cruiz-
ing to Windward 8c on his Bearing away for the Squirrel Bore down upon
him 8c sent her Boat onboard with an Officer, who Demand’d from whence
he came, where bound, and what he imagin’d the English Frigate want’d
with him. He told him he came from St Augustine, was bound to Jamaica,
and suppos’d she wanted to see his Papers. He then told this Deponent that
if he had come from any part of North America, bound to Hispaniola, the
French Frigate would have protect’d him from the English one if he re-
quir’d it. He then left this Deponent, and went onboard, when the French
Frigate; bore down under the Squirrels Stern 8c sent a Boat onboard.
And this Deponent further saith that to the best of his Recollection 8c
Beleif Cape Nichola Mole, bore about NEbE, Ten or Eleven Leagues, when
the Boat, belonging to the French Frigate Board’d this Deponents Vessel, 8c
offer’d him Protection, further this Deponent saith not
Sworn before me 1 Sign’d Rob1 Spence
at Kingston 28th Septr 1776 ►
(Sign’d) Richard Foyster
(A Copy) Clark Gayton
[Endorsed] In Vice Admiral Gaytons Letter 8 October 1776.
1. PRO, Admiralty 1/240.
Journal of H. M. S. Solebay, Captain Thomas Symonds1
Sept 1776 Barbadoes Wt Soly Dist. 62 Leagues
Tuesday 24th At 5 AM bore away 8c set studg Sis at 1 1 Bent Bt Br Cable
Fresh Breezes 8c Cloudy bent the small Br Cable at 12
PM fired 3 Gs 8c made the Sigl for the Convoy to bring
too on the other Tack Wore ship 8c brt too on the other
Tack
Wednesday 25th at Sunrise Barbadoes Needham’s Point NWBW, the End
of the Isld NNW off shore 5 or 6 Lgs at 10 AM fired a
AMERICAN THEATRE
Gun a Sigl for the Convoy to Anchor at Noon Anchd in
Carlisle Bay in 30 fs Sc veer’d to 2/3 of a Cable
Mod: Sc Cloudy at 4 PM fired a Gun Sc made the Sigl for
all Merchantmen
Empd staying the Foremast Sc setting up the Rigging -
Mod: breezes Sc Cloudy at 7 PM fired a Gun a Sigl for
the Convoy to Weigh at 9 Weighd and came to sail 5
Sail in Co
At 1 1 AM NE End of St Vincents WNW 5 or 6 Lgs
Mod: Sc Cloudy TKd Occasionally
i/2 pt 3 AM Wore Ship at 9 Empd turning up the Bay,
at 10 Came too an Anchr in Kingston Bay in 30 fs Water
Veer’d to 1/3 of a Cable
at Single Anchr in Kingston Bay in the Island of
St. Vincent
at 5 PM warp’d the Ship farther in Sc Moor’d Ship2
1. PRO, Admiralty 51/909.
2. Ibid., the Solebay and transports had come to embark the 6th Regiment of Foot. The
convoy sailed for New York on October 11.
29 Sept. (Sunday)
Master’s Log of H. M. Brig Diligent1
In Canso Harbour
at Noon Anchd with the Bt Br in 4i/£ fm Muddy bottom, Veer’d
to 1 / 3 of Cable found lying here 2 Brigs which were taken by
the Rebels, took from them 5 Men belonging to the Privateer
1. PRO, Admiralty 52/1669.
Metcalf Bowler to Nathaniel Shaw, Jr-1
Sir Newport Sepr 29th 1776 -
Agreeable to Coll. Christr Lippits request, have taken up Capt
[Nicholas] Websters Sloop [ John Wilkes ] into the Service of This State, to
transport the Tents, and other necessarys, for the use of his Regiment,
which are now on their march to New York. — and desires. I would send
them to your care at New London, to be forwarded immediately to Coll.
Lippit agreeable thereto - inclos’d you have Capt Nicholas Webstars receipt
for 90 Tents. 15 Marquee Tents. 80 wooden Canteens 40 Knapsacks. 9 dozen
Cod lines Sc 30 Tent Poles, all which youll please to receive Sc forward. — if
you should judge it necessary, for Capt Webstar to proceed to New Haven,
he will do it, and deliver the Goods, agreeable to your Orders. — I
remain With esteem and regard [Sec.]
M Bowler. Commt Safety
1. Nathaniel and Thomas Shaw Letters and Papers, NLCHS.
Septr 1776
Sundy 29th
1044
Thursday 26th
Friday 27th
Saturday 28th
SEPTEMBER 1776
1045
Nathaniel Shaw, Jr. to Captain Nicholas Webster1
Sir New London Sep 29 1776.
The Tents 8cc which you have on Board for Col [Christopher]
L [i] ppits Regemt you are to Proceede with in your Sloop up the Sound as farr
as Fairfield and their deliver them if you find his Regt their, if he is Gone
on to N. York you must if you think it Safe Proceede up as farr as Stanford
and advise Col Leppitt and take his Direction I have also put on board
Seventy two Tents more which you must Deliver as farr up the Sound as
you think you can with safety they are for the Use of the Continental
Army 8c must be delivered to Genl Washingtons order you must send an
express to the Genl soon as you arrive and deliver the Inclosed Letter I am
Sir [&c.]
N Shaw Junr
To Capt Nicholas Webster Present
[Endorsed] a True Copy of the Origenal
Nicholas Webstar
1. Nathaniel and Thomas Shaw Letters and Papers, NLCHS.
Journal of H. M. S. Cerberus ■, Captain John Symons1
Septr [17] 76 Block Island N47E 14 Leagues
Sunday 29 at 6 AM saw a Sail gave Chace at 8 fired a 3 pdr 8c brot:
too the Chace a Brig from Antigua bound to New London
[sic] Loaded wth Sugar taken by the Sally privateer 2 md
the Syrens Sigl to take care of the prize, the Merlin fired 2
Guns 8c brot too the Brigs boat with the Privateersmen sent
the Brigg to the Hook under Convoy of the Merlin
Fresh breezes and hazey Close reeft the Topsails at 4 P M
handed Fore 8c Mizn Topsails at 9 parted Co wth the
Merlin 8c Prize
1. PRO, Admiralty 51/ 181.
2. Ibid., 1/487, Agnes, William Mather, master, John Mather, owner, for London, not New
London as stated in the journal, Howe’s Prize List, March 31, 1777.
Journal of H. M. Sloop Merlin , Captain William C. Burnaby 1
1776 Sepr Montock point NEbE-8 Leag[ues]
Sunday 29 at 6 AM saw a Sail to the Westwd gave chase [at] 9 spoke the
Brigt Agnes — Madder Master Loaded wth Sugar taken by the
Rebels 8c bound to Rhode Isld
1. PRO, Admiralty 51/604.
“Extract of a letter from Charlestown in South Carolina
dated Sept. 29.”1
The French and Spaniards are inclined to protect the American ves-
sels; for this purpose two French frigates are actually arrived at the island
of Hispaniola, to be joined by two more French and two Spanish frigates,
which are to cruise off Port Rico, and round the island of Hispaniola; other
1046
AMERICAN THEATRE
vessels are to protect the trade at Martinico and Guadaloupe; we have now
here a French sloop with goods from Martinico. A general amnesty to all
French deserters is published at Martinico. — A vessel from Turks island
brings us a copy of the French commandant’s instructions respecting the
protection of all American vessels, and informs us, that he requested it may
be made known to all America as soon as possible.
1. Almon, ed., Remembrancer, IV, 141.
William Bingham to Silas Deane1
[Extract]
Sir, St Pierre Martinique Sept 29th 1776
Agitated betixt Hopes 8c Fears, I have been waiting with the greatest
Impatience 8c Suspence of Mind, for the Event of an Engagement at New
York, which the Papers I lately had the honor of transmitting you, an-
nounced the Americans were in daily expectation of.
I have seen an Extract of a Letter dated Philadelphia 29 August, with
the following Relation; that Twelve Thousand of the Kings Forces had dis-
embarked at Long Island; that Four Thousand had marched two Leagues
into the Country, but were repulsed with the Loss of 100 Men 8c 2 principal
Officers made Prisoners. The Loss on our Side is not mentioned, nor
whether they were opposed by Regular Troops or Militia.
I sincerely lament my Inability of furnishing you with the most au-
thentic 8c circumstantial Intelligence, well knowing how absolutely neces-
sary it is, that you should be thoroughly acquainted therewith; but I am
fully pursuaded, that the frequent Captures of our Vessels deprive me of
those Papers of Information, which are directed for me; however, if it was
not for the disappointment of News, we have no Right to complain; con-
sidering the Number of more valuable Prizes that we have taken from the
Enemy. Our Privateers have met with uncommon Success, they have made
great Havock amongt the West India Men; so that upon casting up Ac-
counts, the Ballance will be immensely in our Favor.
1. Collections of the Connecticut Historical Society , XXIII, 36.
30 Sept.
Journal of H. M. S. Liverpool, Captain Henry Bellew1
Septr 1776 Going into Halifax Harbour
Monday 30 at 2 AM fird 2 guns for signal for anchorg 8 Do anchd in [10]
fm abreast of the Town - anchd here 2 of the Prizes, found
riding here H. M Ship Rainbow , Lark, and Viper, at 10, Arrd
the other 2 Prizes, one of which ran a ground, sent the Pinnace
to assist her, getting down F topmast, being sprung.
First part strong Gales, and Squally, middle and latter modr
and Cloudy, PM empd getting down the F Topmast, and get-
ting another up.
1. PRO, Admiralty 51/548.
SEPTEMBER 1776
1047
Journal of H. M. S. Scarborough, Captain Andrew Barkley1
Cape Sable NbE distant 4 or 5 miles
at 3 A M Long Island head ESE 3 Leagues, at 4 lost the
Log 8c 2 Lines, at 8 Cape Percieux, N dist. 6 or 7 Leagues, the
Gannet Rock SW 2 or 3 miles.
First part fresh Breezes 8c Clear, Middle & Latter Modte &
Hazy; at 1 p m saw several small Vessels in shore, at 4
turning into port La tour in chace of a Sloop 8c 2 Schooners,
got up Topgallt: yards 8c set the sails, fired Guns occasion-
ally at the Sloop which proved to be a Rebel Privateer: at 6
the Privateer Ran aground on the Et side of the Harbr 8c
fired 3 shot at us, at l/£ past the Ship got aground; carried
out the stream Anchor 8c Cable hove the Ship off, came too,
with the Bt Br in 6 fms water 8c veer’d to y% a Cable, sent
the Cutter 8c retook a Schooner loaded with fish; the Wt
point coming into the Harbr SWbS the Et point SbE,
Thrum Cap No
Sunday 29th at 8 AM the Rebel Sloop haul’d in behind a Small Island, at
10 the Boat empd sounding.
First part fresh Breezes 8c Hazey. Middle 8c Latter fresh
Gales 8c Squally, at 1 PM sent the Boat to sound at past
[1] the Rebell Privateer fired 3 shot at the boat, at 2 the
Boat return’d, at 10 Lower’d the Lower yards 8c struck
Topgallant Masts, veer’d to a Cable.
Monday 30th At a Single Anchor in Port La tour Harbr
First part fresh Breezes 8c Squally, Middle 8c Latter Modte
and Cloudy
1. PRO, Admiralty 51/867.
Sepr 76
Satury 28th
Captain John Paul Jones to the Continental Marine Committee1
Providence, off the Isle of Sable
Gentlemen 30th Septr 1776 —
I had the honour of writing to you the 27th Ulto p the Brigtine Bri-
tannia a Whaler which I sent in under the Care of Lieut [William] Grin-
ned likewise 4th Currt pr the Brigtine Sea Nymph which I sent in under
the care of Mr W. [William] Hopkins — also 7th Currt p the Brigtine Fa-
vourite which I sent in under the care of Mr J. [Joseph] Vesey — the Sea
Nymph was from Barbados for London, the Favourite from Antigua for
Liverpool.
From that time ’till the 14th I cruised without seeing any Vessels — I
then spoke the Columbus' s Prize the Ship Royal Exchange bound for Bos-
ton. — by this time my water and Wood began to run short which induced
me to Hand to the Northward for some Port of Nova Scotia or Cape Briton
— I had besides a prospect of destroying the English shipping in these
1048
AMERICAN THEATRE
parts - the 16th & 17th I had a very heavy Gale from the N W which
obliged me to dismount all my Guns and Strike every thing I could into the
hould — the 19th I made the Isle of Sable and on the 20th being between it
and the main I met with an English Frigate with a Merchant Ship under
her convoy. — I had hove too to give my People an Opportunity of taking
Fish when the Frigate came in Sight directly to windward and was so good
natured as to save me the trouble of Chaseing him by bearing down the in-
stant he discovered us. — When he came within Cannon shot I made Sail to
try his speed Quartering and finding that I had [illegible] the advantage
shortened Sail to give him a Wild Goose Chace and tempt him to throw
away Powder and shot — accordingly a Curious Mock Engagement was
maintained between us for Eight hours ’till Night with her Sable Curtain
Put an end to this famous exploit of English Knight Errantry, he excited
my contempt so much by his continual firing at more than twice the proper
distance that when he rounded too to give his Broadside I ordered my ma-
rine Officer to return the Salute with only a Single Musquit. We Saw him
next morning standing to the westward and it is not unlikely that he hath
told his friends at Hallifax what a trimming he gave to a “Rebel Privateer”
that he found infesting the Coast. — that night I was off Canso harbour
and sent my Boat in to gain information on the morning of the 22d I anc-
hored in the harbour and before night got off a Sufficiency of Wood and
Water. — here I recruited several men and finding three English Schooners
in the harbour we that night Burnt one Sunk another and in the morning
carried off the third which we had loaded with what Fish was found in the
other two.
At Canso I reed information of Nine Sail of Ships, Brigs, & schooners
in the harbours of Narrow shock 8c Peter de Great at a small distance from
each other in the Island of Madame on the East Side of the Bay of Canso —
these I fully determined to take or destroy — and to do it effectually having
brought a shallop for the purpose from Canso I despatched her with twenty
five Armed Men to Narrowshock while my Boat went well Manned and
Armed to Peter de great and I kept off and on with the Sloop to keep them
in Awe at both places. — the Expedition succeeded to my wish — so effec-
tual was the Surprise and so general the Panic that numbers yeilded to an
handful without Opposition and never was a Bloodless Victory more corn-
pleat. — as the shipping that were loaded were all Unrigged I had recourse
to an expedient for dispatch — I promised to leave the late Proprietors Ves-
sels sufficient to carry them home to the Island of Jersey on condition that
they immediately fitted out and Rigged Such of the rest as might be re-
quired— this condition was readily complyed with and they assisted my
People with unremitting application ’till the Business was compleated. but
the evening of the 25th brought with it a Violent Gale of Wind with rain
which obliged me to Anchor in the Entrance of Narrowshock where I rode
it out with both Anchors and whole Cables ahead. — two of our Prizes the
Ship Alexander and Schooner Sea Flower had come out before the Gale
began — the Ship Anchored Under a point and rode it out but the
SEPTEMBER 1776
1049
Schooner, after Anchoring drove and run Ashore — She was a Valuable
Prize being loaded with Oil — but as we could not get her off I next day or-
dered her to be set on Fire. — the Schooner Ebenezer, taken at Canso, was
driven on a Reef of Sunken Rocks and there totally lost — the People hav-
ing with difficulty Saved themselves on a Raft. Towards noon on the 26th
the Gale began to Abate. — the Ship Adventure being Unrigged and Al-
most Empty I ordered her to be Burnt. — I put to Sea in the Afternoon
with the Brigtine Kingston Packet — and being Joined by the Alexander
went off Peter de greate. I had sent an Officer round in a Shallop to order
the Vessels in that harbour to meet me in the offing and he now Joined me
in the Brigtine Success and informed me that Mr [Bernard] Gallagher (the
Officer who had Commanded the Party in that harbour) had left it at the
beginning of the Gale in the Brigtine Defiance and taken with him my Boat
and all the People. — I am unwilling to believe that this was done with an
Evil intention. — I rather think he concluded the Boat and People neces-
sary to Assist the Vessel in getting out, the navigation being difficult and
the wind, at that time, Unfavourable, and when the Gale was begun I know
it was impossible for them to return
Thus weakened I could Attempt nothing more. — With one of our
Brigs and the Sloop I could have Scoured the Coast and Secured the de-
struction of a large Coal Fleet that was loading near Lewisburg with the
Savage only to protect them.
The Fishery at Canso and Madame is effectually destroyed. — out of
Twelve Sail which I took there I only left two Small Schooners and one
Small Brig to convey a number of Unfortunate men not short of three
Hundred Across the Western Ocean. — had I gone further I should have
Stood chargable with inhumanity.
In my ticklish Situation it would have been Madness to loose a moment
— I therefore hastened to the Southward to convoy my Prizes out of harms
way — Dawson’s Brig2 having been within fifteen leagues of the Scene of
Action during the whole time.
On the 27th I saw two Sail which we took for Quebeck Transports. —
Unable to resist the Temptation, having appoint’d a three days Renda-
vouze on the SW part of the Isle of Sable, I gave Chace, but could not come
up before they had got into Lewisburg — a place where I had reason to ex-
pect a far Superior Force and therefore returned and this day Joined my
prizes at the Rendavouze.
If my poor endeavours should meet with your approbation I shall be
greatly rewarded in the pleasing reflection of having endeavoured to do my
Duty: — I have had so much Stormy weather and been obliged, on divers
Occassions, to carry so Much Sail that the sloop is in no condition to con-
tinue long out of Port. — I am besides very Weak-handed and the Men I
have are scarce Able to Stand the Deck for want of Cloathing, the weather
here being Very Cold. — These reasons induce me to bend my thoughts to-
wards the Continent. — I do not expect to meet with much, if any, Success
on my return — But, if Fortune should insist on sending a transport or so
1050
AMERICAN THEATRE
in my Way — weak as I am, I will endeavour to Pilot him Safe. It is but
Justice to add that my Officers and Men behaved incomparably well on the
Above Occasion. — I have the honour to be with much respect and Grateful
Esteem Gentlemen [&c.]
2 Copies p the Providence s prizes the Ship Alexander 8c Brigtine Success
[Endorsed] 1776 Providence off the Isle of Sable 30th Septr
Copy of a Letter to the Honourable the Marine
Committee Philada
1. Papers CC (Letters of John Hancock, and Miscellaneous Papers) , 58, 89-92, NA.
2. H. M. Sloop Hope.
Master's Log of H. M. S. Milford 1
Septr 1776
Sunday 29
Mondy 30
Seal Island NWBN 4 or 5 Leags
at 4 AM saw a Sail in the NW Quarter made Sail and gave
Chace
Fresh Breezes and Hazy fir’d 2 three Pounders and Brot the
Chace too, sent a Petty Officer 8c 5 Men to take possession of
the Prize,
at 2 [A. M.] saw another Sail to the W Ward gave Chace at
6 the Chace bore away 8c set Steerg sails 8c made all the sail
she could to get clear, at 8 fir’d 4 three poundrs 8c Brot her
too sent an Officer 8 : Men to take possession of the Prize, she
proved to be a pirate private [e]r of 12 Carrg Guns, 18 Swiv-
els 8cc with 82 men,2 at 9 Wore Ship 8c made Sail in Compy
with the Prizes, the Brigg not in Sight.
Mode 8c Cloudy latter Calm and fair P M got the Prisoners
onboard, Clear’d out the Sail Room 8c Bt Bower Tier and
stow’d them away at 6 took the Sloop in Tow
1. PRO, Admiralty 52/1865.
2. Massachusetts privateer Retrieve. MeHS collections contain detailed accounts of her out-
fitting costs.
John Langdon to John Hancock1
[Extract] [Portsmouth, September 30, 1776] 2
. . . honoured, and shall spare no pains, in takeing all due care of the
Interest of the United States, that shall fall within my department. I am
now to inform the Honble Marine Comme that last Friday [September 20]
the Ship Royal Exchange from Grenada, to London Capt Bowden late Mas-
ter, was sent in here by the Columbus > Capt Whipple, I have Libeled the
Ship and shall proceed agreeable to Resolutions of Congress. — Mr Onley
[Joseph Olney] (the Prize Master) has behaved with great Humanity to
the Passengers 8c other Prisoners on board, who all say, that his treatment
to them has been that of a Gentleman. The several Prizes brot into this
place heretofore, (which are under the care of the Agent appointed by Genl
Washington,) ^ will soon be sold and their Accts made up, which I shall re-
ceive, as also the Monies arising therefrom, belonging to the States, of,
which (when compleated) shall inform the Honoble Committee. The Mas-
SEPTEMBER 1776
1051
ters 8c people belonging to those Prizes, which have been sent in here by
the Continental Schooners, fitted out by Genl Washington have had their
adventures 8cc allowed them as well as their Wages, Clothes 8c other small
matters, as there is no mention in the Resolves of Congress, of Adventures
or Property of any kind being allowed (except Wages) either to the Mari-
ners or Passengers, that may be on board at the time of the Capture, should
be glad to be inform’d from the Honble Committee, wh[e]ther any Prop-
erty whatsoever is to be allow’d to any person, on board (not an American)
except Wages 8c Clothes to Seamen, some Stores 8cc belonging to the Passen-
gers, hope it will be Explicit, as there will be many Claims for Adventures
8cc to considerable Amount made by the Passengers and Seamen. — I am
very unhappy that the Continental Frigate here, has been prevented from
going to Sea the last Summer, for want of Guns, when there has been a suf-
ficient number laying at Providence belonging to the Continent, but as Eve
wrote the Honble Committee fully on this matter, some days since, shall beg
leave to refer them to that Letter. - I am with great Respect [8cc.]
John Langdon.
1. John Langdon Letter Book, Captain J. G. M. Stone Private Collection, Annapolis. Langdon
was addressing Hancock as chairman of the Marine Committee.
2. Ibid., the first part of the letter is torn off and the date is established by Langdon’s letter of
September 30, 1776 to Josiah Bartlett: "I have wrote the Marine Committee of this Date
to know whether any Adventures or any property belonging to Passengers or Seamen
who are taken in any prize Ship, are to be allowed."
3. Joshua Wentworth.
John Langdon to John Roche1
Dear Sir Portsmouth Septemr 30, 1776 -
Your favour of the 7th from New York lately came to hand, which
gave me some uneasiness, at your accot of our Army at that place but as my
belief borders closely on enthusiasm, that we shall finally rise Triumphant
over Tyranny, soon got the better of our Long Island affair, 8c imputed our
Rebuff, at that place, all for the best —
I have mentioned your name to Collo [William] Whipple 8c Mr
[Samuel] Adams, who sett out next Monday for Philadelphia and intend
mentioning you to Collo [Richard Henry] Lee of Virginia -2
I have not heard from Philadelphia for some time, supposing it owing
to the Communication’s being in part cutt off at Hudsons River, should be
glad (if any time on your hands) of some accot of our affairs at New York.
— We have nothing new in this part of the Creation prizes coming in
Continually, Rum, Sugar, Cotton, Madeira Wine in great plenty. Pray make
my kind respects to Collo Lee, Mr John Adams, Mr [Samuel] Chase, Mr.
[Edward] Rutledge, and all other my good Friends at Philadelphia, accept
of my best wishes for your welfare, 8c believe me to be your Friend without
Flattery —
John Langdon
1. John Langdon Letter Book, Captain J. G. M. Stone Private Collection, Annapolis.
2. Langdon had recommended Roche for appointment to the frigate Raleigh.
1052
AMERICAN THEATRE
Table of New Hampshire Naval Office Fees1
Naval office Newhampshire [Portsmouth] September 1776
For Entering every Ship or Vessel from Massachusetts coast ways — 0 . . 3 . . 0
For clearing to Ditto — U . . a . . U
For Entering from any other of the American States 0 . . 6 . .0
For Clearing to Ditto — 0. .6. .0
For Entering Every Ship or Vessel from a foreign Voyage — 0.12 . .0
For clearing to Ditto — 0 . 12 . . 0
For Every Register — 0 . 12 . . 0
For Recording every Register — 0 . . 2 . . 0
For endorsing every Register — 0 . . 2 . . 0
For every Bond — 0. .2. .0
For a bill of health — 0 . . 3 . . 0
For a coket — 0..2..0
For a permit to Unload — 0. . 1 . .0
For every pass for the Forts — 0 . . 2 . . 0
1. Bouton, ed., Documents and Records of New Hampshire , XVIII, 684.
Petition for Commission for John Wheelwright to Command the
Massachusetts Privateer Brigantine Reprisal 1
State of the "I To the Honora[ble] Council of said State
Massachusetts Bay J sitting at Watertown Septemr 30th 1776 -
Job Prince 8c Samuel White Agents for themselves & for Jacob Fowle,
Andrew Cabot, Jno Coffin Jones, 8c Benja Hitchborne, Owners of the Brigt
Reprisal — Represent to your Honors, that they have at the joint 8c proper
Expence of the said owners, fitted out, armed and mann’d, and equipt, the
aforesaid Brigt now lying in the Harbour of Boston, and ready for the Sea
— burthen’d about seventy Tons - to be navigated by Seventy
Men - mounting Eight Carriage Guns, Three pounders - Ten Swivels,
and other Impliments of War - and provided with Seventy Barrels, Beef 8c
Pork, & fifty Butts Water, together with Six hundred weight of Powder 8c
Twelve hundred weight Shott — and to be commanded by Jno Wheelwright
— Samuel Smallcorn first Lieuts Nathaniel Thayer second Lieutt John Gre-
gore Master - Jno Ritchmond Doctr Peter Johnson Gunner 8c Joseph
[Richmond] Steward — For the purpose of cruizing on the Enemies of the
Linked States of America, And their Property —
They therefore make this application to your Honors, for a Commis-
sion for the said Brigt the said Jno Wheelwright in the Bond herewith ex-
hibited, having compiled with Requisitions of the Honorle Congress in
such Case -
Sam White in Behalf of Capt Job
Prince 8c Owners -
SEPTEMBER 1776
1053
[Endorsed] In Council Octr 3d 1776 Read Sc Ordered that a Commission be
issued out to the above mentioned Jno Wheelwright as Commander of the
Said Briga on his Complying with the Resolves of Congress -
John Avery Dpy Secy
1. Mass. Arch., vol. 165, 312.
Boston Gazette, Monday, September 30, 1776
Watertown, September 23 [sic 30].
On Monday last Capt. Freeman Paine, in the schooner Eagle from
Providence, sent into Boston harbour a ship from Grenada bound for Eu-
rope, laden with 209 hogsheads sugar, 158 puncheons rum, &C.&C.1
We also hear that Captain Paine is arrived safe into Plimouth with two
prizes, one of which is the brigantine from Virginia mention’d in our last,2
and the other a West Indiaman; and that he took a fifth, from Honduras,
but she is not yet arrived.
Yesterday se’nnight was sent into Providence by Capt. Munroe [James
Munro], the prize ship Blaze Castle from Barbados bound for London hav-
ing on board 100 pipes of Madeira wine, 120 hogsheads sugar, 18,000
weight Whalebone, 120 barrels of Oil, Sec.3
Wednesday last a sloop laden with Dry Fish was carried into Salem by
Capt. [Samuel] Waters in the schooner Dolphin, mounting only six
swivels.4
Wednesday Capt. [Nathaniel] Odiorne, in the Washington privateer,
carried into Newbury-Port, a bark from New York, bound to St. Vincents,
with provisions for 120 men for 6 months. She sailed in company with 5 or
6 transports, under convoy of the Solebay frigate, in order to fetch troops
from thence.5
1. Ship Caledonia.
2. The brigantine Fanny, from Virginia, Captain William Tokely. She had been loaded by the
Secret Committee of the Continental Congress, and became the subject of extensive
controversy.
3. Munro commanded the Rhode Island privateer sloop Sally.
4. Sloop Halifax.
5. Snow Millham.
John Bradford to John Hancock1
Dear Sir Boston 30th Sepr 1776
By last post I inclos’d to Mr [Robert] Morris the State of the Case of
the Condemnation of Ship peggy. as she is Claim’d by the former Owners
who have Appeal’d to Congress and beg’d the favr of Mr Morris to give it
into your hands. I have only to say there are sundry persons of Credit in
town who have made their Escape from Hallifax which saw the process Sc
were in Court at the trial and know she was Condemned2
As I know it gives you pleasure to hear of the Success of your friends I
wou’d inform you that Johnny Winthrop is 1/4 or 1/3 part concern’d in a
Continental Marine Corps Powder Horn With Continental Ship Alfred Carving Thereon
SEPTEMBER 1776
1055
Small privateer out of Cap[e Ann]3 wch has sent in a valuable prize loaded
with Sugar and a large quany (somwhere abot 100 pipes) [illegible] Ma-
deira [wine] A second prize a packet of Abot. 70 tuns no Cargo on [board
but] Elaphants teeth, the vessel is valuable & she has Six Brass Cannon
Carrying a pound & half shot, they have taken a third prize, which is a
three deck ship the privateer got in last Saturday with a Sum of money
and a quany of plate taken out of her and left the prize near the land, it is
probable she is in at Cape Ann, As the wind was favourable Yesterday and
last night and no Enemy on the Coast, none of the Enemies ships have been
seen from our shores for more than a fortnight,4 we are told the Colum-
bus has sent in a prize to portsmo without any farther particulars,5 the
Cruisers from this State dont shine in taking prizes. [Daniel] Waters in
[the] Lee I heard of last week she was then in the track of the Jamaica
ships, after wasting a whole month in harbours before she went
abroad, [John] Ayres I have not heard from since he Sailed wch is near
four weeks, [John] Skimmer and [Samuel] Tucker Sail’d last week
fitted for a two months Cruise Some good might Arise from keeping them
vessells in [the] Service with good Commanders but the Characters of
none not now employ’d are very Exceptionable6
I hope these may find you and your good Lady Rejoycing in the Bless-
ings of health, be pleas’d to offer my best Compliments to her, and believe
me to be [&c.]
Jn° Bradford
Ive wrote to Mr Winthrop to pick out a pipe of the best wine for your
private use we shall be able to accomodate you with a hhd of best Barbds
powderd Sugars wch are to be Sold on Wednesday next
1. Society Collection, HSP.
2. The Peggy , captured by Washington’s armed schooners Hancock and Franklin, was condemned
at Boston, September 5, 1776. The appeal from the verdict was based upon whether
she had been properly condemned in the Admiralty court at Halifax. If not she
could be considered only as a recapture, and not a prize. The appeal was finally dismissed
“neither party appearing” on May 24, 1784. Revolutionary War Prize Cases, Records of
the Court of Appeals in Cases of Capture, 1776-1787, NA.
3. John Winthrop, Jr. was part owner of the Massachusetts privateer schooner Warren.
4. The three prizes were the ship Picary, brigantine Swallow and ship Sarah and Elizabeth. The
latter arrived safely at Cape Ann on the same day that Bradford wrote.
5. The ship Royal Exchange.
6. The men named were captains of the small armed schooners originally commissioned by
Washington in 1775.
Commodore Esek Hopkins to the Continental Marine Committee1
Gentlemen Providence Septembr 30th 1776 -
Inclosed you have a Copy of the Account Captn Whipple gave me of his
Cruise who arrived here Yesterday in the Columbus , and a Copy of a Letter
I receivd this day from Mr Goddard - the Columbus is very foul, shall
order her to Newport the first fair Wind to clean - The Hampden & Alfred
ale ready all but Men, which I have not been able to get a sufficient number
1056
AMERICAN THEATRE
yet — The new Ships are down the River with about One hundred Men
each,2 but as there are so many Privateers a fitting out which give more en-
couragement as to Shares; it makes it difficult to mann the Continental
Vessels —
There is some Small Arms arrived here belonging to the Continent, Im-
ported by Messrs Nicholas Browne 8c Company, Should be glad of an
Order for them for the New Ships, as I expect to get Orders from the Com-
mittee of this State to Enlist Men out of their Troops when they meet,
which will be this week I am Gentlemn [See.] E.H
To the honble John Hancock Esqr
President of the Marine Committee
at Philadelphia
1. Hopkins Letter Book, RIHS.
2. The Continental frigates Providence and Warren.
Journal of the Committee Appointed to Build Two Continental
Frigates in Rhode Island1
[Providence] Sepr 30. 1776
Voted That application be made to John Cole Esqr Attorney at Law that he
attach William Duntons share in the Privatier Sloop, Montgomerys last
Cruise, for and in behalf of the United American States, as he belonged to
the Continental Fleet at the Time he went said last Cruise, and that all oth-
ers that have left the service of the said ships in this Harbour, and have In-
listed on Board Privatiers, that they be served in like manner.
1. Journal R. I. Frigates, RIHS.
Clark 8c Nightingale to Nathaniel Shaw, Jr-1
Sir Providence Septr 30. 1776
Inclosed you have a Copy of a letter which Mr Updike has received
from his Friend in Milford — The Vessel therein mentioned is one we
Charter’d on the Continental Account and on her return was taken by a
tender; but before she got into port was retaken by the Schuyler Captn
[Charles] Pond and carried into Long-Island, there they tooke out her
Cargo, consisting of Powder, Arms, Salt Petere 8c dry goods Sec for the Con-
tinent & a few hhd Molosses as Adventurers, on the Enemy taking posses-
sion of Long Hand She was loaded with Sea Coal 8c carried into Milford —
we have now to request of you that you would Endeavour to have this mat-
ter accomodated — As you are Continental Agent 8c she was taken by a
Continental Privateer 8c fitted out on the Continental Accot we think some
method might be found that the vessel may be returned to us; that we may
return her again to the owner — We should not have troubled you with this
affair, but we wrote to Congress about it, and they have been so much taken
up with business of more importance, that they have not had time to answer
SEPTEMBER 1776
1057
it — In answer to your favr of the 25 Inst we must inform you that the Sea
Coal you mention is private property and the persons who own it will not
sell as they propose making use of it, in an Air Furnace which they are
about setting up, but we imagine you may [be] able to get it out of the Sloop,
Nancy before mentioned 8c it would be rendering the Continent 8c your-
selves a Service if you could get her into your Port Sc have the Matter set-
tled, as we want to settle our accounts with Congress — your compliance
with this request will greatly Oblige Sir [8cc.]
Clark 8c Nightingale
1. Nathaniel and Thomas Shaw Letters and Papers, NLCHS.
Newport Mercury , Monday, September 30, 1776
Newport, September 30.
The Columbus , Capt. [Abraham] Whipple went up the east passage on
Saturday evening, having taken 3 prizes, one of which, a brig went in with
him, as also a large schooner, said to belong to the Diamond , Capt.
[Thomas] Stacey, the particulars of which we have not heard. The same eve-
ning a snow went up the bay, said to be a prize belonging to the Revenge ,
Capt. [Samuel] Dunn, of Swansey.
The privateer Independence, Capt. Truxen [Thomas Truxtun], of
Connecticut,1 is arrived at the eastward, having taken 2 ships and 2 brigs;
one of the brigs, after taking out some cotton, cocoa, Sec. he gave to a num-
ber of prisoners.
1. Truxtun was commissioned in New York, not Connecticut. Referring to this cruise, he
writes:
During our revolution, I myself was once a whole day in a fleet near the banks
of Newfoundland, and from having possession of the signals taken in a brig I had
captured the day preceding, answered every one they made, and finally cut off from
its rear and carried away at night (about ten or eleven o’clock) a valuable ship.
Thomas Truxtun, ed., Instructions, Signals, and Explanations, offered for the
United States Fleet (Baltimore, 1797), 35.
Advertisement of Sale of Part of the Cargo of Prize Ship
Nathaniel and Elizabeth 1
The Public are hereby desired to take Notice, That a parcel of Jamaica
Spirits and Sugars, part of the Ship Nathaniel & Elizabeth’s 2 Cargo, will
be sold in New London, on Tuesday the 15th of October next, at Publick
Vendue, by Prosper Wetmore, Marshal.
By Order of the Maritime Court,
Winth. Saltonstall, Register
New-London, 30th Sept. 1776.
1. Connecticut Gazette, October 4, 1776.
2. A prize of the Continental brig Andrew Doria. See Volume 5.
Captain Nathaniel Packard’s Account Against the Rhode Island Sloop America 1
1058
AMERICAN THEATRE
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1060
AMERICAN THEATRE
Nathaniel Shaw, Jr/s Account Against the Continental Brig
Andrew Doria1
1776
Aprl
10
24
Augt
29
Sepr
30
The Brig And. Doria
Dr
To 1 Arm Chest £ 3..0..0
To 1 bar Oatmeal 1 . .0. .0
To 1 bar pork 3.10. .0
To 12 lb [sugar] Brown 0..3..0
To 21.. 3.. 12 lb Bread @ 12/ 13. .2. .6
from Brig Boulton
To 8 Days Warfage Sc Brig Stores Sec
To Use Lesters Stage 5/ Capron Kettles Sec 10
To pd Fink for bar Tallow
To 41 ft plank
To John Turners Bill 21/ Goddard’s do 95/6
To Joshua Starrs Bill the Block maker
To James Tilleys do the Rope maker
To John Bolles do Black Smith
To John Deshon do for pi Timber Sec
To 7 Gal Linseed oile 6/
To 3 box Candles Amo
To 10 bar pork @ 72/ 20 bar beef @ 50
freight Sc Expences at Norwich 36/
To 10 bar Flour Amt to
To Joseph Owens Bill for Putty Sec
To 10 bus potatoes 1/6
To pd Danll Latham for piloting the Brig
to Rode Island & on a Cruse
To 30 p Shoes @ 6/6
To 6 Shirts
To 55 Shirts as p Bill 50. .14. .0
To 22 p Trouses 16.10. .0
To 29 p Shoes 7/6 10.. 17.. 6
To Cash pd Capt Hinman for money
advanced the people pr Capt
[Nicholas] Biddles ordr
4 o pd Brown for Stock at Fishers Island
To pd the Butchers Bill from 26th Aprl
to 4th May
To pd the Butcher June 28th
To Cash pd Wm Willden as p Rect Se Capt
Biddles Letter
9.15. .
4.12.10
78. . 1. .6
13.10. . 0
20.15. . 6
1.10. .-
0.15..-
6. . 3. .8
0. .6.10
5.16. . 6
4. . 8. .5
40. . 8. .2
2.18. .2
0.10. .-
2. .2. .0
3.13. .2
87.16. . 0
15. .0. .6
2.10. . 0
0.15. .0
9. .0. .0
204. .8.11
105.19. .4
3.12. .0
12.10.11
1.15. .3
3.12. .-
331.18. .5
SEPTEMBER 1776
1061
T o Sami Latimers Bill 8. .13. .11 8.13.11
carred page 6
Brig Andrew Doria Dr
To Sum Brot over £ 340. 12:. 4
To Commission 5 pCt 17..0..6
£ 357.12.10
1. Shaw Collection, Book 39, 6, 7, YUL.
Nathaniel Shaw, Jr/s Account Against the Continent 1
1776 The Continent
Sepr To pd Mich Melallys Accot against Govr
30 [Montfort] Brown Sc [James] Bab-
bage2 Sc Servants 8cc as pr Govr Sc
Counsel advice Sec
Charged to Ship A If red
1. Shaw Collection, Book 39, 19, YUL.
2. Taken prisoners during Commodore Hopkins’ assault on New Providence.
Dr
35. .0. .1
Journal of H. M. S. Syren, Captain Tobias Furneaux1
Septr 1776 Block Island bearing No 26°Wt 18 Lgs
Monday 30 A M at 6 a Sail in the Wt out Reefs Sc gave Chace [at] 8
the Chace shortned Sail Sc stood towards us at 9 the Cer-
berus mde our Sigl to speak the Chace having hoisted out her
boat Sc some people in her went towards Long Isld shore, the
Merlin being in shore of us hoisted out her boat &: took the
Brigg’s boat, with 8 Men in her [at] 10 spoke the Chace, a
brigg from Antigua2 taken by a rebel Privateer, bro’t too, the
Cerberus [made] our Sigl for a Lieut: sent an Officer Sc 2
men to carry her into New York at Noon mde [sa]il Sc
parted Co the Merlin Sc prize.
1. PRO, Admiralty 51 /930.
2. The Agnes, William Mather, master, from Antigua to London, with sugar. She had been
taken by the Rhode Island privateer Sally , Captain James Munro, Public Advertiser,
London, October 15, 1776.
Major General Horatio Gates to Major General Philip Schuyler 1
[Extract]
(Copy) Ticonderoga September 30th 1776 —
. . . The Cordage you mention is arrived; but General Waterbury is
greatly disappointed in not receiving the Cables. The Gallies must sail with
such as are to be had here. Better shall be sent them, the moment they come
to my Hands. We are industrious in repairing the Old Fort, the Stone Re-
doubt at the East Point of Ticonderoga, and constructing the out Line of a
Strong Fort upon Mount Independence. Precautions are also making to
1062
AMERICAN THEATRE
place the Fleet in Security for the Winter — These are Works which keep
us all employed, the Sick and Malingerers excepted, and they are more than
they ought to be. —
The Powder, Lead, Flints and Musket Cartridge Paper wrote for, so
long ago, are not, even in Part arrived. The large Demand supplied to the
Fleet reduces our Magazine so much, that, should the Fleet, after expending
their Ammunition, be Obliged to retire, we shall not have any thing like
Sufficient, to make a proper Defence here. This should be seriously attended
to, and not a Moment more lost, in furnishing the Quantity demanded in my
Letter to you of the 5th Instant.
I am informed the fourth Row-Galley is ready to be Launched. — The
whole of the different Gangs of Ship Carpenters being Consolidated into
one Body to finish her.
Is it not the Intention of Congress to continue to increase our Fleet
with the utmost Expedition. - If it is, more Carpenters should be forth-
with engaged, and that Work carried on with all the Spirit, and Industry
we are Capable of. The Ague has so worn down the Carpenters sent by
Order of Congress that more cannot be expected from them this Season;
therefore, to Continue this Important Work, more must be supplied.
Inclosed is a Copy of Genl Arnold’s Letter to me of the 21st Instant.
His Demands are complied with as far as in my power by the Trumbull Gal-
ley, Capt. [Seth] Warner, which sailed last Thursday evening to join the
Fleet.- General Waterbury Sails with the Two other Galleys to morrow
morning Early, & the Schooner Liberty, will immediately after proceed to
the Fleet. - The Heavy Storm last night would fill me with Great Anxiety,
had not General Arnold (as you will see in his Letter) Assured me that he
had a Safe Harbour within his Reach. —
1. Papers CC (Letters of Major General Philip Schuyler) , 153, II, 419-26, NA.
Memoirs of Major General William Heath1
[Harlem, September] 30th. - The moving over of boats to Montresor’s
Island continued. The same day, a frigate went through Hell Gate, and
came to anchor about 10 o’clock, A. M. near La Brune. At 12 o’clock, she
came to sail, and stood to the eastward. Just at evening another ship came
up; -
1. Abbatt, ed., Heath Memoirs, 59.
Joseph Williams to William Coit1
[Extract] Camp 1 Mile from Kingsbridge Sept 30th 1776
... As to the battle at Nyork you have been Misinformd — it is true
we was oblidgefd] to Leave Nyork on Acct of being Surrounded by their
Shipp [s] 1 en of which Came into the East River, a Little below Hell gate,
& 011 Sunday the 15th Landed a Large Number of troops under the Cover of
their Cannon, Our Genl had Concluded on a retreat before, As it was impos-
SEPTEMBER 1776
1063
sible to Stand Against their Ships - 8c had Movd their Cannon Ammunition,
Provisions, 8c the Chief of their baggage, of Consequence, the week before,
8c Marchd the greatest Part of the troops back toward Kingsbridge for fear
the Enemy would Come upon the back of us — their was only 2 Brigades in
the City when the Enemy Landed viz Genl Persons [Samuel Holden
Parsons] 8c Genl [James] Wadsworth 8c Part of a Brigade at Horns Hook
under Commd of Colo Sergant [Paul Dudley Sargent] , the Enemy Landed
between the two Brigades, 8c Colo Sergant, 8c Advancd So quick, that the
two Brigades retreated back to the Main body of Our Army, without much
Opposition, Colo [Samuel] Selden was taken on the retreat, Majr [James]
Chapman of New London Killd, of Co [John] Tyler [’s] Regim — Lieut
[John] Wheatly wounded, 8c Taken Prisnr — those brigades Cheifly Lost
their Bagage - Colo Sargent, Lost three men in the Cannonade, the week
before, but did not Engage them on Sunday — the next day being Monday,
Our Army got Prepard for them 8c Engagd them with Spirit, 8c drove them
two Miles, 8c you may depend on it Killd four hundred, of the Enemy, 8c met
with but Little Loss on Our Side . . . we Are Pretty well Out of Reach of
their Shipping now, 8c I believe Our Army will be Able to make a Stand,
where they Now are, 8c give them a Nother Drubbing if they Attempt to
Come out — Our Army is in three divisions, One over on the Jersey Side,
One at fort Washington ten miles from Newyork — 8c one this side of
Kingsbridge — Our troops on the Jersey side has retreated back out of
reach of their Cannon . . .
1. Trumbull Papers, YUL.
Narrative of Captain Andrew Snape Hamond 1
[H. M. S. Roebuck , September 2 to September 30]
. . . and in the Course of two days that we lay abreast of
it [Governors Island], we felt the effect of their return,
2d Sepr as they fired through the ship, and obliged us to shift our
birth: but the next day two Companies of Hessians were
sent to take possession of it.
3d All the Men of War, except the Vice Admiral 8c Centu-
rion (that were left at Staten Island) moved up within a
Mile of the Town, and the Transports Anchored from
Red Hook to yellow Hook, on the Long Island Side. The
Army extended themselves on the Island, and after some
days erected Batterys against the Rebels Works at Wal-
tons Point near Hell Gate, and the General fixed his head
Quarters at Newtown. Flat Boats were sent to the Frig-
ates in the Sound and others were sent up Newtown
Creek, so that the Enemy could not guess where the de-
scent of the Troops would be made next. During this time
most of the Inhabitants of Long Island came in 8c took
1064
AMERICAN THEATRE
12th Sepr
the Oath of Allegiance; and as it is a most delightful
Country abounding with every necessary 8c convenience
of Life, and the weather remarkably fine, both Army &
Navy were well supplied with every thing they could de-
sire. As soon as the Rebels had quitted Long Island,
which they had spent so much time to fortify, General
Washington, who was at the Head of their Army, (a Man
tho’ of dull parts, yet not without some military knowl-
edge) concieved the Town to be no longer tenable, and
imediately determined on removing out of it all the Mili-
tary Stores, and every thing that could be carried away,
and took the resolution of making his stand at the North
End of New York Island, where the ground is by nature
remarkably strong, and where allready they had a very
considerable Fortification by the Name of Fort Washing-
ton. That this was their intention was easy to be per-
ceived, by what was seen to be going on: and it was imag-
ined, that General Howe was much divided whether he
should land his Army upon the Main in West Chester,
and come at the back of the Rebels, and cut off their sup-
plys from the Country; or whether he should first secure
the Town; which on account of the winter, and for many
very obvious reasons was an object of great consequence;
He 8c My Lord Howe both thought so, and in a short time
resolved upon the latter: But as General Sullivan had
prevailed upon them to grant him his Parole of Honor to
go to the Congress at Philadelphia, in order to make a
true representation of matters, and to use his endeavors
for a committee to be sent to treat with the Commission-
ers, it is to be concieved they either flattered themselves
that by this means an honorable accomodation might per-
haps be brought about, or were desireous of shewing, to
all the world, that nothing had been neglected to settle
the matter without further bloodshed; Our opperations
were therefore delayed untill his return. He came back
the 11th with the Account that the Congress had ap-
pointed a Committee of three of their Members to meet
the Commissrs whenever they thought proper: The next
day was appointed, and My Lord Howe 8c the General
with the Secretary to the Commission (Mr Stratchey)
[Henry Strachey] went to the Jerseys to meet them. The
three Persons the Congress chose to send on this occasion
were, Doctor Franklyn, J Adams 8c Rutlidge of So Caro-
lina, three Men the most violent for Independancey of
any in their whole body; so that the Meeting was a very
short one, for on their declaring themselves deputies
SEPTEMBER 1776
1065
13th Sepr
15th Sepr
15th Octr
[sic September]
from the free & Independant States of America, and re-
fusing to treat on any other terms, his Lordship broke up
the Assembly, and returned the same night to his Ship.
All the Fleet Boats were sent to Newtown Creek under
the Commd of Commodore Hotham & several of the Cap-
tains; And the Phoenix, Carysfort, Orpheus & RoeBuck
passed the Batterys of New York Town, into the East
River, and Anchored off the Mouth of it, where the Rose
had been for some time, and had a few days before been
very roughly handled by a battery the Rebels had erected
against her, as the River there is not above three Quart-
ers of a Mile wide. The next day we passed with the Gen-
eral at Newtown, where it was determined, that the
Phoenix & Orpheus, with the Rose, should proceed the
morning of the 15th against the Rebel Battery opposite
to Hell Gate, in order to make a feint and draw the atten-
tion of the Enemy that way, whilst the Army should ef-
fect a landing at Kep’s Bay, opposite to Newton covered
by the RoeBuck & Carysfort : But in the Morning the Pi-
lots concieving the Tide would be too rapid for the Ships
to Anchor off the Rebel Battery (of which Captain
[Hyde] Parker [Jr.] acquainted Como Hotham), the dis-
position of the Ships were changed: and the whole five
moved to the other side into Keps’s bay, and took their
stations in the best manner to secure the landing of the
Army. The Rebels had a Line of entrenchment along the
Bank, which on the Ships anchoring they mann’d and
made an appearance of giving a strong opposition to the
Troops if they should land there. [#] General Clinton
commanded this descent; at 9 OClock the Boats appeared
coming down the Creek, by 10 they were at the Mouth of
it, and as the Tide of Flood run Strong, it was necessary
they should row down along the shore, a certain distance,
before they attempted to cross the stream, which brought
the whole embarkation (consisting of five thousand Men
in about 100 boats) in view at the same time. Six large
Transports lay a little below taking in the remainder of
the Army; The Hills were cover’d with Spectators; The
ships kept up a constant fire, which soon set the Enemy
running, when the Light Infantry & Granadiers landed,
and climbed up a Rock, by the Rebels deemed inaccessi-
ble, making all together the finest scene one has ever be-
held.
In three hours the whole Army was landed and in posses-
sion of all the heights within 2 Miles in which they met
with little or no opposition: for as soon as it was known
1066
AMERICAN THEATRE
[September 16]
22d Sepr
the Troops were crossed over, The Rebels imediately
abandoned the Town of New York 8c all their Posts, and
made their escape by the Side of the North River, some
hundreds indeed were intercepted 8c taken Prisoners but
in no degree equal to what might have been expected.
The next day the Army moved forward (leaving behind
three Regiments for the Guard of the Town 8c environs)
and extended their Line from River to River. In the aft-
ernoon, three Companies of Light Infantry having ad-
vanced within Gunshot of the Rebels works, had a skir-
mish with a considerable Body of them. They were soon
supported by a Hessian Brigade 8c other Corps, when an
end was put to the matter, and they retired back to the
ground the General had before given orders to occupy,
with the loss of about 20 Men killed 8c 60, or 70 wounded.
What the Rebels lost was not known, but from their situ-
ation it was imagined they must have suffered greatly.
The Ground the Enemy now occupied was so exceedingly
strong, and their numbers so great (being at least thirty
thousand) that the General determined to wait for the
last division of Hessians, consisting of five thousand Men
(whose arrival was daily expected) before he made any
further attack upon them; and then resolved to embark
his army once more, and on land on the Main, in West
Chester County; when the Rebels would be under the ne-
cessity of either meeting him in the Field, or suffer them-
selves to be surrounded. He therefore gave orders to
throw up a Chain of Redoubts from River to River in
front of his Camp, and with Ships of war on each of his
Flanks remained quiet untill the.
He thought it necessary however to possess himself of
the Post of Paulus Hook on the west side of the North
River, as it not only annoyed the Ships passing to and
fro, but might do considerable damage to the Town. The
Admiral therefore Ordered the Renown Tartar 8c a
Bomb, against the Works, whilst Lord [Hugh] Percy
was embarked with about 500 Men to land as soon as the
Enemy should be driven from their Guns. This attack
was intended to have been made on the 22d Sepr but
being little wind 8c the Renown not being able to get
there in proper time, it was put off untill the next day,
and The RoeBuck was sent in her place. This delay how-
ever gave the Enemy time to move off their Stores, Bag-
gage 8c Provisions, as well as most of their Cannon, and
upon the Ships Anchoring, the post was quite aban-
SEPTEMBER 1776
1067
doned; 8c Ld Percy took possessn without the smallest op-
position.
A few days before this, the Rebels committed an Act;
which at once shewed their inveteracey against us, and
their determined Resolution to sacrifice every thing to
the cause they had engaged in. They secreted People in
different parts of the Town, provided with proper com-
bustibules, in order to set fire to it They just gave time
for the Houses to be filled from the Fleet 8c Army, And
for those to return, that had been driven away, and tak-
ing the advantage of a very Stormy Night, about one
OClock in the morning set fire to the So part of the Town
in three or four places, and as the wind blew strong from
that Quarter and most of the Houses were covered with
Shingles, it soon made a considerable progress North-
ward. For a long time it burnt with so much fury that
there were little hopes of saving any part of the City, and
even a Number of the Transports that were got to the
Keys were looked upon to be in great danger. Boats were
imediately sent to bring them off, and a Number of Sea-
men from the Men of War were sent ashore to the assist-
ance of the Inhabitants, who, giving all over for lost, at
first seemed only to look on with astonishment, but at
last being rouzed by the Activity of the Sailors 8c Sol-
diers in pulling down Houses to make breaks in The fire,
They set heartily to work and being exceedingly well sup-
plied with Engines 8c Buckets, a stop was put to its prog-
ress about 10 oClock next day, by mere dint of labour 8c
ingenuity, after burning 9 hours with great fury and
consuming at least a quarter of the whole Town.
General Washington, 8c the Heads of the Rebels, took
great pains in making a publick denial of their being ac-
cessary to this disaster, but nobody believed them; as
every circumstance that was discovered tended to prove
that there had been people hired for the purpose. Several
fellows were taken allmost in the very act of setting
Houses on fire: others were taken with Bundles of
Matches dipped in Rozin 8c Brimstone, under their great
Coats: some of which were thrown into the Flames, or
hanged by the Heels, by the enraged Populace; but the
greatest part of them, with many other suspected Per-
sons were sent to the Jail, where by changing cloathes
with each other, They were so altered that the next day
their accusers did not know them, and the greatest part
escaped punishment for want of Evidence.
1068
AMERICAN THEATRE
About this time the Commissioners published a declara-
tion importing, that although the Congress had disa-
vowed every purpose of Reconciliation, not consonant
with their extravagant & inadmissable claim of Indepen-
dancy, They (the Comrs) thought fit to declare that they
were equally desirous to confer with His Majtys well ef-
fected subjects upon the means of restoring the publick
Tranquility: but this like every thing of that kind had
not the smallest effect: For so general was the Revolt,
that during the whole time of the Seige of New-York,
and even after you [ sic we] was in possession of the
Town, not a Single Man of any sort of consideration left
the Rebels and came into us. There were a few Gentle-
men (mostly people who had held offices under Govern-
ment) that had secreted themselves in Long Island, or
had taken refuge onboard the ship with Governor Tryon,
that came & joined us, but their number, at the most,
that ever I heard of, did not exceed twenty.
*Note The Genl & his aid dCamp Lord Maison c[a]me
on bd the RoeBuck an officer of my Ship was sent to the
masthead and gave notice of the motions of the Enemy in
the Trenches [Hamond’s note.]
1. Hamond, No. 5, UVL.
New-York Gazette , Monday, September 30, 1776
New-York, Sept. 30.
On Thursday the Halifax Packet, Captain Bolderson, sailed from this
Port for England.
On Wedensday last, the Eagle Man of War, Vice Admiral Lord Howe,
came up from off Bedlow’s-Island, and moored off the Fort in the North
River; and, next Morning, the Bristol, Vice Admiral Lord Shuldham, and
the Preston, Commodore Hotham, came up and placed themselves likewise
in the North River just above the Eagle.
Many Transports and other Ships and Vessels are anchored off the
Town in the North and East Rivers.
Journal of Bartholomew James, H. M. S. Orpheus 1
[September 16 to September 30, 1776] 2
We weighed, and parting from the above ships, ran up between Black-
well s Island ana the main, and came to in Turtle Cove, having on our pas-
sage struck on a rock, but got off with little or no damage. The 25th [Vc] I
was sent down to Lord Howe with some dispatches, having ten miles to
row; and on my return, the people, having got drunk, mutinied and made an
SEPTEMBER 1776
1069
attack on me, which obliged me to use my hanger, and by cutting them over
their hands disabled them, in doing which I broke my hanger in two pieces,
but first had very fortunately got the better of the most insensible part of
them, two having promised to row on board, where I arrived in a most fear-
ful situation about half-past one in the morning, when I had them suffi-
ciently punished for their infamous conduct.
Our boats, while the ship was advanced on this service, constantly
rowed guard abreast of Hell Gates, which is perhaps one of the most dan-
gerous situations that can be imagined, its consequences being fatal to a
vast number of ships and boats. During our stay in this river we supplied
the ship with fresh provisions and vegetables, and recruited our sick, of
which we had a vast number, on Blackwell’s Island. The 29th [ sic Septem-
ber 21], about eleven o’clock, the town of New York was set on fire by some
of the rebels, and one-fourth of it burnt to the ground. The chief of those
concerned in this business was detected, hung up by the heels, and their
brains knocked out with the soldiers’ muskets, while others were thrown
into the flames and consumed with the houses; such was the consequence at-
tending those unhappy villains who so far succeeded in their wishes as to
destroy the property of individuals.
The rebels made an attack on Mintizieurs Island3 on the night of the
30th [September 22] but were repulsed and a major and several men taken
prisoners; and on October 2nd [22] I walked out to the encampment of our
army at Kingsbridge, and having viewed the situation of both armies,
whose advanced sentinels were within call of each other, saw, in returning,
a rebel spy taken and hung immediately to a tree; he died with great hero-
ism, lamenting only that he could not communicate his intelligence to his
commander-in-chief, as he had done with success twice before.4
1. Laughton, ed., James’ Journal, 33-35.
2. In James’ account of this period in the East River on board H. M. S. Orpheus his dates
are wrong. They have been corrected where possible.
3. Montresor Island, now Ward’s Island.
4. This is James’ version of the death of Nathan Hale.
Journal of the Continental Congress1
[Philadelphia] Monday, September 30, 1776
A petition from J. Rowe and others, owners of goods on board the ship
Elizabeth, which was taken by captains John Manly, Daniel Waters and
John Ayres, commanders of the three armed vessles Hancock, Lee and
Lynch, and libelled in the court maritime for the state of New Hampshire,
and, by the sentence of the said court, acquitted; against which sentence, an
appeal has been entered, was presented to Congress and read, praying that
the said appeal may be heard and determined; Whereupon,
Resolved, That a committee of five be appointed, with full powers to
hear and determine on the appeal brought against the sentence passed on
the libel against the ship Elizabeth.
1070
AMERICAN THEATRE
The members chosen, Mr. [Robert Treat] Paine, Mr. [Samuel] Hunt-
ington, Mr. [Thomas] Stone, Mr. [George] Wythe and Mr. [James]
Smith.2
1. Ford, ed., JCC, V, 834, 835.
2. See Journal of the Continental Congress, October 14, 1776, for decision on appeal.
Willing, Morris & Co. to the Maryland Council of Safety1
Gentn Philada Septr 30th 1776
having lately written to Mr [Thomas] Ringgold and Mr [Robert] Hooe
on the Subject of our engagement to Your State, we immagined you wou’d
not have been uninformd of the many disapointments we have met with in
the Several adventures undertaken for the purpose of procuring Arms 8c
Ammunition. We had lately a Schooner taken 8c carried into the West In-
dias with a fine Cargo onboard 8c Yesterday we had the Mortification to
hear that the Brigt Charming Peggy Capt Coningham [Gustavus
Conyngham] which we sent to Dunkirk2 was Chased by two Cutters com-
ing out of that Port 8c she run into Ostend, where in Consequence of the
Empress Queen’s prohibitory [Dec] laration, Officers went onboard to Seize
the Brigt but the Capt 8c Crew resisted and drove them off, weighd Anchor
8c got under Sail to push out again when unfortunately in Working out they
ran aground, the Vessell bilged, a reinforcement of Officers came down 8c
Capt Coningham was obliged to fly - onboard of this Vessell we had Lead,
Flints Arms 8c Powder more than sufficient to pay our Contract with your
State 8c were Concerned in a Cargo of dry Goods onbd her that wou’d now
have sold for upwards of £30,000 Curry had they got here safe; this Vessel
has been gone on the Voyage ever since Septr last 8c is a very hard 8c heavy
loss, as indeed several of the others we engaged in have proved.
The difficultys of procuring Arms 8c [amm]unition in Europe were un-
foreseen when we made the engagement, 8c the low prices agreed at, pre-
vented our looking to the West Indias for the Supplys or it shou’d have been
finished long since. We have still several other adventures depending from
which we expect to frill fill our engagement and shall be happy in doing so,
you may depend that the first Arms 8c Ammunition we have the good For-
tune to receive shall be applyed to that purpose 8c no other. We have the
honor to be Gentn [8cc.]
Willing Morris 8c Co
1. Executive Papers, Box 2, Folder 75, Md. Arch.
2. See Volume 3, 471n.
Minutes of the Pennsylvania Council of Safety1
In Council of Safety,
[Philadelphia] September 30th, 1776.
Congress having Resolved that they will provide for persons in their
service who shall be so disabled as to be incapable of serving on board their
SEPTEMBER 1776
1071
fleet or in the Army, & a Certain Nicholas Curry, a seaman late belonging
to the Bull-Dog arm’d Boat, belonging to this State, having been by accident
disabled from ever performing his duty, the Council do therefore Resolve
the said Nicholas Curry be allowed half pay from the time of his discharge
untill furthur provision is made for persons in like situations.
1. Pennsylvania Colonial Records, X, 735.
Joseph Rice to the Pennsylvania Council of Safety1
Gentlemen
Understanding that you intend Imedietly to make the appointments of
Captains to such Gallies as are at present without them, and I haveing Peti-
tioned to Your Honnorable Board some time past for a Command beg leave
to accquaint you that I have been waiting the Result of my Petition, and un-
derstang it is nessesary to make a second application do beg of your Honnor
to take My Petition under your consideration I am Gentlemen with due
Respect [&c.]
Jo8 Rice
Philadelphia 1
septr 30th 1776 J
1. Simon Gratz Autograph Collection, Case 5, Box 28, HSP.
Journal of H. M. S. Pallas , Captain William Cornwallis1
September 1776 Latde40°41/ N
Monday 30th A M Sounded every hour 80 to 50 fathoms no ground, \/2
past 5 out reefs, 5 Sail in Company, at 6 the Northside
Planter, Hereford, Ann and London parted Company
steering to the Eastward, at 8 set lower Steering
sails at 10 got up another Boom, set them again, bent
the Cables, the Alexander in Company.
First and middle Fresh Gales & hazey, latter Moderate
and foggy, at 1 P M down steering sails, at 2 saw a Ship
ahead standing to the Westward, i/2 past 3 fired a Gun as
a signal to speak her, at 4 brot too, out boat and sent her
with an Officer onboard, she proved to be the Anne from
Dominica bound to London, but had been taken by an
American Privateer the 31st August, in Latde 42 °N;
Longde 39 W, they were carrying her to New York, sent
an Officer, Master’s mate, and 12 Men onboard,2 took six
of the Privateer’s Men out, at [5] in 1st and 2d reefs, i/2
past 6 in boat and made sail, down Top Gallt yards, at 9
in 3d reefs
1. PRO, Admiralty 51/667.
2. Ibid., on October 4, 1776, the prize ship Anne parted with the Pallas and shaped “her Course
to the Eastward.” The prize master, Lieutenant Oakes, carried her into Portsmouth,
England, on November 4, Whitehall Evening Post, November 5 to November 7, 1776.
1072
AMERICAN THEATRE
Journal of the Maryland Council of Safety1
[Annapolis] Monday September 30th 1776
Commission granted to James Tibbitt of the Sloop Independence , as a
Letter of Marque, he giving Bond according to resolve of Congress. -2
1. Council of Safety Journal, 29 August 1775 to 20 March 1777, Md. Arch.
2. “James Tibbitt Commander of the Sloop called The Independence of The Burthen of
Seventy Tons, belonging to David Stewart, Wm Lux, Danl Bowley and others of Balti-
more Town in the Colony of Maryland, mounting ten Carriage Guns, and navigated by
Forty men. I hereby certify that the above is a true Account of the Sloop called The
Independence. This 30th Day of September Anno Dom: 1776, James Tibbitt,” Papers
CC (Ships’ Bonds Required for Letters of Marque and Reprisal) , 196, VIII, NA.
Journal of H. M. Sloop Cruizer, Captain Francis Parry1
Septr 1776
Satury 28
Sunday 29
Monday 30
abreast of Fort Johnston [Cape Fear]
at 8 AM unmoored 8c weighed 8c ran down to Baldhead having
reed Orders for the Dismantling 8c Distroying the Sloop as it
was not possible to keep her longer above Water. P M retd
some of the Stores to the Different Ships
employed sending onbd the Active Falcon 8c Scorpion the
Warrant officers Stores
employed Striping the Masts 8c sending the remains of the
Stores 8c provisions onboard the Different Ships 8c the people
Fran8 Parry.
1. PRO, Admiralty 51/218.
Journal of the South Carolina General Assembly 1
[Charleston] Monday the 30th Day of September. 1776
Mr [Aaron] Loocock reported from the Committee to consider and
report the Quantities and different Articles necessary to be imported from
Philadelphia under the Direction of the Delegates of this State And he read
the Report in his Place and afterwards delivered it in at the Clerk’s Table
where the same was read in the following words
That it is their Opinion application should be made to our
Delegates at Philadelphia to endeavour to procure Two Frigates on
the Continental Establishment to be stationed at this Port particu-
larly during the winter when they can be of little service to the
northward which with our own armed vessels may in a great
measure secure our Trade by obliging the Enemy to keep so many
Cruizers as will soone tire them out
That if our Delagates think proper to make this application
your Committee would recommend that the said Frigates take in
as Ballast One Hundred Tons of Bar Iron besides the following
Articles
SEPTEMBER 1776
1073
But if the Frigates cannot be spared to this State then your
Committee recommend that a staunch Brigantine of about One
Hundred and Fifty Tons be procured to mount Twelve to Sixteen
Carriage Guns be properly manned and to bring as many super-
numerary seamen as can possibly be procured in which the said
articles may be shiped viz
Thirty Tons of small flatt Bar Iron for Waggon Tire
Ten Tons broad thick flatt ditto for Axes
Six Tons small square Iron
Four Tons thick square Ditto for machine or Mill Work,
Forty Faggots square Steel
Two Faggots German flatt Ditto
Ten Tons Plough-shear moulds half with a thick Land Side
and Half for shovel Ploughs
One Groce Mill Saw Files
Four Groce Whip and Cross-cut Saw Ditto
Six Groce Hand Saw Ditto
Twelve Dozen Philadelphia made Club Axes
One Hundred and Fifty Barrels of well baked Ship Bread
(Amounting to about nine Thousand and Five Hundred
Pounds-Currency exclusive of the Brigantine)
If Cotton or Wool Cards can be procured a Groce of each
If Broad Hoes to be had reasonable Twelve Groce
Resolved That the Report be taken into immediate Consideration
And the same being taken into Consideration accordingly
The First and Second Clauses were read to the House and severally
amended and agreed to
While the House was in Debate upon the Third Clause of the Report
A Motion was made and seconded That the sense of the House should
be taken whether the Members of the late Congress who had been appointed
to the Places of Emolument before the Constitution was established have a
Right to sit and vote in the present General Assembly without being re-
elected
And the sense of the House (without a Question thereon) was That
such members had an undoubted Right
The House then proceed in the Consideration of the Third Clause of
the Report and the same being read after several amendments made thereto
was agreed to And the Report as amended and agreed to is as followeth
That it is their Opinion application should be made to our
Delegates at Philadelphia to endeavour to procure Two or more
Frigates on the Continental Establishment to be stationed at this
Port particularly during the Winter when they can be of little
service to the northward which with our armed Vessels may in a
great measure secure our Trade and protect our Coasts.
1074
AMERICAN THEATRE
That if our Delegates succeed in this Application your Com-
mittee would recommend That the said Frigate take in as Ballast
One Hundred Tons of Bar Iron besides the articles under-men-
tioned
But if the Frigates cannot be obtained or if they should not be
allowed to bring those articles then your Committee recommend
that proper small Vessels be procured to bring the said articles
of a light Draught of water armed with Carriage or Swivel Guns
properly manned and with as many Supernumerary Seamen as can
be procured or that the Delegates do take such other steps as they
shall think expedient to procure the said Articles to be sent to this
State as soon as possible And that Mr Archibald Gambell be
recommended to the Delegates as a proper Person to assist them
and that he be desired to follow their Directions in procuring the
said Articles and forwarding the Vessel or Vessels in which the
same are to be brought viz.
Sixty Tons of small flat Bar Iron for Waggon Tire
Twenty Tons broad flat thick Ditto for axes
Twelve Tons small square Iron
Eight Tons thick square Ditto fit for machine or mill work.
Eighty Faggots square Steel
Four Faggots German flatt Steel
Twenty Tons Plough-Shear moulds half with a thick Land
side and half for shovel Ploughs
Twenty-four Dozen Philadelphia made Club axes
As many mill Saw Cross Cut and Whip Saw and Hand Saw
Files and as many Wool and Cotton Cards as can be procured
Three Hundred Barrels of well baked ship Bread And
Five Hundred Reams of printing Paper
1. Salley, ed., South Carolina General Assembly Journals , 66-68.
Journal of H.M.S. Sphynx, Captain James Reid1
September 1776
Saturday 28
Sunday 29
Monday 30
Moor’d in Savannah River (Georgia), as before
Boats employed Wooding & Watering -
Little Wind and Cloudy Wr PM put Forty Negroes on
board the Pilot Schooner with a Weeks Provisions each,
to proceed to St Augustine, Emp’d destroying the old
Vessels on Shore, being obliged to leave the Port for
Want of Provisions,
AM Cleard hause[r], unmoored, & Weighed and run
down to the Lighthouse, & came too Anchor;
Moderate Breezes and hazey Wr
AM sent the boat on Shore at the Lighthouse for Water,
at 10 weighed & came to Sail in Co the Cherokee - at
Noon lighthouse Wi/2N 8 Miles
SEPTEMBER 1776
1075
Modt & Cloudy Wr 2 Sail in Sight, at \/2 past 3 Spoke
His Majestys Ship Lively from New York bound to St
Augustine, at 5 TKd in Co the Lively & Cherokee , Tiby
Lighthouse WbN 4 Lgs
1. PRO, Admiralty 51/922.
Vice Admiral James Young to Philip Stephens1
Duplicate Antigua, 30th September 1776.
Sir, My last Letters for their Lordships came addressed to you, by His
Majesty’s Sloop Weazle; I have not received any Dispatches from their
Lordships since those by His Majesty’s Sloop Shark; nor have I since had
any particular Intelligence concerning the American Rebels; except the
common Report of their having sundry Armed Vessels, Cruizing for the
homeward bound Trade; from the West India Islands; several of which
have been taken, and sent for different Ports in America; and some of them
it’s said, have been Re-taken by the Kings Ships Stationed on the Coast of
America. The aforesaid Armed Vessels are said to Cruize about the Lati-
tudes of 30° to 35° North which is at a greater distance, than I can send the
Kings Ships at present under my Command to; unless their Lordships will
be pleased Considerably to Reinforce the Squadron; and thereby enable me
to send out a greater Number of Cruizers, which might then be spread to a
greater distance from the Islands.
The inclosed paper Marked No 1, is Copy of a Letter I received the 21st
Current from the Honble Craister Greatheed of St Christophers, (Com-
mander in Chief of the Leeward Char[r]ibbee Islands for the time being)
by which their Lordships will perceive that on the 5th Instant a terrible
Lire broke out in the Town of Basseterre, St Christophers, which has Con-
sumed the greater part of that Town; and to add to their Calamity, on the
6th & 7th Septemr came on a Violent Gale of Wind, with heavy rain; which
has done considerable Damage among the Islands, and to the Shipping; par-
ticularly at Guadalupe, Marygallante, Martinico, Montserrat, St Kitts and
the Islands to Leeward. His Majesty’s Brigantine Tender the Sandwich, in
coming over from Prince Ruperts Bay with Water, was caught in the
Storm, and obliged to Cut away her Main Mast, and put into the Island of
Nevis where She procured a new Mast and got refitted and arrived at Eng-
lish harbour the 20th Instant.
I am apprehensive His Majesty’s Sloop Pomona, has also met with
some disaster and gone away to Leeward; as her Orders directed Her re-
turn back to English harbour, the 5th September, and She is not yet ar-
rived; nor have I received any Intelligence of her since the Gale of Wind.
She had before then taken an Armed Brigantine with 8 Guns and 20
Men; which is put into the Island of Tortola in distress; having Cut away
her Loremast and thrown her Guns overboard in the late Gale of Wind.
The Portland has been Careened, is Refitted and Sails this day on a
Cruize; — The Hind has been Eleven times hove Kell Out, to repair the
1076
AMERICAN THEATRE
Damage her Bottom received by striking the Ground coming into English
harbour the 25th July; of which Accident I wrote their Lordships by the
IVeazle: Her Damages are now repaired, and She is refitting for Sea with all
possible Expedition.
Yesterday His Majesty’s Sloop Haivke came in from Barbados, and ac-
quaints me no Packet is expected to arrive there from England for the
Month of August last - The other inclosed Papers marked No 2, 3, and 4;
are Account of the Appointment and removal of Officers between the 1st
July 1776, and the 30th September 1776, List of Prizes taken since the 1st
August last; and the State and Condition of the Squadron under my Com-
mand; which you will likewise please to Communicate to their Lordships. I
am Sir [&c.]
Jam8 Young.
[Endorsed] Reed 22 Deer [1776]
1. PRO, Admiralty 1/309.
1 Oct.
Whitehall Evening Post, Tuesday, November 12 to
Thursday, November 14, 1776
A letter from Hallifax dated Oct 1 says, On Friday last [September 27]
arrived here his Majesty’s ship Viper , from Annapolis [Royal], having
brought in with her three prizes, which she took near that place. On Sunday
arrived his Majesty’s ship Liverpool from a cruize, in which she has retaken
several prizes (three of them, we hear, were West India ships) loaded with
rum, sugar, &c. which had been taken by the American privateers.
“Extract of a letter from Halifax, Oct. I.”1
On Sunday last [September 29] we received advice from Liverpool, in
this Province, that some American privateers had taken in Port Medway, a
brig belonging to Captain Hall; a sloop the property of Mr. Richard Cun-
ningham, of this town, and several others; and also a ship (nearly loaded
with lumber, spars, 8cc.) out of which they took the provisions, sails, an-
chors, cables, &c. cut away all the rigging, and after destroying part of the
said ship left her.
A schooner loaded with cattle, roots, &c. was likewise taken out of the
harbour of Liverpool, bound to this port; and the following persons, who
were passengers, were made prisoners, viz. Capt. Forster, Mr. Hawkins,
and Mr. Stevenson.
1. Whitehall Evening Post, November 14 to November 16, 1776. The above letter, according
to the editor, came “by the Beaver sloop of war, which arrived last Week from thence.’’
OCTOBER 1776
1077
Tristram Dalton to Samuel White, of Cushing Sc White, Boston 1
Dear Brother White: Newburyport Octo 1st 1776
I am told you have the Care of fixing out a privateer Sloop for some
Gentlemen in Boston — and that its probable I might thro’ your good
Means obtain a small Share in her — You’ll really oblige me if you can pro-
cure me an 1 /8th or even 1 /16th in this or any other now gone or going soon.
You know a little Expence is not looked At now and if any One can se-
cure a Share in what is going forward in that Way Capt White can — I
hope Hannah and all is well I am with Truth Sc Esteem [8cc.]
Tristram Dalton
To Mr Samuel White
At Capt Job Prince Boston
1. Emmet Autograph Collection, NYPL.
Petition of Owners of the Massachusetts Privateer Sloop
Revenge to the Massachusetts Council1
These may certihe That The Bearer Robert Gragg [Cragg] , late Chief
Mate on Board The Ship Anna Maria , from Barbadoes for London, Wm
Pringle Commander; and taken by the Privateer sloop Revenge of Salem
Joseph White Commander. That said Gragg, ever since he was set on shore
here in Salem, has behaved in a very orderly and peaceable manner; is, we
believe, a man of sound Morals, of sobriety and temperance; in no wise
given to bad Company, a sincere friend to the Cause of America. But being
now well advanced in life (upwards of sixty) of a very infirm Constitution,
unable to endure the severities of This or the English Climate, He Humbly
prays The favour of the Honourable the Council of This State, That of
Their Goodness, They will grant him The liberty, to go to the West Indies in
any Vessel that may hereafter be bound There; — a Climate, He, a number
of years past has been accustomed to; That he may pass the small remain-
der of his life There in Peace. — He frankly and with gratitude acknowl-
edges, and declares, That on all occasions will acknowledge, That he has
been always treated with the greatest civility and kindness since his being
made a Captive. May [it] please your Honours, as we are of opinion, That,
he said Gragg, is truly sincere in his above declaration and a worthy honest
man, Pray your Honours indulgence in this Case, and That his prayer may
be granted. —
Salem 1st Octor 1776. Elias Hasket Derby Edward Gibaut
Joseph White Joseph Lee
Miles Greenwood William Bartlett
[Endorsed] State of Massachusetts Bay In Council Oct. 17th 1776 On the
Petition of Robert Cragg, praying he the said Cragg may have liberty to de-
part this State to the west Indies in any Vessel that may hereafter be bound
there — Order’d that the sd Robert Cragg have the Liberty he petitions for
388-825 0-73-70
1078
AMERICAN THEATRE
— and that he have liberty to depart this State accordingly to the west In-
dies — and it is recommended to the Commanders of armd Vessels and oth-
ers to let the sd Cragg pass unmolested accordingly
John Avery Dpy Secy
1. Mass. Arch., vol. 165, 363. Endorsement on document indicates that petition was granted.
Journal of the Massachusetts Council1
[Watertown] Tuesday October 1st 1776
On Motion Ordered that the Commissary General be and he hereby is
directed to purchase three hundred Bibs Pork belonging to the Cargo of the
Ship Queen of England now Advertiz’d for Sale.
Whereas Capt John Foster Williams of the Sloop Republick and Capt
John Clouston of the Sloop Freedom both belonging to this State are in
want [of] some Iron Ballast that they may Immediately proceed on their
Intended Cruize Wherefore the Committee for Fortifying the Harbour of
Boston be and they are hereby directed to deliver the said Williams and
Clouston out of the Row Galley lying in Boston Harbour as much Iron Bal-
last as they may stand in need of at this time for their several Sloops.
Petition of Jeremiah Obrian in behalf of himself and his Company on
board Sloop Machias Liberty in the Service of this State setting forth
that he is in great want of Money and Provisions that he has already
advanced five or Six hundred Dollars to his Men that they are still in want
of more and that it is very difficult to keep them from entering into private
property and praying that he may be granted a supply of Money and Provi-
sions.
In Council Read and thereupon Resolved that the Commissary Gen-
eral of this State be and he hereby is directed to furnish necessary Provi-
sions from Time to Time to the Men belonging to the Sloop Macchias Lib-
erty under the Command of Capt Jeremiah Obrian and in Actual Service on
board the said Sloop until the next meeting of the General Court.
1. Mass. Arch., vol. 19, 253, 254-55.
Nicholas and John Brown to the Secret Committee1
Gentlemen Providence Octr 1st 1776.
This serves to Inclose you Capt Gidn Cra[w] fords Sc the French
Merchts Accots for sales and Returns of the Cargo of the Brigg Happy re-
turn in 56 days from Nantes, he brings Accots of Capt [Samuel] Avery
in the Schooner Sally at Nantes Sc Capt [Joshua] Bunker in the Schooner
William at Burdox, hted by Us on the Contenentl Accot Capt Craford
reed abot 12000 Livrs of Capt Avery — which is included in his return’d
Cargo, All which is now Unladin Sc safely stord here, except the Salt, wch
is Also takg out — The Cargo in return so far as we have Examind Ap-
pears to be Well bought Sc as low as from England, The Cargo Outward
OCTOBER 1776
1079
Came to a very bad Market wch you’l Observe by the Accots The Powder,
Arms, Blankets flints, sum of the Cloths Sec are Wanting for the Ships of
War here and as they with these Articles will be Compleetly ready for the
Seas, and being Allready Hail’d down the River waiting only for the Men Se
Officers Commissns with the Advice of Govr [Stephen] Hopkins 8c the Com-
adore We Shall Deliver them, and in due Time render Accot of the same2
Capt Crawford Informs Us that the Ship Hancock & Addams Comdd
by Sami Smith of Phia was to sail on her Return in two days after him with
a Large Quantity of Wollins Gunlocks, Flints Blankets 8cc Sec, Allso the
Brigg Capt Blundile, and Schooner Capt Thos Crawford for South Caro-
lina, both with very large Quantitys of Powder
The Ship Sally Capt Rollins [Thomas Rawlins] of Phia was to sail in
8 days with Wollens Gunlocks Sec Sec what Salt may be Wanted to pack
Beef for the Ships of Warr here will be made use off, the Remainder will
Lay with the other articals for Your orders which you’l please to give as
Soone as Convenient Suppose the Salt wou’d Sell together at 9/ L Money
Pr Bushel we are Gentlemen [8cc.]
[Endorsed] Copy Letter to Robt Morris Esq Mentiong Sundrys for the
Ships to be deld — Octo 1. 1776
1. Nicholas Brown Papers, JCBL.
2. Ibid., the Secret Committee replied on October 13: “we hope you have Not delivered Any
of the Goods as you Mention, for the Congress will order A distribution as they think
most for the publick Service.” The Committee ordered the cloth and blankets de-
livered to Quarter Master General Thomas Mifflin for use of the Army.
Commodore Esek Hopkins to Rev. Samuel Hopkins1
Sir Providence October 1st 1776 —
I receivd yours of the 20th September (yesterday) and am very much
Oblig’d to you for your Address and Advice, and as to your Complaints of
the Morals of the People belonging to the Navy I am now to let you know
that I did not enter into the Navy as a Divine, and that I am not qualified to
Act nor give directions in that Matter, the Congress whom I serve made
provision for a Chaplain to perform that necessary duty, but to my Mortifi-
cation I have not been able to get a single Man to act in that Character al-
though I have applied to many. — If you know of any that has the good of
Mankind at heart Sufficient to expose himself to necessary Danger of that
Service should be glad you Send him who you may depend shall be treated
with due F.espect — And if none can be procured I cannot but Condole with
you the depravity of the times — I am with great Respect Sir [8cc.]
E H. -
1. Hopkins Letter Book, RIHS. Reverend Samuel Hopkins was pastor of the First Congrega-
tional Church at Newport.
1080
AMERICAN THEATRE
Stephen Hopkins to John Adams1
Sir Providence Octr. 1, 1776
On my Jorney homward, at a Town called Millstone in Somersett County in
the Jerseys, I found confined their, a strange groupe of about fourteen Pris-
oners, four of which belong to New England, and had been taken at differ-
ent times by British Cruisers, and carrid to Hallifax, and having no other
means to get Home, ships themselves on Board some small Transpot Ves-
sells bound to New Yorke, wheer they weir to be discharged. Four more of
them are French Subjects taken in the same manner on this Coast and car-
rid also to Hallifax, and weir returning in like manner in Order to get
Home, one of them is a Boy of eleven years of age belonging to Halifax, the
Remaindr British Seamen. I promised these Prisoners that I would write to
the Board of War concerning them, in order to procure their Release, or at
least the Liberation of the New England men and French men, and I wish
you to use your Influence for that purpose. I Remain your Friend
Step Hopkins
To John Adams Esqr
Chairman to the Board of War
1. Papers CC (Letters addressed to Congress) , 78, XI, 101, NA.
Journal of the Connecticut Council of Safety 1
At a Meeting of the Governor and Council of Safety [at Lebanon] October
first, 1776
Voted , That the overseers of the furnace [at Salisbury] be directed to
cast a suitable proportion of four-pound shot for the cannon cast there, and
that Capt. Jabez Perkins of Norwich be permitted to purchase about forty
or fifty of those shot for the two cannon he is to have: provided it can be
done without interrupting the casting of cannon.2
Voted, That Mr. Andrew Huntington of Norwich be permitted to pur-
chase at the furnace at Salisbury two four pounders and six swivels with
shot suitable for them; he paying four pounds per hundred weight for the
cannon and the customary price for the shot and swivels.3
1. Hoadly, ed., Connecticut Records, XV, 527, 528.
2. For the Connecticut privateer sloop Nancy.
3. Purchased for the Connecticut privateer brig Ranger.
Nathaniel Shaw, Jr. to George Washington1
Sir New London October 1st 1776
The 29th Ulto I shipt by Capt Webster Seventy Two Tents which was
Sent me by Daniel Tillinghast Esqr of Providence and hope they will get
safe to hand — I now by Capt Thos King send you Nine Marque and Ninety
Seven Common Tents which I hope will also Come Safe —
OCTOBER 1776
1081
In Case any of the Brittish Ships Should come down this way, I think
we Should have the Earliest Notice of it, as we are Daly Shiping Goods up
the Sound for the Army, I am Sir [8cc.]
Nath1 Shaw Junr
1. Washington Papers, LC.
Nathaniel Shaw, Jr.’s Account Against the Continental
Sloop Providence1
1776
Apr 1 0
[New London, October 1, 1776] 2
The Sloop Providence Dr
To 1 Anchor from Brig Boulton 6.3.8 @ 48 / 16. .7. .6
To 1 barrel Tallow from Fink amo to 8. .1. .7
To Samel Latimer the Smiths Bill 1.1 3.. 6
To 1 Boat Sails 8c Oars d[elivere]d Capt [Johnl
Paul] Jones from Brig Boulton J
To Cash advanced Elias Thomas being on board'
a Prize deserted from the Enemy 8c on his 110
way to Providence as pr Rect 8c my Letter of
advice to Capt Jones
35 . . 3 . . 7
Commissions 5 pCt 1.15
36.18. . 7
1. Shaw Collection, Book 39, 4, YUL.
2. The date is based on the Elias Thomas entry in the account. A crew member of the
Providence, he was sent on board the prize brig Britannia late in August. The prize
was retaken off the Delaware Capes but, as the account indicates, Thomas made good
his escape.
Intelligence Report on the British Forces in Canada
and on Lake Champlain1
[October 1, 1776]2
The force of the Enemy in Canada 8c on the Lake is from the best Intel-
ligence as follows
10,000 Men Landed in Canada from Europe 8cc, 8,000 of wch with
many Canadians are to go against Ticonderoga 8cc all effective men and in
good order 8c appearance — it is without doubt General Carleton intends to
command in person, with Burgoine, Fraiser [Simon Fraser], Jones 8c Nis-
bit 8cc —
their Naval force is
a Ship Built in England taken to pieces 8c Brought out on board the
fleet, she is put up at St Johns 8c Launced there, has 18 Guns 24 pounders,
swivels, 8cc
2 Brigs about 10 Guns each ] c . .
o n i i o j- r Swivels 8cc
3 Schooners about 8 ditto
1082
AMERICAN THEATRE
20 Gundelo’s two Guns each from 9 to 12 pounders
250 Batteaus all with Swivels 8c many of them with Guns in their Bows
a very fine Train of Artilery of six Companys 8c at least 100 pieces of
Cannon, thought to be the finest ever sent from England, a General Officer
Commands it, General [William] Philips
every Sailor 8c Marine that cou’d possibly be spared is sent to man
their fleet —
thier determined Intention is if Possible to form a Junction of thier
Army with General How — in wch case General Carleton will command the
whole
Sr John Johnson is gone round by Oswego with near [6] 00 Indians,
McCleans Immigrants 8c some Canadians 8c Scotch Volanteers — there is
some doubt he may come in by Fort George 8c cut off our Communication
with Ticonderoga he is sanguine in his expectation of taking Fort
Ge[o]rge 8c geting the Command of the Lake
1. US Revolution, LG.
2. Date is approximated.
Brigadier General Benedict Arnold’s Supply Requisition1
Memorandum of Articles which have bin repeatedly wrote for, 8c which
we are in the Extreemest, want of. — Vizt
Ten Dble headed Ten Grape, 8c Ten Chain Shott for each of the follow-
ing Guns —
30
180
600
240
690
1740
300 lb Musquet Ball
All the Useless old Iron that will do for Langridge
200 lb Buck Shott
A Sufficient quantity slow Match for the Fleet 1
very little on hand 8c that exceeding bad -
Port fire —
12 Horn’d Tin Lanthorns
50 Swivels with Monkey Tails
3 Anchors. 150 lb 200 lb 250 lb
3 Cables, for Ditto -
4 Sett Calking Irons -
1 ps Oznabriggs
2 Doz. 6. 8c 7 Inch single Blocks for Gun Tackles
6 lb. Twine 8c 2 doz Sail Needles -
N
Pd
1 .
.18
10
shott
each
6.
.12
10
do
each
22.
. .9
10
do
do
8.
. . 6
10
do
do
23.
..4 ...
10
do
do
Rudder of Continental Gunboat Philadelphia
1084
AMERICAN THEATRE
All the Old Junk that Can be spared —
1000 Tacks for Spunges
1 Barrell Pitch
1 ditto Tarr
300 hand Granadoes filled & Fuses -
100 lb 5. to 9 Inch Spikes -
One Cask 20 d Nails
One ditto 10 d ditto
One Quoil 5 Inch rope for Springs
One ditto 3 Inch ditto
One Ditto. 2i/2 Inch ditto
One ditto., li/^ Inch ditto
One ditto small ratline
One ditto Spun Yarn
30 Inch Pine Boards
Rum As much As you please
Cloathing. for at least half the Men in the Flet who are Naked
One hundred Seamen, (no land Lubbers]
Valcouer Octr 1, 1776
B Arnold
1. Gates Papers, Box 4, NYHS.
Examination of Sergeant Stiles1
Serjeant Stiles, returned this morning From the Isle Aux Noix where
he was sent this Day weeks, says he left it last Night, at Sun Set, that their
Appeared to be upwards of Two Thousand Men on the Island, In Tents,
That he saw a Schooner Mounting Twelve Guns Two Gondolas Compleated
with thre Guns in Each & a Square Sail, One Gondola Launched & Not
Compleated. & Two on the Stocks one of them Just set up, that a Number of
People were encamped at Rives a Cote where they have Erected a Battery
of heavy Cannon — He also Saw Many Tents on Hospital Island & on the
West Shore between that & Isle Aux Noix — that he passed Windmill Point
in the night & believes there was Four hundred Indians there, & that on the
Bay Opposite he Saw many lights & fires & suposes the Regular Troops
were encamped there —
Valcour 1 Octo 1776
1. Schuyler Papers, Box 40, NYPL.
Diary of Dr. Lewis Beebe1
[Ticonderoga] Tuesday October It. After breakfast and waiting upon the
hospital as usual, Crossed to head quarters, took a view of the Gundoloas
and Rowgallies; two of which, were Just going to sail, in order to Join the
Fleet; in which goes Genl Waterbury;
1. “Journal of a Physician on the Expedition Against Canada 1776,” Pennsylvania Magazine of
History and Biography (Philadelphia, 1935) , LIX, 350. Hereafter cited as “Beebe’s
Journal,” Pennsylvania Magazine of History and Biography.
OCTOBER 1776
1085
George Washington to Governor Jonathan Trumbull1
Sir Head Quarters Harlem Heights Octor 1st 1776
I have the honor of your favor of the 27th ulto and note the contents.
The Row Galleys belonging to your State together with those the property
of the United States and all other vessels, on the approach of the Men of
War, ran up the North River under cover of the Battery on Mount Wash-
ington, from whence tis now impossible to remove them. As they are now
posted they are serviceable to us, by preventing a communication with the
Ships, and keeping out Row Guards by night, to give us timely notice of the
approach, or any movement of the Enemy. To take from them their Crew
would be rendering them entirely useless, and to rob them of their weapons
would dispirit the men. However, if it should be thought advisable, after
weighing the above circumstances, to have the Crew ordered to Connecticut
or any of the Arms or other weapons on board to be sent there, your orders
shall be attended to. The situation of the Enemy’s Ships is very different at
this time from what it was before the evacuation of New York. We then had
the command of a narrow pass communicating from the Sound to the East
River, commonly called Hell-Gate, which is now in their possession — Two
of their Ships came through yesterday, one I think a Transport, the other a
Frigate mounting 24 Guns —
1. Trumbull Papers, XXIX, Letter Book IV, 355, 356, ConnSL.
Colonel Jedediah Huntington to Jabez Huntington1
[Extract] Camp Kingsbridge Octo 1st 1776
Yesterday a Frigate from N York passed throu’ Hell-gate and went up
Sound out of Sight we fear her Intention is to interrupt our Naviga-
tion. another Frigate came throu’ soon after and turned up into the
Mouth of the River before Haerlem we apprehend an Attack from the
Enemy very soon. . .
1. Collections of the Connecticut Historical Society, XX, 324-25.
Journal of Bartholomew James1
[New York, October 1, 1776] 2
we quitted this uncomfortable station and proceeded down the [East]
river; and on our way ran on board a transport, carried away our larboard
forechains, cathead and small bower-anchor stock, and greatly damaged the
transport.
1. Laughton, ed., James’ Journal, 35. The incident is incorrectly dated October 3.
2. Journal of the Orpheus reads:
Tuesday, October 1st ... at i/2 past 4 weighed and run down the East River at
Six ran foul of a Transport, SE end of Governors Island which broke the Small
1086
AMERICAN THEATRE
Anchor Stock, and lost it, and shaked the fore chains. Anchd with the Best
Bower, and Cleared the Transport, and stowed the smll Bower and Sheet Anchors,
laid out the Stream Anchor in the mouth of the Channel, and weigh’d the Bt
Bower, then came to sail & at 12 Came too off Bedlows Island.
PRO, Admiralty 51/650.
Diary of Lieutenant Jabez Fitch1
[On board the Prison Snow Mentor ]
[New York] Tuesd: Octr: 1st: 1776 I arose very Early in the Morning, 8c
walk’d the Deck as Usual; It is a Lowery Morning, 8c the People geting
Ready to heave up as soon as the Tide Turns. . .
At 1/2 after 9 the Snow 8c the Ships that had the Prisoners on board,
got under way, 8c a little before 12 came to in North River Opposite to the
Colledge, where we have a very Melancholy Prospect of the Affects of the
late Fire, which is sopos’d to have Destroy’d a fourth part of the City, 8c
chiefly in this part of the Town.
Soon after we came too, I borrow’d a pocket Looking Glass 8c Raisor, 8c
Shav’d my myself [«’c] having never look’d in a Glass before, since I was
first sent on board the Fleet on the 29th of Augt:
In the Afternoon there came an Offr: on board, 8c took a List of our
Names again, we were also again Inform’d that we were to go on shore To-
morrow; The Night following was cold 8c very Tedious for us, in our un-
comfortable Lodging.
1. Sabine, ed., Fitch's Diary , 52.
Committee of Secret Correspondence Memorandum 1
On my leaving London, Arthur Lee esq requested me to in-
form the committee of correspondence that he had had several
conversations with the French ambassador, who had communi-
cated the same to the French court; that, in consequence thereof,
the Duke de Vergennes had sent a gentleman to Arthur Lee, who
informed him that the French court could not think of entering
into a war with England, but that they would assist America, by
sending from Holland this fall £200,000 sterling worth of arms
and ammunition to St. Eustatius, Martinique, or Cape Francois;
that application was to be made to the governors or commandants
of those places, by inquiring for Monsieur Hortalez, and that, on
persons properly authorized applying, the above articles would be
delivered to them — 2
Philada. October 1, 1776. The above intelligence was communicated to
the subscribers, being the only two members of the committee of secret cor-
respondence now in this city, and on our considering the nature and impor-
tance of it, we agree in opinion that it is our indispensable duty to keep it a
secret, even from Congress, for the following reasons:
OCTOBER 1776
1087
(1) Should it get to the ears of our enemies at New York they would un-
doubtedly take measures to intercept the supplies, and thereby deprive us
not only of those succors, but others expected by the same route.
(2) As the court of France have taken measures to negotiate this loan and
succour in the most cautious and secret manner, should we divulge it imme-
diately we may not only lose the present benefit, but also render that court
cautious of any further connection with such unguarded people, and pre-
vent their granting other loans and assistance that we stand in need of and
have directed Mr. Deane to ask of them, for it appears from all our intelli-
gence they* are not disposed to enter into an immediate war with Britain,
thogh disposed to support us in our contest with them; we therefore think it
our duty to cultivate their favorable disposition towards us, draw from
them all the support we can, and in the end their private aid must assist us
to establish peace or inevitably draw them in as parties to the war.
(3) We find, by fatal experience, the Congress consists of too many mem-
bers to keep secrets, as none could be more strongly enjoined than the pres-
ent Embassy to France; notwithstanding which Mr. Morris was this day
asked by Mr. Reese Meredith whether Dr. Franklin and others were really
going ambassadors to France, which plainly proves that this committee
ought to keep this secret, if secrecy is required.
(4) We are of opinion that it is unnecessary to inform Congress of this in-
telligence at present, because Mr. Morris belongs to all the committees that
can properly be employed in receiving and importing the expected supplies
from Martinico, and will influence the necessary measures for that purpose;
indeed we have already authorized William Bingham, esq. to apply at Mar-
tinico and St. Eustatia for what comes there, and remit part by the armed
sloop Independence , Captain [John] Young, promising to send others for
the rest. Mr. Morris will apply to the marine committee to send other armed
vessels after her, and also to Cape Francois (without communicating this
advice) , in consequence [of] private intelligence, lately received, that
arms, ammunition and clothing can now be procured at those places. But
should any unexpected misfortune befall the States of America, so as to de-
press the spirits of the Congress, it is our opinion that, on any event of that
kind, Mr. Morris (if Dr. Franklin should be absent) should communicate
this important matter to Congress, otherwise keep it until part of or the
whole supplies arrive, unless other events happen to render the communica-
tion of it more proper than it appears to be at this time.
B. Franklin Robert Morris
[Endorsed] Communicated to me this 11th October, 1776, and I concur
heartily in the measure. Richard Henry Fee
Communicated to me the 10th day of October, 1776, and I do also sin-
cerely approve of the measure. Wm Hooper
(Copy)
1. Wharton, ed., Revolutionary Diplomatic Correspondence, II, 151-52.
2. Thomas Story carried this intelligence from Lee.
1088
AMERICAN THEATRE
Committee of Secret Correspondence to William Bingham1
[Philadelphia]
We are now at the 1st of October 8c have heard from Mr. Deane after
his arrival at Bourdeaux his last letter is dated 23d June when he was just
setting out for Paris. We have later intelligence than his In Consequence of
which we desire you to enquire of the General 8c Governor whether they
have reed any Arms or Ammunition from Monsr. Hortalez with directions
to deliver the same to any persons properly authorized by Congress to re-
ceive them If they have, We hereby authorize you to receive the same giv-
ing your Receipts on behalf of the United States of America. If none such
are arrived enquire if they have any advice, of such 8c request they will
make known to you when they do arrive. We desire you will make the like
application to the Governor of St. Eustatia, but proceed cautiously in this
business. We think you shou’d go there yourself in a French Vessell or if
that might be unsafe or make a noise get Mr Richd Harrison or some per-
son in whose prudence You can Confide, Let the first question be, whether
His Excellency has received any advice from Monsr. Hortalez, if the answer
be in the Negative, tell him that he will receive letters from such a person 8c
that those advices have reference to you, therefore request the favour of
being immediately made acquainted when they come to hand 8c you will
wait on him or send a proper person in your stead — If the answer be in
the affirmative then enquire if his Excellency has rec’d anything beside ad-
vice from Monsr. Hortalez 8c if he has, inform him you are empowered to
receive the same from him agreable to the directions sent with the
Goods, We believe you had best proceed in the same Cautious manner at
Martinico 8c open no more of the business than Circumstances shall make
absolutely necessary
We also enjoin you to the Stricktest secrecy and herewith enclose you
two separate letters as your proper Authority for receiving any Goods or
Money Mr Elortalez our agent in Europe may remit
It was intended that Capt [John] Young shou’d deliver you this letter
but as we have some important dispatches to send Mr Deane, we have con-
cluded to send Mr Wm Hodge junr the bearer hereof with the same in order
that he may deliver them with his own hands. You’l please to shew Mr
Hodge proper attention and assist him to the utmost of your power in pro-
curing him a passage immediately from Martinico to France, in a good
Ship, if any Man of War or Packet should be going, make application to
the General to recommend Mr. Hodge to the Commander, also to the Com-
mander of the Port where he goes to in France to give him support 8c assist-
ance from thence to Paris with the best dispatch. If Mr. Hodge should want
money for his Expences supply him 8c transmit us his receipts for the same.
You will serve Your Country by forwarding Mr Hodge without delay but
you need not mention to the General how urgent we are on this point unless
you find it will promote his dispatch —
OCTOBER 1776
1089
We learn from many quarters that a Fleet of Twenty Sail of the Line
are fitting out at Brest & Toulon Shou’d they come out to the West Indies
& be destined to Commit Hostilities against the British Trade or Territorys,
they have a fair opportunity to Strike a Capital Stroke at New York where
they have upwards of 400 Sail of Ships Guarded only by 2 sixty four Gun
Ships, two fiftys and six Fortys the rest are all Frigates 8cc Twenty Sail
of the Line wou’d take their whole Fleet with ease & then we coud as easily
manage their Army. We had omitted above to desire that you shou’d send
back in the Sloop Independence Capt Young a proportion of the Arms Am-
munition Money or other Stores you may receive either at Martinico or St
Eustatia from Monsr Hortalez, taking bills of Loading for the same deliver-
able to us or our order & if the quantity you receive shou’d be considerable,
you may send by Capt Young about the Value of three or four thousand
pounds Sterlg observing that we want Muskets & Woolen Cloathing most
immediately. We shall send more Armed Vessells after Capt Young to bring
away the remainder of what you may receive or buy and are sir [&c.]
1. Papers CC (Other Reports of Committees of Congress) , 37, 40-43, NA. Continuation of a
letter begun September 21.
Committee of Secret Correspondence to Silas Deane1
[Extract] Philadelphia, October 1, 1776.
Dear Sir: Mr. [Robert] Morris has communicated to us the substance of
your letters to him down to the 23d June, when you were near setting out
for Paris. We hope your reception there has been equal to your expectations
and our wishes; indeed we have no reason to doubt it, considering the coun-
tenance we have met with amongst the French Islands and their seaports in
Europe. It would be very agreeable and useful to hear from you just now, in
order to form certain opinions of the designs of the French court respecting
us and our contest, especially as we learn by various ways they are fitting
out a considerable squadron at Brest and Toulon. What a noble stroke they
might now strike at New York! Twenty sail of the line would take the
whole fleet there, consisting of between four and five hundred sail of men of
war and transports, store-ships and prizes. Was that piece of business once
effected by a French fleet, we would engage to give them a very good ac-
count of General Howe’s army in a short time; but, alas! we fear the court
of France will let slip the glorious opportunity, and go to war by halves, as
we have done; we say go to war, because we are of opinion they must take
part in the war sooner or later, and the longer they are about it the worse
terms they will come in upon . . .
If France means to befriend us, or wishes us well, they should send us
succours in good muskets, blankets, cloths, coatings, and proper stuff for
tents, also in ammunition; but not like the Venetians, wait until we are
beat, and then send assistance. We are willing to pay for them, and shall be
able soon as we can safely export our tobacco and other valuable
produce . . .
1090
AMERICAN THEATRE
Our frigates are fine vessels, but we meet difficulty in procuring guns
and anchors. Our people are but young in casting the former, and we want
coals to make the latter. However, these difficulties we shall surmount, and
are bent on building some line-of-battle ships immediately. The success in
privateering and encouragement given by the merchants will inevitably
bring seamen amongst us. This, with the measure that will be adopted to
encourage the breeding of seamen amongst ourselves, will in a few years
make us respectable on the ocean. Surely France cannot be so blind to her
own interests as to neglect this glorious opportunity of destroying the
power and humbling the pride of her natural and our declared enemy.
We make no doubt but you have been made acquainted with the nego-
tiations of Monsieur Hortalez, and in consequence thereof we conclude you
will be at no loss to obtain the supplies of goods wanted for a particular de-
partment, notwithstanding we know that the greatest part of those remit-
tances that were intended you have been intercepted by one means or other
It is unfortunate and much to be regretted that those remittances have had
such ill fate, but we hope you have obtained the goods on credit, and you
may depend that remittances will be continued until all your engagements
are discharged.
Clothing and tents are so much wanted for our armies that we entreat
you to apply immediately to the court of France for a loan of money suffi-
cient to dispatch immediately considerable quantities of stuff fit for tents,
and of coarse cloths, coatings, stockings, and such other comfortable neces-
saries for an army as you can readily judge will be proper. You will get
these goods either sent out direct in French vessels or to their islands,
where we can send for them; but if you could prevail on the court of France
to send out men-of-war with them it would be most acceptable. Whatever
engagements you make for the payment of the cost of such clothing and
necessaries the Congress will order sufficient remittances to fulfil the same;
but in our circumstances it requires time to accomplish them. You’ll observe
the secret committee have given orders to Mr. Thomas Morris to procure
sundry articles and dispatch them immediately; and if you succeed in the
negotiations of a loan from the court for this purpose, you may employ him
or act in conjunction with him to procure and dispatch those articles by
them and such others as you shall judge necessary, and the remittances to
be made him will serve to refund the loan. Should the court decline this
matter perhaps the Farmers-General may be induced to advance the money
or stake their credit for the sake of securing the tobacoo the secret commit-
tee will remit to Europe. These things we throw out as hints, and shall only
further observe that you can not render your injured country more essen-
tial service at this time than by procuring these supplies immediately.
We are told that our vigilant enemies have demanded of the courts of
France, Spain, and Portugal to deliver up the American ships in their ports
and to forbid their having any future intercourse with them. The court of
Portugal has complied so far as to order our ships away on ten days’ notice.
That k ranee and Spain gave evasive answers. This is private uncertain in-
OCTOBER 1776
1091
telligence; but we think you will do well to intimate to the ministers of
those nations that first impressions are lasting; that the time has been when
they stood much in need of American supplies; that the time may come
again; that, although we are styled rebels by Britain, yet our friendship
may hereafter be of the utmost importance to those powers particularly
that possess American colonies, and that injuries now done us will not be
easily effaced. These hints of argument you’ll offer as the suggestion of your
own mind, and endeavour to influence them by interest or fear from taking
any active part against us. On the contrary, as it is evidently their interest
to encourage our commerce, so we hope you’ll be able to influence them by
one means or other to protect and license it in the utmost extent.
We shall not take up more of your time at present, But remain* sir
[&c.]
1. Wharton, ed.. Revolutionary Diplomatic Correspondence , II, 157, 159, 160-61.
Robert Morris to the Maryland Council of Safety1
In Secret Committee Philada Octr 1st 1776
Gentn Publick Bodys shou’d be equaly cautious of taking offence as of
giving it, because mischiefs are very apt to arise therefrom 8c generally be-
fore a remedy can be applyed. You have taken amiss the refusal of fourteen
ps Canvass wanted for your Colonial Vessels 8c had information that 2000
ps had been imported in one Vessell here. These are your premises 8c the
Facts are as follow. It was not this Committee that refused you the Canvass
for we had agreable to orders of Congress delivered the whole to the Marine
Committee 8c that whole consisted of about 600 ps instead of 2000, but it
was not possible the Marine Committee cou’d spare you a single Bolt, be-
cause the Congress had but a day or two before your application ordered all
the light Duck 8c other stuff, then in the Publick Stores or that coud be
bought in the City to be made up into Tents and sent immediately to Genl
Washington, the Marine Committee remonstrated against this measure al-
ledging that none of the Continental Vessels cou’d be sent out if this Can-
vass was taken from them, No Matter they were told the Soldiers should
have Tents if they stripped the Yards of those Continental Frigates 8c
Cruizers that had sails made up, 8c in Consequence of this measure which
nothing but the extream necessity of our Army coud justify, We have now a
parcell of five Vessells lying here useless at a time they might have been
most advantageously employed. Therefore Judge you, whether that Com-
mittee or the Congress itself cou’d have justifyed sparing you the Canvass
you wanted. You may depend Gentn that no just grounds are ever meant to
be given by Congress or any of its Committees for Complaints like yours.
We are all embarked in a Cause that requires our utmost united exertions to
carry us through, and be assured that you can always Command our utmost
Aid and assistance, when it can possibly be extended, consistent with the
1092
AMERICAN THEATRE
general Welfare. For 8c on behalf of the Secret Committee. I have the
honor to be Gentn [8cc.]
Rob1 Morris
1. Red Book, IV, Md. Arch.
Continental Marine Committee to Lieutenant Thomas Albertson 1
Sir Philadelphia October 1. 1776. —
The Continental Schooner Muskeito under Your Command being well
fitted and manned you are to set sail for Occracock in North Carolina and
proceed up with said Schooner to Edenton. On your arrival there put into
the post office any letters you carry with you and the Military Stores and
other goods you have on board deliver to Messrs Hewes 8c Smith Merchants
at that place. Those Gentn are to lade you back therefore you must loose no
time in discharging and getting the Vessel ready for the reception of Naval
Stores, or any other goods which they may want for to put on board, which
you are to receive to the full lading of your vessel. You are to apply to the
Convention or any other Public body at that place for any dispatches they
may want to send by you, and as soon as you have received your Cargo and
dispatches from Messrs Hewes 8c Smith, you are to set sail for this place,
proceeding with caution to avoid being taken by the enemy. Should you find
our Bay shut up by the Men of war and that you cannot get in by the Cape
May Channel, bear away for some of the Inlets and write to us when you
get in.
You are to be careful of the Schooner her Materials and Stores and we
expect you will be diligent and attentive to the execution of your business.
We are Sir [8cc.]
P:S: you must make the utmost dispatch from Carolina 8c take care not to
waste any Powder. Should you be taken, throw all Letters and Papers over-
board Slung to A Shott to Sink them. —
1. Marine Committee Letter Book, 25, NA.
Libel Filed in Pennsylvania Admiralty Court Against the
Prize Ship William 1
Port of Philadelphia,
Pennsylvania, ss.
To All whom it may concern.
Notice is hereby given, that a Court of Admiralty will be held on Fri-
day the eighteenth day of October inst. at the State-house, in the city of
Philadelphia, then and there to try the truth of the facts alledged in the bill
of James Armitage2 (who as well, 8cc.) against the ship or vessel called the
William, burthen about one hundred and fifty tons, with her tackle, apparel,
furniture and cargo, lately commanded by John Bond. To the end and intent
that the owner or owners of said ship and cargo, or any person concerned
OCTOBER 1776
1093
therein, may appear and shew cause, if any they have, why the same should
not be condemned according to the prayer of the said bill.
By order of the Judge,
[Philadelphia] October 9 [sic 1], 1776. Andrew Robeson, Register.
1. Pennsylvania Evening Post, October 1, 1776.
2. Armitage commanded the Pennsylvania 6 gun privateer schooner Chance.
Muster Roll of the Continental Sloop Independence 1
A Return List of the Officers Seamen & others on board the Sloop Independ-
ence John Young Esqr Comr
John Young
Captain
Ship’d 23d July
James Robertson
1st Lieutt
10 Sepr
Wm Whitpain2
Master
4
Do
Geo: Brookman
1st Mate
16
Do
Willm Oates
Midshipman
18
Do
Pe Lacollade3
Do
21st
Do
Wm Darby
Boatswain
28
Do
Wm Tucker
Gunner
21
Do
Wm Hanover
Gunners Mate
4th
Do
Robt Priest
Carpenters mate
18
Do
Joseph Stout
Carpenter
Stephen Elms
Clerk
5
Do
John Corlett
Cooper
18
Do
Alexr Riddle
Cook
4
Do
Henry Tucker
Landsman
16
Do
James McCord
Steward
20
Do
Danl Turner
Able Seaman
21
Do
Ralph Watkin
Do
Do
James Black
Landsman
22
Do
Leonard May
Do
23
Do
John Reily
Able Seaman
24
Do
John Colwell
Do
Ditto
John McKinsy
Do
Ditto
Chas Moore
Do
Ditto
James Fisher
Do
Ditto
Nichs Toub
Boy
16
Do
John Paterson
Do
23
Do
James Cownover
Able Seaman
25
Do
Edwd Crilly
Landsman
Octi
' 1st
Willm Adams
Surgeon
Sepr 26th
1. Record Group 45,
Subject File NA, Box 6, NA.
2. Whitpain was discharged September 6, 1776 from the Pennsylvania state ship Montgomery ,
“to enter the Continental service,” Hazard, et al., eds., Pennsylvania Archives, 2nd series,
I, 339.
3. Stephen Pater de la Cossade whose memorial read in Congress on September 11, 1776 was
“referred to the Marine Committee,” Ford, ed., JCC, V, 751.
388-825 0-73-71
1094
AMERICAN THEATRE
Muster Roll ol the Pennsylvania Armed Boat Porcupine1
[Extract]
Muster Roll of the Armed Boat Porcupine commanded by Robert Tatnall
Esqr from Sepr 1st to Octr 1st 1776
No
Mens Names
Station
Time pay
Commenced
Monthly
Pay
1
Robert Tatnall
Capt
Sepr 1st
£ 10. .0. .0
2
Charles Jones
Gunner
do
4. .0. .0
3
Robert Ra[w]le
Private
do
2.12. .6
4
George Palmer
do
do
do
5
William Drisdale
do
do
do
6
Thomas Peek
do
do
do
7
Jacob Barber
do
do
do
8
John Burtt
do
do
do
9
John Stratford
do
do
do
10
Andrew Vandyke
do
/ do
do
11
Israel Taylor
do
do
do
I do Certify in honour, That the Officers, non Commission’d Officers 8c Pri-
vates belonging to the Armed Boat Porcupine under my command, are bona
fide engaged in the Naval Service of the State of Pennsylvania, & receive
pay according to the time mentioned to their names 8c the rank they hold in
this Role. I do also Certify on honor, that the two on Duty for Wood and one
Absent wth leave were all effective —
Rob* Tatnall.
[Endorsed] This Muster taken from Sepr 1st to Octr 1st 1776, of the Peo-
ple belonging to the Armed Boat Porcupine commanded by Robert Tatnall
Esqr of the Naval force in the service of the State of Pennsylvania. One
Captain, One Gunner and Six privates —
Lodk Sprogell, M. M. [Muster Master]
1. C. E. French Collection, MassHS.
Monthly Pay Rate of the Pennsylvania Navy1
Pay of the Armed Boats P month, to Commence from Oct’r 1, 1776.
Captain,
32 Dollars
Batterys,
1st Lieutenant,
20
do.
Master,
16
[dollars]
2d Lieutenant,
16
do.
Master’s Mate,
12
do
Captain’s Clerk,
12
do.
Gunner’s Mate,
9
do
Boatswain,
15
do.
Carpenter’s Mate,
9
do
Gunner,
15
do.
Boatswain’s Mate,
9
do
Carpenter,
15
do.
Qur Master,
8
do
Steward,
12
do.
Carpenter’s Yeoman,
Cook,
9
do.
Qr Gunner,
8
do
OCTOBER 1776
1095
Drum & fife,
8
do.
Privates,
8
do.
Commodore,
60 do
Boys,
4
do.
Doctor
26 2/3 do
Mate,
15 do
Pilot,
Midshipman,
12 do
Armorer,
9 do.
Master of Alarms [mc]
10 do
Boatswain’s Yeoman.
1. Pennsylvania Archives, 1st series, V, 30-31.
Lux & Bowly to Daniel of St. Thomas Jenifer 1
Honorable Sir Baltimore 1 Octobr 1776
We are favord with yours of the 27th ulto, respecting the Cordage we
were to furnish Mr Stewart [Stephen Steward] for the Gondolas 8cc on the
public account.
We did not enter into any agreement with him to finish it at any par-
ticular day; but on his return from Philadelphia, as he coud not get it there,
we promised to do our endeavours to compleat it as soon as possible, and
which we mean to comply with, so soon as we get rid of the Firgates2 Rig-
ing, which we think will be finished in a week — after that, we hope to fur-
nish for the Gondolas nearly as fast as it is wanted, and shall agreeable to
Mr Stewarts directions forward it to Annapolis as we make it. We are Hon-
ble Sir [&c.]
Lux & Bowly
1. Red Book, XI, Md. Arch. Daniel of St. Thomas Jenifer was chairman of the Maryland
Council of Safety.
2. Continental frigate Virginia.
Journal of the North Carolina Council of Safety1
[Halifax] Tuesday October 1st 1776.
Resolved That the Commissary of Stores or his deputy or Captain
Forster at Wilmington do deliver to the Commissioners at Edenton ap-
pointed to fit out the Armed Vessell King Taminy out of the Public Stores at
Wilmington such Materials as the said Commissioners may apply for tak-
ing a Receipt for the same -
Resolved That Sylvanus Pendleton Esquire Commander of the Armed
Brigg King Taminy fitted out by this State do with all possible Expedition
proceed to Occacock Bar and there lay for the protection of the Trade until
the return of the Pennsylvania Farmer from her intended Cruize; And then
that the said Sylvanus Pendleton shall immediately proceed to Sea on a
Cruize for the Term of one Month against the Enemies of the United
States of America, and to take as many of the merchant Ships, the property
of the Subjects of Great [Britain] as may be in his power and for that pur-
1096
AMERICAN THEATRE
pose to Cruize Between the Latitudes of thirty two and thirty five and ten
and to keep within the distance of eighty Leagues of the American Shore
and that after the Expiration of the One Months Cruize the said Sylvanus
Pendleton shall return to Occacock Bar and should he take any prizes the
same must be sent to Occacock or some other port.
Resolved That Joshua Hampstead Esquire Commander of the Armed
Vessel Pennsylvania Farmer fitted out by this State do immediately proceed
to Sea and Cruize the Term of one Month against the Enemies of the
United States of America and to take as many of the British Ships the
property of the Subjects of Great Britain as may be in his power and for
that purpose to Cruise between the Latitudes of thirty two and thirty five
ten and to keep within the distance of eighty Leagues of the American
Shore, and that after the Expiration of the one Months Cruize the said
Joshua Hampstead shall return to Occacock, and should he take any prizes
the same must be sent to Occacock or some other Convenient port
1. Secretary of State Papers (Council of Safety, 1775-1776) , NCDAH.
Commissioners Appointed to fit out the Brig Pennsylvania
Farmer to the North Carolina Council of Safety 1
Gentlemen Newbern October 1st 1776.
We being intrusted by your Honble Board to fit out an armed Vessel
from this Port, can now inform your Honours that the Brig! Pennsylvania
Farmer is compleatly fitted and man’d ready for service, and hath been so
some months past only for the want of shot, which we have now got, suffi-
cient for a Cruise and as she is so well man’d and fitted, and the whole Crew
as well officers as men so anxious of going out rather than be laying allmost
Idle in a harbour, which does not altogether suit the disposition of a sailor,
and as she has been at a considerable expence to the Country we think it ad-
viseable she should goe out, as its quite probable that in a very short time
she may reimburse the Country in an ample manner the whole expence and
much to spare, by bringing in some valuable prizes, which we hope you’ll
take into Consideration and if approved off by your Honble Board, you’ll
send us directions to send her on a Cruise. We think no time is [to] be Lost
from Certain Accounts we have had of a fleet of Merchantmen sailing this
month from Jamaica for England without convoy -
We some weeks agoe were anxious of geting the Brig down to the Bar,
but could not send her with Safety as she had not a sufficient anchor and
Cable, it was thought, to ride out a Gale of Wind which might be expected
at this season of the year and none to be purchased, we thought ourselves
justifiable, especially as so much of the Country property was depending, in
taking one from a sloop belonging to Mr Schyler of New york, that we were
told was to be carried up Trent river there to be Layed up this Winter ’till
the Spring, out of the way of Hurricanes, therefore we Judged it could well
be spared without any detriment to Mr Schyler sole owner of said Sloop,
OCTOBER 1776
1097
and [as] the Country’s Service required it we did not think the owner him-
self had he been here would have had the least objection to it nor do we be-
leive any person else had it not been particularly wanted at the same time
for the Brigantine William, belonging to Mr John Wright Stanly and others
as we were informed by the master of the said Brig — thus far respecting
the said anchor and cable we thought proper to mention to your Honours at
this time as we are inform’d a Complaint is intended to be lodged against us
respecting the same -
No Commission having as yet been made out for the Pennsylvania
Farmer you’ll please to send one for her by the Bearer with your directions -
We are Gentlemen [8cc.]
Joseph Leech Richd Ellis D Barron
1. Secretary of State Papers (Council of Safety, 1775-1776) , NCDAH.
Journal of the South Carolina General Assembly1
[Charleston] Tuesday the 1st Day of October. 1776
Resolved That this House will ballot for Commissioners to superintend
and direct the Naval Affairs of the State of South Carolina
And the House having proceeded to ballot accordingly
It appeared That Edward Blake Thomas Savage, Josiah Smith junior
Thomas Corbett Roger Smith George Abbot Hall and the Honourable
Thomas Shubrick Esquires had the Majority of Votes
A Bill for establishing a Board of Commissioners to superintend and
direct the naval affairs of the State of South Carolina was read a Second
Time
And the names of the Commissioners being inserted and several
amendments made to the Bill
Ordered That the Bill be sent to the Legislative Council
1. Salley, ed., South Carolina General Assembly Journals, 70, 72.
2 Oct.
Trial and Condemnation in Halifax Vice Admiralty Court
of Washington's Schooner Warren 1
Nova Scotia
Court of Vice >
Admiralty
12thSeptr [
1776- 1
Cause
Henry Bellew Esqr Commander of his Majestys Ship of
War the Liverpool VS the Schooner Warren -
Libel filed & entred order made thereon as on file
Owen Williams Midshipman on board his Majestys Ship
the Liverpool being Duly Sworne Deposeth that on or
about the 26th of August last they fell in with the
Schooner Warren to the Westward of Georges Bank &
gave chace to her from 5 o Clock in the morning till about
AMERICAN THEATRE
1098
11 o Clock when they took her that they had eight Car-
riage Guns some Swivels 8c about 48 men on board the
Schooner that the Deponant was afterwards put on
board the said Schooner as Prize Master, 8c that she was
brought by him into this Port of Halifax where she now is -
Owens Williams
Sworne before me the sixteenth day of Septr 1776
Charles Morris junr Regr —
2d Octobr Court opened by makeing Proclamation as uaual Procla-
1776 mation made for all Claimers none appeard — then the
Judge order’d the Decree to be pronounc’d as on file
whereby the said Schooner Warren her Boats Guns Tackle
and apparell were Condemn’d as lawfull prize to the Cap-
tors thereof —
Court adjourn’d without Day in this Cause —
1. Vice Admiralty Register, vol. 5, 1769-1777, N. S. Arch.
Journal of H. M. S. Scarborough , Captain Andrew Barkley1
Octr 76 At a Single Anchor in Port La tour Harbr
Tuesday 1st AM the Boat empd sounding, Lost a hand Lead and Line;
the Rebell Privateer fir’d 3 shott at the Boat. Modte 8c Clear,
PM the Boat Empd sounding, sighted the Anchor, let it go
again;
Wednesy 2d at 9 AM sent an Officer with the Cutter to Reconnoitre the
Privateer who got out of the Creek in the Night at 10 the
Boat return’d Ending the Privateer up at the head of the
Harbr 4 miles above us in shoal water, at i/2 past weigh’d
8c made sail, sent 4 men on board the Schooner which we re-
took from the Rebell Privateer.
at 1 PM the Schooner in Co at 6 Cape Negro NWbW 8 or 9
miles, and brought too [the] Main TS to the Mast.
1. PRO, Admiralty 51/867.
Certificate of the Account of Sales of the British
Prize Brig Harlequin 1
Providence Octor 2: 1776. —
Paul Tew Esqr produced before me this Account Sales of the Brig.
Harlequin and her Cargo.2 The Sale commanced by him August 28th
1776. The whole Amount is £7418 . . 3 . . 1 —
Witness John Foster Judge of Prize Matters
Cost and Charges Amount to 193 . . 0 . . 6i^
1. Admiralty Papers, vol. 9, R. I. Arch.
2. Taken July 2, 1776. See Volume 5.
OCTOBER 1776
1099
Journal of the Connecticut Council of Safety 1
At a Meeting of the Governor and Council of Safety [Lebanon]
October 2nd, 1776
Voted , That the Spy, commanded by Capt. [Robert] Niles, be ordered
and directed to get ready with all possible dispatch and to cruise in the
Sound betwixt Montack Point and Stamford, in order to watch the move-
ments of our enemies and to give intelligence in the easiest and best manner
for the security of the navigation belonging to the United States and of the
towns upon the Sound and to annoy our enemies, until further orders.
Voted, That Serjeant John Spencer of Capt. Wells’s company in Col.
Walcott’s regiment, and also seven or eight seamen or marines of the same,
be permitted to inlist on board the ship Oliver Cromwell, and that others
may be inlisted in their stead in said regiment if they can be without pre-
mium.
Whereas the great cry and want of the necessary article of salt threat-
ens to disturb the publick peace and safety of the State, that it makes it ab-
solutely necessary in order to supply both the publick and private necessities
of the people, and that in the most private and speedy method; Therefore
voted and resolved, that a suitable number of vessels be provided at publick
expence to be sent under convoy in order to get a speedy supply of that arti-
cle. And Capt. John Deshon is appointed as an Agent to carry this resolve
into execution.
Instructions to Capt. John Deshon
You are hereby instructed and ordered forthwith to impress and cause
to be appraised the schooner Hannah and Elizabeth, which was taken by
Capt. Robert Niles of the armed schooner Spy, belonging to this State, and
take up and have appraised five hundred tons more of vessels from about
sixty to about one hundred tons burden, which are good for sailing and well
found, and see them suitably manned and supplied with provisions and suit-
able cargoes for purchasing the salt, to go out at your discretion and direc-
tion as to their sailing and place of destination. They are to be guarded and
protected by an armed vessel, for which end you are to advise the Governor
and Council of Safety for their orders to such one as they shall see fit. You
are to do the whole with the greatest secrecy and dispatch.
To Captain John DeshoJi of New London Greeting
You are hereby authorized and impowered to take up or impress five
hundred tons of vessels from about sixty to about one hundred tons, good
for sailing and well found, and have them appraised by suitable persons
under oath, for publick service. For which this shall be your warrant.
Voted, That his Honor the Governor be desired to appoint such persons
as he shall think proper, to be Master of the ship Oliver Cromwell; also any
other officer that shall be wanted; and also, to give such orders for medicine
on board said ship as shall be wanted.
Voted, That Dr. Samuel Lee of Windham be and he is hereby appointed
Surgeon and Physician on board the ship Oliver Cromwell.
1. Hoadly, ed., Connecticut Records , XV, 528-29.
1100
AMERICAN THEATRE
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Sepr 22. Idem Idem Novrll. Ship Sally Will: Ivory Sc Wages 736.. 2.. 2
1776 1776 Jackson Balast
Octo. 2. B Cabbot Elisha Deer 2. Ship John Sugar Sec. Wages 10731 . 1 1 . Ai/2
1776 Hinman 1776 Clarendon Deniston
Aug. 22. Schooner Robert Deer 2. Sch: Hanah & Ronald Rum Sugar Wages 3584. .-. 1 h/2
OCTOBER 1776
1101
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1102
AMERICAN THEATRE
Bill for Escorting Governors Montfort Browne and
Philip Skene to New York for Exchange1
The State of Connecticut to John Skinner Dr.
for Escorting Govrs Brown 8c Skeen to N York
Octr. 2 1776 (Viz)
For him Self Eleven Days a 8/
o
oo
to his horse 120 Miles a 3d
1.10. .0
To Six Troopers 11 Days Each a 4/
13. .4. .0
To hire horses
9. .0. .0
To Expences Coming back from York
12.13. .1
Cr by Cash reed by pr Treasure
40.15. .1
30. .0. .0
Octr 24th By An Ordr on do as PrJ
10.15. .1
18. .0. .0
Reed on the Other SideJ
Errors Excepted
John Skinner
1. Conn. Arch., 1st Series, VI, 404, ConnSL.
Nathaniel Shaw, Jr. to Robert Morris1
To Robt Morris Esqr N Lond Octo 2 1776
Chairman of the Sec. Comtee
Gen. Yrs of the 5th Ulto came to hand last Post 8c agreeable to your
directions have made inquiry for Duck 8c Cloth Suitable for Tents, 8c am
sorry to say their is not a pease to be purchased in this State. I Suppose Mr
Dean has Advised you of his Sending me one hundred 8c one Bolts of Russia
Duck and Fifty bolts of Oznabrigs have made use of a few bolts for the
Navy - This Moment a Fine Ship from Jamaica with) 400 hhds of Sugar and
100 hhds Rum & sum Cotton was sent in hear by Capt Harding belonging to
this State2 she Saild in Co with Two hundd Sail 8c Harding was in
P[u]rsuit of the Fleet Imagine our Crusers will alter the Course of many
of them I am Gentlemen [8cc.]
N Shaw Junr
1. Shaw Collection, Letter Book, YUL.
2. Ship John, James Dunbar, master, taken September 21. US Navy, Miscellaneous Mss.,
1775-1804, LC.
Major General Horatio Gates to Brigadier General Benedict Arnold 1
[Extract] Tyonderoga October 2nd 1776
1 his will be deliverd to you by General Waterbury, as I shall be happy
to know that he has Join’d you, desire you will dispatch an Express boat
OCTOBER 1776
1103
with the News — The Liberty Schooner sails tomorrow, by whom I shall
send any further Accounts that may Arrive from Our Southern Army —
The Other Row Galley will be here tonight from Skeen, 8c is in such For-
wardness, that I expect she will be ready to sail from hence in a Week . . .
1. Gates Papers, Box 19, NYHS.
Diary of Lieutenant Jabez Fitch1
[On Board the Prison Snow Mentor ]
[Off New York] Wednesd: the 2nd: Was a very cold Morning; we had
our breakfast of Chocolet, earlier than common, partly on ac[coun]t: of
our Expectation of Landing this Day; but about 1 oClock a Number of Ma-
rines came on board, and Inform’d us that we were not to Land this Day, 8c
that there had between 3 8c 4 hundred of the Prisoners ben Landed, who had
all Engaged to Join the Kings Army.
This Day the Capt Order’d a Large Cable to be Quiled away in our
Birth, which greatly Disoblig’d us in the Day Time, but yet as we expected
Emediately to Land, we thought little of it, but when Night came, we found
ourselves greatly Disaccommodated, 8c by Reason of this unnecessary 8c
Disingenuous Order of Capt: Davis, we Rested but very little but spent the
Night considerably, as we had done before, while we were on board the
Passific.
1. Sabine, ed., Fitch’s Diary , 52, 53.
Diary of Dr. Thomas Moffat1
[On board H. M. Sloop Swan at Sandy Hook]
Wednesday Octr 2d Thermom: morning 50. The Merlin with a Prize
Brigantine from the W Indies came into the Hook. Captn Burnaby dind
aboard and supd. P M The Daphne St John Chinnery Commander with
11 Transports (having Burgoynes light horse aboard) passd up to the
Fleet.
1. Thomas Moffat’s Diary, LC.
Journal of the Continental Congress1
[Philadelphia] Wednesday, October 2, 1776
A petition from John Bayard, Alexander Henderson and Matthew
Irwin, was presented to Congress, and read; Whereupon,
Resolved , That the Board of War be directed to sell the petitioners, 1,600
lb. of powder, and 800 lb. of lead, for the use of their privateers, General
Lee and Colonel Parry.
1. Ford, ed., JCC, V, 838, 839.
jglgipfl
OCTOBER 1776
1105
Committee of Secret Correspondence to Silas Deane1
Sir Philada October 2d 1776
We have this day received from the Honorable Congress of Delegates
of the United States of America the important papers that accompany this
letter being,
first, a Treaty of Commerce 8c Alliance between the Court of France &
these States —
Second, Instructions to their Commissioners relative to the said
Treaty —
lastly, A Commission, whereby you will see that Doctr. Franklin, The
Honorable Thos Jefferson Esqr 8c yourself are appointed Commis-
sioners for Negotiating said Treaty at the Court of France.
These papers speak for themselves 8c need no Strictures or remarks from
us, neither is it our business to make any. You will observe that in case of
absence or disability of any one or two of the Commissioners the other has
full Power to Act.
We therefore think it proper to inform you that Doctr Franklin 8c Mr
Jefferson will take Passage with all Speed, but it is necessary that their ap-
pointment on this business remain a profound Secret and we do not choose
even to trust this paper with their rout, suffice it therefore, that you ex-
pect them soon after this reaches your hands, but by different conveyances.
And if you do not see some evident advantage will arise by Communicating
this Commission to the French Ministry immediately, We give it as our
opinion You had best suspend it, until the arrival of one or both these Gen-
tlemen, because you will then benefit of each others advice 8c abilities, and
we apprehend their arrival will give additional Importance to the Embassy
But should you be of opinion that delay will be in the least degree inju-
rious to our Country or its Cause, you must by all means use your own dis-
cretion in this matter, wherein we are not authorised to instruct or advise;
we only offer our own thoughts on the Subject. Shou’d you think proper to
disclose this Commission to the Ministers of France, enjoin the Stricktest
Secrecy respecting the Names, or rather insist that it be not made known to
any Persons, but those whose office and employments entitle them to the
communication that any others are joined with you in it because if that Cir-
cumstance reaches England before their arrival it will evidently endanger
their Persons. The Congress have ordered the Secret Committee to lodge
Ten thousand Pounds Sterling in France subject to the drafts or orders of
the Commissioners for their support, and you may depend that remittances
will be made for that purpose with all possible dilligence. We can also in-
form you, that you may expect instructions for forming Treaties with other
Nations. Consequently you will Cultivate a good understanding with all the
Foreign Ministers.
We have Committed these Important dispatches to the care of Mr Wm
Hodge junr who we hope will in due time have the pleasure to deliver them
in person, he knows nothing more of their Contents, than that they are Im-
1106
AMERICAN THEATRE
portant and in case of Capture his orders are to sink them in the Sea. This
Young Gentlemans Character, Family, 8c alertness in the Publick Service,
all entitle him to your Notice. He is also charged with some business from
the Secret Committee wherein your Countenance 8c assistance may be
usefull you will no doubt extend it to him and also engage Mr [Thomas]
Morris’s exertions therein
You will please to advance Mr Hodge the Value of One hundred 8c fifty
pounds Sterling for his Expences 8c transmit us his receipt for the same.
We most fervently pray for a successfull negotiation 8c are with the utmost
attention 8c regard Dear Sir [8cc.]
B Franklin Rob1 Morris
P. S Mr Hodge has some instructions from the Secret Committee which
he will lay before you 8c if the Negotiation of Monsr Hortalez respecting
Arms 8c Ammunition has been Conducted with success it will be needless
for Mr Hodge to make Contracts for those Articles. You will know how that
Matter is and direct Mr Hodge accordingly, And if you shoud think it of
more Consequence to send him immediately back here with dispatches than
to employ him in the business that Committee have proposed he will obey
your orders 8c Mr Morris may do the other —
1. Charles Roberts Autograph Collection, 733, HCL.
Richard Henry Lee to William Lee1
[Extract] Philadelphia October the 2d 1776
. . . The American strength on that Lake [Champlain] is at this time
so great both by land and water that they rest secure against any attempts
from Gens Carleton and Burgoyn. When the whole Fleet and Army were
collected before New York, the British Troops havg been for some time in
possession of Staten Island, they landed the greatest part of their Army on
Long Island, where they had not been long, before an engagement happened
between 3000 of the American troops and (as the best accounts here agree)
at least 18,000 of the regulars, which ended in the loss of about 1000 Men
taken, killed, 8c wounded of the Americans, who made few prisoners, but
who slaughtered of their enemies many more than were killed of their own
people — It being very evident that Long Island and the City of N. York
were not to be defended against a potent land army 8c sea force acting in
conjunction, both these places were in their turns evacuated, and the Amer-
ican Army retreated to their present post on the heights of Haerlem about 8
or 10 miles above the City and on the same T ongue of land upon which the
Town stands. This is a very strong post by nature and strongly fortified by
Art[illery]. 30,000 men are there placed to prevent the further progress
of Mr Howe and to this time he has been effectually prevented . . . Thus
things remain this 2d of October — The British Army have Connecticut on
their right where they do not incline to go, Gen Washington with 30,000
men on the heights of Haerlem in their Front, and on their left the Jersies
OCTOBER 1776
1107
in which an army of observation is posted either to prevent penetration
that way or to aid Gen. Washington occasionally. The N. [North] River is
so obstructed that Vessels cannot go above the heights of Haerlem, and
these obstructions are covered by 50 pieces of heavy Cannon placed on the
heights. This you may depend upon it is a true state of things at present,
and you will readily see how poor a compensation it promises for the ex-
pence of 12 millions this Campaign, and the loss of America for
ever. . . . when the Army and Fleet destined against America was made
known, the eyes of all Men were opened, the blind saw, the timid became de-
termin’d, and all joined in commanding the Congress to declare the Colonies
Free 8c Independent States, which they did. . . The number of Prizes taken
by the American Cruisers is wonderful — At least 6000 hhds of Sugar and
a world of other Goods are already safe in these Ports, and the American
force by Sea daily increasing. I do realy think, that if a great Statesman
with proper powers were to arise in England, he would endeavor to save his
Country by immediately acknowledging the independence of North America
and forming with these States an advantageous Treaty of Commerce.
Shortly it may be too late.
1. PRO, Colonial Office, 5/40. An intercepted letter.
Minutes of the Pennsylvania Council of Safety1
In Council of Safety,
[Philadelphia] Oct’r 2d, 1776 —
Three o’Clock, afternoon.
New Commissions were given out to the Captains of the Galleys, &
they were qualified to execute their Trust faithfully, 8cc., which qualifica-
tions they signed.
1. Pennsylvania Colonial Records , X, 739.
Pennsylvania Journal , Wednesday, October 2, 1776
Philadelphia [October 2].
Since our last was sent in here, the ship William , Captain [John]
Bond, from Jamaica for Liverpool, with 150 hds. of sugar, 9 hds. of rum,
and 2 bales of cotton, taken by the privateer sloop Chance , and a brig from
Barbados for London, with 200 hds. rum, taken by the Continental sloop
Providence.1
By the ships from Jamaica, we learn, that provisions have become very
scarce there, that the negroes had actually rose and cut off several planta-
tions in that island, and that the Governor had proclaimed martial law. We
also learn, that the humane Butchers of Britain had ordered the scattered
remains of the 60th regiment, stationed there since the year 1772, to this
continent to cut our throats, instead of letting them remain there to protect
the island.
1108
AMERICAN THEATRE
Last Saturday a number of officers and privates, belonging to the
American army, and who had been taken prisoners in Canada, arrived in
this city agreeable to the proclamation of Gem Carlton. They were sent in
four transports, under convoy of the Pearl frigate of thirty-two guns, from
Quebec to New-York, where Gen. Howe detained them on board a
fortnight. . . .
1. Brigantine Sea Nymph , Francis Trimingham, master.
Pennsylvania Gazette , Wednesday, October 2, 1776
Philadelphia, October 2.
We hear that an armed vessel is now fitting out in this city, which will
be called the Parry , in honour of the late gallant Colonel [Caleb] Parry, of
this State, who fell on Long-Island the 27th of August last, nobly contend-
ing for the freedom and independence of his country.1
1. The six gun Pennsylvania letter of marque schooner Colonel Parry, William Gamble, master.
Lieutenant Richard Boger, R. N., to Robert Morris1
Sir, York Town Jail, Octob’r 2d, 1776.
In Conformity to the Resolution of Congress for the allowance for Of-
ficers who are Prisoners, I directed Mr. Graybel, the Goaler of York Town,
after paying him the over plus of his Bill for Mr. [George] Ball and myself
to call upon the Committee of this place, who return’d for answer that they
had no directions in the case. I shall therefore be oblig’d to you to regulate
this matter with the Committee of York Town in such a way that payment
may be made to the Landlords here, as it will be inconvenient for them to
wait on the Congress. As I never before found any Difficulty in getting this
matter settled, the Committee at Germantown readyly paying it, I have now
to apologize to you for the trouble offered to you, which this new Circum-
stance has occasioned. I am, Sir [&c.]
Rich’d Boger.2
Directed Robert Morris, Esqr, in Congress.
1. Pennsylvania Archives, 1st series, V, 31.
2. Boger, in the Edward, was captured by Captain John Barry. See Volumes 4 and 5.
Journal of the Virginia Council of Safety1
[Williamsburg] Wednesday October 2d 1776
A Permit issued to Captain Butler, of the Sloop Wealthy lately arrived
from Bermuda with Salt, to dispose of his Cargo and trade with the Inhab-
itants of this State for the same.
A Permit issued to the Sloop Good intent, Richard Towle Master, lat-
erly arrived here with Salt from Bermuda, to return to the said Island.
Manifest of Cargo filed Bond executed 8c ordered to be recorded.
1. Mcllwaine, ed., Journals of the Virginia Council, I, 182, 183.
OCTOBER 1776
1109
Journal of H. M. Sloop Falcon , Captain John Linzee 1
Septemr 1776
Sundy 29
Mondy 30
October
Tuesdy 1
Wednesy 2
Moor’d off Ball’d Head.
AM Anchord here H M Sloop Terriable Rec’d Gunners
Stores from the Cruizer
Modte and Cloudy Wr P M our men came on Board from
the fort which was burnt.2
Empd Occasionally
Modte Wr with Lightning and Rain Empd Occasionally
Reed some Boatswn 8c Carpenters Stores from the Cruizer
Fresh Breezes with some Rain AM unmoord Ship and hove
Short on the Bt Br at 1 1 Weighd 8c Came to Sail under
Double Reeft topsails in Compy with H M Ships Active 8c
Scorpion 8c 2 Tenders with some Mercht Vessells3 H M
Sloop Cruizer was Burnt.
1. PRO, Admiralty 51/336.
2. Fort George on Bald Head.
3. Departure of this fleet left Cape Fear River open for the first time since the beginning of
the war. The fleet reached New York on October 18, PRO, Admiralty 51/336.
Journal of the South Carolina General Assembly1
[Charleston] Wednesday the 2d Day of October. 1776
Message from the President by the Clerk of the Legislative Council
Mr Speaker and Gentlemen
Lieutenant Dogharty declines accepting the Command
of the Brigantine Comet
John Rutledge
1. Salley, ed., South Carolina General Assembly Journals, 73, 75.
John Fitzpatrick to John Stephenson1
[Extract] Mans[c]hac 2 Octor 1776 -
We have nothing new with us worth mentioning excepting that the
American Barge that went to New Orleans some time agoe, has repassed
here in her way to fort Pitt, the other Day; it is said she has 15000 some
hundreds of Gun Powder on Board, she never called here going up or down.
1. John Fitzpatrick Letter Book, 1768-90, NYPL.
Journal of H. M. S. Atalanta, Captain Thomas Lloyd1
October 1776 Grand Caicos Wt End SSW
Wednesday 2 At 4 A M bore away & out 2d and 3 reef TSs set Steerg
Sails saw 2 Sail in the SW Qr
at 1 P M saw 3 Vessels at Anchor in Shore hauld down
Studg Sails Brot too 8c hoisted the Boats out, sent them to
speak 3 Vessels in North Caicos Harbour, at 5 fired a gun
388-825 0-73-72
1110
AMERICAN THEATRE
and made the signal for the Boats i/2 pt repeated Do the
NW part of the Grand Caicos WBS 3 or 4 Leags at 6 the
boats return’d hoisted them in 8c made Sail at 8 fired 2
Six Pds 8c 7 Swivels, brot too a Sloop from Port Dauphin
bound to Rhode Island 2 took out 7 Americans 8c 5 french
Men, sent a Petty Officer and 6 Men in Lieu 3
1. PRO, Admiralty 5 1/75.
2. Sloop Susannah, Benjamin Allen, master, with a cargo of molasses, sugar, etc., see Gayton s
Prize List under October 8.
3. Atalanta’ s journal on October 4 notes: “suspended Jno Why, Boatsn, for receiving out
of the Prize Susannah an Ensign knowing it to be stole,” PRO, Admiralty 51/75.
Journal of H. M. S. Pallas , Captain William Cornwallis1
October 1776 Latde 43° 18'
Wednesday 2d Fresh Breezes and Cloudy,
at 1 P M saw a Sail to the Eastward, out 2d reefs, made
sail [and] gave chace, at 2 TKd l/2 past 3 made the Sig-
nal for the Prize 2 to Tack to the Eastward 5 made the
Signal for the Prize to Tack and stand after us, at 6 the
Chace which [was] a Brig and appeared to be an American
Privateer about 4 Miles upon the Weather [beam,] at 7
lost sight of her, shortned sail and brot too for the Prize, at
8 sounded 80 fathoms [no] ground, set the Foresail, at 10
fill’d the Maintopsail,
1. PRO, Admiralty 51 / 667.
2. The prize ship Anne retaken three days before.
3 Oct.
“Extract of a Letter from Capt. George Grey, of the
George Victualler, from on board the Boston Privateer, Oct. 3, 1776” 1
I embrace the opportunity of sending this on shore by a Newfoundland
Banker, to acquaint you that I was taken the 20th of September, after los-
ing the convoy 18 hours in thick weather; when they finish the voyage they
are to proceed to Boston with us. They took one of the same fleet that day,
and two since.2
1. Whitehall Evening Post, November 21 to November 23, 1776.
2. The George was libeled against in Massachusetts Admiralty Court, Middle District, October
24, 1776, by Captain Silas Atkins, Jr.
“Extract of a Letter from an Officer, dated Fort St. John,
at the Head of Lake Champlain, Oct. 3.” 1
Our batteaus and vessels are all ready, and we propose in two or three
days setting out on our visit to Ticonderoga and Crown Point, which we
hope to give a good account of. We had an alarm that a party of 5 or 6000 of
OCTOBER 1776
1111
the rebels had been sent up through the woods, in order to come down and
burn our vessels; we lay on our arms for four and twenty hours, but the
enemy did not appear. We expect to get to the other end of the Lakes in a
fortnight from this time.
1. Whitehall Evening Post , November 21 to November 23, 1776.
Commodore Marriot Arbuthnot to Lord George Germain1
[Extract] Nova Scotia
No 4 Halifax 3d October 1776
My Lord, I have had the honour of Your Lordships letter dated 20th July;
And I shall do my Utmost to prevent any intercourse or Correspondence
between the Colonies in Rebellion, and any Persons in this Province.
No Vessel has lately arrived in this Harbour from London with Mer-
chandize, and your Lordship may be Assured that all Trading Vessels shall
be Narrowly Watched. —
1. PRO, Colonial Office, 217/52, DAC Photocopy.
Master’s Log of H. M. S. Milford1
October 1776 Do [Seal Island] No 55 Et 16 Leags
Thursday 3 at 2 A M saw a Sail in the NW Quarter, gave Chace . . .
at 7 spoke the Chace Which prov’d to be a Brig from Halli-
fax taken by an American Privateer.2
1. PRO, Admiralty 52/1865.
2. The brigantine Halifax, Richard Hinckly, master, for the West Indies with a cargo of fish.
She was taken on September 22 by the General Putnam. The Halifax Vice Admiralty
Court awarded the officers and men of H. M. S. Milford one eighth part of the value of
the recaptured brigantine and cargo, Vice Admiralty Register, vol. 5, 1769-1777, N. S. Arch.
Jacob Boardman to the Massachusetts Council1
In Committee of Correspondence,
Inspection and Safety -
Newburyport 3d October 1776
To the Honourable the Council of the State of the Massachusetts, Bay -
May it please your Honours,
The Bearer, Capt George Evans, in the Brign Necessity , was Sent into
this port, the 27th Ulto by the privateer Hancock y Capt Wingate Newman
of Philadelphia, the Owners of the Privateer have Discharged, Capt Evans
& his Brign, he was Bound from Bermudas to Liverpool, in Nova Scotia,
Loaded with 2000 Bushels of Salt, five Hhds of Molasses, & twenty Bbs of
Limes, he was from thence to Carry Lumber, Masts &c. to Bermuda, his
Vessel by the Register Appears to have been Condemned, in an Admiralty
Court, at Bermuda, Last March, and is here Reported, to Belong to Mr
[David] Beveridge of Philadelphia, Now We Beg your Honrs Direction
whether said Capt Evans, shall here Unload, 8c Sell his Cargo, 8c whether
1112
AMERICAN THEATRE
he shall be permitted, afterwards to Load with any thing, that may be
Shipped from hence, to Foreign parts, also Whether your Honrs think it
proper Mr Beveridge, should be Informed, of the Vessels being here brot in,
& whether you will Order your Secretary, to give this Information, or
Leave it to this Committee to do, — Your Order by the Return of Capt
Evans, will be punctually attended to, by your Honors [8cc.]
In B [eh] alf 8c p Order of the Committee
Jacob Boardman, Chairmn, P T
[Endorsed] In Council [Watertown] Octr 8[th] 1776 Read 8c there-
upon Ordered that Benja Austin 8c Henry Gardner Esqr be a Committee to
take the above Petition under Consideration & Report -
John Avery Dpy Secy
1. Mass. Arch., vol. 165, 323.
Richard Derby, Jr. to the Massachusetts Council 1
Sir Salem 3d October 1776 —
Last Evening, The Massachusets , Capt [Daniel] Souther comandr of
the Brigantine belonging to this State, Arrived here, and Informs me that a
few days After he Sailed, he fell in with & Took a Brigantine of Abt 250
Tons, from Falmouth in England, mounting Six Three Pound Cannon, 3c
having on board a Capt 8c about 20 Privates, of the 16th Regt of Dragoons,
with their Horses & Acoutremts2 The Chaplain of the Regiment is Also
with them —
With Respect to News I can Only Inform you that this Vessel sailed from
Falmouth on the 27th July Inst a Month after they Embarked, in Com-
pany with Twelve others under the Convoy of the Daphne of Thirty two
Guns, from whom they parted but a Day or two before they were taken,
they all had the same kind of Cargo, makeing in the whole two Hundred
8c thirty Horses, a Fleet of about Seventy Sail Sailed About Three Days
before them, Under a Strong Convoy, having on Board the Remainder
of the 16th Regt of Dragoons, and the last Division of Hanoverians, as
he says About 5,000 Men bound for New York, they were short of
Horse Provisions 8c some of the Horses have died of the Staggers & he sup-
poses that the late Gales have Destroy’d many more, He says the People in
Brittain know Nothing what is passing in America, 8c Capt Souther In-
forms me the Chaplain has Told him the People in England begin to glow
very Uneasy! — not a single News Paper or Letter has as yet been
found, if their should be any more News Transpire You shall soon be In-
formed of it, I think You may Depend on the Account he gives of the Sail-
ing of the Fleet, 8c that they are now near if not Arrived at York —
A Privateer Sloop Belonging to this place, is Just Arrived, Who fell in
with the Fleet of Twelve Sail and was so Closely Pursued by the Daphne,
that the Enemy fired Musket Ball into them, but by heaving Overboard all
OCTOBER 1776
1113
her Guns, Water 8c Provision 8c by Sawing Down her upper Works barely
made her Escape3 — I am with all Due Respect to The Honorable Board
[&c.]
Richd Derby Junr
A true Copy -
Attest John Avery Dpy Secy
1. Washington Papers, LC.
2. The Brig Henry a?id Ann, John Farrah, master, Independeiit Chronicle, Boston, October 24,
1776.
3. Not a privateer, but Washington’s schooner Lynch, Captain John Ayres, ibid., October 10,
1776.
Journal of the Massachusetts Council1
[Watertown] Thursday October 3d 1776
Account of Benjamin Austin Esqr for £14 paid Capt John Clouston
for one Months Advance Wages to Seven Men enlisted on Board the Sloop
Freedom Read Ordered and Allowed that a Warrant be drawn on the
Treasury for £14 - in full discharge of said Account - a Warrant was
drawn accordingly and Signed by 15 of the Council.
1. Mass. Arch., vol. 19, 257, 259.
Orders of the Massachusetts Council Respecting the
Continental Frigate Boston1
Council Chamber [Watertown] Octr 3d 1776
Ordered - That the Committee of Correspondence Safety 8c Inspection
of the Town of Newbury Port be and they are hereby directed to deliver
Capt Hector MNeil [McNeill] for the use of the Ship Boston eight Swivel
Guns bro’t in Said Town the last year by one Capt Johnson who was from
the W. Indies in the Service of this State -
Ordered That the Committee for fortifying the Harbor of Boston be
and they are hereby directed to send by Water to Newbury Port Twelve
Swivell Guns out of the Row Gaily in Boston Harbor to be deliver’d Capt
Hector McNeil for the Use of the Ship Boston -
Jn° Avery Dpy Secy
1. Mass. Arch., vol. 165, 310, 310a.
Independent Chronicle , Thursday, October 3, 1776
Boston, October 3.
Yesterday was sent into this Harbour, by the Columbus ship of War,
Capt. Whipple, a Brig from Antigua; bound for Europe, with 250 Hogs-
heads of Rum.1
A Ship from Jamaica was also sent into Cape-Ann last Monday; said to
have been taken by a Rhode Island Privateer.2
1114
AMERICAN THEATRE
Monday last was sent into Cape- Anne, a Prize Ship, three Decker, from
Barbados bound to London; taken by Capt. [William] Coas in the [Massa-
chusetts privateer] Warren. She has on board, 394 Hogsheads Sugar, 180
Puncheons Rum, 20 Casks Indigo, 70 live Tortoise, 6 Casks Tortoise Shell,
50 Bags Cotton, some Cash and Plate, and a Quantity of Mohogany.3
The Public are hereby informed, that the Sale of the Brigantine Caro-
lina Packet, and her Cargo, will not be on the 8th of Instant, as advertised
in our last, but timely Notice will be given when the Sale is to be.
The Sale of the Ship Queen of England, and the remaining Part of her
Cargo, consisting of Pork and Butter, which was advertised to be on This
Day, the third Instant, at 1 1 o’Clock, before Noon, at Captain Fleet’s Store,
on the Long Wharf, Boston, is postponed to Saturday next 5th Instant, at
the Time and Place above-mentioned.
1. Brig Lord Lifford, 80 tons, John Jones, master.
2. Probably the ship Camden, 300 tons, Joseph Richardson, master, taken by Captain Chris-
topher Whipple in the Rhode Island privateer brig Putnam.
3. Ship Sarah and Elizabeth, 300 tons, James Foot, master.
Libels Filed Against Prizes in the Massachusetts
Admiralty Court for the Middle District1
[Boston, October 3, 1776]
State of Massachusetts-Bay,
Middle District, ss.
To all whom it may concern.
Notice is hereby given, That a Libel is filed before me in behalf of
Allen Hallet and his company, and the owners of the armed schooner called
the Sturgy [ sic Sturdy ] Beggar, against the ship Batchelor, of about 200 tons
burthen, George Barclay late master, and against her cargo and appurten-
ances, said to be taken and brought into Newbury-Port in the district afore-
said; and for the trial of the justice of this capture, the Maritime Court for
said Middle District will be held at Salem, in the county of Essex, on Friday,
the eighteenth day of October, 1776, at nine o’clock in the morning, when
and where the owner of said ship, her cargo and appurtenances, or any
persons concerned, may appear and shew cause, if any they have, why the
same should not be condemned.2
Notice is hereby given, That Libels are filed before me against the fol-
lowing vessels, their cargoes and appurtenances, to wit, — in behalf of the
officers, and company, and owners of the privateer schooner Dolphin,
against the sloop Halifax, of about 95 tons burthen, John McGregor, late
master: — In behalf of Jacob Martin and company, and the owners of the
privateer schooner Fair Lady, against the schooner Molly, of about 60 tons
burthen, John Bahannon, late Master; — and against the sloop Industry, of
about 50 tons burthen, Ebenezer Farnam, late Master: — In behalf of Na-
thaniel Odiorne and company and the owners of the privateer schooner
Washington, against the snow Millham, of about 200 tons burthen, John
OCTOBER 1776
1115
Johnson late Master; and against the schooner Eagle, of about 70 tons bur-
then, which had been before taken by the Weasel man of war, and was re-
taken by the said privateer Washington. All which vessels so libelled, are
said to have been taken and brought into the County of Essex. And for the
trial of the Justice of these Captures, the Maritime Court for the said Mid-
dle District, will be held at Salem, in said county of Essex, on Friday the
eighteenth Day of October next, at nine o’clock in the forenoon; when and
where the owners of said captures or any person concerned therein, may ap-
pear and shew cause, if any they have, why the same, or any of them,
should not be condemned.
Tim. Pickering Jun., Judge of said Court
1. Independent Chronicle, Boston, October 3, 1776.
2. Batchelor was condemned on October 18, 1776, Shipping Miscellany, E.I.
“Extract of letter from a Gentleman in Providence . . . dated
October 3, 1776.” 1
Sunday last arrived the Columbus from a successful cruize, having
taken four prizes, viz, a brig from St. Croix, bound to Scotland, with 265
hogsheads of rum, one tierce and twelve barrels of sugar; a ship from St.
Croix, bound to London, with 291 hogsheads, 59 tierces, 23 barrels, and 12
kilderkins of sugar, and 15 hogsheads and 3 barrels of rum; a ship from
Grenada, bound to London, with 300 hogsheads of sugar, 57 hogsheads of
rum, one pipe and 2 hogsheads of wine, and some cotton; a brig bom Mont-
serrat to Cork, with 218 hogsheads of rum.
The sloop Providence, in the service of the States, has taken two prizes,
one laden with oil, the other with sugar. Our privateers likewise continue to
be successful; some prizes have arrived in the river, but have not yet learnt
what they are.
Captain Crauford arrived here on Sunday from Nantz, after a passage
of 8 weeks:2
1. New-York Gazette published at Newark, N. J., October 12, 1776.
2. Captain Gideon Crawford in the brig Happy Return.
Interrogation of James Morres, Master of the Prize Brig Minerva 1
Interogatories answered by James Morres late Commander of the
Brio;: Minerva - Providence October 3: 1776 -
Interog. When where and by whom was the said Brigantine taken what
is her Tonage, from whence and to what Port was She bound,
what are the Contents of her Cargo, and who are the Owners
of the said Brig: and her Cargo, and are the papers now shewn
to you all the papers belonging to said Brigg.
Answer. The said Brig upon the 26 Day of September AD 1776 being upon
the High Seas in Latt 36 i/2 North was taken by Thomas Child [s]
Commander, his Officers and men belonging to the private Brig-
1116
AMERICAN THEATRE
antine of War called the Industrie. The said Brig Minerva is of
the Burthen of above 70 Tons. She was bound from the Island of
Antigua in the West Indies to the Port of Dublin in Ireland and
the Port of Milford in England.* her Cargo consists of about 74
hhds of Rum 24 Hhd of Sugar the Owners of the said Brig Mi-
nerva are Dover, Bell and Taylor Merchants in Company in said
Antigua. - The Papers now shewn to me are all the papers be-
longing to the said Brig Minerva except the Portage Bill now on
board the said Brig.**
James Morres
Sworn to in Providence October 3: 1776 -
Before John Foster Judge in Prize Causes -
* He first said She was bound to New York, then, told me to put
down that She was bound to Dublin and Milford. —
** He promised to deliver the Portage Bill, and accordingly I re-
ceived it Octor 4. 1776 -
N.B. The Portage Bill says the Brig was bound to New York.
1. Admiralty Papers, vol. 9, R. I. Arch.
Major General Horatio Gates to Brigadier General Benedict Arnold 1
Dear General Tyonderoga 3d October 1776
Last Night I received Your Letter of the First Instant by Lieut:
[James] Calderwood. Capt [David] Hawley carried with him all the Sea-
men that were to be had here, when he went from Hence. Those who have
been procured since, Saild Yesterday in the Two Row-Gallies, under Gen-
eral Waterbury’s Command, to which were Added One Hundred & Ten
Men, Officers Included. Besides the Number you determined upon, for the
Full Complement of each Row Galley, — not One of the Two Hundred Sea-
men promised from New York, have yet Arrived here. I now give up the
hopes of seeing them for this Year — As to the Equipment of the Trumbull,
I am not answerable for any Deficiency, General Waterbury, who had the
Intire Management of Rigging and Arming The Gallies, will satisfy all your
Questions upon that Head. — I know not howmuch Cordage you wrote for
in July, or whether it is yet half Arrived; but this I know, that General
Waterbury Assured me there was not more than half the Quantity neces-
sary. and we shall have much to do to furnish the Galley which came last
night from Skeensborough. Not a Cable yet Arrived from Albany Sc those
here too bad for Use — Capt Dow who perfectly understands Fitting of
Vessells, has my Orders to Assist Captain in getting his Galley
Equip’d with the utmost possible Expedition. I am told shee will Sail in a
Week, being much better Fitted when she left Skeensborough, than those
who came before her from thence, Col [Jonathan] Trumbull [Jr.], Sc Mr
Conductor Lane, assure me they have put every Article that you Demanded
in your last Letter on board the Liberty Schooner Except what is not to be
OCTOBER 1776
1117
had here — where it is not to be had you, Sc the Princes of the Earth must
go unfurnish’d — As to any unnecessary delays made by the Captain of The
Liberty, I must refer you to Genl Waterbury. I am told the Man was dill i-
gent, and that the Vessell wanted more Caulking than you suspected
All the Cloathing we have, goes in the Liberty Schooner, to be delivered
to your Order —
I have represented to General Schuyler Sc to Congress the Absolute ne-
cessity of taking immediate measures to Augment Our Fleet upon this
Lake, I suppose so Important Business will not be deferred, or Delay’d: —
I take it for Granted you will Consult with General Waterbury Sc Colo-
nel [Edward] Wigglesworth & with them Determine when it is proper Sea-
son to retire Up the Lake, I am confident Your, Sc their Zeal, for the public
Service, will not suffer You to return One Moment sooner than in pru-
dence & Good Conduct you Ought to do it. Perhaps, some Station nearer
Crown Point, may, About the Time you Mention, be proper to be taken but
this must be submitted to your better Judgements in Maritime Affairs —
The Commissary sent in the Gallies which Saild Yesterday Fourteen
Barrells of Rum, Six more go now in the Liberty ; a Quantity of Fresh Beef,
and Other Victuals, went by the same conveyance, which Mr Yancey ac-
quainted you with, particularly by Letter; if you think proper to keep the
Lee Gondola, or any Other, to go between Ty— & the Fleet, we can be Able
to send you Supplies in as Ample manner as Ty— will Afford —
I have read Sc Noticed Serjeant Stiles’s Examination, by the Enemy’s
building a Battery for Heavy Cannon at River La Cole, I am inclined to sus-
pect they are rather Acting upon the Defensive; — but until the Middle of
the next month Arrives, I shall not intirely give up the probability of seeing
them this Year —
Col Trumbull gave you the best Account in his Power of the Transac-
tions in the Neighbourhood of N. York, as I have constantly done, & as I
shall continue to do; therefore, be satisfied, when you do not hear all you
wish; it is because all you wish is not come to my knowledge. There is not a
Syllable of News, good or bad, since I wrote to you, Yesterday — . My Affec-
tionate Compliments to General Waterbury Sc Col Wigglesworth. Sc believe
me dear Genl Your Affectionate [&c.]
H G -
[Endorsed] Copy of Letter to General Arnold, Dated Tyonderoga 3d Octo-
ber - 1776. -
1. Gates Papers, Box 19, NYHS.
Major General Philip Schuyler to John Hancock1
[Extract] Albany October 3d 1776
The Cables are by this Time arrived at Tyonderoga - They were made
at poghkeepsie and with Dispatch and forwarded without a Moment’s
Delay.
1118
AMERICAN THEATRE
No Carpenters are to be procured here, the far greater part of the
great Numbers I sent up in the Course of the Campaign have sickened and
returned Home — On the Subject of encreasing our Navy on Lake Cham-
plain I have already wrote to Congress.
1. Papers CC (Letters of Major General Philip Schuyler) , 153, II, 433-36, NA.
Journal of H. M. S. Cerberus , Captain John Symons1
October 1776 Fishers Island WNW 6 or 7 miles
Thursday 3 at 6 A M sett the Topsails saw a SI to the No wd gave
chace a[t] 10 saw a SI to Windwd hauld our Wind & gave
Chace2
Fresh Breezes & fr at 2 P M md the Sigl to Anchor at 3
Came too wt the Bt Br in 8 fm Et End Gardners Isld Si/<?E
off shore 2 Ms
1. PRO, Admiralty 51/181.
2. The master’s log of the Cerberus is far more informative:
10 AM saw a Sail to windwd gave Chace i/£ past 11 wore Ship & fir’d several Broad-
sides at the Chace, which proved to be a Privateer, & he run between Fishers Island
reef & Watch Pt. for Stonington & where there is not above 15 feet at high water.
PRO, Admiralty 52/1650.
Journal of Ambrose Serle1
[On board H.M.S. Eagle, New York]
Thursday, 3d [October].
The Daphne, Capt. [St. John] Chinnery, with 12 Sail of Transports having
on board the 16th. or [John] Burgoyne’s Regiment of Light Horse, came
up this Morning. They have been 10 Weeks and 3 Days on their Passage,
having parted with one of their Ships, and lost about 40 Horses. No Letters
from England for me, to my great Disappointment. One Ship was missing,
wch (as we afterwards learned) was taken by the Rebels.
Lord Shuldham, Sir Peter Parker, Commodore Hotham, and their sev-
eral Captains, dined on board the Eagle. Their Discourse ran much upon the
good or ill Qualities of Wines, in which I have but little Judgement, and
therefore could have but little to say.
1. Tatum, ed., Serle’s Journal, 118-19.
Diary of Lieutenant Jabez Fitch1
[On board the Prison Snow Mentor ]
[Off New York] Thirdsd: the 3rd: [October] Being very weary of my
Lodging, I turn’d out Early in the Morning, & Walk’d the Deck for a Long
I ime, the Weather being Clowdy cold 8c Chilly; Capt: [Jonathan] Brew-
ster is much unwell this Morning; We seem this Morning also, to meet with
great Difficulty in geting Breakfast nor do we yet know whether we are like
to break our Fast at all.
OCTOBER 1776
1119
We had some words this Forenoon with Capt: Davis, on acct of the
Cable, but to no great purpose that I know of as yet.
At about 10 oClock (with much Difficulty) we procured a Dish of Choc-
olet; Capt: Hawker came on board about this Time, but Informs us of
nothing new, concerning our Landing, or any other Matter; I spent most of
this Day on Deck, on acct: of being Discommoded below, alth’o the weather
was Chilly & uncomfortable, I was also somewhat unwell.
Toward Night the Sailors came down and cover’d the Cable with Grat-
ing 8c other Rough Affairs for us to lodge on, pretendedly soposing we were
much beholden to them for so great a piece of Lenity 8c Care for us. After
this I procured a number of Oxslings, with which I prepared myself a Lodg-
ing on one of the Gratings, on which I Rested the most Comfortable that I
had done since my Imprisonment.
1. Sabine, ed., Fitch's Diary , 53.
Diary of Dr. Thomas Moffat1
[On board H.M. Sloop Swan at Sandy Hook]
Thursday October 3d Thermom: morning 55 Dind and supd aboard
the Merlin. Saw a Curious Diary, Log book, \/2 minute glass Hermetically
seald filled with a Compass Chrystal capd, with a small reflecting mirror
for Planetary observations with several years work in Logarithms.
1. Thomas Moffat’s Diary, LC.
Journal of the Continental Congress1
[Philadelphia] Thursday, October 3, 1776
Resolved , That the Secret Committee be empowered to take such meas-
ures, as they shall judge necessary, for purchasing, arming and equipping,
a frigate and two cutters, in Europe, and to give proper orders for the said
frigate making a cruize in the British channel against our enemies, and for
the said cutters to be employed in transporting to these states, such articles,
as the said Committee have been ordered to import.
1. Ford, ed., JCC, V, 842, 846.
Continental Marine Committee to Hewes 8c Smith, Edenton1
Gentlemen [Philadelphia] October 3d 1776
You will receive this from Lieutenant Thomas Albertson commander
of the Schooner Muskeeto now employed in the Continental service as an
advice Boat, She carries but few Letters this voyage but what there are
must be put in the post office, and the same price charged for carriage as if
they had gone from hence by Land — which you will please to see done
Mr [Joseph] Hewes having fitted this Schooner himself before he left
1120
AMERICAN THEATRE
this - You will take care to receive the Cargo which consists altogether of
Continental Stores sent for the use of the Continental Troops in your State
and deliver the same to the proper Officers granting Lieutenant Albertson a
receipt for what he delivers and you’l please also to supply him with what
money may be absolutely necessary to defray the Charges and expences of
his Vessel but no more, taking his accountable receipts for what you pay
him one of which you’l transmit by the Vessel. We desire you to Ship back
by this Vessel One hundred barrels Cool Tar, two tons tawlow in barrels,
and twelve barrels Rosin, for the use of our Navy. If the Schooner will
carry more put it on board, if not so much, you must leave out a little of
each. We beg you will despatch Mr Albertson back immediately, don’t allow
him to stay on any account. If he wants a few men pray assist him in get-
ting them and your drafts on the Chairman of the Marine Committee for
the Cost of the goods ordered 8c of the Schooners disbursements will be
duely honored. We are sir [Sec.]
P:S: You have enclosed a manifest of the Cargo and Mr Hewes must allow
a handsome freight for his goods which you’l Credit in the Schooners ac-
counts.
1. Marine Committee Letter Book, 26, NA.
Secret Committee to William Hodge1
[Copy] Philadelphia Octor 3d 1776
Sir We deliver you herewith Copies of the Letters 8c Credentials you had
from us when you sailed on your late unfortunate voyage, the originals
whereof we understand you destroyed on being taken by the Orpheus Man
of War.2 We have since that time taken other measures for procuring Arms
and Ammunition which probably may have succeeded, therefore we request
you will lay those Copies and this Letter before Silas Deane esqr at Paris
and follow such advice and directions as he may give respecting Arms and
ammunition but with respect to the Cutters we approve much of that Plan
and wish it to be executed and even enlarged. We therefore propose that
you should consult with Mr Deane and Mr [Thomas] Morris on this sub-
ject, and if you find it will be in your power to procure Seamen and obtain
liberty to Arm and fit out vessels in France, Spain, or Holland that you
should if possible buy a Frigate of 20 to 40 Guns, have her compleatly fitted
armed and manned putting in a gentleman of unexceptionable good charac-
ter being also an able Seaman to command her for which purpose we give
you herewith a blank Commission to be filled up with his and the Ships
name which may be the Surprize. The Captain and you may appoint the
other Officers necessary for this Ship giving to each a Certificate shewing
his Station. When the Ship is compleated you must give Orders to the Cap-
tain signed by Mr Deane to cruize in the Channel against the enemies of the
United States of America, making Prize of all British property as he can
OCTOBER 1776
1121
meet with. He may send his prizes into such Ports in France as may be most
convenient and you will there demand protection for them, or rather let Mr
Deane demand this and also liberty to make sale of such goods as he, Mr
Morris and yourself may think best to sell there, direct the Captain to
take out any drygoods he finds on board his Prizes into his Own Ship, and
when by this means he has got a considerable quantity on board, let him
come away for this Coast, and get into the first place of safety he can in the
United States of America. The Captain must before he goes give bond duly
to Observe all the Rules and Regulations of Congress and herewith we de-
liver you a blank bond, with a book of those Rules and a List of the Conti-
nental agents. Any Prize that he sends into France you must send forward
from thence to some of these States, unless Mr Deane Mr Morris & yourself
agree it is more for the Public good to sell in France and if you sell them
there apply the Neat proceeds to pay the Debts you Contract in this busi-
ness. Besides this Ship we approve also of the Two Cutters as mentioned in
our former Letters. You may Arm fit and Man them and dispatch them
hither soon as possible, either with Arms, Ammunition, or such other goods
as Mr Deane and Mr Morris may recommend or provide. We deliver you
Commissions &c. for these Vessels also, and recommend you to be very at-
tentive to the choice of Captains; they should all be good Seamen Men of
good character and Principles, strongly attached to this Country and its
cause and prefer Americans thus deserving to any other Country. If such
Americans are not to be found, seek for good men of other Countries that
have been here or have connections amongst us; we know that there are
many such in Europe that would be glad of the employ. This Ship must
make but a Short Cruize in the Channel and a Short one will do the business
for she will daily meet Prizes, but if She is long there they will have men of
War in quest of her. We hope you’l meet with some fine fast sailing ship for
this purpose, and be able to purchase & 6t her on reasonable Terms. We
shall desire Mr Deane & Mr Morris to join you in the necessary assurances
to those you deal with of being faithfully reimbursed & we again repeat
that we shall make remittances in the produce of this Country for that pur-
pose.
We will also make you a proper Compensation for your trouble and
services hereafter when they can be better ascertained therefore wishing
you success we remain Sir [&c.]
P.S. It is absolutely necessary that you observe the utmost Secrecy in all
this business and make use of every Cloak or Cover you can think of to hide
the real design
1. Papers CC (Other Reports of Committees of Congress) , 37, 3-5, NA. Another copy in the
Lee Papers, UVL, differs slightly in capitalization and punctuation.
2. Ilodge was a passenger on board the brig Polly bound for Bordeaux, when taken by H.M.S.
Orpheus. See Volume 5.
1122
AMERICAN THEATRE
Robert Morris to Various French Merchants1
[Copy]
Gentn, Philada October 3d 1776
The bearer hereof Mr Wm Hodge Junr is a Young Gentn we
esteem, he now goes for France Via the West Indies 8c is uncertain at
what Port he may land. He has business with Silas Deane Esqr 8c our T
Morris. We beg therefore you will furnish him with their Address, 8c render
him any other Service, he may Stand in need of. If he wants money for
Expences, Please to advance it, 8c his draft on Mr Deane will be Honored.
Your Complyance will Oblige Gentn [8cc.]
To
Mr John Danl Schweighauser at Nantes
Messrs Sami 8c J. H. Delap at Bourdeaux
Mr Andw Limozin at Havre
Messrs P. Steval 8c Son at Dunkirk
1. Papers CC (Other Reports of Committees of Congress) , 37, 61, NA. Enclosed in Committee
of Secret Correspondence to William Hodge, October 3.
Minutes of the Pennsylvania Council of Safety1
In Council of Safety,
[Philadelphia] October 3rd, 1776.
The following Commissions were granted this day, agreeable to the
Resolves of Congress, Viz’t:
For the Privateer Sloop Congress , Wm. Greenway, Com-
mander, of the Burthen of 40 Tons, mounting Six Carriage Guns
Navigated by Forty Men, owned by John Bayard, Jos. Dean & co.,
Privateer Brig, General Lee, John Chatham, Commander, Burthen
ab’t 100 Tons, Mounting 12 Carriage Guns, Navigated by Ninety
Men, owned by John Bayard, Alex’r Henderson, 8c co.
1. Pennsylvania Colonial Records , X, 740.
Journal of the Maryland Council of Safety1
[Annapolis] Thursday October 3rd 1776
The Council of Safety purchased of Major [William] Horsey The
Schooner Friendship with her riging, sail and Tackle, agreeable to Inven-
tory lodged for one thousand Pounds Common Currency. Major Horsey
agrees to deliver said vessel fit for Sea at Baltimore Town. The Council of
Safety agreeing to insure from Capture on her way up the Bay. Mr. Horsey
impowered to purchase twenty Hogsheads of Tobo not exceeding twenty
shillings pr Ct 8c one hundred Barrels of Flour at Baltimore Prices. The
Vessel is not to be detained for the Tobacco, or Flour. Flour to be inspected
OCTOBER 1776
1123
at Baltimore, if thought necessary by the Council of Safety to be ready to
take in her cargo within twelve days.
Ordered That said Treasurer pay to Majr William Horsey three hundred
Pounds, for above purchase.
1. Council of Safety Journal, 29 August 1775 to 20 March 1777, Md. Arch.
Journal of the Virginia Council of Safety 1
[Williamsburg] Thursday October 3rd 1776
A Permit issued to Captain John Seymore, of the Sloop Dick Cole,
lately arrived with Salt from Bermuda, to trade with the Inhabitants of this
State.
1. Mcllwaine, ed.. Journals of the Virginia Council, I, 184.
Captain William Cornwallis, R.N., to Philip Stephens 1
Pallas at Sea 3d Octor 1776.
Latde 44°. .30 '/ Longde 61°..30'W
I wrote to you by a Merchant Ship the 15th of Septr in which I desired
you would be pleased to acquaint their Lordships, that we were so short of
water that unless we had a fair Wind very soon I should be obliged to put
into some Port, we have since been very unlucky in our Winds and not
meeting with any Men of War, I propose putting into some harbour in New-
foundland to get water; Thirteen of the Convoy parted Company in a Gale
of Wind, the rest have parted by request or of their own accord, as we have
taken the greatest pains the whole Voyage to keep them together and never
have steered out of their Course only gone a little more to the Northward
than they chose. On the 30th Septr we retook a Ship that had been taken
by an American Sloop Privateer the last day of August in Latitude 42°
N; Longde 39° W, she was call’d the Anne bound from Dominica to
London they were carrying her to New York. We Yesterday chased a Brig
which we took to be an American Privateer, but she got away in the
Night. I am Sir [8cc.]
W Cornwallis
1. PRO, Admiralty 1/1611, 3, 11.
4 Oct.
“A Transcript of the Entries of letters of Agency in His Majestys Court of Vice Admiralty for the Province
of Nova: Scotia, to the 4th day of October 1776.”1
1124
AMERICAN THEATRE
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OCTOBER 1776
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1126
AMERICAN THEATRE
A true and perfect Transcript of the Registry of all Prizes that have been
Condemnd m His Majesfty’s] Provincial Court of Vice Adnnialty, and of all
Entries of letters of Agency, that have been enter’d or offerd to be enter d,
in the preceeding half Year in the said Court.
Given under my hand at Halifax in the Province of Nova:
Scotia this 4th day of October Anno: Domini 1776, and in the
sixteenth Year of His Majesty’s Reign.
1. Vice Admiralty Records, Register of Letters of Agency, 1776-1781, N. S. Arch.
Memorial of Thomas Cushing to the Massachusetts Council 1
To The honble The council of the State of the Massachusetts Bay
The Memorial of Thomas Cushing Agent for building Two Continental
Frigates in this State
humbly Sheweth,
That your Memorialist has received directions from the Marine Com-
mittee of Congress2 to apply to this State for Powder, Ball, Muskett Shot Sc
Other Military Stores for the Continental Frigate Called the Boston Com-
manded by Capt Hector McNeil which they say will be paid for or Returned
by the Congress, that your Memorialist finds there will be Wanted for the
Said Frigate Four Tons of Powder, one Thousand double headed shott nine
pounders, one Thousand weight of Musquet Bal [1] , Ten Swivel Blunder
Buss’s fifty Small Arms, Eighty Cartouch Boxes five hundred flints some
swivel Sc some partridge Shot fifty Screw’d bottom Power Plorns, he there-
fore humbly prays [illegible] that your Honors would Supply him with the
Articles before mentioned for the use of the Frigate Boston Hector McNeil
Commander which will either be paid for or Returned by the Congress Sc
your Memorialist as in duty bound shall ever Pray
Thomas Cushing
[Boston] Oct. 4. 1776
[Endorsed] In Council [Watertown] Oct. 4. 1776
Ordered That the Commissary General be and hereby is directed to
Supply the Petitioner Thomas Cushing Esqr, or his order with four Tons of
Powder out of the Powder Mill at the Town of Andover and with other arti-
cles mentioned in the Petition as also such Other Military Stores As he finds
necessary for the use of the Continental Frigate Called the Boston , he the
said T Cushing giving his Receipt therefor -
1. Mass. Arch., vol. 165, 314, 315.
2. See Continental Marine Committee to Cushing, September 21.
Captain John Paul Jones to Abel Coffin, Prize Master of the
Brigantine Kingston Packet 1
Providence Sloop of War in Sounding on St Georges Bank
4th Octor 1776 —
you are hereby appointed Commander of our Prize the Brigantine
Kingston Packet — You are to use your utmost endeavours to Navigate her
OCTOBER 1776
1127
Safe through the Shoals of Nantucket into our free State of Rhode
Island you herewith receive her Register which you are to deliver on your
Arrival to the Continental Agent. In any case of necessity you are at Lib-
erty to go in to any Other Port within the United States of America. - You
are however to endeavour to keepe Company with our Prize the Sloop Port-
land and to assist each other in the Passage as occasion may require — Be
careful of the Brig and her Stores Cargo &c let nothing be wasted or lost —
and by all means keepe a careful look out to prevent supprises and avoid
Speaking with any Vessels — Your careful observance of the dutys with
which I entrust you will recommend you to our further Notice I am Sr
[&cj
Jn° P Jones Captain
NB if you find any good Seamen willing to enter you are to engage them
in my Name for the Navy.
1. Revolutionary War Prize Cases, No. 6, Court of Appeals, 1776-1787, NA.
Connecticut Gazette, Friday, October 4, 1776 1
New-London, October 4.
Last Lord’s-Day Se’nnight Capt. Rowe, with a Party of Men, landed at
a Place called The Old-Man’s, near Brookhaven, on Long-Island, in order to
remove his Family from Corum, to the Main, where he met one Richard
Miller, a Native of East-Hampton, who had taken a Commission under Gen.
Flowe, and was inlisting Men for the Regular Army, and as he was riding
by Capt. Rowe’s Door where a centry was placed, Miller was hailed and or-
dered to stop, which he refused to do, and rode the faster, and after being
repeatedly called upon to stop, and he not regarding, the Guard fired at him,
when a Ball entered his Body, and he died the next Morning.
Last Wednesday a Prize Ship from Jamaica, bound to London, was
sent into Port by the armed Brig Defence, belonging to the State of Con-
necticut, commanded by Capt. Seth Harding; she sailed from Montego Bay
in company with 200 Sail under convoy of two Men of War, who had parted
with them and returned into Port. Her Cargo consists of 306 Hogsheads of
Sugar, 158 Ditto of Rum, 16 Bails of Cotton, a Quantity of Coffee and Ma-
hogany, and has two Turtle on Board. She is about 300 Tons, called the
John, McDonald, Master, was taken 12 Days ago.
An Embargo being laid on the Shipping in Jamaica, on Account of the
Insurrection among the Negroes, for want of Provisions, detained the above
Fleet; who, when they sailed, were on short Allowance of Provisions.
Yesterday Noon, Capt. Harding, in the Defence Privateer arrived from
a Cruize; the same Morning off Narragansett-Beach, he fell in with two
British Frigates, who fired 60 or 70 Shot at him, and he returned them a
like Number. About 2 o’Clock Yesterday the two Frigates came to Anchor
off Goshen-Reef, about 5 Miles westward of this Harbour.
Capt. Harding, two Days after taking the Prize before mentioned, fell
in with and took a Guinea-man, homeward bound from the West-Indies,
William Jackson, Master.
1128
AMERICAN THEATRE
Nathaniel Shaw, Jr.’s Account Against the Connecticut
Privateer Sloop American Revenue 1
1776
Octr 4
Sloop American Revenue
Sami Champlin
Comdr
Dr
To p Wm Dogett Pilot
£ 5 .
To 50 lb 20d Nails
@ 1/3
3 . .2 . .6
To 10 lb lOd ditto
1/6
15..-
To 300 feet Boards
1. .5. .-
To 300 feet Plank
2.10. .-
To 268 lb Tallow
@ 8d
8.18. .8
To 200 lb ditto
Stores 8d
6.13. .4
To 50 lb white Lead
@ 1/
2.10. .-
To 4 Barrells Lampblack
10.
To 10 Gallo Oyl
8/
4. .-. .-
To 20 lb Oakam
6. .8
To i/2 barrell pitch
15. .-
To 1/2 barrel Tarr
15. .-
To 6 lb Spikes 5/ 19 lb Leather 28/6
1.13. .6
To 1 Brass Compass
3 . . — . . —
To 44 lb Iron Chains
@ 1
2. .4. .-
To 1 Ton Pigg Iron
10. .-. .-
To 132 feet Oars
1.13. .-
To 3 time Glasses
12. .-
To Carpenters Tools
7. .8
To pd for 3 Calking Irons
9. .-
To drawg Knife
7. .6
To Bitt & Bitt Stock 7/ Saw
7/
14. .-
To 1 pr Coopers Compasses 6/ Vise 2/
8. .-
To 33 Yards Ticklingbnrg
4.19. .-
To 30 yds ditto for spare 3/
4.10. .-
To 42 yds Tow Cloth for Hammocks
6 . . 6 . .-
To Wharfage & Storage
3.10. .-
To Stage Capson Kittles &c
1. .-. .-
To Expences to Lebanon &c after Commiso
5.
To Cordage Blocks &c
10. .-. .-
To Nathl Hempsteads Bill for 808 lb Cordage |
33 13 4
@ 10d J
To p Reuben Stantons Bill
2. .-. .-
To p Ichabod Powers Bill
11. .0. .5
To p Ichd Powers Senr Lise of his boat
4 . . 6
To p Peleg Cheesborough for 172 Cord of Wood
1. .4. .-
To 4 Load ditto
@ 10/
2. .-. .-
To p Jno Rothbone’s Bill
1. .5.10
To p Jno Hayes Ditto
18. .3
OCTOBER 1776
1129
To p Jno Bolles ditto
10.17. .2
To p Pember Calkins ditto
12. .7. .3i/o
To Ebenezr Goddards ditto
15.
To Amo Brot Forwd
£
v/t
4"
XT)
OO
Amot Carrd Forwd
1 84 . . 5 . . 7i/£
To Sami Latimers Bill
15.14.11
To Joshua Starrs do
4.11. .4
To George Colfax ditto
7. .4. .3
To Clark Elliotts ditto
1.19. .-
To Wrn Steward for 3c 2q 17 lb Balia [st]
30 . .— . .—
To Jno Owens Bill
22.18. .1
To Jno Champlins ditto
6 . .-. .-
To p Sami Coit for 3 days Work
6/
18. .-
To p Thomas Holt 3 days do
6/
18. .-
To p Jno Craige 16 days
5/
4. .-. .-
To p Thomas Holloway 14 do
5/
3.10. .-
To p Wm Bolton 9 ditto
4/
1.16. .-
To p David Pool 18 ditto
5/
4.10. .-
To p Ichabod Youngs 10 do
4 /
2. .-. .-
To p Frank Cutland charg Wm Packw[oo]ds Accot
To p Danl Brown 9 days
4/
1.16. .-
To p Jonathan Leeds 18 do
5 /
4.10. .-
To p Wm Leeds 8l/9 ditto
5/
2. .2. .6
To p Wm Powers 18 ditto
5/
4.10. .-
To p the French sailors for Labour
24. .8. .-
To p 30 Gallo Rum httg out
8/
12. .-
To John Wards Bill
17. .5
To John Braddicks ditto
1.16. .-
To pd Wm Leeds Expence to Stonington
1.19. .10
To Rum gave the Carpenters
1.15. .-
To David Gardiners Bill
5. .2. .2
To 3 Skeins Marline @
2/6
7. .6
To 10 lb Sheeting Nails
i/
10. .-
To Alexr Merrills’s Bill
6.15.10
To Ebenr & Wm Ledyard’s Bill
1.15. .-
To p ditto for 2 Loaves Sugar
1.18. .3
To p 40c lq 1 lb Bread @
25/
61.11. .3
To 5 Barrells Pork
100/
25. .-. .-
To 13 Barrells Beef
66/
42.18. .-
To 2 Barrls Flour 3c 3q 24 lb
20/
3.19. .4
To 20 lb Coffee
i/
1. .-. .-
To 1 Barrell ditto 199 lb
lOd
8. .5. 10
To 2 Barrells Sugar wt 4c
65/
15. .-. .-
To 42 1/2 Gallons Old Rum
8/
17. .-. .-
1130
AMERICAN THEATRE
Sloop American Revenue
Sami Champlin Commdr Dr
To 891/2 Gallons ditto
To 1 Firkin Butter 70 lb
To Christo Leffmgwells Bill for
Medicines & Provisions
Amot Carrd Over
6/ 26.17..-
@ 8d 2. .7. .4
39 . 8 . . 1 1/2
f 603.. 7.. 8
1. Nathaniel & Thomas Shaw Collection, Ledger 4, YUL. Ledger 9 contains a rough draft
with omissions and not totalled.
Memoirs of Major General William Heath 1
[Headquarters, near Harlem] 4th [October]. - The brig and tenders in
the East River came down, and cast anchor near La Brune frigate; and the
Roebuck and Phenix sailed up the North River, and joined the other ships
which lay at anchor there.
1. Abbatt, ed., Heath Memoirs , 60.
Diary of Lieutenant Jabez Fitch1
[On board the Prison Snow Mentor]
[Off New York] Fryd: the 4th: [October] Was a Rainey Morning, on
acct: of which, we were oblig’d to keep more below than Common, which
was very uncomfortable; About 10 oClock I went up on the Quarter Deck
with Majr: [Levi] Wells, where he & I set while Noon, in which Time
there was considerable movements of the Ships Laying near us; There was
also several other Ships came in this Day, some of them had Troops on
Board, & we were Inform’d that they had newly Arriv’d.
Toward Night we Observ’d the Landing of a considerable number of
Horse, from on Board the Ships newly Arriv’d.
The Night following was Remarkably Cold & Chilly, I Dream’d more
than common of Returning home, & that I was free from my Confmment
&c.
1. Sabine, ed., Fitch’s Diary, 53.
Journal of the Continental Congress1
[Philadelphia] Friday, October 4, 1776
A petition from the officers and men of the brig Andrew Doria was
presented to Congress and read; Whereupon,
Resolved } That the continental agents in Philadelphia be directed, with
all despatch, to make an estimate of all the prizes taken by the Andrew
OCTOBER 1776
1131
Doria, and lay the same before the Marine Committee for their approba-
tion; which being obtained, that the said agents be directed to pay to the of-
ficers and men of the Andrew Doria , one half of what may be estimated to
be dne to them:
That the said agents be farther directed to make an estimate of the
stores and prizes taken by the fleet, commanded by Commodore Hopkins,
and brought from Providence, and lay the same before the Marine Commit-
tee for approbation, as aforesaid, and pay to the officers and men entitled
thereto, one half of what may be estimated to be due to them.
1. Ford, ed., JCC, V, 847.
Minutes of the Pennsylvania Council of Safety 1
In Council of Safety,
[Philadelphia] October 4th, 1776.
Resolved , That the Ship Montgomery , belonging to this State, be
brought up & exchange her present cannon (18 pounders) and take Sixteen
Twelve pounders, and that Capt. [Joseph] Blewer & Capt. [Francis] Gur-
ney be directed to procure proper Carriages for said 12 Pounders, and at-
tend Particularly to their being fitted and put on board said Ship.
1. Pennsylvania Colonial Records , X, 741.
Affidavit of John Finley and Others 1
Alexandria, the 4th October 1776.
On Tuesday the 23rd of July last, we, the subscribers, set off from this
place with intention to see the enemy’s ships, which we were informed were
proceeding up Patowmack, and arrived opposite them at Sandy-Point, in
Maryland, about half an hour past 6 o’clock in the evening, where we found
a body of militia stationed, who informed us there were more men a little
lower down the river, to whom we immediately went, and were by them told
that col. [William] Harrison, with a detachment of 25 men, was gone down
to prevent the enemy’s taking off capt. [Robert] Conway’s boats, by means
of a gondola and armed schooner, which had left the ships for that purpose,
as was conceived. We saw the Roebuck under way turning down, and bring
now and then across the field, between the detachment and main body, and
heard other great guns, which we supposed were from the gondola and
armed schooner. We returned to the main body where we immediately
heard a brisk firing of small arms and swivels, which was thought to be an
engagement betwixt the detachment and the enemy. We think about sixteen
cannon were bred in the whole. The men appeared to be all drawn up ready
with their arms, and during the bring seemed in good spirits, and we heard
several of them ask if they might not to go to the assistance of the
1132
AMERICAN THEATRE
detachment. We saw, nor discovered, nothing like cowardice, but on the
contrary, a willing spirit seemed generally to prevail.
John Finley, William Hunter, James Lawrason.
Sworn before me, William Ramsay, J.P.
(Copy.)
1. Maryland Gazette , November 7, 1776.
Captain George Cook to the Maryland Council of Safety 1
Gentlen Ship of Warr Defence at Sea October 4th 1776.
I have the pleasure to inform you by Capt Brown whom I’ve sent Prize
Master of a Snow belonging to Glasgow from the bay of Hondoras Loaded
with Mahogany & some logg wood bound to Cork which we this morning
made a Prize of,2 at the same time took a Sloop from St Augustine bound to
Liverpool she had no Cargoe on Board except a little Indico. - Their pa-
pers with a large packett of letters belonging to the Sloop you’l receive p:
Mr Walker who I’ve made Prize Master
I’m inform’d by Capt Bolton Master of the Snow that he was Boarded
by a boat belonging to a 22 Gunn Ship the first of this Instant, who en-
quired of him if the Jamaca fleet had sail’d, he likewise says there was an-
other ship of 24 Gunns the names of either he does not Remember - We are
also informed by two Passengers from the Sloop that the Otter, Squires
[Matthew Squire] , 8c Tender, the Schooner Hinchenbrook, Elliss [Alexander
Ellis], and three small Schooners with 4 8c 6 Gunns are Stationed of[f] St
Augustine the Cherokee of Six 4 Pounders the Raven of Sixteen 6 pounders
and the Sphynx of Twenty 9 Pounders Stationed off Coxspur in Georgia
which is all the intelligence I have got at Present. Our Ship’s Company is all
hearty 8c in high Spiritts I have the Honor to be Gentl [8:c.]
Geo: Cook
N. B. The two Passengers above mentioned I’ve sent in the Sloop, & am in
hopes they’ll be able to give you some satisfactory Intelligence G. C.
1. Red Book, XI, Md. Arch.
2. The brig Georgia.
Journal of the South Carolina General Assembly1
[Charleston] Friday the 4th Day of October 1776
The House proceeded to a Third Reading of a Bill for establishing a
Board of Commissioners to superintend and direct the naval affairs of the
State of South Carolina
But it appearing upon Reading the First Clause of the Bill that the
Honourable the Legislative Council had struck out the name of one of the
Commissioners who had been ballotted for by this House and inserted the
name of another Gentleman in Stead,
Resolved That this House will immediately proceed to ballot for an-
other Commissioner
OCTOBER 1776
1133
The House proceeded to ballot accordingly
And the Ballots being reckoned
Mr Speaker reported That George Smith Esquire had the Majority of
Votes
Ordered That the name inserted in the Bill by the Legislative Council
be struck out and that the Name of George Smith Esquire be inserted in-
stead thereof
Which being done accordingly
The Bill for establishing a Board of Commissioners to superintend and
direct the naval affairs of the State of South Carolina was read a Third
Time
Resolved That the Bill to do pass and that the Title be “an Act”
Ordered That Mr Thomas Waring and Mr Keating Simons do carry the
Bill to the Legislative Council for their Concurrence
1. Salley, ed., South Carolina General Assembly Journals , 79-80.
5 Oct.
The Freeman's Journal , Saturday, October 5, 1776
Portsmouth, October 5, 1776.
Yesterday arrived here the Brigantine Marquis of Kildare, Capt.
Thomas Palmer, in 7 Weeks from Bourdeaux, with a Cargo of military
stores, &c. He informs us the French treated him with the utmost kindness,
and seem’d ready to do every thing in their power to serve him; that the
Custom-House officers permitted the American vessels to pass without ex-
amination, while the English, were all searched.
The 1st Instant, arrived at Falmouth, Casco-Bay, a sloop from Halifax,
commanded by one Patten, and taken off Narraguagus river, by Capt.
Joshua Stone, in the Retrieve privateer, fitted out from Falmouth.
Information from Owners of the Massachusetts
Privateer Schooner Speedwell 1
On tues[da]y the 1st day of October Inst, the Privateer Schooner,
from Boston (the day before) named the Speedwell, took a Snow from Lon-
don, which Sail’d last July in Company with Twenty four top Sail Vessels,
bound to Boston: but finding the Harbor evacuated Steer’d off; and by the
information of the Mate of the above prize Snow,2 the fleet are now hover-
ing about Nantucket, not knowing where to go, ’till they get orders from
New York: as they sign’d Bills of Lading for Boston. — This Sign’d by
part of the Proprietors of the said Privateer Speedwell Commanded by
Capt Jno Greely, this 5th day of October 17763
Tho8 Hichborn Jur Jam8 Swan P: Parkman
1. Mass. Arch., vol. 165, 329.
1134
AMERICAN THEATRE
2. The snow St. George, 120 tons, Benjamin Bidgood, master, sent into Marblehead October 4,
1776, Independent Chronicle, Boston, October 10 and October 24, 1776.
3 On the strength of this information, the Massachusetts Council ordered the state naval
vessels to “proceed towards Nantucket in order to fall in with the abovementioned
fleet.” Mass. Arch., vol. 165, 330.
Governor Nicholas Cooke to Governor Jonathan Trumbull, Lebanon 1
Sir, - Providence, October 5th, 1776.
I am to acknowledge the favour of your Honor’s letter of the 1st in-
stant, and to inform you that I laid it before the committee appointed to act
in the recess of the General Assembly, who also conferred with Commodoie
Hopkins, and Mr. [Aaron] Burr upon your plan of an expedition to Long
Island.
The committee upon the information and advice of Mr. [Stephen]
Hopkins, a member of the General Congress, had countermanded theii
order for the marching of Col. [William] Richmond’s regiment to New
York, and had given permission to the men to enlist on board the Continen-
tal vessels fitting from this State. But anxious to do everything in their
power to serve the general cause have, in consequence of the conference
above mentioned, issued new orders to Col. Richmond to march with such of
his regiment as shall not engage in the Continental vessels to proceed to
New London on Friday next, and then to follow such orders as he shall re-
ceive from a general officer to be appointed by General Washington. They
have also directed Mr. Bowler to send forward the whaleboats from the
Massachusetts by that regiment, together with such as he can collect in this
State, which will be between twenty and thirty. They have also ordered the
two Row Gallies of this State to New London to strengthen the naval force
as much as possible.2 The Row Gallies are to be under the direction of Com-
modore Hopkins, who will write you by this express, and to whom I beg
leave to refer you for an account of the forwardness of the Continental ves-
sels in this State. This letter will be delivered you by Mr. Jonathan Hazard,
a member of the General Assembly, whom I beg leave to recommend to your
Honor’s attention. I am, with great esteem and respect, Sir, [&c.]
Niche Cooke
1. Collections of the Rhode Island Historical Society, VI, 173, 174.
2. Ibid., 171, 172.
Commodore Esek Hopkins to Governor Jonathan Trumbull1
Sir Providence October 5th 1776
I receivd yours of the 1st & 3rd of this Instant, and have laid them be-
fore the Governor & Council, and they have passed the inclosed Resolves - .
4 he Alfred and Hamden are ready — the two new Frigates I expect
will be ready in about a week if they can be mann’d, which none of the four
are half at present - .
O R
New-Hampfhire Gazette
[ Vol. i. SA I UR DAY, Qlhitr 5, 1776.
[ No. 20 ]
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1136
AMERICAN THEATRE
I shall do all in my power to forward your Expedition, and join your
Fleet when ever you give Orders so to do at New London but expect you
will Excuse me to the Congress for not putting their Orders in Execution
with respect to some of the Fleet - I am with great Respect Sir [Sec.]
EH
1. Hopkins Letter Book, RIHS.
Commodore Esek Hopkins to John Bradford1
Sir Providence October 5th 1776 -
Captn Whipple shew’d me a Letter from you respecting the Agency of
the People belonging to the Fleet - This is therefore to Impower you to act
as their Agent untill further Orders, although you are a total Stranger, any
otherwise than being appointed by the honorable Continental Congress. We
think it a Sufficient Recommendation to Impower you to act as our Agent as
Long as you act to our Satisfaction —
In behalf of the Officers and Men in the Navy, I am Sir [8cc.]
EH
To Mr John Bradford Agent for the Continental Fleet at Boston
1. Hopkins Letter Book, RIHS.
“A Letter from a Gentleman, at Providence . . . dated
October 5th” 1
The two Continental Frigates here have fallen down, got their Guns,
and will be ready to sail in 10 Days. One carries twelve 18-Pounders, four-
teen 12-do. eight 9-do. the whole 32. The other, twenty-eight Guns. — Their
Names are, the Warren, and Providence. — Capt. [John Burroughs] Hop-
kins, commands one, and [Abraham] Whipple, the other.
1. Independent Chronicle, Boston, October 10, 1776.
Providence Gazette, Saturday, October 5, 1776
Providence, October 5.
On Sunday last Capt. Gideon Crawford arrived here from Nantz, in
France, after a Passage of eight Weeks. He informs that great warlike
Preparations continue to be made in that Kingdom, where every Kind of In-
dulgence is shewn to American Vessels. He also advises, that he saw an Ac-
count in a French Paper of the Marlborough, a 90 Gun Ship, being blown
up at Plymouth some Time in July last, and that great Part of the Crew
perished.1
The same Day arrived here, from a successful Cruize, the Ship Colum-
bus, Captain Abraham W[h]ipple, in the Service of the United States,
having taken four Prizes, viz. a Brig from St. Croix, bound to Scotland,
with 265 Hogsheads of Rum, 1 Tierce and 12 Barrels of Sugar; a Ship from
OCTOBER 1776
1137
St. Christophers, bound to London, with 291 Hogsheads, 59 Tierces, 23 Bar-
rels and 12 Kilderkins of Sugar, and 15 Hogsheads and 3 Barrels of Rum; a
Ship from Grenada, bound to London, with 300 Hogsheads of Sugar, 57
Hogsheads of Rum, 1 Pipe and 2 Hogsheads of Wine, and some Cotton; and
a Brig from Montserrat, bound to Cork, with 218 Hogsheads of Rum. Two
of the above Prizes are arrived at the Eastward.2
Capt. John Lield, in the Privateer Joseph, of this Place, has taken a
Schooner, bound from Nevis to London, laden with Sugar and Rum: And
Capt. [Thomas] Child, in the Privateer Industry, likewise of this Place,
has taken a Brig from Antigua, bound to Ireland, having on board Sugar
and Rum. Both the above Prizes are arrived in Port.3
It is reported that five or six Sail of Provision Vessels, bound to New-
York, have been taken by some Privateers, and carried in at the Eastward.
1. Brig Happy Return. Captain Crawford’s account of H. M. S. Marlborough had no basis
in fact.
2. The prizes Royal Exchange and Lord Lifford arrived at Boston; the other two were re-
captured.
3. The schooner Sally and brigantine Minerva respectively. Providence Gazette , October 12,
1776 carried the libel notices.
Journal of Lieutenant William Digby 1
October 5. Went up to our corps at Riviere-la-Cole,2 after remain-
ing with my friends of the 31 regiment till I recovered sufficient strength.
I sailed up in a raddoux vessel carrying six 9 pounders, commanded by
captain [Edward] Longcraft, who shewed me every civility in his power.
The floating Battery, Maria, and Carlton sailed with us, & our little voyage
was pleasant, the day being fine, & the Lake now turning very broad.
General Burgoyne was on board the Maria, who ran aground on a bank,
but was towed off without any damage. The vessels were all cleared &
ready for action, waiting only for the Inflexible, our largest vessel which
was shortly expected up.
1. Digby’s Journal, BM.
2. Riviere la Colle.
Diary of Joshua Pell, Jr.1
5th October our Squadron sail’d from the River La Cole, same day ar-
rived the Inflexible, a 20 Gun Ship, the largest then ever known on the
Lakes.
1. “Diary of Joshua Pell, Jr.,” Magazine of American History, II, 46.
Journal of Lieutenant Colonel Stephen Kemble1
[New York] Saturday, Oct. 5th.
The Roebuck and Phenix lay off Bloomingdale waiting a Wind to pro-
ceed up the River. Three Rebel Vessels are seen lying between Ports Wash-
1138
AMERICAN THEATRE
ington and Constitution,2 the first on this Island, the other on Jersey,
Shore; the Vessels not above five Miles asunder.3
1. “The Kemble Papers,’’ Collections of the New-York Historical Society for the Year 1883,
I, 92.
2. This was Fort Lee; Fort Constitution being farther up the river.
3. The second attempt by Bushnell’s submarine was probably made at this time. See Ap-
pendix B.
Diary of Lieutenant Jabez Fitch1
[On board the Prison Snow Mentor']
[Off New York] Saturd: the 5th: [October] Was a very Cold uncom-
fortable morning, we had our Chocalet Earlyer than Usual, after which I
spent some Time in walking the Deck. I then went below and did some writ-
ing.
At about 10 oClock the Prisoners on board the Argo were Landed, soon
after which, we were Direct ed to have our Bagage 8cc Ready to Land Early
Tomorrow Morning; We Observ’d a Considrable number of Horse Landed
again this Day; The Seamen spent most of the Day in overbading the Hold,
they Hoisted out a great number of Water Butts Sec. which clutter’d the
Deck in a prodigous manner, which greatly Disaccomodated us above, as
well as below; About Noon some of our People had some small Stores
came on board, by the Snows Boat; The Night following some of our
People met with some peculiar Insults from the Centrys when they at-
tempted to go on Deck, for Necessity, this we were afterward Inform’d was
occasioned by a fals Report, that some Officer on board, had an Intention to
make his Escape.
1. Sabine, ed., Fitch's Diary, 53-54.
Journal of the New York Provincial Convention1
[Fishkill] Die Sabbati, 9 ho. A. M.
Octor. 5th, 1776.
A letter from Tench Tilghman to Wm. Duer, Esqr. dated the 3d inst.
was read, a part whereof is in the words following, to wit:
Capt. Cook is now up the river cutting timber for chevaux-
de-frise; as he is much wanted here to sink the old vessels, the
General begs that you would immediately send him down; we are
at a stand for want of him, for as he has superintended the matter
from the beginning, he best knows the properest places to be ob-
structed.
Ordered, That a certified copy of the above part of Mr. Tilghman’s let-
ter [be] immediately despatched to Capt. Cooke.
A letter from Capt. Samuel Tudor, one of the superintendents of the
Continental frigates building at Poughkeepsie, was read, and is in the
words following, to wit:
OCTOBER 1776
1139
Poughkeepsie, 2nd, Octr. 1776.
Gentlemen — The bearer, Mr. McEuen, is employed in the yard
as plumber to the ships; his business is obliged to stop for the want of
lead, which we cannot procure for him. We are informed there is a
quantity at Fishkill under your direction and disposal; beg it as a
particular favour you would furnish him with such quantity as he
may want, with all expedition, as our orders from the commissioners
are to put the ships in the water as soon as possible. We are with
respect, gentlemen [8cc.]
Sami. Tudor.
Peter R. Livingston, Esqr.
Malcom McEuen, the bearer, was called in and interrogated as to the
lead necessary for the said frigates, and withdrew.
Ordered, That Mr. Dank Bush be and he is hereby directed to deliver to
Nathl. Sacket, Esqr. all the lead in his possession belonging to this State,
taking a receipt for the same; and that this Convention will justify him in
the execution thereof.
Ordered, That Nathl. Sacket, Esqr. deliver to the bearer hereof, Mr.
Malcom McEuen, for the use of the Convention for the Continental frigates
building at Poughkeepsie, two tons of lead, and that he take Mr. McEuen’s
receipt for the same, to be charged to Continental account.
1. New York Provincial Congress , I, 661, 662, 663.
“An Act for establishing a Court of Admiralty and Custom-Houses
within the State of New-Jersey.” 1
Be it Enacted by the Council and General Assembly of this State, and
it is hereby Enacted by the Authority of the same, That it shall and may be
lawful for the Governor or Commander in Chief for the Time being, with
the Consent of the Council, any three whereof to be a Quorum, to establish,
by Ordinance or Commission, a Court of Admiralty; and also such and so
many Custom-Houses, with their necessary Officers, to be commissioned by
the Governor or Commander in Chief for the Time being, as to the said
Commander in Chief and Council shall appear expedient and necessary;
provided, that this Act shall be and continue in Force for one Year, and
from thence to the End of the next Session of General Assembly, and no
longer. Passed at Princeton, October 5, 1776.
1. Acts of the General Assembly of the State of New-Jersey , at a Session begun at Princeton on
the 27th Day of August 1716, and continued by Adjournments (Burlington, 1777), 7-8.
1140
AMERICAN THEATRE
Minutes of the Pennsylvania Council of Safety1
In Council of Safety,
[Philadelphia] October 5th, 1776.
A Commission granted for Wm. Connell, Comman’r of Schooner Gen’l
Thomson, 6 Carriage Guns, 12 Men, 40 Tons, Own’d by Edmund Beach 8c Co.
1. Pennsylvania Colonial Records , X, 742, 743.
Journal of the Maryland Convention 1
[Annapolis] Saturday, October 5, 1776.
On motion of Mr. T. Ringgold, Resolved, That the Council of Safety fit
and load the schooner Resolution and send her out on a voyage to sea at the
expence and risque of this state, the former order of this Convention to the
contrary notwithstanding.2
1. Maryland Convention, 32, 33.
2. Cargo of Resolution was tobacco, flour and bread. Maryland Council of Safety to Jesse
Hollingsworth, October 5, Council of Safety Letter Book, No. 1, Md. Arch.
Maryland Council of Safety to Lux 8c Bowly 1
No 202.
Gentn We have reed yr favor of the 1st inst and provided you will engage
to begin making the cordage for the armed vessells within ten days from
this Time 8c will continue in that business ’till a Sufficient Qty is Supply’d,
we desire you will immediately come down, 8c contract with us for it — if
you Cannot; — be pleased to Signify it to us by the first Safe Opportunity.
[Annapolis] Octr 5th 1776
1. Council of Safety Letter Book, No. 1, Md. Arch.
Advertisement of Sale of the Prize Ship Caroline
AT CHINCOTEAGUE, VIRGINIA 1
Williamsburg, October 5, 1776.
By virtue of a decree of the hon. court of admiralty of this state, will
be sold at public vendue, for ready money, on Monday the 21st
instant, at the house of Mrs. Watts, on Chingoteague,
The Ship Caroline , of London, lately made a prize by the Harlequin
privateer, capt. [William] Woolsey, of Baltimore, with her sails, rigging,
and materials, being about 200 tons burthen, plantation built, about six
years old, but, having been stranded on the coast of England, has been since
rebuilt, and her keel, stern and stern-post, many of her futtocks and floor
timbers of English oak; she is supposed to be equal, if not superior, to a
new American built vessel. An inventory of her sails, rigging, and mate-
rials, may be seen at the subscribers, or on board said ship. — At the same
OCTOBER 1776
1141
time will be sold part of her cargo, consisting of choice Muscavado sugars
and rum, shipped on board said ship from Jamaica for the London market.
And on the following day will commence the sale of the residue of the cargo,
consisting of 400 hogsheads of sugar, and 117 puncheons of rum, at Pitt’s
landing on Pocomoke river, in Chesapeake bay, which lies convenient for
transportation to any part of Virginia, Maryland, or Philadelphia markets,
and will continue until the whole is disposed of.
Ben Powell, marshal.
1. Maryland Gazette, October 17, 1776; also in the Pennsylvania Gazette, October 16, 1776.
Master's Log of H. M. Armed Vessel Cherokee, Lieutenant
John Fergusson 1
St John’s Inlet No 70.00 Wt distance 8 Leagues
at 5 AM out 3d reefs of the Topsails at 6 the Raven in
Sight at 7 Wore Ship Sounded in 17 ffm at 9 Out reefs
Topsails and set Top gallt sails at 10 Wore Ship the Raven
in Sight
Mode breezes and Cloudy Wear at 8 PM Lost sight of the
Rwven Sounded in the Night from 15 to 13 ffm
at 6 AM Saw the Land from SW to WNW Do saw the
Raven and two Ships running in for the Land i/2 pt 9
Anchd in St Augustine bay wth the Bt Br in 10 ffm Veered
to 1/2 a Cable found riding here His Majs Ships Lively
Raven and Otter Sloops and the Snow Elizabeth Transport
Mr Figtree Mastr and His Majys Schooners St Lawrence &
St John Lying in St Augustine Harbour at 1 1 weighed and
ran further in Shore at Noon Anchd wth Bt Bowr in 10 ffm
Veered to l/2 a Cable
The most part fresh Gales and Squally Do rec’d from the
Raven 60 pds of fresh beef at 5 Do veered to a whole
Cable
1. PRO, Admiralty 52/1662.
6 Oct. (Sunday)
October 1776
Friday 4
Saturday 5th
Master’s Log of H. M. S. Juno 1
Octr 1776 Hopewell Isld NbE Dist. 30 leagues
Sunday 6th AM Sounded 103 fm fine Sand Tacked Ship At 7 Sounded 75
fm grey Sand & Small Stones. i/2 pt 9 Out 2d & 3 reef Top-
sails & Set top Gallant Sails - at 12 Saw a Sail to the Eastwd
Mod. & hazy at 4 A Brig in Sight ENE 5 or 6 Miles at i/2
pt 5 Set F. topMt Steering Sails, top Galt Sail, & Driver At
5 Sounded 65 fm Sandy bottom l/2 pt 7 hauled down the
Steerg Sails & Driver - at 9 the Brig in Sight Bearg ENEi/^E
1142
AMERICAN THEATRE
5 or 6 Miles At 10 lost Sight of the Chace i/2 pt discovered
her At 11 Bore up Sc Set the fore top Mt Steering Sail at
12 spoke the Chace Sc found her to be the Diana Brig loaden
wt provisions bound for New York but taken by the Hawk
rebel privateer 15 or 16 Days pt2 Sent a petty Officer Sc 5
Men to take Charge of her - Brought on bd 5 of the priva-
teers Men
1. PRO, Admiralty 52/1811.
2. Brig Dinah which had been captured by the Massachusetts privateer schooner Hawke,
Captain John Lee, Vice Admiralty Register, vol. 5, 1769-1777, N. S. Arch.
Major General Artemas Ward to George Washington 1
Sir Boston 6 October 1776.
Yesterday I received from Mr Glover, Agent at Marblehead, a Box of
broad Swords, which he lately found in the Scotch Ship Ann, that was taken
some time since. Also received from Mr Bradford, Agent for Continental
Prizes, the inclosed Invoice, of articles which he has in his hands. The rea-
son he gave for delaying it so long, was, the Plaids were infested with the
small pox and he thought it necessary to cleanse and air them considerable
time before they were used. I am Your Excellency’s [&c.]
Artemas Ward
1. Washington Papers, LC.
Lieutenant Thomas Quigley to Thomas Randall 1
On board the [ General] Putnam, Cranberry,
Sir - Oct. 6, 1776.
I received yours of the 1st of October, in which you advise me to keep a
good look out for the enemy’s vessels. You may depend there shall none of
them pass us through our negligence; we have seen three since my last to
you, the first, a large snow, which we chased within sight of the Hook, but
two of the enemy’s vessels, tenders, coming out of the Hook, was obliged to
give over the chase and return. The second, a brig, we took to be a trans-
port, which we likewise chased some hours off Cranberry inlet, but being in
sight of four other vessels, and one of them, a frigate, who gave us chase,
we were obliged to run in again. The third, a hermaphrodite, but the wind
blowing hard at northeast, could not get out to her. I have thought fit to
send Mr. Little to you to be informed what we are to do for provision, it
being very near out; we have, since the captain went away, broached one
barrel of beef and one of bread entirely spoiled, and at this time there is not
above three days’ meat on board the vessel. We have not above four fore-
mast men that is able to stand their watch upon deck for want of shoes and
other clothing; therefore they beg you would endeavour to give us some
speedy relief, either by sending us some money or otherwise as you shall
OCTOBER 1776
1143
think most expeditious. I had a letter from the captain of the same date as
yours, but he has not mentioned any certain time of his being on board,
which makes me conclude that it will not be very soon, as he is no great
starter. I am, sir [&c.]
Thomas Quigley.
1. New York Provincial Congress, II, 321.
7 Oct.
Power of Attorney Granted by the Officers and
Crew of H. M. S. Liverpool 1
[Extract]
Know all men by these presents That we the Officers and Major Part of the
Company of his Majestys Ship Liverpool Have constituted Ordained and
made and in our Stead and place put, and by these presents do Constitute
Ordain and make and in our Stead and place put Capt Henry Bellew of the
said Ship and Mr George Sherry of the Lagle our agents for all Such Prize
or Prizes as shall have been sent or may hereafter be sent by us to the Port
of New York. To be our true Sufficient and Lawful Attorneys as aforesaid
for us and in our Names and Stead and to our use to ask demand Levy Re-
cover and Receive of and from all and every Person or Persons whomsoever
the same Shall and may concern all and Singular Sum and Sums of money
Debts Goods Wares Merchandize Effects and things Whatsoever and where-
soever they shall and may be found clue owing payable belonging and com-
ing unto our Constituants by any ways and means Whatsoever nothing ex-
cepted or reserved. Giving and hereby Granting unto our said attorneys our
full and whole strength Power and Authority in and about the Premisses;
and to take and use all due means Course and Process in the Law for the
Obtaining and Recovering the same and of Recoveries and Receipts thereof;
in our Names to make Seal, and Execute due Acquittances and discharges:
and for the Premisses to appear, & the Persons of us the Constituants to
Represent before any Governor Judges, Justices, Officers, and ministers of
the Law whatsoever, in any Court or Courts of Judicature and there on our
behalf to Answer Defend and Reply unto all actions Causes Matters and
things Whatsoever relating to the Premisses with full Power to Make and
Substitute one or more Attorneys under our said attornies and the same
again at pleasure to Revoke. And generally to say Do Act Transact Deliv[er]
Accomplish and Finish all Matters and Things Whatsoever relating to
the Premisses as Fully, Amply and Effectually to all Intents and Purposes
as we the Said Constituants ought or might or Could Personally, altho. the
matter should require more Special authority than is herein Comprised We
the said Constituants Ratifying, allowing and holding firm and Valid all
and whatsoever our said attornies or their Substitutes shall Lawfully Do or
Cause to be done in and about the Premisses by Virtue of these Presents. In
1144
AMERICAN THEATRE
Witness whereof We have hereunto 5
of October Annoque Domini 1776
Reign
Signed Sealed and delivered
in the Presence of us
Henry Bellew
Wm Hammings 1st Lt
B Christian 2d do
Rob1 Watson Masr
David Pattullo Bos
Jn° Dixon Gunr
Wm Harman Lt Mars.
Hugh Goold —
1. Vice Admiralty Records, Register of Letters
et our hands and Seals the seventh day
in the Sixteenth year of his Majestys
Jh Walker Mr Mt
John Draper Mar Mt
A Tumour Mid
J Gwathin Mid
P King Mid
Nc Ps Rothery Clk
[and 85 seamen, landsmen, boys
and marines]
f Agency, 1776-1781, N. S. Arch.
John Langdon to Robert Morris1
Sir Portsmouth October 7th 1776 —
Your favour of the 5th Ult. came to hand a few days since on the re-
ceipt of which I immediately made strict enquiry for Duck & other Cloth
suitable for Soldiers Tents but not a single Bolt was to be had in this State,
what few ther was to be had some Time since I bought to compleat the first
suit of Sails for the Frigate Raleigh am now much in want of about sev-
enty Bolts of heavy Canvas to Compleat her second Suit for which I hope to
have an order on the Agent at Providence who I hear has some belonging to
the States. — I have now the pleasure to inform you that Yesterday the
Marquis of Kildare (which I sent to France with Lumber 8cc (on the accot
of the States) arrived from Bourdeaux which place she left the 15th August
& Cap [Thomas] Palmer who commands the Brig says that on the 17th
Septemr in Lattitude 39.20 N, Longitude 46.12 W fell in with Twenty three
Sail Ships three of which he took to be Men of War the rest Transports it
being thick Weather was within Gun shot of them before he discovered
them; one of the men of War bore down upon them, upon which he & also
the Passengers (who were two) on board threw their Letters Overboard
not thinking they had the least chance of escape but it luckily came on verry
thick & blew fresh Gale by which he got clear. There was a large Packett
for [sic from] Mr Deane which was done up in Lead for the purpose De-
stroyed, & even my Letter with Invoice from the House of S & J H Delap
suffered the same Fate, have no other papers than a receipt from the House
of the Delivery of the Cargo & Copy of the Bill of Ladeing of the Goods
Shipt; shall have Duplicates by Severall Vessels who were to Sail soon, of
which are the following. The Schooner Wm Joshua Bunker to Sail in four
or five Days after Palmer for Providence the Sloop Alary Samuel Morgan
to sail in four or five days for the Continent; Sloop Samuel James Hutchins
to sail in 10 or 15 Days Sloop Lucretia Jacob Surly for new York 20
OCTOBER 1776
1145
Days the Cap 8c Passengers give very pleasing accot of Matters the
French Ports all open for every sort of Merchandize from America, all high
in favour of the Continent. Cap Palmer was in Company with Mr Dean at
Bourdeaux who spoke very highly of the Treatment he received there; the
Cap. understood that Mr Dean was offered a Million Sterling on the Credit
of the Continent before he left Bourdeaux for Paris to which place he was
gone when Palmer came away. Capt Palmer has made verry pretty Freight
for the Cargo he carried out which amounted only to about Eight Hundred
Pounds Lawful Money first cost here haveing bro’t the following Articles on
Cargo (tho’ he came away without compleating the Sales leaving it with the
House of Messrs Delap what was on hand) — Vizt 5000 wt Powder 250
small Arms, One hundred Thousand flints, upwards of four Thousand
Yards of small Canvas 400 or 500 Jackerats 100 Knapsacks 100 Legings 80
large Ruggs 2 small Bales woolings one Bale Linnen not yet opened, and
Ten Tons of Lead, The Powder only will pay cost of Cargo with all charges
and hire of Vessel, no doubt it will be agreeable to the Honle Secret Com-
mittee that I should reserve such things as may be wanting for the Frigate
such as the Powder about fifty or a hundred of the Musquetts some
Flints Lead some of the small Canvas which together with that I hope will
be immediately ordered from Providence will compleat the second Suit of
Sails the Ruggs 8c Blanketts cannot be done without on board Ship The
rest of small Canvass which is very suitable for Tents, can be spared 8c sent
as soon as I receive orders for that or any other part of her Cargo the
Masts 8c Oak plank sold verry well, as the Cap. says some were disposed off
before he came away I mentioned to the Honble Committee severall Times
that Masts are to be had here which together with other things would make
a Good Cargo for France or Spain 8c pay the Greatest Freight by far of any
thing I know of upon the Continent which may be seen by this Brigs Cargo
which made the Freight of One Thousand pounds Sterling out 8c as much
(nearly) home on about 800 £ Lawfful] money cost of Cargo should the
Honle Committee see fit to send Vessel from hence with such a Cargo it may
be done to advantage as one of these prize Ships might be purchased Low
which would carry large Cargo of Masts 8c Lumber. I am with respect
[8cc.]
Jn° Langdon
1. John Langdon Letter Book, Captain J. G. M. Stone Private Collection, Annapolis.
Boston Gazette , Monday, October 7, 1776
Watertown, October 7.
A Privateer belonging to Salem which arrived there last Thursday, fell
in with the Fleet of twelve Sail, and was so closely pursued by the Daphne,
that the Enemy fired musket balls into her; but by heaving over all her
Guns, Water and Provisions, and by sawing down her upper Works they
(bravely) escaped.1
1146
AMERICAN THEATRE
We also hear that three more prizes have arrived at the Eastward, 2
laden with Fish, the other with Molasses.
We hear that Capt. [Jonathan] Greely in a Privateer belonging to
Boston, who sailed from thence last Monday afternoon, sent into Marble-
head last Friday a Prize Brig, laden with Pork and Beef.2
Saturday last a Sloop laden with Lumber, was sent into Boston by
Capt. Waters. She was bound to New York from the Eastward3 — Is it not
astonishing there should still be such People among us, who would supply
our Enemies to cut their own throats?
1. Continental schooner Lynch, Captain John Ayres.
2. Snow St. George, Benjamin Bidgood, master, from England for New York.
3. Schooner Sally, Jesse Noble, master.
John Bradford to John Hancock1
Dear Sir Boston 7th Octor 1776
I Beg leave to inform you that four prizes are lately sent into this State
vizt. two to plimouth 8c two to this port by one Capt Paine of Charlestown
South Carolina, he fitted his privateer at Providence on the Credit of the
State of So Carolina but on Account (it is said) of the Continent, and on his
return to that State found that port shut up by the Enemies Ships, if he
belongs to the Continent shall esteem it a particular favour if I may Receive
Orders from the Congress respecting this matter by as early an Oppertun-
ity as may be, as the prizes will be sold in about three Weeks
The Columbus sent in a Brig a few days since to this port with 214
hhds Rum from Montserrat2 [Daniel] Waters in the schoor Lee Return’d
yesterday and bro in a small schooner with 49 hhds fish 8c 10 M Lumber3
have no news of any of our Cruisers please to excuse Brevity the Bearer is
Just going. I am [8cc.]
J Bradford
1. Society Collection, HSP.
2. The Lord Lifford.
3. The Sally.
Thomas Cushing to the Continental Marine Committee 1
Gentlemen Boston Octr 7. 1776
I have received Your Favor of the 21 Sept last wherein I find The Con-
gress have determined to Comply with the Wishes of our assembly with re-
gard to the Ship Commanded by Capt McNeil2 8c have Authorised Me to
Accept the proffered assistance of the said Assembly in fitting out Equip-
ping arming and manning that Frigate; I have already received most of the
Cannon 8c they will all be at Newbury port in a few days, I have agreable
to your directions applyed to 8c obtained an order from this State for Pow-
der Ball and musquet shot 8c such other Military Stores as the Ship may
stand in need of, I shall do all in my power to have her Compleatly fitted
OCTOBER 1776
1147
for the Sea & hope she will be ready in a few days but must beg leave to re-
mind your Honors that I have not as yet received the Commissions for the
Officers and they will not Care to go to Sea till they are possessed of them
least they should be deem’d Pirates, I hope they will be here in a few
days otherways the Ship will wait for them. I shall also want a fresh sup-
ply of Cash immediately which please to forward by the very first opportun-
ity. my former supply is quite exhausted. I remain with great respect
Gentlemen [&c.]
Thomas Cushing
The Honble John Hancock Esqr
Robert Morris & others
Members of the Marine Committee
1. Charles Roberts Autograph Collection, 722, Box 2, HCL.
2. Frigate Boston.
“Extract of a letter from Boston, October 7.” 1
The prize taken by Captain [Jonathan] Greely and sent first into Mar-
blehead is come round here,2 she has brought papers to the middle of Au-
gust, which give particular accounts of the Spaniard’s invading the king-
dom of Portugal and taking possession of several towns. The inference is
plain — war is or must be declared.
The mate of a London ship brought up this evening by Capt. Atkins,3
informs, that the ministry are so suspicious of plots and conspiracies being
laid, that four persons dare not be seen conversing together in London, —
they are immediately dispersed. A privateer is just arrived at Salem, after
taking three prizes, one of which is loaded with dry goods to the amount of
37,000 1. sterling. This fine prize is not yet arrived. A day seldom passes
without provision vessels, Jamaica-men or something being taken.
1. Pennsylvania Journal, October 16, 1776.
2. Snow St. George taken by Greely in Massachusetts privateer Speedivell.
3. Ship George prize of Silas Atkins, Jr. in Massachusetts privateer Boston.
Governor Nicholas Cooke to Richard Derby, Jr.1
Sir, Providence October 7th 1776 —
Your Favour of the 24th ulto came to Hand when I was in the inoculat-
ing Hospital. As the Two Ships built here were nearly ready for the Sea,
and there was a Prospect of their being soon manned none of their Guns
could be spared. I however delayd returning you an Answer as it was pro-
posed by some Gentlemen to lend Ten of the Guns belonging to the Forts in
this State. But the Committee appointed to act in the Recess of the General
Assembly which sat here on the 5th instant did not think proper to take
such a Measure: And I am sorry to inform you that it is not in our Power to
afford you any Cannon from this State. I am with great Regard [8cc.]
Nich8 Cooke
1148
AMERICAN THEATRE
P S. The Water is so low that the Furnace is stopped.
[Endorsed] Copy Lre to Richd Derby Jr Octr 7th 1776 respecting Guns for
a Continental Frigate
1. Letters from the Governor, 1768-1777, vol. 2, R. I. Arch.
Master's Bond for the Rhode Island Brig Victory on a Voyage
to Hispaniola 1
Know all Men by these Presents, That we Bartolemis Susaris of the Is-
land of Hispaniola Mariner as Principal, and Paul Allen of Providence in
the County of Providence in the State of Rhode Island and Providence Plan-
tations as Surety, are held and firmly bound unto the Governor and Com-
pany of the said State in the Sum of Twelve Hundred Pounds Lawful
Money, to be paid to the said Governor and Company, for the Use of said
State: To which Payment well and truly to be made, we bind ourselves, our
Heirs, Executors and Administrators, and each of us and them, for and in
the whole, jointly and severally, firmly by these Presents. Sealed with our
Seals. Dated the Seventh Day of October in the Year of our Lord \116
Now the Condition of this Obligation is such, That if the said Barto-
lemis Susaris who is Master of the Brigg called the Victory and now bound
on a Voyage, with said Brig and her Cargo, to the Island of Hispaniola shall
in all Things, during and respecting said Voyage, truly observe the Regula-
tions made by the Most Honorable the Continental Congress, and this Gen-
eral Assembly, concerning Trade, and for securing the Observance of such
Parts of the Association as are not inconsistent therewith, and shall, within
Eighteen Alonths after the Departure of the said Brigg produce to Henry
Ward, Esq; Intendant of Trade at Providence, in said State, or to his Suc-
cessor in said Office, a Certificate from the proper Officers at the Port or
Place where the Cargo of the said Brigg shall be delivered (provided it be
within the United States, and proper Officers are appointed) or otherwise
under the Hands and Seals of three or more reputable Merchants residing
there, that the same was there unladed, then this Obligation shall be void,
or else in full Force.
Sealed and delivered B. ssusaris
in the Presence of Paul Allen
Jona Jenkins Junr
William Murnford
1. Maritime Papers, Bonds, Masters of Vessels, R. I. Arch. This is a printed form, with the
handwritten words in italics.
Narrative of Captain John Paul Jones1
[August 21 to October 7]
He left the Delaware the 21st of August, and arrived at Rhode Island on the
7th of October, 1776. Captain Jones had only seventy men when he sailed
from the Delaware, and the Providence mounted only 12 four-pounders.
OCTOBER 1776
1149
Near the latitude of Bermudas he had a very narrow escape from the ene-
my’s frigate the Solebay, after a chase [and an engagement] for six hours
within cannon-shot, and considerable part of that time within pistol-shot
Afterwards, near the Isle of Sable, Captain Jones had a running fight with
the enemy’s frigate the Milford; and the firing between them lasted from
ten in the morning till after sunset. The day after this rencontre, Captain
Jones entered the harbour of Canso, where he recruited several men, took
the tones’ flags, destroyed all the fishery, burned the shipping, Sec. and
sailed again the next morning on an expedition against the Island of Ma-
dame. He made two descents at the principal ports of that island at the same
time; surprised, burned, and destroyed all their shipping, and the fishery,
though the place abounded with men, and they had arms. All this, from the
Delaware to Rhode Island, was performed in six weeks and five days; in
which time Captain Jones made sixteen prizes, besides a great number of
small vessels and fishery which he destroyed
1. Sands, ed., Life and Correspondence of John Paul Jones, 39-40.
Newport Mercury , Monday, October 7, 1776
Newport, October 7.
Last Thursday a prize brig, loaded with rum and sugar, went up the
east passage; she was bound for Antigua for the British fleet and army at
New-York, and taken by the privateer Industry, Captain Thomas Child,
who had taken another large brig from Jamaica, loaded with sugar, mahog-
any and logwood, which, we hear, is safe arrived at the eastward.
The Lady Washington privateer, Capt James Godfrey, has sent a fine
ship into a port in the Massachusett’s State, loaded with 425 hogsheads of
sugar, some rum, cotton, See.
A ship loaded with dry goods, bound to Quebec, and taken by Capt.
[Arthur] Crawford, went into a safe port yesterday; about the same time
another ship from Jamaica, with sugar, rum, 8cc. taken by Capt [Abner]
Coffin,1 went into a secure harbour.
1. Crawford and Coffin commanded the Hawke and Favourite respectively.
Governor Jonathan Trumbull to the Committee
of the Pay Table1
Gentlemen Lebanon Octor 7th 1776
Please to draw on the Treasurer of this State for the sum of forty five
pounds money to be paid to Nathel Wales Jur Esqr to be by him improved
in purchasing Gun Locks and procuring Guns — for the use of the Ship
Oliver Cromwell in the service of this State Se to render his account [8cc.]
Jonth Trumbull
1. Conn. Arch., 1st Series, IX, 119a, ConnSL.
Looking Aft From Amidships, Continental Gunboat Philadelphia.
OCTOBER 1776
1151
Jabez Huntington to Captain Joshua Huntington 1
[Extract] Norwich Octo’r 7th 1776
Since I wrote you Capt. Harden [Seth Harding] is arived from his Cruise
has taken two fine Ships one of them Safe arived at N L [New
London] She is Loaded with Sugar, Rum Coffey and Cotton Supposed to
be worth fifteen thousand pounds the Other prize is daily Expected;
[Robert] Niles 2d Prize is not arived and Suppose is most Likely Taken
your Brother obtaind so Little part of Mr. [Nathaniel] Shaws Privateer
that he keeps it himself.
your Brig’e is Like to be fitted as a Letter of Mark and so proced on a
Trading voige . . .
1. Collections of the Connecticut Historical Society, XX, 47.
Journal of Lieutenant William Digby 1
7 October. The First-Brigade moved up to our post at Riviere-la-
Cole, and ours went up to Point-au Faire, seven miles higher. The order for
our proceeding on the Lake, was as follows. Three small boats in front of
all, as a party of observation; our schooners and armed vessels in line of
battle following; Gun boats carrying 24 or 12 pounders in their bow and
maned by the Artillery. The battalion of Grenadiers in flat bottom boats,
& in their rear, the remainder of the army in battows. One gun fired from
a gun boat was a signal to form 8 boats abreast, and two guns a signal to
form a line of boats, this had a pretty effect, as our men were all expert at
rowing, having been ordered to practise frequently. This was the first in-
tention of our crossing, but afterwards found not to answer so well, as our
armed vessels and gun boats engaging theirs seperately, leaving the troops
on land to wait the decision, as were any accident to happen to the armed
vessels, the troops must be in a most hazardous situation, & little able to
defend themselves with small arms against the cannon of the enemy.
1. Digby’s Journal, BM.
Brigadier General Benedict Arnold to Major General Horatio Gates 1
Dear General Valcouer Octr 7th 1776 -
I received your favour of the 2d Inst & Coppy of yours of the 23d Ulto
yesterday by General Waterbury who arived with the Two Gallies about 2
oClock. — I fully expected by him, to have all the particulars of the Evacu-
ating Long Island, & New York, He seems to know little of the Matter, &
General Washingtons Letter seems not very explicit — the Affair of long
Island, seems, still in Obscurity — I am Very Anxious for Our Army, &
Friends, below Lord Hows, desiring a Conference, & Neglecting his Ap-
pointments, seems not very favourable It Appears to me our Troops, or
Officers [sic], are Pannic Struck; or why does a hundred Thousand Men
1152
AMERICAN THEATRE
Fly before, One quarter of their Numbers, is It possible my Country Men
can be, callous to their wrongs, or hesitate one moment, between Slavery,
or Death — what Advantage can we derive by blockadeing, the Enemy
when, they Are in possission of a Part of the Country sufficient to support
them, it appears to me Concise measures, should be Adopted — however, I
will say no more, least I incur the Censure, we passed on their Councel last
Spring for Judgeing too rashly of our measures — That Being, in whose
hands are all human Events will doubtless turn the Scale in favour of the
Just. 8c opprised —
Nothing worth Notice has Occurred in this quarter since my last, the
weather is very severe here, & Gales of wind freq[u]ent. If the Enemy do
not make their apperance by the Middle of this Month I have thought of
returning to Button Mold Bay — as I think they will not pretend to Cross
the Lake after that Time, we are prepared for them at all Times 8c If they
attempt Crossing the Lake, I make No Doubt of giveing a good Accot of
them — I am Dear General Your Affectionate [8cc.]
B Arnold -
1. Gates Papers, Box 4, NYHS.
Journal of the New York Committee of Safety 1
[Fishkill] Die Lunae, 9 HO. A.M.
October 7th 1776.
The report of the committee on the sundry letters and papers of Capt.
Thomas Cregier, and the petition of sundry officers and mariners of the
armed vessel or schooner Putnam , delivered in their report, which was
read. Thereupon,
Resolved, That the said armed schooner Putnam, together with her
arms, cannon, ammunition, boats, rigging, tackle and furniture, be immedi-
ately sold, and that John Imlay, Esqr. be agent for that purpose, who is here-
by directed, out of the proceeds, to pay the officers and crew their wages,
and all other reasonable charges, and to remit the surplus to the treasury of
this Convention.
1. New York Provincial Congress , I, 665.
New-York Gazette, Monday, October 7, 1776
New-York, Octo. 7.
On Thursday last arrived here from England, the Daphne, Captain
[St. John] Chinnery, with several Transports under Convoy, having on
board the XVIIth Regiment of Light Horse, under the Command of Lieu-
tenant Colonel [William] Harcourt.
So vast a Fleet was never seen together in this Port, or perhaps in all
America, before. The Ships are stationed up the East-River or Sound, as
far as Eurtle Bay; and, near the Town, the Multitude of Masts carries the
OCTOBER 1776
1153
Appearance of a Wood. Some are moored up the North-River; others, in the
Bay between Red and Yellow-Hook; some, again, off Staten Island; and sev-
eral off Powles-Hook, and toward the Kills. The Men of War are moored
chiefly up New-York Sound, and make, with the other Ships, a very magnif-
icent and formidable Appearance. Five Men of War have been detached
from the Squadron into the North-River above Greenwich, probably to as-
sist the Operations of the Army against the Rebels, who still remain on the
Northern Extremity of this Island, and on the Heights about Kings-bridge.
It is said, the Flora Frigate of 32 Guns commanded by Capt. [John]
Brisbane, is preparing to sail, with several Transports under Convoy.1
1. “Saturday, 5th [October]. This afternoon the Flora Frigate, Capt. Brisbane, sailed down
the Harbor in order to convoy a Number of Transports off these Coasts in their Passage
to Halifax.” Tatum, ed., Serle’s Journal , 119.
Diary of Lieutenant Jabez Fitch 1
[On board the Prison Snow Mentor']
[New York] Mond: the 7th: [October] Our Chocalet was Spoil’d in the
Morning for want of good Water, we had therefore but a very Indifferent
Breakfast; I spent most of this Forenoon on Deck; At about 11 oClock Mr:
[Joshua] Loring & another Offr: came on Board 8c Order’d us to make
Emediate preperation for Landing, there was also a Parole, or Writing pre-
pared for us to Sign, which we all comply ’d with, 8c the Field Officers first
went ashore with Mr. Loring; After which I went up onto the Quarter Deck
8c Wrote some of the foregoing Lines, in Expectation soon to leave the
Snow, not knowing what kind of Quarters or Treatment, will be next pro-
vided for us, yet hope that the Exchang will not be for the Worse.
About 4 oClock we were Landed with our Bagage on a Ferry Wharf
near the Bair Market in N. York, where we wated for Orders, while near
Sunset, when Mr. Loring Directed us to a very large House, on the West
side of Broad Way, & South of Warren Street. . .
Having this Large House Assign’d us with a small Yard to Walk in 8cc,
we sopose we have chang’d our Cituation Rather for the better, both on
acct: of Noise 8c Crowd.
1. Sabine, ed., Fitch's Diary, 54.
Journal of the Continental Congress 1
[Philadelphia] Monday, October 7, 1776
The Secret Committee having informed Congress, that they had chart-
ered and loaded in Virginia, the Aurora , late the prize ship called the Ox-
ford, for account of the continent:
Resolved, That the president write to the governor and council of Vir-
ginia, and request them to give all the assistance in their power, in manning
and despatching the said ship.
1. Ford, ed., JCC, V, 849, 850-51.
1154
AMERICAN THEATRE
Josiah Bartlett to John Langdon1
No 6 Philadelphia Octobr 7th 1776
Dear Sir As I have not been able for some time to attend the Marine
Committe I last Saturday took the liberty to show Mr Morrice [Morris]
your letters Concerning the Conduct of the Providence Committe about
Guns and soon found Mr Hancock thro the multiplicity of Business had not
laid the affair before the Marine Committe Mr Morrice resented their Con-
duct extremely and Desired liberty to lay the letter before Congress but as I
was uncertain but some bad Effect might arise from laying it before the
whole Congress I Declined it He then Desired liberty to lay it before the
Marine Committe to which I Consented He said he would do his utmost
that your ship should have them Guns at Providence and without paying
that Enormous price for them I am in hopes them guns will be ordered for
your Ship & one of theirs ordered to wait till guns can be sent from here
where they are Contracted for at 35 & 40 pound this money pr tun
I Believe (inter nos) your letters to the President Concerning marine
affairs have not been laid before the Committe nor much attention been
paid them the great & important Business in which he is Constantly Em-
ployed and the almost immense number of letters which he is Constantly re-
ceiving on the most interesting Subjects makes it impossible for him to at-
tend to them all and lesser matters must be neglectd I sincerly wish he did
not belong to the Marine Committe but would Confine himself to the affairs
of Congress which is Business abundantly sufficient to employ the time of
any one human being
I was Disappointed of seting out last week as I Expected and as I am in
hopes I am some better than I have been I Believe I shall try to tarry here
till Col Whipples arrival which I think I may Expect in 12 or 14 Days from
this time according to his letter of the 23d ulto
As for news we have none at this time how long we shall be without
any I Cant say as by the last accounts from Ticonderoga they were Dayly
looking for Burgoine up the lake and it seems Genl Howe is preparing to at-
tack our Camp at Harleam God grant we may have better fortune than we
had at the attack on Long Island the Enemy are now in Possession of
Stratton Island, Long Island, Governors Island, the City of New York &
Powles’s hook I pray God they have now reached their Ultimatum and
that from this time their power may Decline I am your very hearty friend
Josiah Bartlett
1. Dreer Collection, Signers, HSP.
Minutes of the Pennsylvania Council of Safety1
In Council of Safety,
[Philadelphia] October 7th, 1776.
An order was drawn on Mr. Nesbitt, in fav’r of Cap’t John Hazlewood,
for £ 50, on acc’t of Fire Rafts, to be charged to his acco’t.
OCTOBER 1776
1155
Resolved , That all the Powder now on board the Ship, Floating Bat-
terys and armed Boats belonging to this State, be delivered to Mr. Robert
Towers, Commissary, who is hereby directed to replace it with a like Quan-
tity.
1. Pennsylvania Colonial Records, X, 744.
Diary of Christopher Marshall 1
[Philadelphia] Octr7th 1776
. . . having an Invitation from the owners of Sloop Congress & Chance on
the 5th to dine with them on Turtle at James Byrns [tavern] this day I
went near two were was Between 60, or 70, persons I came away before
6 ... A vessel 1 arrived this day from Surinham with Some Powder, lead,
Some Stands of arms & Some woolen Cloths Mallasses 8cc 8cc &c a vessel
from Bermudas with Salt arrived this Day his Excellency General Lee
from the Southward,
1. Diary of Christopher Marshall, HSP.
Journal of the Maryland Convention 1
[Annapolis] Monday, October 7, 1776.
Post Meridiem.
The Convention proceeded to elect a judge of the court of admiralty in
the room of John Hall, Esquire, who resigned that office, and John Rogers,
Esquire, was elected.
1. Maryland Convention, 33.
Journal of the Virginia Navy Board1
[Williamsburg] Monday the 7th October 1776.
Robert Brown, Josiah Foster, Joel Foster, George Brookes & Elenry Knight
appeared before the Board and severally undertook for the sum of One
hundred and seventy Pounds to Build each of them a flat Bottom’d Boat for
the use of this Common Wealth for the purpose of Transporting Troops of
the following Dimensions, to wit, Forty feet Keel, fourteen feet Beam, three
Feet four Inches Deep to the Top of the Gunnell, Eight Inches Wash Board
to be Ceiled in the same manner as the Boat lately Built by Mr Herbert, to
be Built with good white Oak Plank one Inch and a half thick, the Ceiling to
be of Pine Plank clear of Sap three Quarters of an Inch thick, to Row with
Twenty Oars fixed upon Iron Swivels, to be fitted with proper Stern Sheets
and every other Thwart Bound, to be Built after the manner of the Boat
lately Built by Mr Herbert except the Gun Carriages, to be properly Tar’d
and finished in a Workman like manner and delivered to the Board with
proper Oars for each Boat, on or before the fifteenth day of December next.
For the Performance of which Contracts the said Robert Brown, Josiah
1156
AMERICAN THEATRE
Foster, Joel Foster, George Brookes 8c Henry Knight respectively entered
into and acknowledged their Bonds which are Ordered to be Recoided —
Lieutenant Thomas Merriwether of the Marines lodged a Complaint with
the Board against Lieut George Rogers of the Brig Liberty in the following
Words, to wit, “The Language of Lieut George Rogers to the Marines is the
most Scurrilous, Abusive 8c Profane, wholy unbecoming an officer 8c Gentle-
man. That he has at different Times Struck them, Particularly John Rey-
nolds with a piece of Iron when unwell and excused from Duty by the Com-
manding Marine Officer.” Ordered that the said Rogers be summoned to
appear before the Board at the Capitol in the City of Williamsburg on
Wednesday next to answer the said Complaint —
A Letter from Miles Cowper Esqr informing the Board of a Quantity of
Tarr and Turpentine he had sent to Messrs Smith and Roan for the use of
the Navy agreeable to a request of the Board. - Ordered that the said Smith
8c Roane Acct be Debited therewith to the Amount of One hundred 8c Eighty
four pounds ten shillings. -
Adjourned till tomorrow morning nine of the Clock.
Signed,
Thomas Whiting 1st Comsr
1. Navy Board Journal, 66-67, VSL.
Journal of the Georgia Council of Safety 1
At a meeting of the Council,
[Savannah] Oct. 7th, 1776.
The President2 laid the following before this Board, viz.:
In Convention.
This house having received some information which gives them great
reason to apprehend an attack is intended against this Province; and hav-
ing also been informed of an armed boat being upon the coast, and having
committed some acts of depredation upon the inhabitants. It is the opinion
of this house that the said matter, together with all evidence and proofs at-
tending the same, be referred to the President. That he be requested by and
with the advice of this Council to use the most vigorous, speedy and effec-
tual means for putting the Province in a proper posture of defense, so as to
repel the said attacks in case they shall be made, and prevent further depre-
dations and robberies; and to assure him that this Province will most heart-
ily concur with him in the said measures, and cheerfully defray the expen-
ses attending the same.
Ordered, that a copy of this minute be presented to the President by
Mr. Speaker after the rising of the House.
1 he above being considered, it was the opinion of the Board that two
boats of ten men each be stationed at the inlets of Hossaba, Saint Cather-
ine’s, Sapalo and at the dividings of Saint Simon’s Island, for observation
OCTOBER 1776
1157
and intelligence; and fifty men stationed at the extreme points of land Beu-
lah, Hardwick, Sunbury, Sutherland’s Bluff and Darien.
1. Candler, comp., Georgia Records , I, 204, 205.
2. Archibald Bullock.
Journal of H. M. Sloop Nautilus , Captain John Collins1
October [1776] Moor’d of [£] Saint Georges Town Bermuda
Sunday 6 Empd in Cleaning the Ship
PM Saw a sail in the Offing
Monday 7 AM found her to be a Ship of War PM Anchd here a
Retaken Brig by H M: Ship Galatea 2 also Anchd in Cas-
tle Harbor the Galatea
1. PRO, Admiralty 51/630.
2. Brigantine Favourite , John Davis, master, from Antigua for Liverpool, with sugar; recaptured
by the Galatea, Howe’s Prize List, March 31, 1776, ibid., 1/487. See Davis’ protest, Oc-
tober 8.
8 Oct.
Commodore Marriot Arbuthnot to Lord George Germain1
My Lord
The success which his Maj: Arms have Obtained over the Rebels on the
27th of August, the particulars of which will come to your Lordships hands
from better authority, than mine.
I shall therefore only say that it has enabled Lord Howe to send some
ships of Warr for the protection of this coast from the Rebel pirates, who
have entred our defenceless harbours indiscriminately from Cape Sable, to
very near this port Landed to the great terror of the Well Affected People;
Cut out several Vessels and done much Mischief, to prevent which for the
future I have aplied to General [Eyre] Massey and he has been pleased to
comply with my requisition that a Capt & 50 Men be sent to Barrington,
near Cape Sable, & a Subaltern 8c 30 to Liverpool with Arms 8c Amunition
under the care of the Comanding Officers to be delivered to such well Af-
fected subjects as will joine the Kings Troops, if necessary I hope my
Lord this precaution will Effectually secure this part of the Frontier from
further insult.
I must now pray your Lordship will excuse the Hurry in which this let-
ter is written As I have not time to read it the Vessel who carries it being
Under sail unexpectedly. 1 have therefore chosen to be deficient in allmost
every thing rather than omit the smallest attention to your Lordships com-
ands, because I am Most Unfeignedly My Lord [8cc.]
M1 Arbuthnot
Halifax -Oct: the 8th 1776
1. PRO, Colonial Office, 217/52, DAC Photocopy.
388-825 0-73-75
1158
AMERICAN THEATRE
John Langdon to John Bradford1
[Portsmouth] Octr 8, 1776
I have an order from the Honle Continental Marine Committee to pur-
chase Gunns Musqetts, Ball, Sec for the Frigate at this Place that she may
be fitted out to act in Conjunction with Cap McNeal [Hector McNeill] am
likewise directed to call on the Agent for your state to furnish any mat-
ters that may be in his Power, I have therefore desired Messrs Breck &
Hammett to wait on you, to know wether any Ball [can] be had, 8c what
quantity, out of the Publick Stores2 — I shall take it kind if you’ll mention
this to Mr Cushing 8c know wether any Guns can be had from your State
more than Compleats Cap. McNeal Ship, shall thank you for an answer as
soon as may be my kind Regards to your Lady 8c family — with due re-
spect [Sec.]
Jn° Langdon
1. John Langdon Letter Book, Captain J. G. M. Stone Private Collection, Annapolis.
2. Ibid., Langdon to Breck & Hammett, Boston, October 8.
John Langdon to John Hancock1
Sir Portsmouth October 8, 1776
Your favour of 21 Ult. is now before me nothing would give me
Greater pleasure than to have it in my Power, to Coopperate with the Agent
of the Massachusetts in fitting out the Frigate Raleigh to cruise in Conjunc-
tion with the Boston Cap. McNeale, as recommended by the Honle Assem-
bly’s of Massachusetts 8c New Hampe and now ordered by the Honle
Committee, At present it’s impossible, as both States have only Guns for
one Ship indeed in this State we have not a Single Gun suitable, The
Ship Raleigh as I’ve often wrote the Honbl Committee has laid since June
entirely waiting for Guns a sett of which has been laying at Providence
during that Time, every other material might have been obtained and the
Ship manned at that Time had the Guns been ready the Privateers have
stript us of our hands tho’ I’ve no doubt she would soon be manned could
the Guns be had we have about fifty Men on board and no more can be
prevailed upon to enter untill the Guns are here, I conversed with Mr.
[Thomas] Cushing and some of the Honle Committee on the Matter 8c told
them I would Strain every nerve, to procure the Guns but told them at the
same time of my Disappointment at Providence 8c that unless a sufficient
number of Guns could be procured out of the Batteries in the Massachusetts
she could not go out —
I shall use my best endeavours to procure Cannon but see not the least
prospect unless ordered from Providence or Philadelphia in some Armed
Vessel, which would not be verry great risque as there is not any Ship
cruizing in this Bay at present belonging to the Enemy. —
The Brig which is just arrived here from Bourdeaux on accot of the
Continent,- (of which I’ve wrote the Honle Secret Committee fully to which
OCTOBER 1776
1159
I beg leave to refer the Honle Marine Committee) has brou’t Powder small
arms Sec which I shall reserve for the Ship agreeable to order of the Com-
mittee, so that nothing is wanting but Guns Sc Men the latter of which I be-
lieve may be had, should there be a prospect of the Ship’s going out I shall
take Care to keep all Matters as secret as possible relative to the Continent
agreeable to Orders but as to this matter all this part of the Creation knew
the Intent long ago. —
Mr [John] Wheelwright who was second Lieut, of the Raleigh has left
her for the Command of a Privateer I’ve therefore put Cap Hopley Yetton
[Yeaton] on board as third Lieut; (Mr. [Josiah] Shackford who was
third riseing to second instead of Wheelwright) to act untill pleasure of the
Honle Committee is known, I would beg leave to recommend Mr Yetton as a
Gentleman worthy of that Post, he has Youth of his side a most excellent
Seaman of undoubted Spirits, verry high in favour of the States verry
popular among the Seamen — I am with all due respect To the Honle
Committee [&c.]
John Langdon
1. John Langdon Letter Book, Captain J. G. M. Stone Private Collection, Annapolis.
2. The Marquis of Kildare.
Journal of the Massachusetts Council1
[Watertown] Tuesday October 8th 1776
On Motion Ordered That Brigadier Earley be and he hereby is di-
rected to deliver Thomas Carthy James Howard James Rogers Thomas
Griffiths William Gorman John Harrington George Taylor Rees Pugh
Thomas Barker Prisoners in Ipswich Goal to Hector McNeill Commander
of the Continental Lrigate called the Boston provided they are willing to en-
ter on board said Lrigate.
1. Mass. Arch., vol. 19, 263.
Receipt to Paul Revere for a Share in the Massachusetts
Privateer Brigantine Speedwell 1
Boston Octor 8th 1776 Reed of Paul Revere Esq — Two hundred & Eight-
een pounds y7 in Part for his Sixteenth part of Schooner Speedwell'2 &
Warlike Impliments now on a Cruis —
p Wm Foster - Agent
£218.. L. 7
1. Paul Revere Misc. and Receipts, MassHS.
2. The Speedwell was commissioned September 6, 1776, under the command of Jonathan
Greely. The principal owners were Thomas Melvill, William Foster and John Hinkley,
Mass. Arch., vol. 7, 158.
1160
AMERICAN THEATRE
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1162
AMERICAN THEATRE
Disbursements Made by Captain Robert Niles of the
Connecticut Schooner Spy 1
Schooner Spy to Robert Niles Dr.
1776
June
Jii|y
Augt
Sepr
Aug
Sept
Octr
To sundry disbursements by him paid Vizt
13 th
To
1 bushl Corn
at
3/
£
To
1/2 bushl Prusticot potatoes
at
3/
23d
To
17i/2 lb Lead
at
5d
6
To
horse hire to Lebanon
To
2 days expence for Self
and
Horse
13th
To
9 lb LobSters
at
li/2d lb
To
Horse hire and keeping
at Norwich 1
after Cash
To paid For potatoes in Old Town
14th To Horse Hire and Expences to Lebanon
3d To expences at Old Town Getting hands
21 To 26 Fowels at 6d Yk Currency in L M
8 To 3 Rations pr day fm June 8th to Octr!
8th 366 in all for my Self at 7i/£d J
To 122 Rations for Mr [Timothy] parker 7i/9d
To 122 ditto for Mr [Zebediah] Smith at ly9&
To Commission at 5 Pr Ct
3. .0
1. .6
7 . . 3 j/c)
5. .0
6.
1 . T i/2
4. .0
1. .0
7. .6
11.10
9. .9
11. . 8. .9
3.16. . 3
3.16. . 3
21.19. . 3i/2
1. . 2. .1
23. .4. .51/2
Errors Excepted pr Rob1 Niles
1. Conn. Arch., 1st Series, IX (Spy) , 36, ConnSL.
Journal of H. M. S. Cerberus , Captain John Symons1
October 1776 Montock point No.37W 10 Leags
Tuesday 8 at 6 AM saw a SI bearing Si/^E 3 or 4 Miles 6 AM gave
Chace to the Et wd. Syren in Co
Modt Breezes and Clear saw three SI to the NW gave
Chace at 4 PM fired 20 9 pounders Sc brot. too the
Vessell[s] a Snow from Barbadoes Sc a Brigg from the Bay
of Honduras, taken by an American Privateer2 and a Brigg
from Surrinam bound to New London loaded wth
Molasses3 sent a Mid. Sc 5 Men to take care of her
I. PRO, Admiralty 51/181.
The recaptures were the snow Jenny, William McNeily, master, from Barbados for Belfast
with rum, and the brig Carr on, J. Montgomery, master, from the Bay of Honduras for
Cork with mahogany and logwood, Howe’s Prize List, March 31, 1777, ibid., 1/487.
3. Ibid., the Batchelor owned by Nathaniel Shaw, Jr.
OCTOBER 1776
1163
Journal of H. M. S. Syren, Captain Tobias Furneaux1
October 1776 Block Island NbW i/2W 9 or 10 Lgs
Tuesday 8th at 3 Tkd Exercised Great Guns & sml Arms at 11 mde Sail
Cerberus in Co
P:M: at 2 saw 3 Sail under the Land gave chace fired 3
Shot at a Brigg left her for the Cerberus, & haul’d up for
the other two to prevent them from running a Shore, they
hoisted out their Boats 8c people went on shore, then the
Two Vessels bore down for us, bro’t too hoisted out our
Boats & took Possession of them, a Snow from Barbadoes
for Ireland & a Brigg from the Bay of Honduras for
Glasgow, they were taken by Rebel Privateers, sent a
Boat Arm’d [to] the other Brigg in Shore, the Cerberus
having brot her too at 7 hoisted in the Boats & stood to
the So wd
1. PRO, Admiralty 51/930.
Journal of the Continental Congress1
[Philadelphia] Tuesday, October 8, 1776
The Secret Committee having informed Congress that a vessel was ar-
rived with sundry articles by them imported on account of the Continent,
Ordered, That the said committee deliver to the Board of War such ar-
ticles as are suitable for the army, and to the Marine Committee such arti-
cles as are for the navy, and to Mr. J. Mease such as are suitable for cloath-
ing, to be made up into cloaths for the soldiers.
1. Ford, ed., /CC, V, 854, 856.
Minutes of the Pennsylvania Council of Safety1
In Council of Safety,
[Philadelphia] October 8th, 1776.
Mr. Nesbitt was directed to pay Capt. Wm. Hallock £ 21 1 7, for Sal-
vage of Sundries saved out of Brig’t Nancy blown up at Cape May.
This board taking into their consideration the Advanced prices of al-
most every necessary of Life, and upon a proper Representation from the
Chevaux de Frize Pilots, respecting their situation, do hereby
Resolve, That the said Pilots, in addition to their pay from this State,
be allowed, from the date hereof, to receive five shillings P foot for every
vessel they conduct through the Chevaux de Frise to and from Chester, to
be paid by the Captains or owners of such vessels.2
1. Pennsylvania Colonial Records, X, 744, 745.
2. Printed in the Pennsylvania Gazette, October 9, 1776.
1164
AMERICAN THEATRE
Jesse Hollingsworth to the Maryland Council of Safety 1
Sirs/ Baltimore October 8 — 1776
the Bearer Capt William Worth has C[o]me from Newengland to take
Charge of the Schooner Dolley N: 10 that Was Sunk at the alarm at Balti-
more, there Seems to Bee a Anker & Cabbie Missing I have taken all the
pains I am Capable of to find them, But Cannot and Capt Nicoldson has Put
a Vallew On Such as hee Soposd the[y] Ware, for your Consideration these
things Ware Soposd to Bee takken Care of By the People that Sunk the Ves-
ells But Wee Cannot find them Now — and Many Such Complaints are
Made the Settelment of Which Must Bee Left to you, he Says their Ware 2
gafs Lost and has the Carpenter bills for their Cost, and the higher Whille
Sunk these things I Make Bold to Mention at his Request as hee has Been
With Mee this 10 Days to Sarch for the things and Pleading for a Line to
you Stating his Loses — it is So Strange What Became of the Ankers and
Cabbies But the[y] Cannot Now Be found — Can I Sell any of your Pub-
lick Bread I think I Could Sell Some With your Lisence — I have Sum
More 20 Penny Naills for you from your Humble Servant
Jesse Hollingsworth
1. Red Book, XI, Md. Arch.
Journal of the Virginia Navy Board1
[Williamsburg] Tuesday 8th October 1776 -
Ordered that a Warrant Issue to Capt George Muter for Three hundred and
forty eight pounds two shillings and one penny half penny for the Pay of
his Company on Board the Hero Galley for the Months of August & Septem-
ber last as p Pay-roll this day settled. -
Ordered that a Warrant Issue to Lieut Benjamin Pollard for One hundred
and eighty one pounds sixteen shillings R: three pence for Disbursements &
Pay of his Company of Marines for the Months of August & Septr last as p
Acct this day settled. -
1. Navy Board Journal, 68, VSL.
Samuel Ashe to Willie Jones, Halifax1
[Extract] Cape Lear Octr 8th 1776
Dear Sir/ Laudamus te deum; We here at present Joyfully chant forth, -
1 he Vessels of War lately here, I am Just now informed, took their depar-
ture a few days since, first burning two of their Tenders - We have now an
Open Port, tho’ I fear it will not long be one, unless the honble Board will
hurry down some Ball. . .
1. Secretary of State Papers (Council of Safety, 1775-1776) , NCDAH.
OCTOBER 1776
1165
Journal of the South Carolina General Assembly1
[Charleston] Tuesday the 8th Day of October 1776
It being suggested to the House that there was no Pilot or Pilot Boat
for the Bar and Harbour of Beaufort nor any Fund from which they could
be supplied and maintained
Ordered That Mr [Daniel] DeSaussure Captain [John] Joiner Colo-
nel [Benjamin] Garden Captain [Thomas] Savage and Major [Keating]
Simons be a Committee to consider and report proper ways and means of
procuring maintaining and regulating a Pilot Boat to attend the Bar and
Harbour of the Port of Beaufort
Mr Speaker reported That this House having attended the President in
the Council Chamber he had presented to His Excellency
An Ordinance for providing Juries for Beaufort District at the next
November Courts
And also,
An Act for establishing a Board of Commissioners to superintend and
direct the naval affairs of South Carolina
To both which His Excellency had been pleased to give his Assent
1. Salley, ed., South Carolina General Assembly Journals , 87, 89.
Protest of John Davis, Master of the British Brigantine Favourite 1
Bermuda, By His Excellency George James Bruere
Esqr Governor Commander in Chief and Vice
Admiral of the Islands. —
To all to whom this Present Writing or Instrument of Prot[est] shall
come or may concern Greeting. —
Know Ye that this eighth day of October in the Year of Our Lord one Thou-
sand and Seventy Six, before me personally appeared John Davis Master of
a Certain Brigantine called the Favourite who Solemnly made Oath on the
Holy Evangelists of Almighty God, that on the Sixth Ulto being then on
his Voyage from Antigua bound for Liverpool in England in the Latitude
37°. 30 No: and Longitude 49°. 30 Wt when he was pursued and taken by a
Provincial Privateer Sloop, called the Providence John Paul Jones Com-
mander, and again on the 24th of the same Month September in the Lati-
tude 37°. 00. No Longitude 68.30 West he was retaken by His Majesty’s
Ship the Galatea Thomas Jorden Esqr Commander, the Wind at same Time
blowing very Strong from the S:S:W: by the Neglect of the Privat [eer’s]
People he got his Top sails, Jebb, and Main top mast Staysail split that on
the Seventh Instant, he arrived in Castle Harbour Bermuda, in Company
with the Galatea, And again on the eighteenth Instant this deponent farther
saith that having used his utmost endeavours to get his Vessel ready for the
Sea, he applyed to Capt John Collins of His Majestys Sloop Nautilus to As-
sist him with some People to Navigate his Vessel to New York but without
1166
AMERICAN THEATRE
Success, Wherefore the said John Davis for him self his Mariners, Owners,
Freighters and all others whom it doth or may concern doth hereby Protest
against the Matters aforesaid, and all Damages Occasioned 01 sustained
thereby, as also against all Costs delays disappointments, expences and
other Matters and things which can or may lawfully be protested against in
as Large and Ample Manner as the same can or may be done by Law or
Form, And Persevering in the said Protest the said Appearer hath hereunto
set his hand this 18th day of October 1776 —
John Davis
This Done and Protested before me the Governor and Vice Admiral afore-
said, In Testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and Caused the
Public Seal of these Islands to be affixed the day and year first above writ-
ten —
George Jas Bruere2
By His Excellency’s 1
Command
Jn° Randle D: Secy
1. Book of Bonds, Deeds and Grants, No. 14, 388-89, Bda. Arch.
2. Ibid., a similar protest was made this date by Robert Hogget, master of the brigantine
Alice which had been taken by the Rhode Island privateer sloop Joseph, and recaptured
by H. M. S. Galatea.
Vice Admiral Clark Gayton to Philip Stephens1
Squirrel , Jamaica
Sir./. October 8th 1776
Herewith you’ll receive Duplicates of what I sent you by the last
Packet
I beg leave to acquaint their Lordships that the 17th of last Month, a
French Frigate arriv’d Command’d by The Chevr de Monteil, the occai-
sion of His coming was to claim a Rebel Schooner which had been Seiz’d by
His Majestys Ship Squirrel and sent into Port Royal; The Chevalier in his
claim sets forth, that she was taken within a Mile of the Shore, within Gun
Shot at the Point under the Colours at the Mole, which he consider’d as pass-
ing beyond the bounds of the Treaties, & a violation of the Laws of Nations,
and at the same time say’d he flatterd himself, I should think it very Natu-
ral for the Schooner to avail herself of the Protection afford’d her by his
Court. In answer to which I inform’d him that after the repeat’d assurances
which had been given from all the Foreign Powers to His Britanick Maj-
esty of not Interfering or affording any protection to his Rebellious Sub-
jects, I was greatly surprizd at the part of his Letter mentioning affording
those people protection, which was very contrary to the Assurances; I men-
tion’d before.
In respect to the Vessel in dispute she was a considerable distance from
the Island of Hispaniola, when she was first Chased by the Squirrel , and
was not within Gun Shot when taken, that I had always given particular
OCTOBER 1776
1167
directions to the Captains of the Kings Ships under my Command never to
approach near any French or Spanish Possessions but in cases of the great-
est urgency, it being my most sanguin wish, for the good understanding at
present Subsisting between the two Nations to be maintaind, as this Rebel
Schooner, had been Seizd in consequence of the Kings directions it was not
consistant with my Honor to deliver her up, but as it was a National matter
must be Settled by our respective Ministers, which I should take the earliest
oppertunity of laying before mine, with which answer he Sail’d the next
Morning very well Satisfied, and inclosed is for their Lordships information
exact Copies of His Claim in French, with the English Translation 8c like-
wise of my Answer, which I hope will meet with their Lordships approba-
tion
On Captain [Stair] Douglas’s arrival I gave Him Copies of The Chev-
aliers claim and desird he would be very particular in His answer, as it was
to be sent for their Lordships information, which he [ sic it] accordingly
has been. In His Log for that Day, Sworn to by the Master of the Ship, it
appears that when he made the Tenders Signal to Chace this Schooner,
Cape Nichola Mole bore about SEbS 7 or 8 Leagues, and by the Affidavit of
the Officer Commanding that Tender, attested by the Crew, that when he
made her a Prize he was Five or Six Miles distance from the Land, all
which circumstances are very contrary to those advanc’d by The Chevalier
and plainly shews He was not well acquaint’d with the nature of His
claim, Capt. Douglas likewise gave me his Log for the 6th 8c 7th days of
September Sworn to by His Master, wherein it also appears that this very
French Frigate offer’d protection to a Schooner from St Augustine at the
Distance of Ten or Eleven Leagues from the Land, in Sight of the Squirrel ,
provided she had come from any part of North America, bound to Hispan-
iola and desired it, and inclosed me the Depositions of the Master 8c Super-
cargo of that Schooner, who are both People of very good Character. I must
beg leave to say that I think this behaviour of The Chevaliers a Gross viola-
tion of the Treaties he talks of, and contrary to the Laws of Nations. In-
closed for their Lordships information are exact Copies of Captain Doug-
las’s orders, His Answer to the Chevaliers claim; the Papers refer ’d to in it,
which I hope will also meet with their Approbation2
(I likewise beg leave to inclose their Lordships the Extract of a Letter
from Captain [Thomas] Lloyd, complaining of the Master of the Anna
Teresa Packet not complying with His Instructions and parting Company,
which I hope they will be pleas’d to Communicate to the Port Masters Gen-
eral, in order that the Master may be made an Example of for leaving his
Convoy, after the Port Master General of this Island, had applied to me for
one.)
Inclosed is likewise an Extract of a Letter from Captain Davey re-
specting the Illicit Trade carried on in the River Mississippi, since which I
have receiv’d another from Him dated 27th August, informing me of His
having been in at the Havanna, for Water, but that they would not permit
1168
AMERICAN THEATRE
any Person to go onshore, but sent onboard every thing wanted. He was told
there was in the Harbour a Sixty four Gun Ship, and Six laige Frigates
In my Letter of the 13th June last, I mclos d their Lordships, Letters I
had received from the Principal Inhabitants of the Mosquitto Shore, of two
Spanish Guarda Costas, having Seizd a Sloop belonging to the
Inhabitants, I now beg leave to inclose them the Copy of a Petition from
Messrs Irving & Blair Owners of the Sloop, with an Affidavit annex d to it,
of her being carried to Porto Bello, and from thence to Carthagena, praying
I would send to Demand her, which His Excellency Sir Basil Keith, has like-
wise desird as Governor of the Island, so that as soon as the more Impor-
tant Duty of the Station will admit of it I propose sending a Ship to Car-
thagena to Demand the Sloop, or the value of her, 8c her Cargo
I likewise beg leave to inclose the Copy of an Affidavit of a James
McGlashan, of an English sloop being taken by a Spanish Guarda Costa, at
a place call’d Alta Vella, on the South Side of Hispaniola, in the Spanish
Territories, and shall also send to Demand her, as soon as the Service will
allow of it -
The Grantham Packet, arriv’d the 16th of last Month, Dismast [ed] in
a Hurricane to Windward - I’ve order’d her Damages to be repair’d at the
Kings Yard and supplied with Stores, and directed the Storekeeper to pro-
cure Bills of Exchange for Payment thereof — and by this oppertunity
have wrote to the Navy Board respecting it, which I hope their Lordships
will approve
I have the pleasure to inform their Lordships that His Majts Ships 8c
Vessels under my Command have taken Forty Six Sail of the Rebel Ameri-
cans; including Eight taken by the Diligence at Pensacola
With respect to the Disposition of His Majestys Ships 8c Vessels under
my Command I beg leave to inform their Lordships that the Antelope , Win-
chelsea , Atalanta, Racehorse (Sloop) are Cruizing in the Windward Pas-
sage — The Squirrel , at Port Royal but intend’d to go with the Convoy the
28th instant — The Boreas arriv’d the 5th instant from New York having
safely Land’d the 30th Regiment. The Maidstone is likewise arriv’d from
the Convoy, both of which Ships I’ve order’d to be fitt’d for Sea again as
fast as possible — The Badger Brig will Sail in a few days for Pensacola to
releive the Diligence who is exceeding bad, and intend her to remain ’til the
Atalanta has Careen’d which shall releive her — The Porcupine Schooner is
at Greenwich attending the Survey on the Masts 8c Bowspreet many of
which are very defective after the Survey, if I find them in such Condition
as I Judge Necessary for their Lordships immediate Knowledge I shall dis-
patch her Express - I am, Sir, with great respect [8cc.]
Clark Gayton
1. PRO, Admiralty 1/240.
2. Ibid., Captain Douglas’ letter to Gayton, October 4, and other enclosures referred to by the
Admiral.
OCTOBER 1776
1169
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1172
AMERICAN THEATRE
9 Oct.
Minutes of the Executive Council of Nova Scotia1
At a Council holden at Halifax on the 9th October 1776
Present
The Honorable the Lieutenant Governor
The Honorable
Charles Morris
Richard Bulkeley
Henry Newton
Arthur Goold
John Butler
Counsellors
The Lieutenant Governor having Applied to Major General [Eyre]
Massey for a party of the Troops, to defend the Coasts from the Insults and
depredations of the Rebels. — And the General having Agreed to give
Eighty Men for that purpose. — It was Resolved that thirty Men be sent to
Liverpool and fifty to Yarmouth. —
1. N. S. Arch.
Master’s Log of H. M. S. Milford 1
October 1776 Do [Seal Island] No48W. 26 Leags
Wednesdy 9 at 8 AM Departed this Life Michael Royne Marine Com-
mitted the Deceased to the Deep, saw a Sail to the NW set
Steering sails and gave Chace.
First part Modt & Hazey latter Fresh Breezs & thick
Fogg, Fir’d 6 Shot at the Chase 1/2 past Brot her too she
proved to be the Lively Snow taken by an American priva-
teer
1. PRO, Admiralty 52/1865.
Libels in New Hampshire Admiralty Court Against
the Prize Schooners Glasgow and Neptune 1
State of New-Hampshire, Rockingham ss.
A Libel is hied before me, against the schooner named the Glasgow,
burthen about 35 tons, her cargo and appurtenances, commanded by John
Cabot: — Also against the schooner named the Neptune , of about 50 tons
burthen, her cargo and appurtenances, commanded by Thomas Fuller,
which vessels are said to have been the property of some inhabitant or in-
habitants, subject or subjects of Great Britain, and taken and brought into
the county of Rockingham: This notice is given, agreeable to the laws of
said state, that the maritime court erected to try and condemn all vessels
found infesting the sea coasts of America, and brought into the county of
Rockingham, will be held at the court house in Portsmouth, the 29th day of
OCTOBER 1776
1173
October instant, at 10 o’clock before noon, to try the justice of said cap-
tures, that all persons concerned, may appear, and shew cause (if any they
have) why the said vessels, their cargoes and appurtenances should not be
condemned.
J. Brackett, Judge of said Court.
Portsmouth, October 9th, 1776.
1. The Freeman’s Journal , October 29, 1776.
Journal of the Massachusetts Council1
[Watertown] Wednesday October 9th 1776.
Letter from Committee of Correspondence 8cc Newbury Port setting
forth that Capt George Evans in the Brig Necessity was sent into said Port
by the privateer Hancock Capt Wingate Newman that the Owners of said
privateer have Discharged Capt Evans and his Brig and desiring directions
whether said Capt Evans shall unload & dispose of his Cargo and whether
be permitted afterwards to Load with any produce that may be Shipped
from hence to Foreign parts 8cc2
On Motion Ordered That Thomas Cushing and Samuel Holton Esqrs be
a Committee to examine the Acts relative to Armed Vessels to know
whether the Board has a right to grant Commissions to privateers that
shall be fitted out by this State.
On Motion Ordered That Daniel Hopkins Esqr be a Committee to pro-
pose a draft of a Commission for Armed Vessels fitted out by this State.
1. Mass. Arch., vol. 19, 263-65, 266.
2. Ibid,., vol. 165, 324, the Necessity was a Bermuda vessel. The Council allowed Evans to dis-
pose of her cargo of salt, molasses and limes, and to load with local articles.
Acts and Resolves of the Massachusetts General Court1
[Watertown] Wednesday October 9th 1776.
Whereas the Armed Sloop Freedom Capt John Clouston belonging to
this State, has had the misfortune to have her Mast split, and is thereby dis-
abled from continuing on her cruize, and is now in the Harbor of Plymouth. -
And Whereas it will be much for the advantage of this State, that the
said Sloop should be altered into a Brig: and the Masts Sails, & Rigging of
the Brig Rising Empire, belonging to this State lately condemned & now in
said Harbor, are every way suitable for that purpose. -
Ordered, that Ephraim Spooner Esqr of Plymouth be desired, and is
hereby impowered in conjunction with Capt Clouston to see that the Masts,
Sails, 8c Rigging belonging to the Brig Rising Empire be taken out of her,
and forthwith applied to equip the said Sloop as a Brig, that she may be
able as soon as possible to proceed on her Cruise. -
1. Mass. Arch., vol. 36, 1, 5.
1174
AMERICAN THEATRE
Order of the Massachusetts Council Respecting the British Prize
Transport Brig Henry and Ann 1
In Council [Watertown] Octr 9th: 1776. -
Whereas the Prize lately taken by Capt Souther Commander of the
Brigt Massachusetts was sent into Townsend and has since been taken pos-
session of by Mr Timothy P[a]rsons, Agent for the Eastern District 8c by
him removed from thence to Wiscasset 8c there at present detained, which
the Capt[o]rs apprehend May be Very detrimental to their Interest, It is
therefore Ordered that Mr Timothy Parsons Agent for the Eastern Dis-
trict, be and hereby is directed to deliver the Said Prize to Capt Souther or
to his order, to Convey her to such Port in this State as Said Souther may
think will be most condusive to the Interest of all Concerned2
1. Mass. Arch., vol. 165, 325 1/£.
2- The Henry and Ann Avas brought into either Salem or Boston, and was libeled against in
the Middle District for trial at Salem on November 19, 1776, Independent Chronicle ,
Boston, October 31, 1776.
Petition of Adam Helme to the Massachusetts Council1
To the Hon’ble Council for the State of Massachusetts Bay
Adam Helme in behalf of Adam Babcock Esqr humbly Sheweth, that
the said Babcock is now loading a Brigantine at Dartmouth in the State
aforesaid by Order 8c on Account of Congress as by Contract may be seen;
which Brigantine it is thought necessary to Arm in some Degree. Your
Honors are therefore requested to dispose of to (the said Babcock) for the
purpose aforesaid a pair of small Cannon three Pounders belonging to this
State which are now at Dartmouth aforesaid and entirely useless at present
Adam Helme
Watertown Octr 9, 1776
As the Honble Council with respect to the above Cannon I would pro-
pose to their Plonors the depositing in the Hands of Mr Leonard Jarvis of
Dartmouth (in whose care they were left by Thomas Durfey Esqr[)] a
pair of larger Cannon (six pounders) as security for the above three Pound-
ders until their Honors shall think proper to receive pay for them or until
Mr Babcock can replace them with a pair of the same size
Adam Helme
[Endorsed] State of Massachusetts Bay Council Chamber Octr 9, 1776
It being represented to this Board that this State have two Cannon,
three pounders, at Dartmouth, which Adam Helme has petitioned may be
disposed of to him or will leave two other Cannon, Six pounders, in the
Room thereof untill he shall replace the two, three pounders — Ordered
that Mr Leonard Jarvis (or such Persons under whose care the said Cannon
are placed) be desired to deliver Mr Adam Helme the Two Cannon, three
pounders on his delivering the two Cannon Six pounders, provided they are
sound, the two Cannon so left to be subject to the Orders 8c Use of this
OCTOBER 1776
1175
State till the other two Cannon are returned or paid for at the Option of
this Board -
1. Mass. Arch., vol. 165, 327, 328.
Libel in Rhode Island Admiralty Court Against
the British Prize Ship Thomas 1
State of Rhode Island |T° the Honorable John Foster Esquire Judge
and Providence Plantations j of the Court of Justice created for the
Trial of Prize Causes in and throughout the
State aforsaid
Arthur Crawford of Providence in the County of Providence and State
afor[e]said Mariner Commander of the Private Sloop of War called the
Hawke fitted out from Providence afor[e]said and duly Commissioned
with Letters of Marque and Reprisal to Cruize against the Enemies of the
United States of America, Comes into this Honble Court and for himself
and in Behalf of the Owners of and the Officers and Mariners belonging to
said Sloop, gives your Plonor to understand and be informed That on the
Twenty first Day of September AD 1776, being on a Cruize against the Ene-
mies of the said United States on the High Seas, in Latitude 45°. and Lon-
gitude 48° he took and captured the Ship called the Thomas burthened Two
Hundred Tons or thereabouts late Commanded by one Thomas Bell with her
Appurtenances together ivith her Cargo consisting of Blankets, Coarse
woolen Cloths, Irish Linnens, Sheeting, Shoes, Stockings, Dowlass,
Brandy, Port Wine, bottled Porter, Cheese krc.&c.&c. bound from London in
the Kingdom of Great Britain to Quebec in the Province of Canada; and
which said Ship with her Appurtenances together with her Cargo before
the time of Capture belonged to and were the Property of some of the In-
habitants of the Island of Great Britain, and were designed to supply the
British Fleets and Armies now acting against these United States; and
that your Informent hath sent the said Ship into the port of Providence
within your Honors Jurisdiction. Wherefore he humbly prays that your
Honor would take the Premises into Consideration, and order the proper
Process and Monitions to issue as are in such Cases required by Law or that
your Honor would otherwise Proceed as to Justice and Right appertained.
for the said Arthur
Crawford 8cc.Scc.
[Endorsed] Libel vs Ship Thomas and Cargo. Reed Octor 9th: 1776
Trial ordered to be Octor 28: 1776.
John Cole Proctor
1. Admiralty Papers, vol. 9, R. I. Arch.
Nathaniel Shaw, Jr/s Account Against the British Prize Ship Sally
1176
AMERICAN THEATRE
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necticut state brig Defence.
Connecticut privateer sloop American Revenue.
1178
AMERICAN THEATRE
Jeremiah Wadsworth to Barnabas Deane 1
[Extract]
Dear Sir Saw Pitts 9th Octob 1776
Your Favour of the 6th Instt I reed Yesterday by the returng Post who
was flying and I cou’d not acknowledge it by him Is it Possible that Capt
Mortimer has forgot his engagements. You remember how often I urged
[John] Cotton to clinch that Rigging. However I am surprised at
Nothing the daily disappointments I meet with, prepare me to believe any
thing. The Rigers I believe will do as they please about the pric of their La-
bour or quit; Curse on such double dealing I think this Country is older
in fraud 8c Chicanery than G Britain. This day several Ships 8c Tenders
passed Fort Washington and penetrated through all our Cheaveaux
D’frieze, Sunken Vessels 8c the Devil knows what, and have arrived safe on
Taupon Sea a wide place about 4 Leagues above the Bridge. This will ob-
struct our Navigation down that River 8c bring us to the Necessity of much
Land Carriage and if the Enemy effectually Stop the Navigation of the
Sound their will be great difficulty in supporting our Army. . . .
I am very greatly mortified that You are so disappointed about the
Ship,2 and I suppose the Communication with the Jersys will be cut of[f]
or greatly Obstructed but if it should be otherwise I dont see as any hemp
will be had. the Devil has got footing among all orders of Men and we are
going at a great rate to mine unless a speedy alteration takes place, half
the World are speculating. I fear the Person who [you] dispatched about
the Hemp deserves a Neckcloth of it. I have no news from him Yet. . . .
1. Collections of the Connecticut Historical Society , XXIII, 40-42.
2. The Continental frigate Trumbull built under Barnabas Deane’s supervision.
Governor Sir Guy Carleton to Lieutenant Governor
Hector Cramahe1
[No.] 195 Off Wind Mill Point 9th of October 1776
Sir I have got thus far with the armed Vessels, except the Inflexible which
I expect up tomorrow or next day at farthest, after which we shall take the
first favorable wind to proceed upon our expedition.
I have given a Commission to Captain La Force to build a vessell for
lake Ontario, in the execution of which I beg you will give all the assistance
he may require — We have no news of Burn who was sent down to you ten
days ago. I am 8cc
1. Guy Carleton Letter Book, Haldimand Papers, Additional Ms. 21699, BM.
Journal of H. M. S. Phoenix , Captain Hyde Parker, JRl
October 1776. -
Wednesday 9th
At Single Anchor in North or Hudsons River,
at 1/2 pt 7 A:M Weigh’d and came to Sail in Co His Majes-
ty’s Ships Roebuck , Tarter, Tryal Schooner, 8c two Tend-
Ships of the Royal Navy Forcing Passage Up the Hudson River.
1180
AMERICAN THEATRE
ers at 50' past 7 the Rebels began a heavy Cannonading
from several Batteries on each Side of the River at i/2
past 9 got through the Passage by the Chevieux de
Frieze, Sunken Vessels 8cca Hoisted two Flags at the
Main Topgt Mast Head as private Signals, which was
Answer’d by the Repulse. In passing the Forts a Mid,
two Seamen and a Boy were Kill’d and twelve others
wounded, Our Mizen Mast & Mizen Topmast entirely dis-
abled, Main Stay, and Several of the Lower 8c Topmast
Shrouds Cut; The Sails 8c Running Rigg very much dam-
aged; The Spare Main topmt some other Sparrs 8c the
Boats very much Shatter’d. We also received 4 Shot
through our Hull, at Noon in Co as before, In Chace of
Four of the Rebel Gallies 8cca sent the Tartar a head to
Cut them off. Dobbs Ferry ESE Distance i/2 a Mile
Mode 8c Cloudy Wr in chace as before at 1 P.M. two
of the Gallies, a Schooner, and Two Sloops ran on-
shore, At y2 pt Anchor’d with the B: Bower in 7 fm
abreast of a Galley. Fir’d Several Broadsides to Scour
the Shore 8c sent the Long-boat 8c Cutters wth two Haws-
ers to make fast to the Galley; At \/2 pt 1 the Roebuck
Anchd abrest of the other Vessels & the Tartar abreast
of the other Galley. At i/2 pt 3 hove off the Galleys 8cc a
and at 4 weigh’d 8c came to Sail in Co as before, and two
Row Gallies, Two Sloops, 8c One Schooner Prizes. At 5
Anchd wth the B: Bower in Tapan-Bay in 6 fm Veer’d to
1/3 of a Cable Tarry Town NE Distance Off Shore a
Mile. At 6 Committed the Bodies of the Deceased to the
Deep.
1. PRO, Admiralty 51/694.
Master’s Log of H. M. S. Roebuck 1
October 1776 Glass House Point SSW
Wednesday 9th AM. at 4 berrocaded the ship at 7 weigh’d and made
sail with the Phenex, Tartar , Tryal Schooner 8c Phenex 8c
Roebuck's Tenders i/2 past 7 the Enemy begun to fire
upon us from their Batterys on Forts Lee 8c Washington
and at 9 being past them they ceas’d firing at 11 the
Pembroke brought of[f] a sloop which the Enemy had
left at anchor, at Noon Anchor’d off Merlins Landing in
7 1/*? fath about li/2 Cable from the Shore. In passing the
Battery, the small Cutter was Shatter’d to pieces found it
Necessary to Cut a drift, Lieut Leek 8c Mr Hitchcock
Midst were killed and three Seamen 8c 7 Seamen
Wounded open’d a Cask of Beef No. 17 Contg 186 Short
2 Pieces
OCTOBER 1776
1181
Fresh gales & cloudy P.M. at 1 sent a Warp on board
one of the Enemy’s Sloops which was a Shore abreast of
us 8c got her off as the Phenix 8c Tartar did one of their
Galleys, & the Pembroke a Schooner with Provisions
Arms 8cc on board at 5 Weigh’d and made sail 8c at 6
Anchor’d in 7 fath Tarry Town NE 1 Mile
1. PRO, Admiralty 52/1965.
Journal of H.M.S. Tartar, Captain Cornthwaite Ommanney1
October 1776 Sailing up the North River
Wednesday 9 Mode and Cloudy wr at 7 AM weighed and came to Sail
in Co with his Majesty’s Ships Phoenix Roebuck Tryal
Schooner and two Tenders at 8 do Five Batterys on the
York and two on the Jersey Shore began to fire on us
likewise hove a number of Shells with a Continual Fire-
ing till 1/2 past 9 after Hulling on [us] several times,
wounded our Masts and cutting a great deal of the Rig-
ing and Sails a Shott went thro the Mizen Mast and af-
terwards killd a Midshipmn2 the Splinters of the Masts
wounded the Captn Lieut of Marines 8c Pilot after pas-
ing the Batterys the Enemy began to Fire Small Arms
from the Woods, which they continued for several Miles
up the River at 10 gave chace to the Enemys
Galleys, at 1 1 drove on shore several of their Merchmn
and the Independence Galley at Noon drove on Shore
the Crane Galley and continued Chace
Light Breezes and Cloudy, found that the rest of the
Galleys had got out of Gun Shott, by the Assistance of
their Oars at l/2 pt 1 came too abreast of the Crane Gal-
ley sent a Lieut and some Men and took possession of her
1. PRO, Admiralty 51/972.
2. Ibid,., Midshipman John Scott, buried the next day.
1182
AMERICAN THEATRE
‘‘Return of the Killed and Wounded onboard His Majesty's Ships
PASSING THE BATTERIES THE 9tH OCTOBER 1776.” * 1
Killed Wounded
Marines
Ships Names
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Copy H. Parker.
[Endorsed] In Lord Howes Lre of 23 Nov 1776
1. PRO, Admiralty 1/487.
Narrative of Captain Andrew Snape Hamond1
[H. M. S. Roebuck , October 3 to October 9, 1776]
3d Octr The Daphne arrived from England with Burgoyn[e]?s Regimt
of Light Horse: They had 10 weeks passage, and gave account
that the Hessians had sailed about the same time, so that they
were now hourly expected.
[5th] As the Rebel Army was chiefly supplyed by the North River,
and placed great dependance upon it, they had taken a great
deal of pains to throw a Boom a cross, by sinking Vessels &
frames of Timber, to prevent our ships from passing up. They
had placed these obstructions in the narrowest part, where the
9th Octr River is about 12 hundred Yards wide, between two High
Lands, having Fort Washington on the Right, and Fort Consti-
tution on the left, each containing several batterys of heavy can-
non, placed at some distance along the shore, and six row Gal-
leys with each a large Gun in their prow guarded the boom in
front; so that, we understood, they looked upon it to be perfectly
secure: and it is possible, from seeing the great preparation
they had made, we might also have thought so, if a deserter had
not informed the Admiral that there was a passage open be-
tween two of the sunken Vessels (which his Brother the Ferry
OCTOBER 1776
1183
Man had given him marks for) and offered himself as a Pilot.
This intelligence was exceedingly agreable to both the General 8c
Admiral, concieving, that if ships could be got up the North
River, the Rebel’s supplys would not only be cut off from Albany
8c that country, but even their Communication with the Jerseys
would become very uncertain 8c unsafe which could not fail of
distressing them, and would very much assist in the intended
opperation of surrounding their Army as soon as the Hessians
should arrive.
9th Octr The Phoenix Tartar 8c Roebuck were therefore ordered upon
this service, when after waiting a few days for an opportunity
they passed through on the 9th Octr without the least obstruc-
tion, and with but little loss, considering they were an hour 8c a
quarter within the Enemys fire.2 The Galleys made the best of
their way up the River, but two of them, with sevl other Vessels
that came with supplys to the Rebel Camp were soon over taken,
and fell into our hands: the former of which was a great acquis-
ition to us, as they never after dared to shew us their Galleys
again. Much praise is due to Capt Parker on this occasion (who
led, in the Phoenix) for his steadyness 8c good conduct — when
they drew near to the danger, the Pilot, in great confusion told
him, that the marks which then appeared were not those that
had been described to him, and he was totally at a loss, upon
which C. [Captain] Parker, very prudently, imediately deter-
mined to take his chance where he knew the deepest water to be,
which was Close to the eastern Shore, and which was the pas-
sage he came through when he passed down, before the obstruc-
tion of the Channel were said to be completed.3
1. Hamond, No. 5, UVL.
2. In the margin of his narrative, Hamond listed the losses of the three ships as follows:
The Phoenix lost a Midn & 2 Men & had several wounded.
The Tartar had a Midn killed & 2 or 3 woundd.
The Roebuck lost the 1st Lieutenant a Midshn & 2 Men and had 4 wounded.
The Phoenix actually had 4 killed and 13 wounded.
3. Ibid., No. 1, a second version of the passing of the batteries is contained in a rough sheet attached
to the narrative. It reads:
an American came into our Camp & stated that he* was Brother to the Ferry
Man who plyed from Fort Washington on the York side to Fort Lee on the
Jersey shore, who had informed him that there was an opening in the Dam by
which ships might pass, and had showed him where it was, and being asked if he
would undertake to Pilot a ship through the opening, to which he assented for a
Reward — The General upon this Information very strongly & officially pressed
the Admiral to take advantage of this Information when 3 ships were ordered
on that service the Phoenix Capt Parker Roebuck Capt Hamond & Tartar
Capt Ommaney and embracing the first opportunity of a strong wind & flood Tide
each ship followed in a Line after the other, having previously considered what
would be best to be done in the Event of the Guide proving Treacherous a
favorable opportunity offered abt Noon on when Capt Parker being senior officer
Led the way & steered by the direction of the Guide towards the Middle of the
Dam having Pistols laying on the Binnacle telling the guide what would be his
Fate if the ships should stop in their passage. He for some time persisted in his
1184
AMERICAN THEATRE
knowledge, but on the near approach confessed his perfect ignorance — For-
tunately this had been so strongly suspected, that Capt Parker immedty hauld
up to the side where it was known the deepest water lay — and the ships all
passed within 40 yards of the Muzzles of the Enemys Guns in the Batterys of
Fort Washington — amidst the hre of 100 Cannon from both sides of the River —
in little more time than about 20 minutes —
Lieutenants Jeremiah Putnam and Nathaniel Cleaves
to George Washington1
North River October the 9th 1776
Sir this is a Coppey of the precedings On Bord the galley Independance On
the 8th Coll [Benjamin] Tupper sent Orders On Bord for Capt [John]
Baker to prosceed On shore and that there Was no farther Buisness
for him On Bord On the 9th at about 7AM We Observed the Ships Be-
low to Be moving We Imeadetly Cauld all Hands, after seeing the Other
Galley Under way We hove Up and stood Up the river after them
and When We got Above the Chevax De, free, spoke with Cook and askt
what he Intended to Doo. He answerd that he Did not know But stood Up
the River and said there Was Not Warter Enough to Goo in to the
Creek the Wind Being Morderate We gained a head of them wich gave
Us Encoregment to keep along it soon after Breezd Up & the Ships
Gaind Upon Us fast: and at about 11AM the[y] Began to fire Upon
Us With theire Bow Chases at About twelf they Over reacht Us wich
Causd Us to Bare in Shore and at i/2 P M We run her On shore Just Above
Dobsey [Dobbs] Ferry Where We had not time Enough to Git Our people
and things On shore in the Boates: and the shiping Began the fire Wich Ob-
ligd Us to Swim On shore. But no Lives Lost But, part of theire Guns and
Cheif of theire Baggage, and I Observed the Enemy to hawl Up theire
Boats And man them, Wich, they Emeadetly Dropt On stern and fired a
Bradside of Grape Shot as we Ley in the Bushes and Emeadetly sent theire
Boat On Bord With a Warp and hove her a long side from your [8cc.]
Jeremh Putnam Lt
Nathaniel Cleaves Liut
1. Washington Papers, LC.
Memoirs of Major General William Heath1
[Headquarters, near Harlem] 9th [October]. - Early in the morning,
three ships, two of 40 guns, and one frigate, with two or three tenders,
stood up the North River. They were briskly cannonaded from Fort Wash-
ington and Fort Constitution. They however passed our works and the che-
vaux-de-frise; the American galleys, small craft, and two large ships stand-
ing on before them. The two ships were run on shore near Phillips’s mills,
and two of the galleys near Dobbs’ Ferry. The enemy took possession of the
two galleys, and got them off. A boat landed a number of men, who plun-
dered a store, stove the casks, and then set the store on fire, and left it. The
Americans soon extinguished the fire.
OCTOBER 1776
1185
Our General ordered Col. [Paul Dudley] Sargent, with 500 infantry,
40 light-horse, Capt. [Jotham] Horton of the artillery, with two 12 pound-
ers, and Capt. [Edward] Crafts with a howitzer, to march immediately,
with all possible expedition, to Dobbs’ Ferry. The enemy took a schooner
loaded with rum, sugar, wine, &c. and sunk a sloop, which had on board the
machine, invented by, and under the direction of, a Mr. Bushnell, intended
to blow up the British ships. This machine was worked under water. It con-
veyed a magazine of powder, which was to be fixed under the keel of a ship,
then freed from the machine, and left with clock-work going, which was to
produce fire when the machine had got out of the way. Mr. Bushnell had
great confidence of its success, and had made several experiments which
seemed to give him countenance; but its fate was truly a contrast to its
design.2
1. Abbatt, ed., Heath Memoirs, 60-61.
2. Bushnell recovered the T urtle. See Appendix B.
George Washington to John Hancock1
[Extract] Head Qurs, Heights of Haerlem
Octr the 9th [1776]
About 8 o’clock this morning, Two Ships of 44 Guns each, supposed to
be the Roebuck & Phoenix and a Frigate of 20 guns, with Three or Four
Tenders, got under way from about Blooming dale where they had been
lying some time and stood with an easy southerly breeze towards our Che-
vaux de Frise, which we hoped would have intercepted their passage while
our Batteries played upon them, But to our surprise and mortification, they
ran thro without the least difficulty and without receiving any apparent
damage from our Forts, tho they kept up a heavy Fire from both sides of
the River, their destination or views cannot be known with certainty, but
most probably they are sent to stop the navigation and cut off the supplies
of boards &c. which we should have received and of which we are in great
need. They are standing up, and I have despatched an Express to the Con-
vention of this State,2 that notice may be immediately communicated to
Genl [George] Clinton at the Highland Fortifications to put him on his
guard in case they should have any designs against them and that precau-
tions may be taken to prevent the Craft belonging to the River from falling
into their hands.
1. Papers CC (Letters from George Washington) , 152, III, 139, 141-42, NA.
2. New York Provincial Congress, I, 669.
Tench , Tilghman to Major General William Heath1
Sir Head Quarters 9th October 1776
I have this Moment yours of this Evening. The Party of 100 Men were
ordered up to assist a Detatchment of Artillery in covering the two New
1186
AMERICAN THEATRE
Ships, should the Enemy attempt to cut them out or destroy them. Soon
after I got home from Fort Washington I reed a Report that the Enemy had
passed the new Ships and were landing at Dobb s Ferry, I then directed
Colo [Joseph] Read to desire you, if that should be the Case to send the
Feild Peices and Howitzers forward if it should be judged necessary, and as
Genl Clinton best knew the Ground to consult him upon the Necessity of
sending on the Artillery, and if it was sent, that a strong covering Party
should go with it. Till I reed yours I heard no more of the Matter. I am
sorry you have been misinformed as to the Movement of the other Ships
below, they have never stirred from their Moorings. You will therefore be
pleased to order Capt Benson to be as expeditious as possible in getting the
new Ships afloat and bringing them down to where they may be conven-
iently ballasted. I will take proper Care of the prisoners you are sending
down —
While I was writing the above by his Excellency’s Direction he went to
Bed. I thought it a pity to disturb him to sign it. I therefore have the Honor
to subscribe myself [8cc.]
Tench Tilghman
1. Heath Papers, MassHS.
Journal of Ambrose Serle 1
[On board H.M.S. Eagle, New York]
Wednesday, 9th [October]
This Morning the Phoenix, the Roebuck and the Tartar sailed up the North
River above the Cheveaux de Frize of the Rebels under a heavy Discharge
of their Cannon, which was not perceived to do them any Damage. The
Pearl 8c Repulse kept where they were before; so that now the North River
is in full Possession of His Majesty’s Fleet, and the Retreat of the Rebels
entirely cut off from N. Jersey. Their Vessels and Boats made the best of
their Way up the River; but it is not yet known, whether any of them are
destroyed or taken. The Rebels, we find, are deserting apace, are very
sickly, and much dispirited. They are also retiring backward, destroying
Corn 8c Hay as they go, further into New Jersey from Bergen 8c Newark,
and the adjacent Parts.
1. Tatum, ed., Serle’ s Journal, 121.
Diary of Frederick Mackenzie 1
[New York] 9th Octr — At half past 7 in the morning The Phoenix, Roe-
buck, and Tartar, weighed anchor, and having the advantage of the flood
tide, and a brisk Southerly wind, stood up the North River, followed by
three or four small tenders. As soon as the Rebels perceived them under
way, they beat to arms and manned all their batteries on each side of the
River. About 8 o’clock they began to fire very briskly at the Ships from
OCTOBER 1776
1187
both sides, but particularly from the batteries near Kingsbridge and imme-
diately opposite. The Ships fired but little, and in about 3/4 of an hour had
entirely passed those batteries without receiving any damage that could be
observed by us. In their passage up, while we could see them, they drove
about 20 sail of small craft before them, some of which they took. About 10
o’Clock they were again fired on by Some of the Batteries up the River, but
as they were then out of our sight, it was not known what the consequence
was.
This movement is certainly connected with the general plan for the at-
tack of the Enemy, and points out clearly that our operations are intended
against Mr Washington’s Army on this Island.
1. Mackenzie's Diary , I, 75.
Continental Marine Committee to the Rhode Island
Frigate Committee 1
Gentlemen [Philadelphia] October 9th 1776 —
We have been presented with a Letter from John Langdon Esquire
Continental Agent at Portsmouth in New Hampshire to Josiah Bartlett Es-
quire a member of Congress, giving a very extraordinary account of your
proceedings in respect to the Canon cast in your State for the use of the
Continental Frigates. He says that the frigates at Providence cannot be
ready to go to sea for two or three months, and that the frigate at New
Hampshire waits only for Cannon, which under One pretence or other you
have refused to supply him with altho they are lying useless in Rhode Is-
land, and another Set might be cast in time for your ships. He represents
your refusal of his reasonable request as having its foundation partly in in-
terested motives and partly in Jealousy of the New Hampshire ship being
at Sea before yours.
We cannot pretend to judge of the propriety of his Observations hav-
ing only heard One side, but if the representation he has made be a just one,
we shall think the Continental Interest was much misplaced when put into
the hands of those who are capable of acting from such Motives against the
public good. You’l observe we do [not] pretend to decide on your conduct,
because we are willing to hear your defence of it. Mr Langdon is a Gentle-
man of character and puts his name to what he writes, therefore we sup-
pose he will be ready to make good his charge, however it is not our present
purpose to inquire into your conduct at this time, but to inform you that we
have sent Mr Langdon Orders to call on you again for a Set of Cannon suit-
able for the New Hampshire Frigate, &: as we understand those Cannon are
paid for out of the Moneys you have received and drawn for, We now direct
and insist that a compleat set of the Cannon most suitable for that Ship be
immediately delivered to the said John Langdon Esquire or to his order for
the use of the Continental Frigate the Raleigh now at Portsmouth, and we
request that you will render him or his Agents all the assistance in your
1188
AMERICAN THEATRE
power in transporting the said Cannon to Portsmouth in the most safe and
expeditious manner. Mr Langdon has said nothing about Shot or other
stores, but as it is our business to consider and attend to the Continental In-
terest at large abstracted from Jarring Interest or Jealousey of one State
against another we likewise desire you may Supply Mr Langdon with Shott
or any other Stores you have provided for the Continental service provided
he wants them to expedite the sailing of the Raleigh which is now under Or-
ders for immediate service. We also inform you that we shall send an Agent
to inspect the state of the Frigates built under your direction that we may
include them in our intended report to Congress.— We are Gentlemen [8cc.]2
1. Marine Committee Letter Book, 27-28, NA.
2. Ibid., the Marine Committee also wrote this date to Stephen Hopkins: “We hope Sir, that,
your attachment to the general Interests of America, Your regard to the character of
your State and your Friends employed therein, and your influence in that State will all
combine to have those abuses re[c]tified. . .
Continental Marine Committee to the Rhode Island
Frigate Committee1
Gentlemen [Philadelphia] October 9th 1776
We the Subscribers Members of the Marine Committee of Congress
being duely authorized to give such directions as may conduce to the Service
of the United States of America in all things relative to this department,
are now of opinion that a Compleat Set of the Cannon you have had Cast
for the Continental Service ought to be applied to the immediate use of the
Raleigh Frigate and therefore do Order and direct that you deliver a suffi-
cient number of the most suitable Cannon for that Ship to John Langdon
Esquire or to his Agent employed for the purpose of receiving and forward-
ing the same to Portsmouth, and for so doing this shall be your Warrant.
Given under our hands at the Marine Office in Philadelphia the day and
year above written. —
1. Marine Committee Letter Book, 28-29, NA.
Continental Marine Committee to Captain Nathaniel Falconer 1
Sir [Philadelphia] October 9th 1776 —
You are hereby authorized and directed to repair to Providence in
Rhode Island and there view examine and inspect two frigates lately built &
now lying at that place. You are to call on the respectable Committee of
Gentlemen under whose direction they were built and are to be fitted; give
them notice of your arrival and appointment to this service, require from
them an Inventory of the Continental Stores provided for these Ships, and
examine into the quality of the same compareing the said Stores with the
Inventory to see that they agree, and you are to make report as soon as may
be to this Committee of the State and condition of these Ships, as to the
Strength, workmanship, beauty and other qualitys, also as to the quality
OCTOBER 1776
1189
and quantity of Stores, Number of Men and Officers belonging to them and
of their forwardness for the Sea; and all persons employed in the building
or fitting of said Frigates are hereby required to aid and assist you if need
there be in performing the service hereby enjoined you, and for so doing
this shall be your Warrant.
Given under our hands at the Marine Office the day and year first
above written.
1. Marine Committee Letter Book, 29, NA.
Continental Marine Committee to John Langdon1
Sir [Philadelphia] October 9th 1776. —
Your friend Mr Bartlett having laid before this board your Letter to
him of the 14th Ultimo respecting the conduct of the Committee at Provid-
ence Rhode Island, on your applying to them for Cannon for the Raleigh ,
this conduct appears to us in the most extraordinary point of light, but as it
is unbecoming of public Bodies, to condemn the conduct of any before they
are heard in their own defence, We have wrote them of this date telling the
points of which you complain and ordering them to deliver you a compleat
set of the Continental Cannon in their possession those that are most suita-
ble for the Raleigh, and further we have directed them to deliver you Shot
or any other Continental Stores they have, if you think them necessary to
expedite the sailing of that ship, we have also requested them to afford
you any assistance in their power in transporting the cannon and Stores
safe and soon to Portsmouth. We may not omit telling you that we have
thought it only common justice to send Governor [Stephen] Hopkins a
Copy of your Letter as the Commee were all of his appointment. We have
said that deeming you a Gentleman of honor we doubt not but you will sup-
port the charge made against them, and under that beliefe we think it is
justly your due and return you thanks for the information given us, as well
as for your apparent solicitude for the public good. We have determined to
have the Frigates inspected, and report made thereon. Before we close we
must request your utmost exertions to get the Raleigh out to Sea, and the
Captains and other Officers Commissions will now go forward
immediatly We are sir [&c.]
1. Marine Committee Letter Book, 29-30, NA.
Continental Marine Committee to the New York Convention 1
Gentlemen [Philadelphia] October 9th 1776 —
Having received information that some of the enemies Ships of war
and Tenders have passed the obstructions laid in Hudsons River, and got
above the same; we are very anxious for the fate of the Frigates now build-
ing in your State. We therefore earnestly desire to direct your close atten-
tion to some probable means of securing the said Ships; either by launching
1190
AMERICAN THEATRE
them immediately, if possible, and removing them to some place of greater
Safety, or by such other Methods as your wisdom shall devise. With great
respect. We are Gentn [&c.]
1. Marine Committee Letter Book, 30, NA.
Pennsylvania Gazette, Wednesday, October 9, 1776
Philadelphia, October 9.
By a letter from Boston, dated Sept. 30, we are informed . . . Captain
[William] Co[a]s, of the Warren privateer, has carried into Newbury-
port, or Cape Ann, a very rich prize, laden with sugar, rum, cotton, plate
and money.1
We hear a large prize ship from Jamaica, taken by the General Mont-
gomery privateer of this port, is ashore on the Cross Ledge, in our Bay;
but it is expected she will be got off, by taking out part of the cargoe.2
By a vessel from Cape Francois we learn, that a French 50 gun ship
was cruizing off that place to protect the trade; that two prizes had been
carried in there and sold by Captain Monro [James Munro], of Rhode-
Island;3 and that they will not suffer the English men of war to go in there
for water.
1. The ship Picary, 400 tons, carried into Cape Ann.
2. The ship Thetis, 300 tons burden, taken by the Pennsylvania privateer brig General
Montgomery, James Montgomery.
3. See Volume 5.
Journal of the Virginia Navy Board1
[Williamsburg] Wednesday 9th Octr 1776. -
Ordered that a Warrant Issue to Joseph Harrison for Ten pounds nine shill-
ings & ten pence for Medicines furnished for the use of the Brig Liberty. -
Present Mr [John] Hutchings -
Ordered that a Warrant Issue to Thomas Pollard for Thirty three pounds,
on Account, to recruit Seamen for the use of the Navy, who gave Bond to-
gether with Richard Mitchell his Security in the Penalty of sixty [six]
pounds Conditioned for his faithfully applying the said Money and render-
ing a Just and true Account thereof to the Board when required —
Ordered that Colo William Aylett deliver for the use of the Seamen on
Board the Hero Galley two pieces of Oznabrigs and as much thread as may
be Necessary for making the same up. -
Ordered that the keeper of the Public Store deliver for the use of the Ma-
rines on Board the Hero Galley one piece of Oznabrigs. -
Ordered that Colo William Finnie deliver for the use of the Seamen and
Marines on Board the Hero Galley five Dozen pair of Yarn Stockings -
Ordered that the keeper of the Public Store deliver unto Capt Richard Bar-
ron five Bolts of Sail Cloth, six pounds of Twine and one Lanthorn for the
use of the Boat Patriot —
OCTOBER 1776
1191
Ordered that a Warrant Issue to Lieut Samuel Arell One hundred
Pounds, upon Account, to Purchase Necessaries for the use of his Company
Marines —
1. Navy Board Journal, 68, 70, VSL.
Virginia Navy Board to Captain Charles Thomas, Warwick 1
Sir, Williamsburg Octor 9th 1776 -
You are desir’d to get the following Articles ready as early as possible
for the use of the Lewis Galley and send them to James Town
1 — 5 Inch Horne ... 50 Fathom
1 . . Coil ... 2 1/2 Rope for Tackle fall
1 — Do ... 2 do
300 lb of 9 Thread Ratling for Netting
4 . . 9 Inch double blocks -
4 — Single ... do
12 . . 5 Inch ... do
By order of the Naval Board Yr Hb’l’e Servant
Thomas Whiting 1st Comr.2
1. Navy Board Letter Book, VSL.
2. Ibid., this date Thomas was requested to supply similar articles for the Defiance, Captain
Callender, and the Page, Captain Markham.
Journal of the South Carolina Navy Board 1
Charlestown, South-Carolina, Wednesday, 9th October 1776
In pursuance of an act of the General Assembly, passed the 4th October
1776 The following Commissioners Edw Blake 8cc to Superintend and direct
the Naval affairs of this State, met and previous to their forming a board,
took the following Oath of Qualification vizt.
I Do Swear that I will well and truly Execute the duties of
my Office, as a Commissioner of the Navy Board to the best of my skill
and Judgment. So help me God.
The Commissioners then proceeded to the election of the First Commis-
sioner and Edward Blake Esqr. was by a majority of votes chosen First
Commissioner of the Navy, and took his seat accordingly —
Resolved That the following Advertisement, for a Clerk of the Board,
be published vizt.
The Commissioners of the Navy Board, give this public Notice that
they are in want of a Clerk, whose duty and Business will be, to keep
Regular Accots. and Journals of all Transactions, Relating to the said
Board, also, when required, to go on Board the Vessels of War in the
service of this State, & take exact accounts of the Officers & Seamen on
board, to pay off the wages due them Respectively, & to make proper
returns thereof to the said Board, on Oath, The Salary allowed for such
Business will be Fourteen Hundred pounds per Annum. Any person
1192
AMERICAN THEATRE
willing to engage will apply before Nine OClock on Saturday morning,
the 12th Instant by letter directed to, Edward Blake, First Commis-
sioner.
The Board upon enquiry into the state of the Navy, found that there was a
vacancy for a Captain to command the brigantine-of-war Comet.
Ordered That the Following Letter be sent to the General Assembly then
sitting. Vizt. To the Honble James Parsons Esq., Speaker, & Gentlemen of
the General Assembly —
The Commissioners of the Navy Board on Enquiry find that a Captain
is wanted for the Brigt Comet They recommend Captain Stephen
Seymour, & Captain Edward Allen, as fit Persons for the Legislature
to make choice of —
1. A. S. Salley, Jr., ed.. Journal of the Commissioners of the Navy of South Carolina, October 9,
1776-March 1, 1779 (Columbia, 1912) , 5-6. Hereafter cited as Salley, ed., South Carolina
Navy Board.
South- Carolina and American General Gazette , Wednesday, October 2
to Wednesday, October 9, 1776
Charlestown, October 9.
We hear from Savannah, that the Men of War have left that River; so
there is not now one of the Enemy’s Vessels in South-Carolina or. Georgia.
It is said, there are some in Cape-Fear River in North-Carolina.
Yesterday two French Sloops arrived here from Hispaniola; the Cargo
of one of them, consisting of Linens, Thread, Brandy, Rum, Liqueors,
Claret, Sweet Oil, Paper, Soap, Nails, &c. is to be sold by publick Outcry at
Mess. Lever and Greenwood’s Store, on Friday next, the 11th. instant, at 9
o’Clock in the Forenoon.
Count d’Ennery, Governor of Santo Domingo, to Gabriel de Sartine 1
[Extract] Port au Prince, 9 October 1776
P. S. I must add that besides the English frigate cruising near the end of
the mole to intercept Insurgent Vessels, there is another cruising off Cap
[Haitien] and Fort Dauphin for the same purpose; M. de Monteil is watch-
ing the mole; surely he will not tolerate any insults and at the very least he
will comply with Instructions. Since Cap remains unguarded, I will send
M. de Beaussier there as soon as possible because he is sighting and learning
nothing during his cruise; this will not take place before the end of No-
vember however. M. de Alonteil wants to leave without delay having only
three months provisions left. I pointed out to him that I would keep him
on my own responsibility until I receive your orders concerning him or until
the arrival of other frigates which could relieve him. I shall give him the
order in writing to stay here because, in the present circumstances, it is at
least suitable, and necessary that two of the King’s frigates remain on station
OCTOBER 1776
1193
here. I hope that you will approve the orders which I am issuing M. de Mon-
teil and M. de Beaussier in this matter. As I reported upon first receipt, we
have news that a lively action took place in New York between the Royalists
and the Insurgents; in any case, it cannot be decisive and I believe that the
campaign of the English has been a failure since they will have to begin
another one next year, which will prove very costly in any case.
1. AN, Marine B4, 128, LC Photocopy.
Master’s Log of H. M. Sloop Hawke 1
So most Sugar loaf NE 1 mile Body of St Vint-
cent Si/^E dist of [f] Shore 2 miles
AM at 8 sent the boat mannd and Arm’d to Examine a
Sloop to the So ward Exercis’d Great Guns and small
arms.
[Variable Weather] PM at 1 The boat return’d with
the Master of the Sloop finding his Papers not sufficient
detain’d her. Sent the Lieut 1 midshipman & 7 men to
carry her to St Vintcent
1. PRO, Admiralty 52/1780.
10 Oct.
Commodore Charles Douglas to Captain Philemon Pownoll,
H.M.S. Blonde 1
Sir Sorel October the 10th 1776
Hereby acknowledging the late receipt of your letter and weekly account; I
acquaint you, that so many things have concurred to retard my progress to-
wards Quebec; that I despair of reaching Champlain before the 12th In
the meantime, lest I should be still farther retarded, I take this method of
expressing my earnest desire, of your getting the Blonde down below the
Rapids to take in your lumber out of the Lord Howe : to the end that she
may get down to the Bason, in order to be in readiness to proceed towards
England, at a very short notice — where I wish to see us all speedily re-
united: that we may concert measures how to dispose of His Majestys very
important naval concerns in this River; in such manner; as shall be most
for the interest of Government.
By what I have learnt, I think it probable that General Carleton did on
Tuesday Evening or yesterday morning find our flotilla in readiness to go in
quest of that of the Rebels so that we may shortly Expect important news
from the farther end of Lake Champlain — As the Inflexible is of the
party, I am not uneasy about the event — Her Keel was laid on the 5th of
September, she was launched the 30th, and sailed the 4th instant: by no
means the last of the Armament — All the Carpenters work bestow’d upon
Octr 1776
Wednesday 9th
1194
AMERICAN THEATRE
her; until launching; did not exceed 12 men’s labor for 16 days — By Lieu-
tenant [John] Schank’s contrivance and close unremitting diligence, Sea-
men did the rest of the business — If you have no occasion for the aid of the
Lord How's men to get your Ship down send them forthwith to theirs —
But I hope this may not find you at Champlain — am with great regard Sir
[&c.]
ChB Douglas
1. Sir Henry Clinton Papers, CL.
William Bartlett to George Washington 1
Hond Sir Beverly 10th Octor 1776. -
I once more take the Liberty to write your Excelly which at this time
when you are so deeply ingaged against Our unatural Enemies would
Gladly Omitt did I not think it my duty therefore beg you’ll Excuse it —
I wrote your Excelly some time Since, Concerning those Prizes, taken
by Comm [odor] e Manly Viz the Ordnance Brige. Nancey Ship Concord 8c
Ship Jenny Genl Miffilin having Reed a Part of Each Cargo Agreeable to
your Order without any Prise being Stipulated In events their being Settl’d
and the poor Captors are kept Out of their money some of which being in
the Army while their famileys are here Almost Suffering for want off the
Necessaries of Life Your Excelly Answer I Reed with the Greatest Pleas-
sure in which you informed me you would Order Genl Mifflin to have a Val-
uation made upon those Goods and Transmitted me in Order for Settlement
but have not as Yet Received it Beg your Excelly will Excuse me and not
receive this as dictating, as I well know your Excelly to be full of humanity
am Well Assured it would have been done Long since had not your time
ben taken up in Matters of more and Grater importance.
If your Excelly will please to Order me to Charge the United States
for the Coals out of Ship Jenny at the Same rate the remainder was sold for
being about Eleven dollars p Chaldron that Ship may be settled —
Your Excelly was Pleas’d to Appoint or have Appointed a Committee
to Apprize the Ordinance Stores they have presented their Bill to me for
payment Butt have put it off untill I should receive your Excelly Orders
they having Chargd One hundred Pounds L[awful] Money for their Trou-
ble -
When your Excelly finds it Convenient to have Transmitted me the
Value reced out of Ship Concord and the Valuation of the Ordinance Stores
with Orders for Settlement Beg you’ll Give me Orders to draw for what
money I may want togeather with what remains in my hands to be Suffi-
cient to pay the Captors —
Your Excelly may rely on my fidelity in not drawing for any more then
will be sufficient for that purpose
Capt Bradford of Boston who has Supereceded me in my Agencey Says
he has Orders to Settle with all the Old Agents beg your Excelly Orders
with respect to it
OCTOBER 1776
1195
I shall forever acknoledge with Gratitude to your Excelly that Honour
you was pleas’d to Confer on me in appointing me Agent for this depart-
ment and hope have transacted the Business to your Excellys Satisfaction
The Reflection join’d to the impeachment which is Generally implie’d
or at least understood by a dismission from any Office under Government
has I confess given me very Sensible pain
If your Excelly thinks me Capable and Worthy off being reinstated in
the Office of agency for this department hope shall do honour in my Station
and shall Ever acknoledge the favour with the Gratest Gratitude
Hope that being who Governs all things both in heaven and in Earth
will preserve 8c Protect you from falling into the hands of those Unatural
Enemies and that you may be the means under him of driving them Back to
their Native Land Asham’d
Wishing your Excellency all that Happiness that can be enjoy’d in this
Life Beg Leave to subscribe my self Your Excellencys [8cc.]
William Bartlett
1. Washington Papers, LC.
Acts and Resolves of the Massachusetts General Court1
[Watertown] Thursday Octr 10th 1776.
Petition of a number of the Inhabitants of Machias. — representing,
that unjustifiable Methods had been taken to injure the Character of Cap-
tain Jeremiah Obrien — and vindicating it in the highest terms —
In Council. Read, 8c Order’d, that Henry Gardner Esqr with such as the
Honble House shall join, and that the same Committee take into Considera-
tion the several Charges, 8c Accusations which have been made against Capt
Jeremiah Obrien, and report thereon as soon as may be —
In the House of Representatives. Read, 8c Concurred, & are join’d —
1. Mass. Arch., vol. 36, 7, 11.
Independent Chronicle , Thursday, October 10, 1776
Boston, October 10.
Last Tuesday arrived here from a Cruize, the armed Schooner Lynch,
Capt. John Ayers, who on Friday, Sept. 27, in Lat. 39, 45 and Long. 49, 00.
saw a Fleet of 49 Sail, among which were 5 Frigates, and two 3 Deckers.
One of the Frigates gave him Chase, which continued from Noon, till half
past 1 1 at Night; and was at one Time within 2 Miles of him, and finding he
overhauled him so fast, was obliged to through over-board his Guns, stave
his Water, 8cc. - and by it’s growing dark, was the Means of his escaping
being taken.1
A Sloop, laden with Lumber, was, last Saturday, sent into this Port, by
Capt. [Daniel] Waters. She was from the Eastward, and bound to New-
York, to supply those very Blood-Hounds of Britain there, whose hellish
1196
AMERICAN THEATRE
Cry continually is, Havoc, Blood, Murder and Plunder, from the cowardly,
Yankey, American Rebels. ’Tis really a Pity some Method could not be
taken to banish those Sons of Tyranny, Oppression and Slavery, out of this
(determined to be) free Western American Empire.2
Last Friday was sent into Marblehead, by Captain [Jonathan] Greely,
in the Privateer Speedwell, fitted out from this Place, a Prize Snow, from
England, bound to New-York. She has on board the following Articles of
Provision, 56896 wt. Bread, 8020 wt. Pork, 256 Bushels and 7 Gallons
Pease, 257 Bushels Oat-Meal, 16000 wt. Beef, 12064 wt. Flour, 4136 wt.
Rice, 4101 wt. Raisins, 165 Gallons Oil, 537 do. Vinegar, 3500 do. Spirits,
4645 wt. Butter, and 460 dozen Candles.3
Monday last, was sent into this Port, a Prize Ship, upwards 300 Tons,
from the same Place, for New-York, with like Articles as the Snow above-
mentioned, only with the Addition of four 3-Pounders, and 6 Swivels.
Taken by Capt. [Silas] Atkins, jun. 4
On Friday, the 18th October, At XI in the Morning, Will be sold by
Public Vendue, At Swanzey, The Brigantines Henrietta and William and
Mary, and their Cargoes, consisting of about 430 Hogsheads of Rum, and 40
Hogsheads of Sugar, &c.
J. Russell, Auctioneer.
The two Brigs will be put up at 12 o’Clock, one of them is 130 Tons,
and the other 80 Tons, both of them are fast sailing Vessels, and well
found.
At Public Auction, in Providence, Will be sold, at the Wharf of Mes-
sieurs Clark and Nightingale, On Wednesday, the 16th of October, The Ship
Blaze-Castle, Frigate built, a prime Sailer, about 7 Years old, burthen 360
Tons, peirced for 18 Guns, English built; together with her Cargo, Consist-
ing of Oil, Rum, Sugar, Cotton, and about one hundred Pipes old sterling
Madeira Wine.
The Sale of the Carolina Packet, and her Cargo, will [be] on Thurs-
day, the 24th Instant, October, at Plymouth.
1. Ayres was chased by H. M. S. Unicorn, see New-York Gazette, October 21, 1776.
2. The Sally, 90 tons, from Halifax with fish and lumber, taken by Washington’s schooner
Lee.
3. The St. George, Benjamin Bidgood, master.
4. The ship George, George Grey, master, was taken by the Massachusetts privateer schooner
Boston.
Continental Journal , Thursday, October 10, 1776
Boston, October 10.
Same day [October 7] Capt Forrest1 return’d to Salem from a cruize,
in which he has taken 5 prizes, one of which is of considerable value, as the
bills of laden of her cargo that is come to hand amounts to £ 36,000 sterl.
Capt. Forrest put his prisoners ashore at Cape Finister, where he was in-
form’d that the Spaniards had made a public Declaration of War against
Portugal, and were ravaging the frontiers of that kingdom.
1. Captain Simon Forrester of the Massachusetts privateer sloop Rover.
OCTOBER 1776
1197
Brigadier General Benedict Arnold to Major General Horatio Gates 1
[Extract] Valcouer Octr 10th 1776 —
I am much surprised so little Attention is paid to us by the good People
below, I should have imagined, Two hundred Seamen could have ben sent
us, in three, or four Months, after they were so pressingly wrote for. — I
make not the least doubt there has ben the greatest Industry Used at Ty, in
fitting out the fleet, I am glad to hear the other Gaily is so forward, I expect
to see her the first fair wind —
The Cloathing which is arived is a sufficient supply of the kind, we
much want One hundred pr Shoes. 8c Hose, One hundred Watch Coats,
Fifty pair Breetches, 8c Twenty Blankets 8c hatts - or Caps — We are Vic-
tualled for abt Ten Days. -
You may depend I shall do nothing of Consequence, without Consulting
Genl Waterbury, 8c Colonel Wiggelsworth, both of whom, I esteem Judicious
honest Men, 8c good Soldiers — We Cannot at Present Determine how long
it will be requisite to remain here. It may depend on the Intelligence we
may receive - we shall Not return One Minute Sooner than is prudent. 8c
necessary.
I have received no late Intelligence From the Northward, the loss of
the small Canoes, (All we had) has prevented my sending out small Parties.
I have wrote Colonel [Jonathan] Trumbull [Jr.] to Send me three or four
which may be procured at Ty. or at Crown Point. -
I am of Opinion with you respecting the Battery building at River a
Cote, that the Enemy, are Acting on the Defensive, they are at the same
time Exerting themselves, to Augment their Navy, 8c if they hear (in
Time) that Lord How is in Possession of New York, they will doubtless At-
tempt a Junction with him. If they think it practicable, their Fleet. I make
no Doubt in the Course of this Month will be very Formidable, if not equal,
to Ours. —
I have taken Two four Pounders From the Liberty for the Trumbull , 8c
three of her small Guns, there is others at C Point Suitable for Her, 8c Colo-
nel [Thomas] Hartley may be supplied with large ones for his Castle from
Ty. — The Schooner goes up for Provisions I wish she may be, emediately
dispatched Back — the Guns may be ready when she returns at Present
she does not want them. —
I am, extreemly glad You have represented to Congress 8c Genl Schuy-
ler the Absolute Necessity of Augmentg Our Navy, on the Lake, It. ap-
pears to me an Object of the utmost Importance, I hope measures will be
emediately taken for that Purpose — There is water between C Point 8c
Point Aux Feu for Vessels of the largest Size, I am of Opinion that Row
Gallies are of the best. Construction & Cheapest for this Lake, perhaps it
may be well to have One Frigate of Thirty Six Guns, she may carry Eight-
een pounders on the Lake 8c will be Superior to Any Vessel that can be built
at, 8c Floated from St Johns — Carpenters ought to be emediately employed
1198
AMERICAN THEATRE
to Cut Timber 8c Plank — 8c three hundred set at Work at Skensborough the
1st of Feby — of these Matters I hope we shall have time to Confer hereaf-
ter.
1. Gates Papers, Box 4, NYHS.
Diary of Joshua Pell, Jr.1
[Pointe au Fer]
10th Oct’r our little squadron sail’d from Point au Fer toward the
upper or great Lake; about 12 o’clock on the 11th one of our arm’d boats es-
pied their Fleet at anchor in the Bay of Belcour [Valcour]. Our arm’d
Boats immediately rush’d in amongst them and engag’d them without wait-
ing for orders; the Carlton went to their assistance, and kept a continual
bring until dark, during which time we destroyed a Schooner called the
Royal Savage, and greatly damaged another; unluckily for us, the wind
chang’d and hindered the other part of our Squadron from giving the Carl-
ton any assistance; had it not thus happen’d, in all probability, the Rebels
whole fleet would have been destroy’d. Our loss consist in two Arm’d Boats
been sunk; about ten men kill’d and sixteen wounded. The loss of the Rebels
is not positively known.
I do justice to Capt’n Dacres, he behav’d like a true British Tar; he
was engaged by five of them together, and when order’d to join his squad-
ron he would not, till the General’s own Boat came on board with positive
Orders to dissist.
The Rebels Fleet consisted of sixteen sail of schooners, sloops and Row
Galleys. The Rebels Anchor’d close under the Land, and our Indians did
them considerable damage with their small arms from the shore.
1. “Diary of Joshua Pell, Jr.,M Magazine of American History, II, 46.
Robert R. Livingston to Edward Rutledge 1
[Extract]
You have heard that 3 ships have passed fort Washington 8c gone up
the river with out meeting with the least difficulty from all those obstruc-
tions which we have attempted to create — I am not surprized at it having
long ago from the manner in which that work was conducted predicted
what has hapned 8c proposed to the Genl what wd have secured us agt the whole
navy of England at Less expence than this has cost us — The sinking blocks
tho’ he inclined to it it was over ruled at head Quars
10th Octr 1776 Fishkill
1. Robert R. Livingston Papers, 1765-1776, LC.
OCTOBER 1776
1199
Colonel Joseph Reed to Major General William Heath 1
Sir
The General [Washington] desires you would immediately order a
sufficient Party of Men under Capn Cook to get off Sc bring down the Vessel
which is grounded above. And that in the mean Time the ballastry the rest
be proceeded in with all possible Expedition. It is of so much Consequence
that his Excelly begs the utmost Attention may be paid to it. I am sir [&c.]
Jos: Reed Adj. Genl
[Headquarters] Oct. 10. 1776
1. Heath Papers, MassHS.
Colonel George Weedon to John Page 1
[Extract] Camp Haerlam Higths Octobr 10th 1776 -
My dear Sir, Since I wrote you last nothing very Material has happened
with our Army and that of our Enemies, now and then, a few shot are ex-
changed by the scouting parties, except that, we have been very friendly
Neighbours since the 16th Ulto in this Quarter, nor do we understand
any thing of Consequance has taken place in Canada, Burgoing [Burgoyne]
is on one side the lake perpairing to cross with a very large fleet, of
Boats and some Arm’d Vessells, Genl Gates is ready to receive him at Ticon-
derago where he has a well Regulated Army in high spirits, The place
well Fortifyed, and a fleet nearly equal to his, Our lines at this place are
now very Formidable and I think sufficient to defend against twice our
Number, The Troops Desart from each Army almost every night, four
Sentinals left their posts two nights ago and went over to the Enemy, all of
them Irishmen, four from the Enemy came over to us yesterday morning,
are of the same Kidney. — Lord Stirling was yesterday Exchanged for
Govr Brown of [New] providence, he got to Head Quarters in the Eve-
ning, and relates his treatment whilst a prisoner was very polite from those
in High rank, except Dunmore, who Vissited him the Morning after the
Battle on the Island, with one Epthorp, The latter treated him with Com-
plaisance, but our Old acquaintance on whose enterlex this Climate has had
no Impression, Accosted him thus, “So, how do you do, I am sorry to see you
in such D nd Black Company,” (meaning other officers who ware
Prisoners in the same room) He Observed to him, it was poor Consolation
to Gentlemen officers who the chance of war had put in his power, and re-
marked, he had not of late been so fimiliar with Black Company as his
LdShip, This wheel’d him on his heel, and since he never would see him —
his Lordship has returned to us Exceeding hearty, and brings account that
Burgoyings Light Horse arived at N. York three days ago, They ware
four months at sea, you may Guess the Order they landed in, besides this
they lost 70 of them on the passage, The last Division of Hessians with a
very large Fleet of Transports are still at sea, they are Bringing out several
1200
AMERICAN THEATRE
Hundred Waggon Horses, Waggons, Carts, flat Bottom Boats Sec, Sec, and is
call’d the Grand Fleet, ' I hope the equinox has some hidden blast in store
for them, ... I inclose you a rough sketch of this most horrid Country,
now the seat of war, by it you may form some Idiea of the Advantages the
Enemy has over us in their Shiping, and dair say you’ll wonder how this
Army has so long escaped, when you come to see the Number of creeks, Riv-
ers, and Guts that make into it, all of which are Navigable for almost any
ship, and at this time a 28 Gun Frigate lays in Hellgate, a place not much
wider then the Streets of Williamsburg, I dair say Andrews may be able
to form a pritty Exact sketch from the one sent, the distances are laid down
by Griffith who is well Acquainted wth every part . . .
1. Weedon Papers, ChHS. Page was chairman of the Virginia Council of Safety.
“Extract of a Letter from New York, Oct. 10”1
On the 8th of October 340 rebels, in five flat-bottomed boats, with two
pieces of cannon, came down Harlem river a little past four in the morning,
and attacked an out-post of ours on Montresor Island, where there were
about 80 men. The Brune frigate being at anchor near the Island, fired at
the boats in the dark, and by the first shot sunk one of them full of men;
and after a short skirmish they were beat off the island. Their loss is not ex-
actly known, but they left a major and 27 men wounded. Our loss fell
upon the 71st regiment, of which four were killed and six wounded. Had it
not been for the darkness of the morning, in all probability few, if any at all
of them had escaped; for the frigate was obliged to cease firing, because she
could not distinguish our people from the enemy.
1. Whitehall Evening Post , November 16 to November 19, 1776.
Journal of the Continental Congress1
[Philadelphia] Thursday, OctoberlO, 1776
The Marine Committee having recommended Captain Abraham Whip-
ple, of the ship Columbus , to the command of the Providence frigate, at
Rhode Island,
Resolved, That he be promoted accordingly.
The Committee farther reported on the rank of the captains of the
navy of the United States, which was agreed to as follows:
1. Jas. Nicholson, of the
Virginia,
Guns.
28
2. John Manly,
Hancock,
32
3. Hector M’Neil,
Boston,
24
4. Dudley Saltonstall,
Trumbull,
28
5. Nicholas Biddle,
Randolph,
32
6. Thomas Thompson,
Raleigh,
32
7. John Barry,
Effingham ,
28
OCTOBER 1776
1201
8. Thomas Reed,
Washington,
32
9. Thomas Grennell,
Congress,
28
10. Charles Alexander,
Delaware,
24
1 1 . Lambert Wickes,
Reprisal,
16
12. Abraham Whipple,
Providence,
28
13. John Hopkins,
Warren,
32
14. John Hodge,
Montgomery ,
24
15. William Hallock,
Lexington,
16
16. Hoysted Hacker,
Hampden,
17. Isaiah Robinson,
Andrew Doria,
14
18. John Paul Jones,
Providence,
12
19. James Josiah,
20. Elisha Hinman,
A If red,
28
21. Joseph Olney,
Cabot,
16
22. James Robinson,
Sachem,
10
23. John Young,
Independence,
10
24. Elisha Warner,
Fly,
Lieut. [John] Baldwin,
Wasp,
8
Lieut. [Thomas] Albert-
son,
Musquito ,
4
Resolved, That the Marine Committee be empowered to settle the rank
of the lieutenants of the navy.
Resolved, That a committee of three be appointed to prepare the form
of an oath to be taken by the officers of the army and navy:
The members chosen, Mr. [George] Wythe, Mr. [Thomas] Stone, and
Mr. [Robert Treat] Paine.
The Board of War brought in a report, which was taken into considera-
tion: Whereupon,
Resolved , That General Schuyler be directed to take such steps as are
necessary, for procuring a sufficient number of as large vessels as the navi-
gation of the lakes will admit of, for the service of the states the next cam-
paign, that the command of the lakes may be effectually secured:
That General Washington be directed, if he shall judge it necessary, to
sink the new ships mentioned in his letter of the 5th instant.
Resolved, That the farther consideration of the report be postponed.
The Board of Treasury reported, that there is due,
To Captain Hazlewood, Captain [William] Greenway and Mr. [Gun-
ning] Bedford, a balance of 267 10/90ths dollars, their whole account of
their charge for preparing six sail of fire ships at New York, and their
expences going to, in, and coming from, New York to Philadelphia, being
392 10/90ths dollars; of which they have received from S. Moylan, Esqr
quarter master general, the sum of 125 dollars; the remainder is 267
10/90ths dollars.
Ordered, That the said accounts be paid.
1. Ford, ed., JCC, VI, 860, 861-62, 865.
1202
AMERICAN THEATRE
Continental Marine Committee to Commodore Esek Hopkins1
Sir, [Philadelphia] October. 10th 1776 —
We learned some time ago with much concern that the expedition we
had planed for you to execute, woud prove abortive; as the ships had gone
out a Cruizing under the sanction of Governor Trumbulls recommendation,
with which we cannot be well satisfied, altho in this instance, we are dis-
posed to pass it by in silence being well convinced both he and the several
Captains meant to perform service at a time the Ships were idle. Supposing
therefore that you will have been obliged to lay aside the expedition to New-
foundland, We now direct, that you immediately collect the Alfred , Colum-
bus, Cabbot & Hampden, take them under your command and proceed for
Cape Fear in North Carolina where you will find the following Ships of war
The Falcon of 18 Guns
The Scorpion of 16 Guns &
the Cruizer of 8 Guns & a
number of valuable prizes said to be 40 or 50 in number, and other vessels
under their protection the whole of which you will make prize of with ease.
We understand they have erected a kind of a fort on Baldhead at the en-
trance of Cape fear River but it being only manned with a few people from
these Ships we expect you will easily reduce it and put the same in posses-
sion of the State of North Carolina or dismantle it as may appear best.
When you have performed this service you had best deliver to the Continen-
tal Agents there such of your prizes as may sell well or be useful in North
Carolina others you may convoy into Virginia or this place for we don’t rec-
ommend your remaining at North Carolina for fear of being blocked up
there; perhaps you will receive advice that will render it eligible to pro-
ceed farther Southward to rout the enemies ships at South Carolina and
Georgia and if that is practicable you have not only our approbation but our
Orders for the attempt.
We hope, Sir, you will not loose one single moment after receipt of this
Letter but proceed instantly on this expedition. We are sir [8cc.]
P:S: Should the Cabbot be still on a Cruise, or if returned cannot be
ready to proceed upon the Above expedition as early as one of the frigates
lately launched at Rhode Island, you will proceed with the later in lieu of
the Cabot as soon as she can be prepared for the Sea or you may take both
the Cabot and frigate if to be done without delay. We wish your plan for
manning this fleet from the State of Rhode Island may prove effectual, and
we do in the warmest manner urge you to omit nothing on your part which
may tend to promote so important a purpose and which we have most ear-
nestly at heart. The Commissions for the officers of the frigates will be for-
warded immediately - 2
1. Marine Committee Letter Book, 30-31, NA.
2. The postscript only is in the Hopkins Papers, RIHS, and is signed by eight members of
the Marine Committee: John Hancock, Robert Morris, William Ellery, Josiah Bartlett,
Thomas McKean, Richard Henry Lee, William Hooper, and Arthur Middleton. An
OCTOBER 1776
1203
endorsement reads: “Honourd Sir Have Taken the Liberty to open it and Find That it
Should be Forwarded Imediately, have Sealed and Dispatch it / our Ship is all Ready
but maning your Dutifull Son J. B. Hopkins.” The endorser was commander of the
frigate Warren, which still lay off Providence.
Continental Marine Committee to Henry Tucker and
Thomas Godet, Bermuda 1
Gentlemen [Philadelphia] October 10th 1776
We have occasion for a quantity of Salt to cure beef & Pork the ensu-
ing season for the use of our fleet and dont care to buy up what arrives here
transiently as the people are much in want of that article, and would
murmer were it to be bought off their hands. We therefore request that you
will immediately on receipt of this letter Charter five or Six good fast sail-
ing large Sloops, Schooners or Brigantines, and either load them with Salt
at Bermudas or send them to Turks Island for it, just as you may find safest
and best — send one of them to Eden ton in North Carolina consigned to
Messrs. Hewes & Smith one to Baltimore in Maryland consigned to our
Order; & the others here addressed to us. Perhaps it may be most prudent
to load part in Bermudas and part in Turks Island but our great Object is
to get the Salt soon and safe here. —
You will Charter these Vessels on the best terms in your power by the
Month or otherways, have them valued and we agree to insure them for so
long as they remain in our Service, and if the terms are reasonable that may
probably be a long time. You’l buy the Salt as cheap as you can and give
them the utmost dispatch or it will be too late for our purpose. We must de-
pend on you to advance the money for the cost of the Salt until we can reim-
burse you, which shall be done by returning some of these Vessels to you
with Cargoes of Provisions and probably a Convoy with them. Should any
of the Vessels be taken or lost we will either pay for them in Provisions or
undoubted good bills on Europe or the West Indies as may best suit the
Owners. We hope you will be able to comply with these orders immediately
for which we shall allow you areasonable Commission — Interest for the
advance of your Money and Commissions on the Goods we shall consign you
hereafter and for your security we pledge you the faith and Credit of the
United States of America being so authorized to do by the Honorable the
Continental Congress of which we are members and are Gentleman [8cc.]
P:S: If you cannot send Six send as many Vessels as you can short of
that Number
1. Marine Committee Letter Book, 31-32, NA.
Libel Filed in Pennsylvania Admiralty Court Against the
Prize Brig Sea Nymph 1
Port of Philadelphia, 1 To all whom it may concern.
Pennsylvania, ss. J
Notice is hereby given, that a Court of Admiralty will be held at the
Court-house, in the city of Philadelphia, on Monday the 28th day of October
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OCTOBER 1776
1205
inst. at ten o’clock in the forenoon of the same day, then and there to try the
truth of the facts alledged in the bill of Captain [John Paul] Jones of the
armed sloop called the Providence (who as well, &c.) against the brigantine
or vessel called the Sea Nymph (her tackle, apparel, furniture and cargo)
burthen about fifty tons, lately commanded by Francis Trimingham, to the
end & intent that the owner or owners of the said brigantine and her cargo,
or any person concerned therein may appear and shew cause, if any they
have, why the same should not be condemned according to the prayer of the
said bill.
By order of the Judge.
October 10 Andrew Robeson, Register
1. Pennsylvania Ledger, October 12, 1776.
Pennsylvania Evening Post, Thursday, October 10, 1776
[Advertisement]
Ran away the fourth inst. (October) from the armed vessel Ranger ,
John Mitchell commander, four men, viz. Patrick M’Carty, an Irishman,
about twenty two years of age. George Milton, an Englishman, about 25
or 26 years of age, a servant of Mr. Swift of this city. Edward Serjeant,
near forty years of age, who has lately been sick. Joseph Stevenson, a na-
tive of this city. Whosoever secures said men, shall have Six Pounds re-
ward, or Four Dollars for each. — As the security of this city depends upon
the naval armament, it is hoped no person will conceal or encourage them.
Phil. Oct. 13 \_sic 10].
Diary of Christopher Marshall1
[Philadelphia] Octr 10th 1776
. . . Prize ship in the river from Jamaica with 310. Boghead Sugar, 90.
Casks or Puncheons of Spirits she is Called the Thetis Captain May, taken
by Genl Mo[n~\tg[o~\mery Privater Capt Hambleton.2 also a privater
Brigg from St Martins arrived yesterday.
1. Diary of Christopher Marshall, HSP.
2. The ship Thetis, 300 tons, Hezekiah May, master, from Jamaica for London, taken by the
Pennsylvania privateer brig General Montgomery, Captain James Montgomery (not
Hambleton) . She was condemned November 1, 1776, and was purchased by the
Continental Marine Committee to be outfitted as an armed xebec.
Memorial of James Clarke and Others to the
Maryland Council of Safety1
[Baltimore, October 10, 1776] 2
The Memorial of James Clarke, Robert Christie Junr, Melchior Keener,
Robert Christie Sc Oliver White, and Robert Johnston —
Sheweth
1206
AMERICAN THEATRE
That early in the month of March your Memorialists Vessels were sunk
at Whetstone Point, for the purpose of preventing any of the British Ships
of War from coming up to Baltimore Town.
That agreeable to a Resolve of Convention they have already been al-
lowed sums of money for the damage the Vessels sustained by being sunk.
But that your Memorialists have never received any satisfaction for
the Time their vessels was employed in that service which was about three
and one half Months.
As that matter is referred to the Council of Safety, we would pray that
a day may be fixed for Our attendance at Annapolis, and that the Bearer
may be informed what Voucher will be necessary to lay before your Honor-
able Board.
1. Red Book, XI, Md. Arch.
2. Date approximated. Council acted on the petition on October 10, Council of Safety Journal,
29 August 1775 to 20 March 1777, Md. Arch.
Journal of the Virginia Council of Safety 1
[Williamsburg] Thursday October 10th 1776
Ordered that a Warrant issue to Captain Richard Barron for five
hundred and eighty eight Pounds four Shillings being the balance due him
his Officers & crew of the Boat Patriot for the two tenths of the Brig.
Fanny and her Cargo taken by the said Boat which Share they are entitled
to under a resolution of Convention passed the tenth of January last. Cap-
tain Barron having given Bond and Security to account with the said
Officers and Crew for their several proportions thereof.
Ordered that Captain William Smith of the Minute Men in Gloucester
County do discharge from that Service any Ship Carpenters or Apprentices
to Ship Carpenters who may desire it upon the order or application of the
Commissioners of the Navy Board.
1. Mcllwaine, ed.. Journals of the Virginia Council, I, 190-91.
Journal of the Virginia Navy Board1
[Williamsburg] Thursday 10th October 1776.
Ordered that a Warrant Issue to William Goodson for Three pounds ten
shillings for a pr of Pistols furnished Capt Lilly for the use of the Brig Lib-
erty-
Ordered that the Captain of each Vessel in the Navy do immediately make a
return to this Board the number of Officers and Men in actual service on
Board their respective Vessels. The number and size of their Gunns; The
number and Condition of their small Arms of every sort, and a full and
Compleat list of their Ammunition and Stores of all kinds. And that the
Clerk of this Board cause a Copy of this Order to be delivered to each of the
Captains in the Naval service. -
OCTOBER 1776
1207
Ordered that a Warrant Issue to Lieut Jacob Valentine for Ninety one
pounds eight shillings for Disbursements and pay of his Company of Ma-
rines from the eighth day of July last to the Ninth Instant as p Account this
day settled. -
Ordered that Colo William Finnie deliver unto Capt Richard Barron one
Drum for the use of the Patriot. — Also One Drum for the use of the Boat
Liberty. -
Ordered that William Smith discharge from his Company of Minute Men
Thomas Mason a Ship Carpenter provided he is willing to Quit the Service
and go to Work at his Trade with James Davis who is Building the Glouces-
ter Galley -
1. Navy Board Journal, 70-72, VSL.
James Davis to the North Carolina Council of Safety 1
Gentlemen [New Bern, October 10, 1776] 2
Mr Stanly [John Wright Stanley] having Occasion to wait on you
with a memorial relative to the Conduct of the Commissioners of the Prov-
incial armed Vessel the Pennsylvania Farmer permit me by the same Op-
portunity to lay before your Honours something on the same Subject To
this Duty I am impelled by the strongest of Ties, a sacred and venerable Re-
gard for constitutional Liberty and the Honour and Interest of my Country.
When these are invaded it would be criminal to be silent. And here Gentle-
men it would be necessary to pause a while and endeavour to investigate the
secret Springs of this Patriotism If it is expected Honours, lucretive Ap-
pointments, or any sinister Expectations whatever that whets my Zeal I
may be justly suspected of deviating from the modern Patriots, and little
Credit paid to my Narrative. But if none of these Views appear, and that
they do not I appeal to the Gentlemen of the Council themselves, to the chief
of whom I have the Honour to be personally known to, then I hope you will
believe the Facts I shall here endeavour to state to be true.
The Provincial armed Vessel the Pennsylvania Farmer sailed from this
Town a few Days since after lying here with 110 men on board at the Exp-
ence of near Forty Pounds per Day, upwards of six months, in the most in-
glorious, inactive and dissolute state that perhaps was ever suffered in any
Country. By the Inexperience, Inactivity and neglect of the Officers of this
Vessel, who early began their Irregulaties by inlisting the regular Soldiers
into their Service, a continued Scene of Riot, Outrage and Robbery has been
carried on by the People of her the most daring Insults on the Inhabitants
of the Town suffered to pass with Impunity. One hundred and ten Pints of
Rum poured out to them every morning kept them continually drunk and
ready for any mischief, especially as they consist of Men of all Nations and
Conditions, English, Irish, Scotch, Indians, Men of Wars Men and the most
abandoned sett of Wretches ever collected together Two of the Officers
broke open the Gun Room, and with a number of the men went off with the
1208
AMERICAN THEATRE
Boat with Intent to join Lord Dunmore’s Fleet, and actually reached Curri-
tuck County, they were apprehended and are still at large on board. They
have wasted near 100 Pounds of Powder in wantonly firing at and bringing
too all Boats, Canoes and Vessels of every sort, even Passengers in the
Ferry Boat have been insulted. Capt. Thos Shine of the Militia, with his
Company on board coming up to the General Muster, was fired on and a
Ball passed within a few Inches of his Arm. Of this Insult he complained
to me I remonstrated to the Officers but met with nothing but Abuse. With
Regard to myself Gentlemen, I have been exceedingly obnoxious to this
Crew of Banditti, for I can call them by no other Name. As I had the Hon-
our to be one of the Commissioners for that Vessel I very early opposed the
iniquitous measures I saw pursuing and objected to the injudicious Choice,
as I thought, of the Officers of the Vessel, men utter Strangers, without
Abilities, without Interest, Connections, or any Tie whatever to the Country
the Captain having never sailed in, much less more commanded, a square
rigged Vessel in his Life, Capt. Oliver of the marines being the only officer
on board known to the Country. The Chief Mate, one Barton, a Person in-
trusted by Mr. Durant of St Croix with a Vessel and Quantity of Powder
for the use of this Province, the whole of which Vessel and Cargo he at-
tempted to [illegible] . I say Gentlemen, by the means above I became ob-
noxious to these men and have suffered every Insult from them and sus-
tained considerable Damage. They came to my Landing and destroyed a
Bay Boat that cost me Thirty pounds, cut her up for Fire Wood and took
out every Bolt and spike Nail they could come at Of this I complain’d to
the Officers and Commissioners but could get no Redress. As the Vessel lay
opposite my Plantation at Green Spring the men came repeatedly into my
Cornfield and carried off Quantities of green Corn and grew so daring that
I was forced to repell them by Force and lay on my Arms for many nights.
Of this I complained to the Commissioners but could get no Redress.
I have been told the Reason for lessening the number of Commissioners
for this Vessel was the Impossibility of doing Business effectually with such
a number I heartily agreed with the Gentlemen who made this complaint,
and am fully convinced Business could not be effectually done while I op-
posed Contracts for Beef for the Vessel at 5d a Pound when I was buying
for my own use at 3d and while I opposed some glaring accounts that freely
passed after my Expulsion from the Commission. While I was on the Com-
mission I spent much Time and some Money and was willing to do every act in
my Power to further the good Intentions of the Council in ordering this
Vessel to be fitted out, but am not concerned at being left out of a Commis-
sion wherein I could do no good to my Country nor Honour to myself.
I must beg your Honours further Indulgence while I say a few Words
in Justification of a most infamous Slander cast on me by Capt. Hamstead
[Joshua Hempstead] and the Officers of this Vessel. They have propagated
in all Companies a Story of my being disaffected to the present measures
pursuing against British Tyranny, which I make no Doubt has reached your
Honours Ears, giving for a Reason that I would not let my Son go in the
OCTOBER 1776
1209
Vessel. My Attachment to the glorious Cause of Liberty in which we are at
present embarked, and the very early and active Part I have taken in it,
stands, I hope, too well recorded in this Province to be shaken by the insidi-
ous and base Acts of disappointed Faction, and as to my Son as he is yet too
young to be known to the World it is necessary I should set the Matter right
with regard to his Conduct. He was brought up to the sea, and great Part of
his Apprenticeship sailed out of Cadiz in Spain to many Parts of Europe,
since his Return home he has been in the Employ of Mr Cornell and has
been master of a Vessel out of this Port. He was the first Officer shipped on
board the Vessel to superintend the Rigging and continued on board up-
wards of two months. When the Commissioners went into the Choice of Of-
ficers he was appointed Second Lieutenant in a short Time after, by the
Caprice of the Commissioners he was appointed Master with this he was
contented, and would have now been on board, had not I ordered him to re-
sign an Employ he was not likely to gain any Credit by
Upon the whole Gentlemen I have the fullest Conviction within my
own Mind that this Vessel in her present Dress will utterly defeat the good
Intentions of the Council, and as far as my poor Opinion goes would heart-
ily recommend a Revision of her.
I hope your Honours will pardon my Presumption in troubling you
with this long Epistle, But when Arbitrary Power runs triumphant among
us and the Sacred Barriers of Private Property are destroyed; the inestim-
able Blessings for which we are now contending and pouring out our best
Blood in Streams, I could no longer be silent. I have the Honour to be Gen-
tlemen [&c.]
James Davis
1. Secretary of State Papers (Council of Safety, 1775-1776) , NCDAH.
2. The date is approximated. On October 1, the Pennsylvania Farmer was ordered on a cruise,
and Davis’s letter reports that she sailed “a few Days since.” However, from Edenton
on October 18, it was stated that she had returned to New Bern to heave down. See
Commissioners for Fitting Out the Brig King Tammany to the North Carolina Council of
Safety, October 18.
Edward Allen’s Commission, the South Carolina
State Brigantine Comet 1
By his Excellency John Rutledge Esquire President and Commander in
Chief of South Carolina —
To Edward Allen Esquire, Greeting -
Know ye that I with the advice and consent of the Privy Council of the
State do hereby appoint the said Edward Allen to be Captain and Com-
mander of the Brigantine of war called the Comet of the burthen of about
[blank] Tons belonging to this State, hereby giving Commission, License
and authority to you therewith by force of arms to apprehend, seize and
take all ships, Vessells and Goods which are liable to seizure and Confisca-
tion pursuant to the resolves of the Representatives of the said State in
1210
AMERIGAN THEATRE
General Congress assembled and to bring the same to the next convenient
port in Order to be legally adjudged in some court of Admiralty or some
other court having Jurisdiction in cases of Capture You are therefore dili-
gently and faithfully to perform the duty of Captain and Commander of the
said Brigantine and follow and observe all such orders and Instructions as
you shall from time to time receive from me or the President or Com-
mander in Chief for the time being of this State or any other your superior
officers - And all inferior Officers belonging to the said Brigantine are here-
by required and commanded to obey you as their Captain according to the
rules and discipline of war —
By his Excellencys Command - Given under my hand and seal at Ch’s
William Nisbett D: Regr. Town in S Carolina aforesaid the 10th day
of October in the Year of Our Lord One
Thousand Seven hundred and Seventy Six —
1. Miscellaneous Records of the Secretary of State (A) , 1776-1801, 15, SCDAH.
Oliver Pollock to the Continental Congress1
[Copy]
N[ew] 0[rleans] 10th October 1776
Sirs, This will be handed you by Captain George Ord, whom I have sup-
plied with Sundries, and to whom I beg Leave to refer you for Particulars.
As 1 conceive myself to be too much interested in every Thing that can
serve America (notwithstanding my present Situation is remote from the
Scene of Action) I eagerly embrace the Opportunity of exerting my utmost
Endeavours for the glorious Cause, and had every Thing compleated soon
after he came here: But just when he was ready to Sail, arrived the Dilig-
ence] s [loo] p of w[ar], and I had only Time to save the Cargo, and did
every Thing in my Power to save the Vessel under his present Protection:
But then your Situation and Consequence was not sufficiently understood
here, and of Course I laboured in vain both for my Friends and own Inter-
est; but of late since your last Declaration, and every Circumstance turn-
ing out so far beyond the Expectations of your warmest Friends, Times
here have taken a quite different Turn, and I make no Doubt but before this
you have taken such Steps as will gain the Hearts & Protection of all those
you desire. Permit me therefore to make tender of my hearty Services, and
to assure you that my Conduct shall be ever such as to merit Confidence and
Approbation of that Country 1 owe every Thing but Birth. I have the Honor
to be, Sirs [&c.]
The Honble Andrew Allen &
Robert Morris
Committee of Congress
O. Pollock
1. Papers CC (Letters and Papers of Oliver Pollock), 50, I, 53, NA.
OCTOBER 1776
1211
Van Bebber & Harrison to the Maryland Council of Safety 1
Gent. TMartinique] Octo 10th 1776
We beg leave to refer you to ours of the 8th herewith sent - since then
we have received here in Exchange for the same Quantity we had at Statia
120 half barels Gun powder, which we have put on board the Brige Friend-
ship on your Acct and enclosed you will find a Bill of Lading & Invoice for
it. We are most respectfully [&c.]
Van Bibber & Harrison
P.S. Capt [John] Martin says that the mistake of the 10 bbls powder you
mention was rectify’d before he sailed -2
(Copy)
1. Red Book, XI, Md. Arch.
2. See Council to Van Bebber & Harrison, August 5, 1776.
11 Oct.
Journal of H.M.S. Liverpool , Captain Henry Bellew 1
October 1776 In Halifax Harbour
Friday 11 AM Discharged the Prisoners, into H. Majestys Ship Bou-
logne -
First part modr and Cloudy, middle and latter fresh Gales
and Cloudy, at 3 PM hove short, i/£ past weigh’d; at 4
came too and sent the Warrans Guns2 onboard the
Rainbow , at 5 weighed and came to sail,
1. PRO, Admiralty 51/548.
2. The guns of Washington’s schooner Warren, Captain William Burke, taken August 26, 1776
by the Liverpool.
Diary of Simeon Perkins, Liverpool, Nova Scotia1
Friday, Oct. 11th - Peter Linnard, a fisherman late in the schooner
Dragon , arrives from Canso in a shallop, and informs that about 14 days
ago the schr. Dragon was taken by a privateer, William Carlton, com-
mander, as she was lying in Fisherman’s Harbour, and sent to New
England.2 The skipper Knowlton went with her. He also informs that the
rest of the crew were kept on board the privateer till she went to Canso, and
[illegible] where she was run ashore by Capt. [George] Dawson.3 Carlton
and his Lieut., with some others made their escape. About 25 were taken
with two of the fishermen — B. Holmes and John Peach, and put on board
the brig Diligent , Capt. [Edmund] Dod. He also informs, a sloop, Capt.
Jones, of Rhode Island has been in at Canso, and taken away 5 sail of
ships, brigs, etc. Burnt, sunk and destroyed 5 or 6 more, and taken some
things out of stores.4
1. Harold A. Innis, ed.. The Diary of Simeon Perkins, 1776-1780, Champlain Society (Toronto,
1948), XXIX, 133-34.
1212
AMERICAN THEATRE
2. The Massachusetts privateer schooner General Gates.
3. H. M. Sloop Hope.
4. The Continental sloop Providence, Captain John Paul Jones.
John Langdon to Breck & Hammett, Boston1
Gent. Portsmo October 11, 1776 —
You’ll be kind enough to call on Capt [John] Bradford who will in-
form you if he has any large Cables, I am in want of Two for the Continent
from 15 to 17 Inches pray inform me P return of Post if any such can be
had from the Agent or from any private Person — Your [8cc.]
J Langdon
1. John Langdon Letter Book, Captain J. G. M. Stone Private Collection, Annapolis.
Acts and Resolves of the Massachusetts General Court1
[Watertown] Friday Octr 11th 1776.
Memorial of James Noble Shannon, Sc Jonas Farnsworth - 2 setting
forth - That the armed Schr Diligent , (taken in July 1775, and now in the
service of this State) with all her Appurtunances Sec have been condemned
in the Maritime Court for the Eastern district of this State and the Memo-
rialists, are by a decree of the Honble Timo Langdon Esqr Judge of said
Court, appointed joint Agents to sell said armed Schooner with all her ap-
purtunances 8cc for the benefit of the Captors. That they are also Agents for
the Armed Schr Margaretta taken in June 1775, whose Cannon, and other
appurtunances are now on board the Sloop Liberty, in the service of this
State. - That they have had repeated applications to sell said Schr Diligent,
Cannon, Swivels &c to private persons, which they have refused to do, until
they had given the Hon: Court the first offer thereof. That they take this
earliest opportunity of acquainting the Hon. Court therewith; and should
the Hon: Court not think it expedient to purchase them, they shall still have
the satisfaction of having done their duty in preferring the Interest of the
publick before that of Individuals.
Resolved that the Honble Richard Derby jr Esqr be, Sc he is hereby di-
rected to discharge the Schooner Diligent from the Service of this State,
and take into his Custody all the Cannon, and other Stores that are onboard
said Schooner, and are the property of this State, and the said Hon: Richd
Derby Esqr is hereby further directed, to discharge Capt John Lambert
Commander of said Schr Diligent together with the Officers, 8c Men under
his Command from the Service of this State.
1. Mass. Arch., vol. 36, 12, 15.
2. Ibid., vol. 210, 323.
OCTOBER 1776
1213
John Avery to E. Thompson1
Council Chamber Watertown Octr 11th 1776
Sir, I am directed by the Hon’ble Council of this State to apply to you for
a Number of Commissions for Commanders of Armed Vessels authorizing
them to cruise upon the Enemies of America, sign’d by the President of
Congress, as this Office is exhausted of those important Papers — Please to
send me by the Bearer as many as you can spare and as many Bonds and
they shall be refunded as soon as sufficient Number shall arrive from Phila-
delphia which are hourly expected — I am Sir [&c.]
John Avery Dpy Secry
E. Thompson Esqr The Secretary of the State of New Hampshire
1. Peter Force Papers, LC. A copy is in Mass. Arch., vol. 165, 353.
Petition of Nehemiah Somes to the Massachusetts Council 1
State of Massachusetts Bay The Hon’ble Council now sitting In Water-
town -
The Petition of Nehemiah Somes
Humbly sheweth -
That your Petitioner is fitting out an Armed Vessell to cruise against
the Enemies of these united States and is now ready equipt for Sea but they
haveing three Six Pounders and one four Pounder which he apprehends, are
too heavy for his Sd Vessell - 2 therefore humbly requests your Honors to
exchange them for Cannon of less Metal Vizt Six three Pounders which he
understands by Colo [Thomas] Crafts are at present Useless — if this
Proposal should not be agreeable to your Honors he will obligate himself to
procure Six Cannon of equal Goodness whenever called for provided your
Honors will grant the Loan of them Cannon mentioned as Above -
And as in Duty bound shall ever pray
Nehemiah Somes
Boston Octr 11 [th] 1776
[Endorsed] Read & Ordered that Moses Gill Esqr be a Committee to
make Enquiry relative to the Cannon mentioned in the Above Petition &
Report what is best to be done -
John Avery Dpy Secy3
1. Mass. Arch., vol. 165, 356.
2. The Massachusetts privateer schooner Active, 85 tons, Andrew Gardner, master.
3. Ibid., 357, 357i/2, the Council agreed to supply Somes with the cannon including “four Three
pounders from on board the Diligent.”
John B. Livingston to Robert R. Livingston 1
Dear Robt Providence Octobr 11th 1776
I am just arrived at this place, and by good information find every kind
of goods immoderately dear, sugars three pounds. . Rum 6/9. to 7/. Cotton
3/4 — Coffee 8i/2 all in Lawfull money, so that you will easily concieve
1214
AMERICAN THEATRE
that it will not answer for me to lay out any money on my own acct dry
goods they tell me are in the same proportion. . but I am in hopes that they
will fall somthing as a large Ship bound to Quebec with Clothing 8cc a was
brought in a few days ago by Capt [Arthur] Crawford but is not yet
condemned,2 as the Ship belongs partly to the Governor. I shall to morrow
morning wait upon him. and endeavor to make a purchase before hand upon
the Invoice which if I can the goods will come much Cheaper as the mer-
chants of this place make a point of out bidding strangers, and indeed the
owners themselves bid, which is by no means customary any where else. I
shall endeavor (if we cant purchase on the Invoice) to play them a like
trick —
This evening I was informed that a Vessel belonging to the C. Congress3
has taken 8 Vessels which she has manned and sent home, And destroyed 5
more most of which are Ships, she took them in a Harber near the
banks, it is I think very great news — Capt Crawford has likewise taken
two more prizes both sugar Ships the one a three Decker, the many
Captures that are daily made convinces me that it is best to lay out our
money in Privateers I wish you. Mr [William] Duer, and Mr [John] Jay
would be concerned in one, a small Sloop now laying at Hartford, would
be a very proper Vessel. Could you get Guns in our province, she would
not I think cost above £2000 pounds, and she has the charecter of a fast
sailer — Mr [James A.] Stewart tells me I have made £800 pounds by the
beaver Capt [Stewart] Deane;4 much more than I expected, which money
Blair has reed and vested it in a ship mounting 28 Guns, as I have not
seen him I dont know on what terms I am interested though I am not sorry
for it as it is utterly impossible buying in a privateer here, Guns and other
stores being so high — Stewart was offered £3000 pounds Lawfull money
for the Beaver as she lay just from a Cruize, when her Cargo, and ail cost
the owner but £2400 York — You may think things has rose amazingly
here — I wish you and Mr Duer would endeavor to buy up all the 6 and 4
pounders you possibly can. at any thing less than £ 70 a pair - For the 6.
and £ 50 pounds for the 4 — at least you may buy if it is possible 10 pair
of each sort, if you can buy the Cannon endeavor to buy muskets lik [e] wise
— Capt Cook no doubt will be a proper person to get these things if he will
engage. I shall be at Hartford in a fortnight where I wish you would direct
my Letters to be left, as the Cannon will determine my buying the Sloop. —
I find that I cant exchange any of my Tea here, as the merchants are afraid
of engaging in that Article expecting it will be imported soon, and I believe
it will. - You see that I am baffled in all my schemes, but I have one more,
which is to go to Govr Trumble [Jonathan Trumbull] and endeavor to bor-
row a few Tons of Salt Petre — which if he consents will stand me in good
stead, as I shall repay him when the bounty is taken off. should I succeed I
shall do wonders as the devil himself has not more cunning than these peo-
ple — I have not heard of Harry since my last, but believe he is safe as the
Enemy has not come to Huntington as yet. 5
OCTOBER 1776
1215
I come now to the Articles you desired to get for you. shoes none to
be had. Linnen of about 4/ formerly now 16/. Hatts £4. and every thing
in proportion I am afraid to buy for Mr Duer as he may get them at Phila
much cheaper but if I must purchase for him he must write me by the
Post, show him this Letter that he may see what prCt we shall make or
break by purchasing goods in these parts. . Carting Goods they pay 2/8 pr
mile. strangers no doubt must pay 3/. & they are a set of Vagabonds that
shall never have the honor of my company Among them again — I expect to
recieve a large Packet of Letters at Boston from you in answer to my last
untill which unless I hear something extraordinary I shall not be able
to write, in the mean time I remain
Your affectionate brother
John B Livingston
I forgot to mention that the Ceberus [ Cerberus ] retook two Vessels bound
for this Port — and a Small Schooner belonging came in here two days ago
haveing had a handsome drubbing by a large Ship.
1. Papers Relating to Naval Affairs, NYHS.
2. The ship Thomas, taken September 21 by the Rhode Island privateer sloop Hawke.
3. The Continental sloop Providence, John Paul Jones.
4. The New York privateer sloop Beaver.
5. Henry Beekman Livingston.
Newport Mercury, Friday, October 11, 1776
Newport, October 11.
Last Tuesday two of the enemy’s ships took 4 vessels off Montague
Point; 3 of which were prizes to Capt. [James] Munro, and some other pri-
vateers; the other a merchantman belonging to Connecticut. All the people
belonging to these vessels, we hear, took to their boats, and got safe ashore
near Stonington.1
Last Monday the Continental sloop Providence , Capt. [John Paul]
Jones, arrived at a safe port, having, in a cruise of 6 weeks, captured 16 sail
of vessels, 6 of which he burnt; among the others is one ship, with 3000
quintals of codfish, some smaller fishermen, and two West-Indiamen.
1. The three recaptures made by the British vessels stationed off Block Island were the Agnes,
Jenny, and Carron, Howe’s Prize List, March 31, 1777, PRO, Admiralty 1/487.
Ship News from Newport1
Newport, October 11, [1776]
Last Tuesday a prize ship loaded with sugar, rum Sec. arrived safe at
Stonington, taken by Capt. Nickerson in a small sloop from Plymouth2
The Independence privateer, Capt. Truxton, is arrived at an Eastern
port: He has taken 2 ships and 2 brigs; one of the brigs he gave some pris-
oners, after taking out a quantity of cotton, cocoa, Sec. the other brig is ar-
rived safe, loaded with oil, and tis said one or both of the ships are arrived.3
1216
AMERICAN THEATRE
The Broom privateer, Capt. Welding is arrived safe in an Eastern port,
with 5 valuable prizes, all which he took in 4 days after he sailed.4
We hear, a few nights past, one of the enemy’s barges went into the
harbour of Norwalk, and cut out a sloop of about 40 tons.
1. Independent Chronicle , Boston, October 17, 1776.
2. The Massachusetts privateer sloop America , Captain Thomas Nicholson.
3. The New York privateer sloop Independence, Captain Thomas Truxtun.
4. The Rhode Island privateer sloop Broome, Captain Richard Whellen.
Captain Tobias Furneaux, R.N., to Governor Nicholas Cooke1
Sir Syren off Block-Island October 11th 1776
Having received a permission from Lord Howe for an Exchange of
Prisoners, I therefore take the Liberty to Inform you, I have on board His
Majesty’s Ships under my Command a Number of Prisoners: Vizt Masters
of Merchant Ships, Mates and Private Seamen, who I am ready to exchange
for British Subjects of the same Rank, Vizt Masters for Masters, Mates for
Mates, and Seamen for Seamen; Knowing no other place as convenient for
such Exchange as Block-Island, whenever you shall think proper to send
over to that Island, any Persons of the said Ranks, and Qualities, I will re-
turn an equal Number, on the faith of an Officer to any Person deputed to
receive the same, or to manage such Exchange. —
To prevent a greater number being sent over, than I may have to re-
turn; I take the Liberty to Inform you I have at present two Masters, five
Mates, and Twenty four [Seamen] I am Sir [&c.]
Tob8 Furneaux
1. Letters to the Governor, vol. 8, R, I. Arch.
Memorial from Stonington to the Connecticut
General Assembly1
To the Honourable the General Assembly, now Setting at New
Haven - The Memorial of the Committee of Correspondence & Inspection
of the Town of Stonington; and Sundry of the Inhabitants of said Town.
Most humbly sheweth
That where as, Your Honours thought fit in your Last Session in May
to Grant for the Defence and Protection of this place: a Captain and Ninety
Men; Since which one half has been Ordered to New London. Your Honours
may Remember that this Town is the only one in this State, that has Re-
ceived any Damage from those Sons of Tyranny and Despotism: Sent by
that more than Savage Tyrant, George the Third, To deprive us of those un-
alienable Rights, that the Supreme Governour of Heaven and Earth has in-
vested us with. Your Memorialists therefore pray that the Number of men
Ordered and Destined as above, may Still be Continued. And that the Two
Eighteen Pounders, and four Twelves, and Shot 8cc that were Ordered in
your former Session for this place: may be Delivered as Soon as possible;
OCTOBER 1776
1217
As this Harbour is perhaps more Used by Coasters, and Vessels bound to
Sea, than any Harbour in this State; and is a place of great Consequence;
not only to this, but other States We therefore beg Leave to Inform your
Honours: that Several Vessels have Lately been Chasd into this Harbour by
the Kings Ships; and have here been protected. Your Memoriallists further
pray that the Three Large Cannon (now at New London) belonging to this
Town be likewise ordered for this place; and the Two field pieces that was
Lent by this Town to the Town of New London: be ordered back to the
Town of Stonington
We therefore Flatter our Selves that this our Most reasonable Request will
be granted. And your Memorialists as in Duty bound shall ever pray.
Stonington Octor 11th 17762
Joseph Denson
Alexander Bradford
Robert Stanton
Nathaniel Palmer
Nathan Palmer
Nathan Palmer Jur
John Daviss
Andrew Palmer
Michael Ash
Nathaniel Minor
Paul Wheeler
John Brow Jur
John DeDenison 4th
Henry Babcock
Simon Rhodes
Committee
1. Conn. Arch., 1st Series, IV, 400a, ConnSL.
2. Ibid., 399, a petition from the inhabitants of Groton was also submitted this date requesting
“the first Company of Millitia belonging to this Town to return home that both their
& our Wives & Children may be partly relieved from the very great anxiety they are
now in. . . .”
Connecticut Gazette , Friday, October 11, 1776
New-London, October 11.
A Ship burthen 225 Tons, taken by Capt. Tho. Nickeson [Thomas
Nicholson], in the Privateer sloop America, belonging to Plymouth, was last
Week brought into a Port in this State. The Privateer had been only 7 Days
out when she took this Prize, and was left in Chase of another. The Cargo
of this ship is as follows, viz. 200 Hhds. sugar, 100 Puncheons Rum, 20
casks Madeira Wine, 8c Quantity of Logwood and M[a]hogany.
Last Tuesday two prize Snows were retaken by two British Men of
War in sight of Stonington Harbour. - One of them was a Prize which had
been taken by a Providence Privateer, commanded by James Munro; the
other had been taken by a Privateer belonging to the State of Rhode-Island.
We learn that the People got on shore in their Boats.
Wednesday a Brig bound into this Port, from the West-Indies was
taken by a Man of War near Montauk Point; but the People got on shore in
their Boat.
Yesterday the Prize ship (a Guinea-man) mentioned in our last to be
taken by Capt. Harding, in the Brig Defence, belonging to this State, ar-
rived safe in this Harbour.
1218
AMERICAN THEATRE
The ship Hope , mentioned in this Paper, (No. 670.) to be taken by the
schooner Spy, Capt. Niles, we hear was afterwards retaken by the Enemy
and carried into New-York.
Governor Jonathan Trumbull to George Washington 1
Sir New Haven October 11th 1776
In consequence of your favor proposing a descent on Long-Island, al-
though I was so unhappy as not to be able to meet Generals [James] Clin-
ton and [Benjamin] Lincoln at this place as requested, I applied to the
State of Rhode Island and obtained their consent and orders, that Colo
[William] Richmond and such part of his Battalion as shall not enlist on
board the Continental Vessels should assist in the enterprize. Colo Rich-
mond will accordingly begin his march this day for New London, and bring
with him the Whale Boats collected in Massachusetts Bay and Rhode Island
to the number of which, it is apprehended, will be of use to the
Troops ordered on this servic — , especially to secure their retreat, should it
be attempted to be cut off. When Colo Richmond arrives at New London he
has orders to put himself under the command of such General Officers as
Your Excellency shall appoint. I have this day conferred with Colls
[William] McIntosh and [Henry Beekman] Livingston on the subject. They
inform me they are supplied with provisions and ammunition for their pur-
pose, and only want such a number of water craft as, with the Whale Boats
divided into three parts that each may be sufficient to transport 12 hundred
men, as he means each division to be so placed at the inletts to the Island,
as, if cut off from one, he may resort to the other, to make his retreat sure,
if necessary. These I have ordered for him, and dare say will be provided
for him without delay. The number of men he proposes to set out with will
doubtless be sufficient for his first attempt but what reinforcement will be
best soon to follow after to answer every purpose Your Excellency will
judge. They may be thrown over from Norwalk or Stamford very soon, if
placed there. I am apprehensive lest some difficulties may arise with respect
to the command. Colo McIntosh is a superior Officer to Lieut Colo Livings-
ton, and Richmond is superior to both - Colo Livingston appears to be a
young Gentleman of real spirit and abilities, and has every advantage in his
knowledge of the Island and the people there. The other Gentlemen have
also their merit. May not a difficulty arise as to the command. I hope there
will not. As the Gentlemen are all well disposed, I hope they will all cooper-
ate to the best advantage in the whole. What is further necessary to render
their operations effectual you will please to consider and direct -
Our naval expedition against the Ships of the Enemy in the Sound is
still in contemplation, and preparations are making for the same as fast as
we can. Commodore Hopkins writes me the 5th instant, that the Alfred and
Hampden are ready, and that the two new Frigates there would be ready in
about a week if they can be manned, neither of them having more than half
their complement at that time. Our Ship and Brig, will, we trust, be ready
OCTOBER 1776
1219
to join them; and when they are equipped it is proposed they shall first at-
tack the two Frigates that infest the Coast about Montauk Point, if they at-
tempt to give them any interruption; otherwise, that they proceed directly
up Sound, and give the best account they can of the Ships in the East River
— I am now informed, that the two Frigates and the Alfred are manned
from Colo Richmonds Regiment, which I hope will prove true, but if not,
am in hopes they may be compleated by Volunteers from Rhode Island and
New London. But if they should still fall short of their full compliment, I
beg leave to suggest to Your Excellency, whether they could not, with out
inconveniency, be filled up from some parts of your Army, unless the Row
Galley Men, by the Enemy’s Ships passing up the North River, are rendered
useless, in which case, they may be ordered to some proper place along
Sound for Commodore Hopkins to take them in. I have given Commodore
Hopkins the utmost assurance, to give him all possible intelligence, from
time to time, of the Enemy’s Ships of Force this side of Hell Gate, that he
may be apprised what he has to encounter. To that purpose I beg leave to
suggest to your Excellency to give orders to such Commander of the Guards
or Posts in sight of the Enemy’s Ships to give me intelligence from time to
time of their force and whether or when any of the Enemy’s Ships may join
them through Hell Gate. I understand one 24 Gun Ship of the Enemy has
already passed through to them — Since my last from Commdore Hopkins
am informed, that the Columbus Capt Whipple has arrived in Port at Rhode
Island. Have wrote to him to take her with him, if possible, which will make
a considerable addition to his force. Please to afford me your advice and
fullest information. I cannot but flatter myself with strong hopes of advan-
tages to be desired from this adventure of our Ships as well as the expedi-
tion to Long Island. Secrecy in both is of utmost importance
1. Trumbull Papers, XXIX, Letter Book IV, 361-64, ConnSL.
Governor Jonathan Trumbull to Commodore Esek Hopkins1
Sir New Haven Octobr the 11th 1776
Your favour of the 5th Instant*came safe to hand in which you Inform
me, that the Alfred 8c Hampden are ready 8c the two New Frigates you ex-
pect will be ready in about a week, I hope no attention or diligence will be
wanting to have them prepared by that time, and shall Indeavour that there
be no delay as to ours, tho am Necessitated to Apply to you or your State to
furnish a quantity of Shot for our Ship We have the Round, but double
headed, Chain Sliding and Starr Shot we have none, hope you can Supply
what will be wanting for the present, we have sent to our furnace for them
but fear it will be impossible to have them ready at New London by the
time they may be wanted for the present Expedition but may be ready to be
replaced if Necessary very soon after; the size of the Cannon for which
we shall want them are Nine pounders. I understand the Columbus is now
in Port, if so, cannot she join your Squadron? for no force ought to be
1220
AMERICAN THEATRE
Omitted which human foresight can devise to render our Success as sure as
may be at this Critical time with our Army As this expedition if Success
full may much disconcert [illegible] the Enemy —
Since my last to you there has been two more frigates up sound as far
as against Say brook, but Suppose now returnd towards Block Island how
far they or either of them may be the Object of your attention shall
Submitt, no doubt there ought to be a Spy upon them out from Newport
or New London or both to Watch and give Intelligence of their Motions, and
if they or either of them may be decoyed in, so as to fall in your way, and
the force from New London to join you at an Appointed time or Signal
given, perhaps you may first give a good Account of them before you pro-
ceed up the Sound which by the way is the Main Object. I have Employed
Capt [Nathaniel] Shaw [Jr.] the barer hereof to Conferr with you on the
Subject and Acquaint you from time to time with every Occurrence, 8c see
that every preparation is made on our part and give every necessary Intelli-
gence 8c Assistance as it will be difficult for me to do by letter 8c at this Dis-
tance where I may be detaind with the Assembly for a fortnight or three
Weeks. The Expedition on Long Island set forward by Genii Washington
will be Conducted by Coll McIntosh 8c Livingston 8c Richmond if he joins
them —
I have Requested Coll Livingstone as soon as he Arrives on Long Island
to employe trusty spies along on the south side, to Watch the Motion of the
Enemies Ships from New York 8c give speedy Intelligence if there is Any
Appearance of their Coming round the Island that you May have the earli-
est Notice if any such matter should happen, we hear that your ships are
now Manned from Coll Richmonds Regiment, if any failure on that Account
tho hope Number of Volunteers may be found at Rhodisland 8c New Lon-
don, but if still wanting there may possibly be a Complement thrown
Aboard from Genii Washingtons Army upon a sudden Occasion 8c for so
short a time as they might be wanted, if timely Notice is sent forward to
Genii Washington of their being wanted. I understand there is a 24 gun
Ship got thro Hell Gate 8c joined the two frigates tho now one lyes at Hun-
tington a Considerable Distance I shall Indeavour to gain every Intelli-
gence in my power 8c acquaint you with any alteration or reinforcement
which may happen there I am, with Esteem 8c Regard Sir [8cc.]
Jonth Trumbull
PS- Shall yield you my assistance of Excuse to Congress — the good of the
Service is their Object — as I Am Sure ’tis your’s Sir
1. Hopkins Papers, RIHS.
Memoirs of Major General William Heath1
[Headquarters, near Harlem] 11th [October]. — There was a con-
siderable movement among the British boats below. This afternoon, Gen.
Washington’s pleasure-boat, coming down the river with a fresh breeze, and
a topsail hoisted, was supposed, by the artillerists at Mount Washington to
OCTOBER 1776
1221
be one of the British tenders running down. A 12 pounder was discharged
at her, which was so exactly pointed as unfortunately to kill three Ameri-
cans, who were much lamented.
1. Abbatt, ed., Heath Memoirs, 62.
Journal of Captain Henry Duncan, R.N.1
[On board H.M.S. Eagle , East River, New York]
11th [October]. - This afternoon the admiral, with most of the cap-
tains, and Commodore Hotham, with all the flat boats and batteaux, went
up the East River to Kipp’s and Turtle Bay, near the west end of Black-
well’s Island, where we remained all the night, during which time the army
were striking their tents and preparing to embark. About three o’clock
Saturday morning, the 12th, the troops were embarked in the flat boats and
batteaux, to the number of between four and five thousand men; the guards
and 42nd regiment, between fourteen and fifteen hundred men, were em-
barked on board sloops under my direction. At daybreak in the morning the
boats set off, and no sooner had they put off, with an amazing strong tide,
but it came on a fog equal to pitch darkness, with now and then an interval
of light for a few seconds. The boats were put off; to attempt to stop them
would have been very dangerous, for the headmost boats must have anc-
hored, and the boats that followed would in all probability run foul of them,
to the imminent danger of sinking each other; the admiral, therefore,
rather chose to run the risk of passing Hell Gate with all the boats in that
rapid tide and dark fog. I went astern and ordered all the boats to move for-
ward. Soon after their putting off, a galley towing one of the artillery boats,
in endeavouring to cross a vessel lying in the passage, towed her athwart
hawse; the boat ran directly up her cable, and overset instantly. Many of
the people were picked up; there were three field-pieces lost, and I suppose
five or six people. There were very few people in the flat boats had ever been
through or knew anything of the passage of Hell Gate. This made the dan-
ger much the greater. To keep the starboard shore was the safest passage;
straight through carried them upon the rocks, and the larboard shore would
have brought them under the fire of the enemy, perhaps without being able
to land or retreat; but the boats got all very luckily through, the one in-
stance only excepted, and arrived at Frog Point, the place of their destina-
tion about nine o’clock, where they landed without opposition.
I. Duncan’s Journals, XX, 131-32.
Journal of the Continental Congress 1
[Philadelphia] Friday, October 11, 1776
Resolved , That General Washington be desired, if it be practicable, by
every art, and whatever expence, to obstruct effectually the navigation of
the North river, between Fort Washington and Mount Constitution, as well
1222
AMERICAN THEATRE
to prevent the regress of the enemies’ frigates lately gone up, as to hinder
them from receiving succours.
The Secret Committee informed Congress that a vessel was arrived at
Rhode Island, with sundry articles imported by their order, for account of
the United States.
Resolved , That the Secret Committee be directed to report in what
manner the goods imported ought, in their opinion, to be disposed of.
Resolved, That the Marine Committee be directed to deliver over to the
direction of the Committee of Secret Correspondence two of the continental
cruisers now ready for sea, to perform such voyages as they shall think nec-
essary for the service of these states:
That the Marine Committee give orders to the remainder of the conti-
nental cruisers, now in the port of Philadelphia, and ready for sea, to pro-
ceed on such voyages, or perform such immediate services, as the Secret
Committee shall direct, in writing, addressed to the commanders thereof.
The Marine Committee to whom was referred the account of Captain
Martindale, brought in their report, which was taken into consideration;
Whereupon,
Resolved, That there be paid to Captain Sion Martindale the sum of
£43 5 3 lawful money, equal to 144 18/90 dollars, in full of expences and dis-
bursements on the brig Washington, and other expences from Halifax to
Casco Bay.
Resolved, That a member be added to the Marine Committee, in the
room of Mr. [Stephen] Hopkins, who is absent.
The member chosen, Mr. [William] Ellery.
1. Ford, ed., JCC, VI, 866, 867, 868-69.
Richard Henry Lee to Samuel Purviance, Jr.1
Dear Sir, Philadelphia 11th October 1776
Among the inconveniencies of this busy scene, I esteem it not the least,
to be so often prevented from acknowledging the favors of my friends
sooner than I do. It has been owing to much business that your letter of the
27th has not received an answer before now. I have the pleasure to acquaint
you that in ranking the Captains of our Continental Ships, the Congress
have placed Captain [James] Nicholson at the head, he being the first Cap-
tain. I wish it were in my power to give you a satisfactory answer about the
building another Frigate. Hitherto nothing has been determined on this
subject, the Committee having been prevented by an infinite multiplicity of
other business; and to the same cause has it been owing t[hat] no orders
have been sent concerning the Frigate Virginia. I have no doubt but that
another Frigate will soon be directed, and that the Builder of greatest merit
will be prefer’d. It would give me the greatest pleasure to hear that the Vir-
ginia was ready for Sea, and I am happy in being satisfied that the Manag-
ers of this business in Baltimore will not loose a moment in effecting so sal-
OCTOBER 1776
1223
utary a work. I suppose a want of Anchors will be the greatest obstruction,
as I take it for granted no time will be lost in getting the guns down from
Mr [Samuel] Hughes’s works, and having the Carriages made. I shall be
glad to have an exact state of the Frigate & what She wants to complete
her. I refer you to the papers for news and am Sir [Sec.]
Richard Henry Lee
1. Purviance Papers, MdHS.
William Ellery to Governor Nicholas Cooke1
[Extract] Philadelphia Oct 11th 1776 —
A naval Expedition is on Foot, which if carried into Execution will be
very advantageous to the United States, and to the Officers and Seamen in
the Navy. If the Cabot should not be in Port the Marine Commee have or-
dered that One of the Frigates should be employed in it. Commodore Hop-
kins in a Letter to that Commee hath informed them, that One of the Frig-
ates could soon be got ready, and intimated that he could mann her with
Draughts from our Troops. I hope that the Genl Assembly will countenance
this Measure, and give every other Assistance in their Power to forward
the sailing of the Fleet.
1. Letters to the Governor, vol. 8, R. I. Arch.
Minutes of the Pennsylvania Council of Safety 1
In Council of Safety,
[Philadelphia] October 11th, 1776.
Mr. Nesbitt was directed to pay Doctors Duffield 8c Rush for their at-
tendance on the Fleet 8c Artillery Company of this State, from 27 Sep-
temb’r, 1775, to July 5th, 1776, with Rations, £ 182 8 1.
A Commission was Granted, agreeable to resolve of Congress, to James
Smith, Commander of the Letter of Marque Brig Rutledge , Mounting 12
Carriage Guns, navigated by 60 men, Burthen about 120 Tons, owned by
Alexander Gillson [sic Gillon]
3 O’Clock
Resolved , That Messrs. David Rittenhouse, Joseph Blewer, Emanuel
Eyres 8c Peter Brown, go down to the Piers to-morrow and fix upon a
method for fastening the Chain, and give directions to Thomas Davis 8c
Lewis Gyon to prepare everything necessary to fasten it, without Delay;
And that the Commodore order the Boom to be brought up to Kensington,
to Mr. Peter Brown’s Landing, as soon as the tide will serve.
1. Pennsylvania Colonial Records , X, 749-50.
1224
AMERICAN THEATRE
‘‘List of the Prisoners of War in the Town of Reading” 1
[Extract]
Taken on the River St. Lawrence, November 19th [1775].
Mr. Ryal, Master of the Gaspee.
Taken at Point Levy, November 4th [1775].
Mr. M’Kenzie, Midshipman of the Hunter.
Taken on the River St. Lawrence, November, 19th [1775].
Joseph White field, Cook of the Gaspee.
James Carr, Foremastman.
Reading, October 11th, 1776.
I do hereby certify, that the foregoing is an exact List of the Prisoners
of War in the care of the Committee of the Town
By Order of the Committee.
James Read, Chairman
To the Hon’ble the Council of Safety of the State of Pennsylvania.
1. Pennsylvania Archives, 2nd series, I, 424-26.
William Lux to the Maryland Council of Safety 1
Gentlemen, Baltimore 11 October 1776.
The Privateer Harlequin being now ready to Sail and Capt Benja
Handy appointed Commander, he now waits on you to obtain a New Com-
mission the former one being in the Name of Capt Wm Wolsey, and he
being now on the Eastern Shore we cannot procure it to return to you, But
we hereby engage and pledge our Honors that it shall be returned immedi-
ately on his geting here, hoping you will not on that accot detain our Ves-
sell, as she is now rather late for the Jamaica Fleet, some of which we flat-
ter ourselves with bringing in I am in behalf of the Concern Gentn [Sec.]
Willm Lux
1. Red Book, XI, Md. Arch.
Cumberland Dugan and Lemuel Cravath to the
Maryland Council of Safety1
[Extract]
Inventory of Schooner Ninety two , Vizt
Her Hull main mast, main topmast, foremast, and fore topmast, with one
Spare topmast, bolsprit, flying jib boom, main boom Sc Gaff, fore boom Sc
gaff, main top sail & cross jack yards, foretopsail Sc cross jackyards with all
her lower and topmast shrowds, bolsprit shrowd, tyes Stays halliards
brace bowling takels, Sc [torn] as She now lyes two pumps with geer in
them companion binacle 8cc [torn] Cables, the largest 8c best bower almost
new [torn]es: 2 of them new — 2 or 3 spare pump box’s 4 [tom] for the
OCTOBER 1776
1225
Cabin some glasses broke, with 4 dead lights for them 1 large iron pump
hook, & 1 iron boat hook 1 dozn new grummets, 8c 1 dozn new thumb
blocks 1 dozn blocks 8c 6 large spare Blocks
1 dozn Spare sheeves, 8c 2 dozn new Spare Cleets Some old Sails for parce-
lin 8c some old rope on it about, li/2 lb weight of new 4 inch rope 9
Latches, with 3 iron hatch barrs —
a Cabin table, 8c fire wood for a Voyage 7 Spare cat block 8c hook, some
spare mats for Shrowds 8cc 6 water Casks 3 of them iron bound, 8c one
iron bound water Cask Stove.
about i/2 a barrel of tarr in a Barrell 1 large iron Cabous, with 2 iron
potts in it 1 deep sea lead wt 20 lb with a deep sea line [torn]ead wt 8 lb
— with one or two hand lines [torn] 1 ladle, 1 speaking trumpet [torn]
hour glass, the glass [torn] 3 pint mugs, 1 wine glass 1 knife box 500
pump nails 1000 Scupper nails 500 8d nails 500-1 Od 8c a parcell 20d
nails a Box for the nails 8cc - abot 1 lb coffee in a Bag 2 new log
lines - 2 iron marline spikes 1 new tinder box, abot 20 lb Candles in a
Box 1 iron candlestick, abot i/2 bushl pease in a bag 2 Spoons, 3 pewter
plates 2 large Bowles some caulking irons 8c Chiz[e]lls, some points 8c
gaskets a peice of good pump leather english tan, 2 Bennacle Compass’s —
one of them new — abot 3 lb of sewing twine 8c some Needles — 1 Sugar
box — 1 Grog cann, 1 hand Saw 1 drawing knife, some gimblets, 1
Broom 6 hand Spikes, -
Some Spare old rope 8c some new [torn]orming 8c Spunyarn, 8c some spare
[torn] 1 Main Sail, 1 foresail 1 j [ib, 1 fl]ying jibb - I believe She has
a Spare old Mainsail 8c foresail, but of that Wm Jacobs Sailmaker can best
inform you as also of her other Sails, 8c the Condition of the whole of her
Sails, 8c how many She has 8cc -
The lowest Price we will take for said Schooner is Eight hundred
pounds Common money
Baltimore 11th Octobr 1776
Cumbd Dugan
for Self 8c
Lem1 Cravath2
1. Executive Papers, Box 2, Folder 76, Md. Arch.
2. The Council had expressed interest in purchasing or chartering the schooner, Council of
Safety Letter Book, No. 1, Md. Arch.
Journal of the Maryland Convention 1
[Annapolis] Friday, October 11, 1776.
On motion of Mr. [William] Paca, Resolved, That the several vessels
lately drifted on the shores of this state from lord Dunmore’s fleet, or other-
wise made captures of, be raised up, appraised, and fitted out for the use of
this state, or exposed to sale, at the discretion of the Council of Safety; the
cargoes of the said vessels to be also exposed to sale, and the monies arising
1226
AMERICAN THEATRE
from the sale of the said vessels and cargoes, be paid into the hands of the
treasurer of the western shore, subject to the disposal of this or a future
Convention or legislature.
1. Maryland, Convention, 38.
Journal of the Maryland Council of Safety1
[Annapolis] Friday. October 11th 1776
Commission of Reprisal issued to James Handy of the Harlequin Pri-
vateer, mounting Six Swivels, he having given Bond according to Resolve
Mr Benjamin King appointed Captain of the Schooner Resolution , and
the Council of Safety agree to pay him the same Wages, and [ sic as] Mer-
chants pay, and impower him to procure hands to man her. -
Ordered That Western shore Treasurer pay to Benja King fifty Pounds
on Acct of Schooner Resolution.
1. Council of Safety Journal, 29 August 1775 to 20 March 1777, Md. Arch.
Maryland Council of Safety to Captain Joseph Handy1
No. 211.
Sir, We have heard of your Return into this Country these six Weeks, and
are also informed, that you are loading out and intend to sail again Soon for
the foreign West-Indies. -
We expected from thence a valuable Cargo in your vessel, in return for
that sent out, but have neither received an Account of your Arrival there,
Sales of your Cargo, or what you have brought to America in Return. -
As we cannot doubt but that you have a Letter to us from one of our
Agents on those subjects, or can give us the necessary information, we can-
not help expressing our Surprize that you have not long ago done it, and
hope that you will immediately, on Receipt of this, acquaint us with all you
know on the Subject, and also transmit such Letters as you may have to us. -2
[Annapolis] Octr 11th 1776
1. Council of Safety Letter Book, No. 2, Md. Arch.
2. Handy, commanding the schooner Three Sisters, had been sent to St. Eustatius by the
Council. See Volume 5, 652-53.
Journal of the Virginia Navy Board1
[Williamsburg] Friday 11th October 1776. -
Ordered that John Smith, Robert Smith, Jesse Foster, Joshua Hudgins,
George Filyoung, William Soaper & Christopher Foster Ship carpenters
who are at Present Engaged in the Service of Capt William Smiths Com-
pany of Minute Men in Gloucester County be discharged from the said
Service provided they are willing to Quit the same and Engage in Working
OCTOBER 1776
1227
at their Trades on some of the Vessels which are Building or to be Built for
the use of the Navy -
Ordered that the keeper of the Public Store deliver unto Capt Isaac Young-
husband One thousand Pump Nails for the use of the Brig Musqueto -
Alexander Massenburg, Joseph Willson, Jno. Chick, Thomas Coleman,
Thomas Bailey & John Royston Warrant officers on Board the Brig Liberty
Commanded by Capt Thomas Lilly lodged a Complaint with this Board
against the said Lilly in the following Words, to wit, “That your Petitioners
influenced by the most laudable Motives the Love of Liberty freely & Volun-
tarily entered into the Marine Service of this State on the Board the Brig
Liberty fully determined to risque their Lives in defence of the Rights and
Liberties of their Country and are still so determined Provided they can be
entitled to the Rights and Usage of Freemen themselves but that their
daily Labour accomodation serving up their Provisions delay in the pay-
ment of their Wages, want of Regularity of Orders and proper Subordina-
tion among Men & Officers and the Arbitrary, Tyranical unmanley & illi-
beral behaviour and Treatment of their Commander Capt Thomas Lilly has
made their Condition on Board the said Brig the Condition of the Slavery
and of course intolerable inasmuch that they are determined at the risque of
their Lives not to submit longer to it without seeking redress and endea-
vouring to be heard before this honble Board instituted as your petitioners
have been taught to believe for the hearing redressing and adjusting all
Grievances made to it from persons suffering in the Navy. — That your Pe-
titioners pray they may not be prejudged seditious and Mutinus from the
Freedom in which they express their Greivances, as Freemen they think it
the essential Right of Free Marines to Speak openly — they protest against
a Seditious & factious Spirit and beg that their Gr[ie] vances now setforth
may be enquired into by the Evidence of the whole Crew of Officers & Sea-
men of the said Brig. That your Petitioners the Warrant Officers on Board
the said Brig are compelled to the Duty of Common Sailors the compliment
of Seamen being reduced to four & one Boy occasioned by the Desertion of
the Men who could not & would not Submit to the usage and Treatment of
their Captain. — That your Petitioners who are Messmates have their Pro-
visions cooked intolerably bad and when they complain of it and beg to
Dress it themselves are refused that small privilege and the Cooks Fire Or-
dered to be put out. — That whilst the Brig Liberty lay at Baltimore your
Petitioners the Marines and common Sailors were huddled into a Miserable
Loft and obliged to Diet & Lodge together without distinction and your Pe-
titioner John Royston Steward of the said Brig obliged to Sell his Cloaths to
Raise Money to pay his Washing Woman Capt Lilly having never paid
him from the Time of his entering with him one shilling, that whilst she lay
at the above place thirteen Sailors and five Marines deserted. In your Peti-
tioners Opinion for want of their Wages with other Cruel Treatment. —
Your Petitioner John Chick Gunner complains alone that whilst very sick
he has been called up late at night wantonly to Load & Charge the Guns
which he has begged in the day he might be Permitted to do but refused. —
1228
AMERICAN THEATRE
Your Petitioner Thomas Coleman Pilot also Complains that in the discharge
of his Duty on Board the said Brig he is so Thwarted and contradicted that
it is impossible to do it satisfactory or safely. - Wherefore your Petitioners
pray that right & Justice be done them that their complaints be heard and if
made good by proper Testimony they be redressed which redress they beg
may be to be removed from the direction and Authority of Capt. Lilly who
has threatened them with severer Treatment when he gets them at Sea.
Lastly your Petitioner Alexander Massenburg begs leave further to shew
that at the Time of his Signing Articles with Capt Lilly it was Agreed by
the said Lilly that he the said Massenburg should be at Liberty to remove
from the said Brig at any Time when he was dissatisfied with his Birth and
could get one more agreeable to himself and no longer than last Saturday
told your Petitioner he might go when and where he pleased from which he
thought himself discharged.” — Which being Read It is Ordered that the
said Capt Lilly be summoned to appear before the Board at the Capitol in
the City of Williamsburg on Tuesday next to Answer the said Complaint. -
1. Navy Board Journal, 72-75, VSL.
Dixon and Hunter’s Virginia Gazette , Friday, October 11, 1776
Williamsburg, October 11.
Since our last a Spanish ship arrived in Hampton road; it is said she
came to purchase a cargo of flour, and has on board 6000 dollars. Advices by
this ship say, that the French seem determined to strike some capital blow
against Great Britain in a very short time.
Journal of the South Carolina General Assembly1
[Charleston] Friday the 11th Day of October 1776
Resolved That the Commissioners of the Treasury as a further Encour-
agement to the Commander and Marines belonging to the vessel called the
Revenge do pay and advance to the said Commander and Men out of the
amount of the Sales of the Cargo taken from on board the Transport Bri-
gantine called the Glasgow -Packett One Sixth of the neat Amount of Sales
of the said Cargo
1. Salley, ed.. South Carolina General Assembly Journals, 106, 108.
12 Oct*
Major General John Burgoyne to Captain Charles Douglas, R.N. 1
(Copy) Camp at River La Cole 12th [October] 76
My Dear Sir I seize the first instant of my Intelligence, to inform you, that
the Rebel Fleet, was found Yesterday Morning, at Anchor between the Isle
Val[c]our, and the Main: They had intended to sail as this Morning: and
Battle of Vale our Island.
1230
AMERICAN THEATRE
it was a Compleat Surprize. Our Fleet got above them, And the Carleton
with one Division of Artillery Boats engaged; the rest of the Ships could
not get into action, the Wind being strong at N.E. with this small part of
our Force, we have taken Sc destroyed, the Royal Savage the largest of their
Vessels; two others are supposed to be disabled: We have besides Thirty
or forty Prisoners: but the best part of my intelligence is, that our whole
fleet, was formed in line above the Enemy, and Consequently they must
have surrendered this morning or given us battle upon our Terms, the In-
dians and Light Troops, are abreast with the Fleet: they cannot therefore
Escape by Land. You may therefore expect my dear Sir, in a day after this
news, the important decision of the Lakes I will forward it to you with
Equal diligence and Joy, in the mean time accept my Congratulations, upon
the Glorious Spirit, with which the Naval Department has begun, I am
going forward shortly in person, in hopes the leading Brigade of the Army,
may be able to move on directly.
I dare say you will think it right, and I request the favor of you to Act
Accordingly to lay a positive Embargo on the sailing of all Vessels, till the
result of this great business properly Authenticated by the Generals dis-
patches, can be forwarded through you to Government. I have the honour
Sec:
(sign’d) J. Burgoyne
[Endorsed] No 1 In Capt Douglas’s Letter 21st October In the Lords of
the Admty’s of 29th Novr 1776
1. PRO, Colonial Office, 5/125, 81c.
The Freeman’s Journal , Saturday, October 12, 1776
Portsmouth. October 12.
Last Sunday arrived at Saco a small prize-Schooner sent in by the Put-
nam Privateer, John Harmon Commander, having on board 300 bushels of
salt and some oyl. Next day arrived another schooner, taken by the same
privateer, having on board 375 Quintals of green fish; and some oyl; she
brings an account of another small vessel taken that is not yet arrived, and
one that they took, which was afterwards drove ashore by a frigate — the
Vessel lost, but the people got on board the privateer again; the frigate
drove the Privateer into a harbour, and came to anchor with intention of
keeping her in; but Capt. Harmon got one of his guns ashore on a point of
land, Sc fired on the frigate, when she returned whole broadsides into the
woods at them, but did no damage — Capt. Harmon after a few shots was
so lucky as to cut away her fore-stay, which obliged her to come to sail, and
put to sea.
Last Wednesday arrived at Falmouth, a Prize ship, of between 3 Sc 400
tons, from Portsmouth in England, to Quebec, laden with Powder, Nails,
Beef, Butter, &c. has 16 carriage-guns, 8 of which were mounted. She was
taken by a Privateer from Newbury, by stratagem.1
OCTOBER 1776
1231
Since our last arrived in this Port, two prize Schooners, the Glasgow
and the Neptune , laden with fish 8c oyl, to a considerable amount, taken off
the banks of Newfoundland, by Capt. Robert Parker, of this Port.
This morning a small prize schooner with 200 quintals of fish was sent
into this harbour; she was taken by Capt. Calton [William Carleton] in the
General Gates Privateer from Salem.2
1. Ship Nancy taken by the Massachusetts schooner Hawke, Captain John Lee.
2. The schooner Dragon; see Diary of Simeon Perkins, October 11, 1776.
Petition of Two Officers of the Armed Schooner Diligent
to the Massachusetts General Court1
The Petition of the Following Persons Humbly Sheweth
That We Your Petitioners have repeatedly Petitiond your Hons to the
followg Purport that we had servd this State since the 16th March last in
Differ [en]t Departments on Bord the Schooner Dilligent John Lambert
Commander which we are sorry to say to little advantage to the Country or
Ourselves, we therefore Requestd of your Hons to give us an honourable
Acquitance Discounting for time Serv’d, or to place us in some way werein
we cou’d render service to the General Cause and Contribute to our Advan-
tage, for in the Channel we then was in we saw no Prospect of Executing
Services Adequate to our pay, as our Seamen had mostly left the Vessl we
also Enquird of your Hons the Reason of the Detainment of our Wages, or
wither we was Accountable for our Captains Conduct, as we reminded your
Hons the Tenor of our Commissions bound us to Obey Superior Commands,
therefore we cannot View ourselves Culpable as we Disobey’d no lawfull
Commands Consistent with our Duty, on which Account we Doubt not if
our Conduct is Enquired into of Acquiting ourselves with Honr and to your
Satisfaction, we also wou’d beg leave to Acquaint your Hons that you did
not Acquit us in the Recess of the House but desird the Continuance of our
Service till the Court concurd with our Discharge, which Agreeable to your
Hons Request we did till last Saturday the Vessl was Discharg’d altho daily
Sollicited in a private way and greatly to our Advantage, as we thought
ourselves happier in Defence of the United States than in any other
Service, we therefore still hold ourselves in Readiness to Accept of Com-
missions by Sea or Land if a Vacancy presents in protecting the Country at
the hazard of our Lives, on the Contrary if nothing suitable offers we
pray your Hons that we may be immediately Discounted with for our for-
mer Services and honourably Discharg’d that we may have no Obstruction
of taking up Elsewhere assuring your Hons that we have allmost spent
the whole of our Wages in the Pursuit of them in so Expensive a Day,
we woud further inform your Hons that with the Utmost Difficulty we
got our Commander to make up his Role, which after finishing and not
taking a Duplicate of the same, by some means or other it has got lost, by
which means we Immagine it proves an Obstruction to our Obtaining our
Wages we have daily Sollicited him to make up another but to no
1232
AMERICAN THEATRE
Effect, we therefore humbly pray that your Hons woud take it into your
Wise Consideration, that we may no longer suffer by our Commanders Neg-
lect, as we remain here upon great Expence and loosing our time, which in
the present Day may be Valuable to the Country and ourselves, our fer-
vent Zeal for which (while we lay Dormant) we have not an Opportunity of
Showing, we therefore once more lay ourselves at the feet of your Hons
praying we may no longer be kept in Suspence hopeing that our Petition
may be Complyd with and that Suffering Innocence may be rewarded 8c as
in Duty Bound shall ever Pray. Our Wages are as Follows, viz
Walter Perkins Second Lieut serv’d from the 16th March To the 12th
Octr viz 7 Months, 2 Weeks, 0 Days a £ 5 pr Month
37.10. .0
Receivd Cash 5..-..-
Ballance due £ 32.10..-
Peter Clark Capt of Marines Sc Master at Arms from the 16th March
To the 12th Octr 1776 Do. 7 Months, 2 Weeks, 0 Days at £ 5 pr Month.
37.10. .0
Receivd Cash 3 . . 0 . .0
Ballance due £ 34. 10. .0
[Endorsed] In Council Octr 1776 Read Sc sent down
John Avery Dep Secy
1. Mass. Arch., vol. 210, 46.
Providence Gazette, Saturday, October 12, 1776
Providence, October 12.
Capt. Arthur Crawford, of this Place, has taken and sent into a safe
Port a ship from London, bound for Quebec, laden with Blankets, woolen
Cloths, Irish Linens, Sheeting, Dowlas, Shoes, Stockings, Boots, Brandy,
Port Wine, bottled Porter, Cheese, Sec. Her Cargoe, when she sailed, was es-
timated at Fifteen Thousand Pounds Sterling. He has likewise taken two
Ships from Jamaica.
Tuesday last [October 8] arrived from a Cruize the Sloop Providence,
Capt [John Paul] Jones, in the Service of the United States. During her
Cruize she took 13 Prizes, most of them Fishermen, six of which she burnt
or sunk, after taking out the Hands, and ordered the others to different
Ports. One of them is arrived at the Eastward.
Capt. [Abner] Coffin, in the Favourite Privateer, of this Port, has
taken a Ship from Jamaica, bound for London, laden with Sugar, Rum,
Limes, Pimento, Sec. This Prize is also arrived in a safe Harbour.
Thursday Jast arrived the Privateer Industry, Capt. [Thomas] Child,
of this Port. About a Fortnight since he fell in with a very large Jamaica
OCTOBER 1776
1233
Ship, mounting 10 Carriage Guns, which he engaged for several Hours; but
the Sea running high, and his Vessel making much Water, he could only
bring two of his Guns to bear, and was finally obliged to quit her. Capt.
Child had two Men killed, and five or six wounded.-1
Capt. [John] Ayres, who arrived at Boston on Tuesday last, in an
armed Schooner, on the 27th ult. in Lat. 39:45, Long. 49, saw a Fleet of 49
Sail, among them five Frigates and two 3 Deckers.
Two valuable Prizes, a Snow and Ship, laden with Provisions, bound
from England to New York, are taken, and carried in at the Eastward.
A Brig from Falmouth, bound to New York, is taken and carried into
Townsend, at the Eastward, having on board a Captain and about 20 Pri-
vates of the 16th Regiment of Dragoons, with their Horses and Accoutre-
ments, also the Chaplain of said Regiment.
We hear that a Privateer belonging to Newport has taken two valuable
Prizes, and sent them in at the Eastward
We hear that the Cerberus Frigate has this Week retaken two valuable
Prizes, that had been captured by some of our Privateers. The Hands that
were put on board one of them escaped in their Boat.
[Advertisements]
All Persons having any Bills against the Privateer Sloop Montgomery,
for the Second and third Cruizes, are desired to exhibit them on Thursday
next to Messieurs John Smith, David Lawrence, or Joseph Cooke, of whom
they may receive their Pay. Providence, October 11, 1776.
Providence, October 11, 1776.
Notice is hereby given, that on Thursday the 17th Instant, at Ten o’Clock in
the Forenoon, at Capt. Joseph Crawford’s Wharff, in Providence, will be
Sold at public Vendue, to the highest Bidder, the Brig Lawrence , Burthen
about 110 Tons, with her Appurtenances and Cargo, consisting of Rum,
Sugar and Sea Coal
Also the Brig Elizabeth, Burthen about 110 Tons, with her Appurte-
nances and Cargo, consisting of Salt, Virginia Tobacco, Flour, and two Car-
riages, one a Phaeton, the other a Kitatega; also 7 Negro Men Slaves, 3
large Cables, and 2 large Anchors, &c. pursuant to a Decree of a Court
erected in the State of Rhode-Island, Sec. for maritime Affairs, held at said
Providence the 1st of October inst. by the Hon. John Foster, Esq; Judge of
said Court.
Paul Tew, Sheriff.
N.B. Part of the Salt will be sold in small L[ot]s.
Whereas a Number of Persons have purchased Goods of said Tew at
public Vendue out of several Prizes sold some Time past, and neglect to pay
for the same: All such Persons are hereby requested respectively to make
immediate Payment, otherwise their Names, [illegible] of respect to Per-
sons, will be exposed in the Public P[lace], more [especially those who do
not live or reside in the Town of Providence. Also all Persons that have
1234
AMERICAN THEATRE
Money lodged in their Hands for the Subscriber, are desired to pay the
same immediately, that the Sale may be compleated.
To be Sold at public Auction,
On Monday the 21st of this inst. October, at Messieurs
Greene’s Wharff in East Greenwich,
The Ship St. James ,
With her Appurtenances and Cargo, consisting of 372 Hogsheads of Sugar,
82 Puncheons of Rum, 1 1 Bags of Pimento, 1800 Pounds Weight of old Cop-
per, and 36 Pipes and 4 Hogsheads of Madeira Wine, and to continue till all
is sold.
Henry Rice, Sheriff.
1. An item from the Daily Advertiser, London, October 22, 1776, reads:
London [October 22]. Captain Pearce, of the Dick, arrived at Liverpool from
Jamaica, in Lat. 40, engaged a Privateer, who, after a Skirmish of two Hours,
sheered off, he supposed her to be a Sloop of about 10 or 12 Guns, Bermuda
built; there was a Ship in Company with her, which he imagined was a Prize,
but could not be certain, as it was in the Night.
Journal of H.M.S. Carysfort, Captain Robert Fanshaw 1
October 1776 Moord in Frog [Throg] Bay
Saturday 12th At 6 AM Weighed 8c Run more in Shore a little above Frog
[Throg] point - at 9 hoisted a Striped Flag at the Mizon
topmt head 8c fired a Gun Do our Troops in the Flatt
bottom Boats began to Land Do Saw the Inhabitants
[8c] a few Armed Men driving away the Cattle. . .
Do Wear [Light Breezes 8c Cloudy] - At 1 PM Moor’d
Ship with the Stream Anchor to the Soward in 7 fam 8c the
Small Bower in 5 fam close to the bank, [in] which there
is but 6 foot Water - Do our Troops still Landing.
1. PRO, Admiralty 51/168.
“List of the Enemies Fleet on Lake Champlain”1
[Valcour Island, October 12]
1 Ship
1 Schooner
1 ditto
1 Redeaux
18. .12 P[s]
14. . 6 do
12 . . 6 do
6 . . 24 do Brass
>12 . . 12 . .ditto
4 . . 8 Inch Howitz
28 Gondolas, with one Gun each 12.18. 8c 24 P[s]
8c One 8 Inch Howitz
2 Gondolas 3 Guns each 12. Pounders
N B two of the above Gondolas sunk by our fleet the first Day 8c one blown
up, with 60 Men.
1. Schuyler Papers, Miscellaneous Military Papers, NYPL.
OCTOBER 1776
1235
Brigadier General Benedict Arnold to Major General Horatio Gates 1
Dear General Schuyler Island Octr 12. 1776
Yesterday morning at 8 oClock the Ennemies fleet, Consisting of one
Ship mountg Sixteen Guns, One Snow, mounting the same Number One
Schooner of fourteen Guns, two of Twelve, Two Sloops, a Bomb ketch, 8c a
large Vessell (that did Not come up) with Fifteen, or Twenty flatt Bottom
Boats or Gondolas varying, One Twelve or Eighteen pounder in their Bows
— Appeared of[f], of Cumberland Head, we, emediately prepared to re-
ceive them, the Gallies 8c Royal Savage were ordered Under way, the rest
of our fleet lay at An Anchor at 1 1 oClock. they ran under the Lee of Val-
couer 8c began the Attack, the Schooner by some bad Management fell to
Leward, 8c was first Attacked. One of her Masts was wounded. 8c her Rig-
ging Shott away, the Capt thought prudent to run her on the Point of Val-
couer, where all the Men were saved the Enemy boarded her 8c at Night,
Set fire to her — at, half past 11 the engagement, became General, 8c very
warm. Some of the Enemies Ships 8c all their Gondolas, beat 8c rowed up
within musquet Shott of us. they, Continued a Very hot fire with Round 8c
Grape Shott untill five OClock. when they thought proper to retire to about
Six or Seven hundred Yards distance 8c continued the fire, untill Dark —
the Congress 8c Washington have Sufferd. greatly, the Latter Lost her
first Lieut killed, 8c Capt 8c Master wounded, the New York lost all her
Officers except her Captain, the Philada was hulled in so many Places that
She Sank, About One hour after the engagemt was over, the whole, killed 8c
wounded, amounts to abt Sixty, the Enemy, Landed a large Number of In-
dians On the Island 8c each Shore, who. keep an Incessant Fire On us, but
did little Damage — the Enemy had to Appearance Upwards of One thou-
sand Men in Batteaus, prepared for boarding. — We suffered much for
want of Seamen 8c Gunners, I was obliged myself to Point Most of the
Guns on board the Congress which I believe did good execution — the Con-
gress received Seven Shott between Wind 8c Water, was hulled a doz times,
had her Main Mast Wounded in Two places 8c her Yard in One, The Wash-
ington was hulled a Number of times, her Main Mast Shot thro. 8c must
have a New One. both Vessells are very leaky 8c want repairing.
On Consulting with Genl Waterbury 8c Colonel Wiggilsworth, it was
thought prudent to Retire to Crown Point, every Vessells Ammunition
being Nearly three fourths spent. 8c the Enemies greatly Superior to us in
Ships, 8c Men — at. 7 oClock Colonel Wiggilsworth in the Trumbull got
under Way, the Gondolas 8c Small Vessells followed 8c the Congress 8c Wash-
ington brought up the Rear, the Enemy did not, attempt to molest us, most
of the fleet is this minute came to An Anchor, the Wind is small to the So
ward, the, Enemies fleet is Under way to Leward 8c beating up. - as soon as
our Leakes are Stoped, the whole fleet will, made [ sic make] the utmost
Dispatch to Crown Point, where I beg you will Send Ammunition 8c your
further Orders for us. — On the whole I think we have had a Very fortun-
ate escape, 8c have great reason to return, our humble, 8c hearty thanks to
Continental Fleet on Lake Champlain.
OCTOBER 1776
1237
Allmighty God for preserving. Sc delivering so many of us from, our more
than Savage Enemies. I am Dr General Your affectionate [Sec.]
B Arnold
PS I had not moved on board the Congress, when the Enemy Appeared,
lost All my Papers Sc most of my Cloaths on board the Schooner I wish a doz
Batteaus well Manned could be sent emediately to tow up the Vessells in
case of a So [uther] ly Wind
I cannot in Justice to the Officers in the fleet Omit mentioning their Spirited
Conduct During the Action
BA
1. Gates Papers, Box 4, NYHS.
Major General Horatio Gates to Brigadier General Benedict Arnold 1
Dear General, Ticonderoga 12th October 1776. —
I have received your Favours of the 7th Sc 10th Instant, and am pleased
to find You, and your Armada, ride in Valcour Bay, in defiance of the
power of Our Foes in Canada; The Liberty arrived last Night, and sails this
Moment with the provisions you wrote for, and some of Mr Yauncy’s best
Beef. — I have long ago urged the necessity for Continuing to Increase Our
Naval Strength upon the Lake, and shall now send your Letter to General
Schuyler, and desire him to make such Extract from it, as if further requis-
ite to induce Congress to direct the forwarding that Useful Work. —
No News, is good News; for, except what is in the inclosed paper, I
know none to send You. — I firmly believe that the beating the Enemy re-
ceived from Our Troops, upon Monday the 16th Ulto, Sc the Fire of New
York, have cooled their Ardour so much that it remains a doubt with me
whether General Howe will make Another Attempt before he gets Succours
from England; perhaps his Foreign and National Troops have disagreed;
perhaps he waits fresh Instructions from His Master. — Whatsoever is the
Cause of his Inaction, it is quite Certain, he has given Our Army Three
Weeks to Form their Blockade of New York, and to Strengthen their posts
in such a Manner, as not to be Forced but with Greater Loss than I think
General Howe Can Afford. —
Inclosed is a Resolve of Congress, which when put into Execution will
Establish their Independcy: and effectually, and forever, put a period to the
Domination of Great Britain. —
My respectfull Compliments to General Waterbury Sc Colonel Wiggles-
worth. — I am Dear General Your Affectionate [Sec.]
Horatio Gates
1. Gates Papers, Box 19, NYHS.
1238
AMERICAN THEATRE
George Washington to Governor Nicholas Cooke1
[Extract] Head Qrs Harlem Heights Oct 12th 1776
On the morning of the 9th Inst Three of the Enemy’s Ships, Two of 44
Guns 8c One of 20, with three or four Tenders ran up the North River with-
out receiving any interruption from our Chevaux de frise or apparent dam-
age from our Batteries, tho a heavy fire was kept up against them from
each side of the River. They are laying at Tarry Town from 29 to 30 miles
above this, 8c out sailing Two of our Row Gallies in their passage up, they
fell into their hands, the Crews escaped.
1. Washington Papers, LC.
Lieutenant Colonel Robert Hanson Harrison to
Robert R. Livingston1
Head Qrs Heights of Harlem
Sir Octob 12th 1776
Your favor of the 10th addressed to Mr Tilghman came safe to hand,
which I took the liberty to open in his absence, presuming it to be more of a
public than private nature. Having sundry dispatches now before me, I
have only time to inform you, that Two Gondolas or Row Gallies were taken
by the ships as they went up — that a Regiment of Militia lately from the
Massachusets is detached to your assistance and that this Morning about
Four thousand of the Enemy landed at Frogs [Throg] point, who forming
themselves in to Two divisions according to the Intelligence I have received,
have marched towards East 8c West Chester — as soon as the account was
brought to Head Qrs, his Excelly set out for Kings bridge, and my last ad-
vices are, that he was pursuing the Enemy, before this (now l/% after 3
oClock) perhaps something has been done — Mr Tilghman is with him. I
wait impatiently to hear. I am Sir [8cc.]
Rob1 H Harrison
P S. please to shew this to Mr. [William] Duer. I have his Letter for Mr
Tilghman but cannot answer it now
1. US Revolution (October 8, 1776-February 28, 1777) , LC.
Colonel Jedediah Huntington to Andrew Huntington 1
[Extract] Camp Kingbridge 12th Octo. 1776
We have no News of importance save the Loss of the Navigation of the
North River by Means of the Ships which went up last Wednesday 14 Miles
above us. it will make more Work for Land Carriers, we shall be disobliged
for Want of Boards Sec.
1. Collections of the Connecticut Historical Society, XX, 330, 331.
OCTOBER 1776
1239
Journal of H.M.S. Niger, Captain George Talbot 1
October 1776 At Single Anchor between New City Isl & Hart Is-
land
Saturday 12 At 5 AM Weigh’d came to sail & run into 2 fath Water &
came too off Stevens’s House on Frog Neck in order to
cover the Army Intended to Land near there from 10
AM till Noon the Army Landed to the Wt Wd of the Neck
without Opposition
1. PRO, Admiralty 51/637.
Diary of Dr. Thomas Moffat 1
[On board H.M. Sloop Swan at Sandy Hook]
Saturday October 12 Thermom morning 47. came into the Hook the
Merlin with 2 prize Ships 1 from Honduras bay2 1 from the W Indies with
Rum and Sugar also the Susanna Brigt with troops from Portsmouth.
1. Thomas Moffat’s Diary, LC.
2. See Journal of H. M. S. Cerberus, October 8.
New-York Gazette, Saturday, October 12, 1776
Newark, October 12.
Last Thursday se’nnight, Captains Coffin and Grennell, with a boy,
made their escape from Staten-Island in a canoe, and got safe to Bergen
Point, and from thence came to this place last Saturday: The former was
taken going from New-York to Nantucket some months since, and the lat-
ter, on the 28th of August, in lat. 33, 30, long. 66, 20, in a brig from the
Western Islands for Nantucket, by a new English 20 gun ship called the
Galatea, John Jones,1 Esq; commander, sheathed with copper, and a most
extraordinary sailer, being part of a convoy for some ships from London
bound to New-York, some of which are arrived at Sandy-Hook.
1. H. M. S. Galatea was actually commanded by Captain Thomas Jordan.
Mathew Irwin in Account with the Pennsylvania Privateer Brig
General Putnam 1
[Philadelphia, September 18 to October 12, 1776]
Sept. 18. Brige. Genl. Putnam ,2 my part, paid John Sparhawk
2d Payment towards Share in her
Oct. 12 Brigte Gen. Putnam, my part, paid Dr. Sparhawkl g^ ^
3d. payment
1. Mathew Irwin’s Account Book, 1769-1784, LC.
2. The General Putnam, Charles Ferguson, commander, 12 guns and 90 men, was commissioned
August 27, 1776, “List of Armed Vessels from Port of Philadelphia, 1776-1777 . . . ,”
Pennsylvania Magazine of History and Biography (Philadelphia, 1902) , XXVI, 146, 147.
1240
AMERICAN THEATRE
Diary of Christopher Marshall 1
[Philadelphia] Octr 12th 1776
. . . by Letter yesterdays Eastern Post, Paul Fooks reced from Nantz in
old France from Monsr Pennel,2 that he had Loaded 2 Vessels for Virginia
with Blankets, Course cloaths, Lining, Arms Amunition 8cc also 2 of Same
Commodities for Rhode Island, and that he had another (besides this that
brought this Letter both Loaded with same Commodities 8cc) that would Sail
in a few days; which I hope will all arrive safe I think this Letter was
datd 3d Augst two Vessels with Salt arrived within these two Days past,
and yet its Said Some are Selling it at 3 dollars p Bushel, (so inhumane are
some of our Citizens to poor people) ... A wonderfull ordinance publishd
in Evening Post numb. 270, Inviting all Masters of Vessells coming with
Salt, to Sell it to them for 15/ p Bushell3 A rare Council of Safety
1. Diary of Christopher Marshall, HSP.
2. Pierre Penet, of the French firm Penet & Pliarne.
3. Pennsylvania Evening Post, October 12, 1776.
“Stephen Steward’s Acct of Tackle, Stores &c taken from
Schooner Resolution m
[Baltimore] Octr 12th 1776 Reed of Roger Horace Pratt of the
Schooner Resolution the following Articles — 2
A Quantity of Sheet Copper 8c Funnel
2 Sheets of Lead the remains of the Iron ballast
the Cranes Stanchens ring Eye bolts belonging to the Vessel
30 Hammocks 1 Cot & bottom
35 lb Soape 1 Box Candles 2 Arm Chests
13 Cutlasses an English Jack 8c Ensign
A French Jack Ensign & Pendant
A Continental Jack
1 Musket 8c Cattrich box & a few musket balls
7 Homs with powder
Main Topmast Staysail Halyards 8c down haul
2 Bundles of Shrouds 8c Topsail Sheet stoppers
26Tompions 2 Tackel & Falls
40 Double 8c 3 Single Saile Blocks, 26 Single Blocks
4 Snatch Blocks 2 Marling spikes
2 Treble Blocks a small Quantity of spare Rope
2 Lead lines 4 Buckets
1 pr Lower Steering Sail Halyards 1 pr Topmast Ditto
1 Copper Pump 2 Sides 8c 2 peices Leather
1 Hauser 5 Inch 80 Fathom — Return’d
1 Marble pestle & Morter
the Medicine Box with its Contents
OCTOBER 1776
1241
1 Stream Anchor
1 Water barrel 1 Hose 8c 1 Harnes Tub
1 Saw 4 Augers 3 Calking Irons 1 pr Callipers 1 Gauge
1 Plane 1 Adz 1 Gimblet 1 Worm 1 Tommy Hauk
the Spritsail Yard 8c Gear —
Octr 12 1776 The following Articles left on board in order to fit the
Schooner Resolution for Sea Exclusive of the Masts Yards Sparrs Stand-
ing 8c runing riging Barge 8c Gaily Boate —
4 Double blocks 15 Inch 8c 4 Saile blocks, 1 Main Sheet Tye 8c Fly blocks 2
Doz 5 8c 6 Inch blocks, 2 small 8c 1 large snach bk
10 Tacle Hooks 8c Thumbles 4 Marling spikes
17 Seasing Trucks 8c 2 Doz Grumets 4 spare dead Eyes
16 Sail blocks 3 Boat Gripes 8c a Fore Topen lift
Standing Jib Sheets 8c Fore Topmast Steeringsail Halyards
Lower steering Sail Halyards 8c Maintopmast St sail Tack 8c Hal yds
Some points 8c Gaskets 3 balls 6 thred Worming
15 balls ropeyarn 8c 3 of Spunyarn
2 Leads 8c lines a Half Bushel with spikes a pitch Shoffle
1 Grind stone, 1 Log line 4 Buckets 1 Coopers Funnel
3 Paint pots 7 Upper & 7 Lower pump Boxes 2 Tack Sailes
1 Copper Pump 4 pump Spears 6 Brakes 8c 1 pump hook
1 pr Can [t] hooks 2 Scrubing Brushes 8c Clamps 3 Scrapers
1 Fish hook 1 Tommy Hauk 2 Tarr Brushes 2 Handspikes
1 Crow 2 Sides pump Leather 2 Bow 8c 1 Kedge Anchor
2 Iron Buoys 2 Cables the one 8 the other 9 Inch 8c 1 Tow line
2 Mess Tubs — 1 Hauser 5 Inch 80 Fathom
2 Quoils of Inch 8c half 8c 1 of 2 Inch 8c 1 of 2 1/2 Inch Rope
part of a Quoile of 12 thred rattling
2 Water pipes 2 Hhds 8c 3: 60 Gallon Casks
1 1 Barrels 8c 2 Hhds of Bread 8c a Quantity of loose Bread
Main Sail Fore Sail Jib flying Jib 2 Topsails & 2 Top Galt Sails
[2] Lower 8c Top mast Steering Sails 1 Water Skid 1 Harnis Tub
Box with Nails 8c half Tub
A Iron Cabbuse with 2 Iron potts Ladle 8c Tormenters
4 Tarpawlings some Carpenters Tools
3 Spy Glasse’s 3 speaking Trumpets part of Box Candles
3 Wood 8c 1 Brass Compasses
A Continental Jack Ensign 8c Pendant 1 Cutlass
pr Steelyards 8c a Funnel 3 Stools
3 half hour Glasses 8c 3 half 8c 2 Qr Minuet Glasses
2 Te Kettles 1 Coffee pott 8c Tinder Box
2 Sauce panns 5 Wine Glasses 5 Basons 2 pepper Boxes
1 Cruet 1 Tureen i/2 doz Knives 8c forks
4 Spoons 17 plates
2 Dishes 5 padlocks 2 Bread Basketts
1242
AMERICAN THEATRE
6 Skains Marlin 8c 6 Twine
1 Cot 8c Frame — Cabbin Brush
1. Executive Papers, Box 2, Folder 72, Md. Arch.
2. “Ordered That Mr Stephen Steward take Possession of all the military Stores, Guns &
Rigging of the Schooner Resolution Council of Safety Journal, 29 August 1775 to 20
March 1777, Md. Arch.
Journal of the Virginia Navy Board 1
[Williamsburg] Saturday the 12th October 1776. —
Ordered that a Warrant Issue to Lieut Peter Stubblefield for the use of
Capt Gabriel Jones for Two hundred and fifty two pounds six shillings and
eight pence for pay of his Company of Marines from the twenty ninth day
of August last to the Eleventh Instant as p Pay-Roll this day settled. -
Ordered that the keeper of the Public Store deliver unto Capt George Elliott
one two hour Glass, fifteen Yards of Oznabrigs and six Pound of sewing
Twine for the use of the Safeguard Galley. -
Ordered that Mr William Finnie deliver unto Capt George Elliott twenty
five Flannell Packetts and twenty pair of Stockings for the use of the Safe-
guard Galley. -
Ordered that the keeper of the Public Store deliver unto Capt Robert Tomp-
kins twenty five pounds of Dry white Lead one two hour Glass, one large
speaking Trumpet, one small Ditto, fifty Shotts, fifty Worsted Caps seventy
five pair of Course Stockings, fifty pair of Shoes, thirteen Pieces of Checks,
One hundred and seventy five Yards of Oznabrigs, one pound of Lampblack,
Ten Barrells of Bread thirty pr of Breeches fifty Jacketts and one Spie
Glass for the use of the Henry Galley. -
Ordered that a Warrant Issue to George Cutlett for the use of Capt Alexan-
der Dick for Three hundred Pounds upon Account, to Purchase Necessaries
and for pay of his Company of Marines. -
Ordered that the keeper of Public Store deliver unto Capt William Saunders
four Palms, six Mens Hats, two Dozen Sail Needles, four pounds of Twine
and eight p[r] of Mens Stockings for the use of the Schooner Adventure. -
Ordered that the keeper of the Public Store deliver unto Capt Richard Tay-
lor three pieces of Chip thirty Yards of Cloth, four pound of Twine, one
small speaking Trumpett and one two hour Glass. And that Colo Finnie de-
liver unto the said Capt Taylor twenty flannell Jacketts and eight pr of
Stockings for the use of the Schooner H or nett
1. Navy Board journal, 75-77, VSL.
Virginia Navy Board to Captain Charles Thomas1
Sir [Williamsburg, October 12, 1776] 2
Inclos’d you have a memorandum of Cordage which please to send to
James Town or the College landing as soon as possible,
1 Cable 7 Inches 70 foot-Fathom long
OCTOBER 1776
1243
1 Coil of Ratlin 1 do Spun Yarn —
1 do bi/2 Inch Cordage. 1 do 2 Inch do
1 do 2 1/2 Inch do for the Horne tt Capt Richd Taylor
1 Coil Spun Yarn 1 do Inch Cordage
1 do 2 Inch do for the Adventure Capt Saunders
(Sign’d)
Thomas Whiting 1st Comr
1. Navy Board Letter Book, VSL.
2. Date taken from minutes of the Board.
Journal of the South Carolina Navy Board 1
Navy Board [Charleston] Saturday 12th Octr. 1776 —
The Board met according to adjournment.
Present. Edward Blake first Commissr —
Thomas Savage, Josiah Smith Jun Geo Abbot Hall, Thomas Corbett,
Roger Smith, George Smith —
Read several applications to the Board for the Clerk’s office Sc then pro-
ceeded to choose a Clerk —
Mr. John Calvert was declared unanimously Elected to be Clerk of this
Board 8c he took the following Oath of qualification vizt.
I John Calvert do swear that I will well Sc truly execute the duties
of my Office as Clerk of the Navy Board to the best of my skill Sc
Judgement 8c that I will faithfully keep secret the Business of the
said Board, when requir’d
So help me God
Received a Muster Roll of the Brigt. . Defence
do a Muster Roll of the Brigt. . Comet
The following Letter was sent to Capt. Thomas Pickering
Capt. Thomas Pickering
You are hereby required to use the utmost diligence in Man-
ning the Brigt. Defence under your Command Sc getting her ready
for Sea, in particular we recommend that you take the most effec-
tual means, for recovering the Seamen who have deserted from
your Vessel as speedily as possible if they are to be found in Town
Sc make a return to the Navy Board of your Compliment of Men by
Tuesday next at Nine OClock in the Morning
A similar Letter was also sent to Capt. Edward Allen Commander of the
Brigt. Comet:
1. Salley, ed.. South Carolina Navy Board, 6.
Journal of the South Carolina General Assembly1
[Charleston] Saturday the 12th Day of October 1776
The Clerk of the Legislative Council brought from that House an Ordi-
nance for allowing and keeping in Repair a Pilot Boat to attend the Bar and
1244
AMERICAN THEATRE
Harbour of Beaufort and for regulating the Pilotage of the said Harbour
Read a Third Time in that House
1. Salley, ed., South Carolina General Assembly Journals, 109, 112.
13 Oct. (Sunday)
Lieutenant John Starke's Sketch of the War in Canada 1
[Schooner Maria, October 11 to October 13]
. . . the Rebel Fleet was attacked and destroyed in the two different
engagements, in the Lake Champlain, on the 11th and 13 of October 1776 —
By this Victory the command of the Navigation of the Lake was regained;
the Province of Quebec was secured from future invasions; and the Army
whose operations had been impeded untill this object was attained, had now
scope to act — The Season of the year being far advanced, the expedition
against Ticonderoga was postponed untill the following year.
1. Lieutenant Starke’s Narrative, NMM.
“A List of His Majesty’s Arm’d Vessels, Gun Boats Sec. serving on
Lake Champlain during the Campaign 1776.”1
How
No
No
Wt of Metal
of
of
Rigg’d
Men
Guns 24 Ps 12 Ps
9 Ps 6 Ps Swivels
Inflexible
Ship
120
17
Maria
10
Schooner
14
Carleton
14 6
Schooner
45
12
Thunderer
12 6
Ketch
35
Royal Convert
8 Inch Howitz
Hoy
35
7
7
Gun Boats
247
1. Provincial Marine, 1764-1784 (RG 8, “C” Series, vol. 722A), DAC.
OCTOBER 1776
1245
“A List of the Names &c of Rebel Vessels taken by His
Majesty’s Fleet on Lake Champlain Octr 13th
in the Year 1776.”1
How
Rigg’d
No
of
Guns
Weight of Metal
18 P. 12 P. 9 P. 4
Galley
12
Washington
1 1 2
Sloop
6
Lee
1 1
Hoy
3
Jersey
1 2
Remarks
The Jersey taken 12th Octr 1776
The Washington 13 “ “
The Lee 15
1. Provincial Marine, 1764-1784 (RG 8, “C” Series, vol. 722A) , DAC.
Diary of Joshua Pell, Jr.1
[Pointe au Fer]
13th October - On the appearance of our Squadron before Crown point,
the Rebels destroy’d the works, and quit it with precipitation. General Carl-
ton was on board the Maria during the whole action, and the whole behav’d
with the greatest perseverance and magnanimity.
1. “Diary of Joshua Pell, Jr.,” Magazine of American History, II, 46.
Diary of Dr. Lewis Beebe1
[Ticonderoga] Sunday 13th [October] . . . This day a boat arrived ex-
press from the fleet: which informed, that our fleet was attacked by British
Butchers on fryday 11th which continued the greatest part of the day,
that on Saturday 12th our fleet retreated near split rock; where they lay
in sight of the enemy; their army being a little in the rear in flat bottom
Boats. This morning the fleets engaged the second time; as we heard an al-
most incessant fire from day break till afternoon. What damage is done on
either side, we have as yet not heard.
1. “Beebe’s Journal,” Pennsylvania Magazine of History and Biography, LIX, 353, 354.
“Extract of a letter from Harlem, October 13.”1
Yesterday morning about 4000 of the enemy landed at Fogg’s or Frog’s
[Throg] Point, in the sound, about 6 miles above us: a detachment was im-
1246
AMERICAN THEATRE
mediately sent to oppose them: The enemy got possession of the point, but
as I was informed last night had made no farther progress. Our people, I
am told, had taken up a bridge which was there, and felled trees across the
road, to obstruct them till a reinforcement could arrive. In the afternoon 42
sail passed the mouth of Harlem river, in their way to the point; they con-
sisted of sloops, schooners, brigs and 9 ships. I expect there will be bloody
work there to-day. From the number of men landed and the ships which
went up, I think this can be no feint, but that the main body of Howe’s
army must be there, and that there he intends to make his Coup-de-Main.
This week will probably finish the campaign. - Upon the arrival of the
ships at Dobbs’ ferry they landed some men and plundered a store-house. I
suppose those men who landed yesterday are to go across that country, and
form a line from Frog’s point to Tarrytown, 4 miles above Dobb’s ferry,
where the ships lie, but in this I expect they will be mistaken.
1. Pennsylvania Gazette, October 16, 1776.
Secret Committee of the Continental Congress
to Brigadier General Thomas Mifflin1
[Extract] Philada October 13th 1776
Sir We have the pleasure to inclose you herein an Invoice of Some Cloths
and Blankets lately imported into Rhode Island on Continental account2
and the Congress have directed the whole to be applyed to the use of the
Army, wherefore we also inclose herein an order to Messrs Nicholas 8c John
Brown in whose care they are, to deliver them to your Order —
It is recommended to you by Congress to have the Cloths made up im-
mediately into Soldiers Cloaths and you will consider whether it may be
best to have them made in Rhode Island 8c Connecticut or by the Taylors in
the Army or whether it may be best to employ all the Taylors at each
place. . . .
1. Continental Congress Miscellany, 1775-79, LC.
2. Ibid., the detailed invoice of goods imported from France on board the ship Happy Return,
Captain Gideon Crawford, which were landed at Providence.
Continental Marine Committee to Captain Nathaniel Falconer1
Sir [Philadelphia] October 13th 1776. —
We are in great want of Coals to make anchors and other Smiths work
for the frigates here, and as you are going on public business into the States
of Connecticut, Rhode Island Massuchusets 8c New Hampshire you may
probably meet with some Coals fit for Smiths use, that have been or may be
taken on board some of the Prizes sent into those places. Should that hap-
pen we request you will purchase as many as will load two Schooners or
Sloops and send them to us immediately For this purpose we desire you
will buy two fast Sailing Marble head Schooners or Sloops that will sail and
carry well, buy them cheap as possible and if you get coals send them here
fort
Jta. i:
“ A Plan of New York Island with Part of Long Island, etc.”
1248
AMERICAN THEATRE
directly. If you get the Schooners but cannot get the Coals, then put some
Salt, Sugars, or rum on board as much in value as you think will pay for a
load of Coals for each at about 2/ per bushel and dispatch them with the
same immediately for James’s River Virginia consigned to the Honble Ben-
jamin Harrison Esqr inclosing him an Invoice of the Goods you send and
advising him to sell those goods and load the Vessel with coals immediately
dispatching the same to us. You will take care to procure active good Mas-
ters, Mates and men, and manage the whole to the best advantage for the
public and as you have this and other business to transact we deliver you
herewith Four thousand Dollars for which you are to account on your re-
turn. We also give you letters of Credit & recommendation to the Continen-
tal Agents in each state and a warrant authorizing you to survey the Conti-
nental Frigates at Rhode Island, but since this was agreed to, we have
heard those frigates are compleated and ready for the sea which we hope
may be true. We are Sir [&c.]
1. Marine Committee Letter Book, 32-33, NA.
Continental Marine Committee to the Continental
Agents in New England 1
Circular
To Nathl Shaw junr eqr
Danl Tillinghast. esq
John Bradford esq
John Langdon eqr
[Philadelphia] October 13th 1776.
Sir
This will be delivered to you by Nathanil Falconer esqr a Gentleman in
our service and who has in charge to execute some business for us in yours
or the neighbouring States. Should he stand in need of your assistance we
hope it will be readily afforded him, and if he wants money you may depend
that his drafts will be paid. We recommend this Gentleman to your freindly
attention and are Sir [Sec.]
1. Marine Committee Letter Book, 33, NA.
Continental Marine Committee to the Rhode Island
Frigate Committee 1
Gentlemen [Philadelphia] October 13th 1776
We fear our orders of the 9th Instant for sending aSet of Cannon from
your State to New Hampshire may not be so proper as we thought them at
the time of Signing, because we are since informed through several Chan-
nels [that your frigates] are quite or very near fit for the Sea, which is
avery different account from that which caused us to send that order, there-
fore to prevent inconvenience or disadvantage to the public service we dis-
OCTOBER 1776
1249
patch this immediately after the other and desire you may not forward the
said Cannon to Portsmouth if your Ships are actually ready for service, for
our veiw is only to get such of the frigates as are ready into action, and it mat-
ters not to us whether it be yours or the New Hampshire frigate that goes
first, but you will still answer what we have said to Governor Hopkins re-
specting Cannon. We are Gentlemen [8cc.]
1. Marine Committee Letter Book, 33-34, NA.
Continental Marine Committee to John Langdon1
Sir [Philadelphia] October 13th 1776
Since sending you our Order of the 9th instant we are well informed
that the Frigates at Rhode Island are ready for sea and if that is really the
case it would be improper to strip them of the Cannon to send them to you.
We have now wrote the Committee to keep their Cannon if their Ships are
actually fit for service, for we did not mean by the former order to give a
preference, it was our design only to prevent the Guns from lying useless
there when you wanted them: but we desire them to tell us whether they
will not cast another set and on what terms. We are Sir [&c.]
1. Marine Committee Letter Book, 34, NA.
Diary of Christopher Marshall 1
[Philadelphia] Octr 13th 1776
. . . the prize Ship2 Coming thro’ the chivea de frize Got hurt So as they
were obliged to unload 8c keep the Pumps going till arrived in town then
run her ashoar at Hodge wharffe, and were busie unloading her Cargo this
day on the Sd wharves 8cc
1. Diary of Christopher Marshall, HSP.
2. The Thetis.
14 Oct.
Captain George Collier to Captain Henry Mowat, R.N.1
By Sir George Collier Commander of
His Majesty’s Ship Rainbow and
Senior Captain of His Majesty’s
Ships in the Harbour of Halifax.
In consequence of a Representation from Captain John Burr of His
Majesty’s Ship Milford , of his very bad state of Health rendering him in-
capable of going to Sea at present.
You are hereby required and directed to repair on board the said Ship
and take upon you the Command of her ’till further Order; strictly charg-
ing and Commanding all the officers and Company of the said Ship to be-
1250
AMERICAN THEATRE
have themselves with all due respect and obedience to you their said Com-
mander: and you likewise to observe the General Printed Instructions as
what orders and Directions You shall from time to time receive from me, or
any other your Superior Officers, for His Majestys Service; for which this
shall be your order.
Given on board His Majesty’s Ship Rainbow in the Harbour of Halifax
the 14th of October 1776 —
Geo Collier
To Captain Henry Mowat hereby appointed Acting Captain of His Majes-
ty’s Ship Milford.
1. PRO, Admiralty 1/2124, 14, 4.
Trial and Verdict in Halifax Vice Admiralty Court
of the Recaptured British Ship Hester 1
Nova Scotia
Court of Vice >
Admiralty
Thursday
Octr 3. 1776 J
Monday 7th 1
Octobr 1776- J
10th Octobr 1
1776 - J
Nova Scotia
Court of Vice
Admiralty
Cause
Henry Bellew Esqr Commander of his Majestys Ship of
War the Liverpool VS the Ship Hester & Cargo a Recap-
ture —
Libel filed and entre’d Order made thereon as on file
Hugh Goold Purser of his Majestys Ship of War the Liver-
pool being Duly Sworne deposeth that on or about the 20th
of September last the Ship Hester whereof was one David
Crombie Master was taken by the Liverpool Man of War on
Georges Banks bound to New England that the said Ship
had been before taken (as the Deponant was Informed) by
a Privateer fitted out from the Colonies now in Rebellion
calle’d the Collumbus mounting 32 Guns in the Lattitude
36° Longitude about 50" that the papers are in the posse-
sion of the Master David Crombie
Hugh Goold
5th Octobr 1776 Sworn to before me
Charles Morris junr
Court open’d by makeing Proclamation as usual & ad-
journ’d to thursday 10th Instant, no Claimant haveing ap-
peard
Court open’d by makeing Proclamation as usual David
Crombie the Master appear’d & entre’d his Claim to the
Ship Hester and Cargo as on file -
Deposition of David Crombie taken before the Register
read as follows.
David Crombie Master of the Ship Hester being Duly
Sworne Deposeth as follows that on or about the 28th of
August last Lattitude 39°40" Longitude 48°45" he was
taken by a Rebel Privateer from some of the Colonies now
OCTOBER 1776
1251
in Rebellion call’d the Collumbus whereof was Master one
Abraham Whipple mounting 28 Carrige Gunns, that they
took out all his People and put on board 14 of the Priva-
teers men that they then shap’d their Course for some Port
in New England, that on or about the 21st of September
the Deponant fell in with Captn Henry Bellew of his Majes-
tys Ship Liverpool on Georges Banks who retook the said
Ship Hester and brought her into this Port of Halifax —
David Crombie
Sworn to before me this 10th Day of Octobr 1776
Charles Morris junr Regr —
Octobr 14th 1776 — Court open’d by makeing Proclamation as usual
The Libel Order and return thereon read
The Depositions taken before the Register also read
Then the Claim was read as on file
The Warrant of Appraisement and return was also read
William Nesbitt Esqr his Majestys Advocate General in
this Court then move’d for a Decree in this Cause
Which the Judge order’d to be Pronounc’d as on file
whereby the Claimant was orderd to pay to Henry Bellew
Esqr his Officers and Crew one neat eigth part of the true value
of the Ship Hester and her Cargo in lieu of all salvage -
Court adjourn’d without Day in this Cause -
1. Vice Admiralty Register, vol. 5, N.S. Arch.
Boston Gazette , Monday, October 14, 1776
Watertown, October 14.
The Cargo of the Prize Brig taken and sent into Marblehead by Cap-
tain [Jonathan] Greely (as mentioned in our last) is as follows, viz. 56896
wt. Bread, 8020 wt. Pork, 256 Bushels and 7 Gallons Pease, 257 Bushels
Oatmeal, 16000 wt. Beef, 12000 wt. Flour, 4136 wt. Rice, 4101 wt. Raisins,
165 Gallons Oil, 437 d[o] Vinegar, 3500 do Spirits, 4645 wt of Butter, and
460 dozen Candles.1
Monday last was sent into Boston, a prize ship, upwards, 300 tons, from
London for New York, with like articles above-mentioned, only with the ad-
dition of four 3 pounders & 6 swivels. Taken by Capt. Silas Atkins, jun.2
Same day Capt. Forrest [Simon Forrester] return’d to Salem from a
cruize,3 in which he has taken 5 prizes, one of which is of considerable
value, as the bills of laden of her cargo that is come to hand amounts to
£36,000 sterling. Capt. Forrest put his prisoners ashore at Cape Finister,
where he was inform’d that the Spaniards had made a public Declaration of
War against Portugal, and were ravaging the frontiers of that kingdom.
Capt. John Lee, of Newburyport, in a Schooner of 6 Guns, has taken
1252
AMERICAN THEATRE
and sent into the Eastward, a Ship of 16 Guns, bound from London for New
York. We have not heard the Contents of her Cargo.4
1. The snow St. George, taken by Greely in the Massachusetts privateer brig Speedwell.
2. The ship George, taken by Atkins in the Massachusetts privateer schooner Boston.
3. Forrester commanded the Massachusetts privateer sloop Rover.
4. The ship Nancy, John Cowan, master, taken by Lee in the Massachusetts privateer schooner
Hawke.
Account Book of William Sever 1
Sloop Elizabeth to me as Agent2
To Bill of Cost pr the Register
advertising cargo for Sale
Cash pd Isaac Bartlett for pilotage
Portage Bill for Do Sloop
Kingston October 14th 1776
Dr
8.13.3
4.-
3.18.-
87.13.2 100. .8. .5
1. Sever Account Book, 266. Courtesy of Captain and Mrs. Noel Sever O’Reilly, Glenview,
Illinois.
2. The sloop Elizabeth, 30 tons burden, Thomas Ludlow, master, was libeled in the Maritime
Court of the Southern District of Massachusetts on September 12 for trial October 1,
1776, New-England Chronicle, September 12, 1776.
Diederrick Wise, Master of the British Brigantine Ann,
to his Owners 1
Gentlemen Swansy Octr 14: 1776 —
I make no doubt but before this you have heard [from] Mr Con-
ningham of the Missfortune of our being taken by an American Privatier
who I unluckily fell in with in the Latd of 35 No 8c Longd 53 Wt after have-
ing been three weeks at Sea from St Vincents the Privatier was a Sloop
mounting ten Carriage Guns 14 Swivells 8c had 85 men on Board,2 Since
wich I have arrived at the above port 8c your Vessell 8c Cargo Condemn’d 8c
Sold as a prize to said Sloop, for my own part am at Present under no Con-
finement 8c am used Verry well But Cant has yett form any Judgment when
I shall gett Clear has all Masters of Vesells are kept to be exchang’d as Pris-
oners 8c no Carteell as yett settled nor any ways likely to be. they prises
come in here Dayley more or less not a petty seaport to the Northwd but
has more or less but hope this will soon be put stop to. I send these few lines
by a Capt Deane via Serranam wich he promises to forward to St Vincents
Inclosed in a letter for Mr Barton you must [excuse] my not being Par-
ticular as We are Verry Cautious what we write I remain Gentlemen
[8cc.]
D Wise
1. Copy from log book of brigantine Ann, EL
2. Sloop Revenge of Salem, Captain Benjamin Warren.
OCTOBER 1776
1253
Commodore Esek Hopkins to Captain Hoysteed Hacker 1
Sir Newport October 14th. 1776
You are with the Brigantine Ham^p^den under your Command to go
out on a Cruise, and endeavour all in your power to distress the Enemies of
the United States of America - You are to Take all Vessels with Goods,
bound to any of the Enemies Ports, and send such of them into Port for
Tryal as you shall judge worth your while; and others you may Destroy,
first taking the People out —
You may Cruise as Long as you can Conveniently keep your Vessel fit
for that Service - I think you will do your Country most good by Cruising
in such places as will be most likely to meet with the Store Ships bound to
Newyork for the Supply of General Howes Army —
My Orders was to Send you to annoy the Trade at Newfoundland but I
imagine that is too late - If you should think proper to go that way it will
be best to Steer down in the Lattitude of about 30 or 40. which I think will
be the likelyiest to meet with Vessels bound to Newyork. I am Sir Your
Friend
E. H.
To Hoysteed Hacker Esquire
Commander of the Brigantine Ham\_p]den
in the Service of the United States of
North America
1. Hopkins Letter Book, RIHS.
Commodore Esek Hopkins to Dunscome & Frazer, New Providence 1
Gentlemen Newport Rhode Island October 14th 1776
The bearer Captn Israel Ambrose2 who has a Letter of Credit, from
Messrs Brown, Arnold, Salter and Wall — if it should Suit your Conven-
ience to Supply the Captain with any Goods or money, you may depend, that
the above Merchants are Men of Estate and Veracity, and you may Safely
give them Credit for such Sum as they Require -
As to News there is none more than you will find in the Newspapers
the Captain will have with him -
I flatter myself that I have been some Service to the Inhabitants of
your Island, by getting your Vessels and Property left out of the declaration
which the Congress made against the Property of British Subjects - I am
with Esteem Gentlmn [&c.]
E. H.
1. Hopkins Letter Book, RIHS.
2. Ambrose commanded the Rhode Island armed sloop Snowbird, 4 guns and 20 men. She
cleared for the Bahama Islands on October 17, 177G, with a cargo of flour, corn, onions,
potatoes and butter. Account of Permissions granted by his Honor the Governor,
R. I. Arch.
1254
AMERICAN THEATRE
Barnabas Deane to Jeremiah Wadsworth1
My Dear Sir Wethersfield 14th Octor 1776
Your favr of 9th Inst is before me by which I find you have Your Share
of Disappointments as well as my Self - my Own I will not mention Except
the Loss of my Brig2 with a fine Parcell of Molases Last Tuesday off Mon-
tock Point, the People got off in their Long Boat 8c Left the Brig for the
Frigates — Simeon [Deane] is going to Phila he will Call on you 8c In-
form you how matters go on with the Ship Sec
I have wrote the Marine Comte [e] for 15 Tonn of the Cordage that
was Sent up North River for the Frigates Building there, If he Can get the
Order he will Take your Direction or Leave it with you to forward — Capt
Mortimer is as Contrary as the Devil Can make him I Can do Nothing
with him he now wants 2/ p lb for his Cordage 8c Will not hear Abt Any
Agreemt — I have a Number of Long Letters to Write 8c Can Only add
That I am Dr Sir [8cc.]
Bar8 Deane
To Jereh Wadsworth Esqr Saw pitt Rye
favd by Mr Sim Deane
1. Barnabas Deane Papers, ConnHS.
2. The Batchelor.
John Cotton to Barnabas Deane1
Sir Middletown, Octbr 14th 1776
I Reed yours by Capn [Dudley] Saltonstall this Morning and a Greea-
ble have waited on Capn Mortimer, his Ansr to Me is You Shall have the
Riging att the Last price which is 1/6 p lb Capn Saltonstall has been with
Capn Willis for the flour which I will Take to the Beaker and there have it
Made into Bread Giving You the Invoice of What I Deliver him I am Sor-
rey the Ship is Detained by the Black Smith, as we Wait Very Much for
him, I am Likewise Sorry for the Loss of yr Brig — Excuse My hurrey
[Sec.]
John Cotton
1. Barnabas Deane Papers, ConnHS.
Lieutenant Colonel Henry Beekman Livingston to
George Washington 1
[Extract] Say Brook 14th Octr 1776.
Last Wednesday I had a Conference with Governour Trumbull at New
Haven, I laid before him the Plan I had formed for our Expedition, which
was as follows, we were immediately to engage fourteen Hundred Ton of
Vessels, Seven Hundred of which being Sufficient to carry our whole De-
tachment, were to be Stationed at Oyster pond Point, with Instructions to
OCTOBER 1776
1255
wait till farther Orders from us unless disturbed by the Enemies Shipping,
when that happened, they were to make some secure Port on the Continent;
and whenever Danger disappeared they were to resume their Stations, the
Other Seven Hundred Tons are to be Stationed at Satauket about Twenty
Miles farther westward with the Like Instructions that in case we should be
baffled at one Place we may proceed to the other we will have as I am in-
formed by Governour Trumbull Ninety Whale Boats they will Land Nine
Hundred Men at a Time, they are not yet arrived at New London but are
expected in to Night. To morrow I fancy they will be here, they are to take
in their Detatchment and proceed for Fairfield from whence we are to land
as many Men as we Conveniently Can on the west side of Huntington in
order to cut off the Communication of Three Companies of Troops Sta-
tioned at that Place, as soon as this can be effected, the Whale-Boats are to
Proceed to Mill Creek and Carry across into Southold Harbour where they
are to wait for us unless Circumstances permit us with Safety and Secrecy
to get them into South Bay, if that should be the Case they are to follow us
as far as Huntington and take in our Baggage in Case Necessity should
Oblige us to Make a Retreat, Head Quarters on Long Island are now made
at Flushing about Twenty Eight Miles from Huntington where a Guard is
kept; the Inhabitants are much Oppressed being Prohibited threshing their
Grain or Selling their Hay, which Transports are now Loading with at
Huntington all the Vessels they Could lay their hands on have been Taken
up and ordered to Flushing where their Guard is kept no other part of the
Island except that Place and Huntington being Guarded excep a few Men in
the Forts Opposite the N York Major [Robert] Rogers is at Huntington
tho I cannot hear that he has the Command. The Accounts I have now given
You may be depended on. they are given by a Brother to one of our Lieuten-
ants who has been Concealed among them for some time, but has at length
made his escape with three others and got Safe to this side, the Enemy were
in pursuit of him when he came away. ... I expect it will be the latter end
of the Week before our Desent will be made. I shall with all my Powers for-
ward it — tho’ Govr Trumbull is of Oppinion the force allowed is not ade-
quate to the Undertaking tho’ I cant help Differing from his Honour in this
Particular. . . .
1. Washington Papers, LC.
Governor Jonathan Trumbull to George Washington 1
Sir New Haven October 14th 1776
By Capt [Jehiel] Tinker am informed of the misfortune and situation
of the Row Galleys sent into the Continental service from this State; and as
circumstances are altered respecting them since my last to you upon the
subject of dismissing their Crews and Arms, must again request your atten-
tion to that matter — That the Crew of the Crane Capt Tinker, who es-
caped may be dismissed, and admitted to return to the employment of this
Battle of V ale our Island.
OCTOBER 1776
1257
State, and that if the Crews of the other two Galleys can be of no further
service to you they may likewise be dismissed, of one or both, as you see fit,
as we can employ them to advantage on board our armed vessels fitting out,
into which Service they are desirous of entering. The Galleys being em-
ployed in the service of the Continent, are esteemed to be at the Continental
care and risque. This State readily submit to Your Excellencys direction
what is requisite and proper relative to the Men and their Arms — I am
with Esteem and Regard Sir [&c.]
J-T 1
1. Trumbull Papers, XXIX, Letter Book IV, 368, ConnSL.
Governor Sir Guy Carleton to Captain Charles Douglas, R. N. 1
[No.] 197 Off Crown Point 14th October 1776
Sir It will no doubt give you pleasure to learn, that the armament, to the
fitting out of which you so much contributed, has answered so well the end
for which it was intended by having already given the Rebel fleet a total de-
feat. The 11th Instant we found fifteen sail of them behind the Island of
Valcour, not expecting our visit so soon, our attack, that day, was only with
a part of our force, the Carleton and the Gun boats, and tho we had as we
thought cut the enemys retreat off, they nevertheless gave us the slip in the
night; but on the 13th we got up with them again, and from the effects of
both days, for the particulars of which I refer you to Lieutenant [James
Richard] Dacres, only three of their vessells, have escaped, the rest being
destroyed or taken.
The Gallant behaviour of Lieutenant Dacres induces me to beg you will
permit him to go home with my dispatches both to Lord Sandwich and Lord
George Germaine. I am Sec
1. Guy Carleton Letter Book, Haldimand Papers, Additional Ms. 21699, BM. A copy which Cap-
tain Douglas forwarded to the Lords of the Admiralty is erroneously dated October 15,
1776, PRO, Colonial Office, 5/125, 81d.
Governor Sir Guy Carleton to Lord George Germain1
On Board the Maria off Crown Point,
My Lord, October 14, 1776.
The Rebel Fleet upon Lake Champlain has been intirely defeated in
two Actions; the first on the 11th Instant, between the Island of Valcourt
and the Main; and the second on the 13th, within a few Leagues of Crown
Point.
We have taken Mr. Waterbury, the Second in Command, One of their
Brigadier Generals, with Two of their Vessels, and Ten others have been
burnt and destroyed; only Three of Fifteen Sail, a List of which I transmit,
having escaped. For farther Particulars I refer your Lordship to Lieuten-
ant Dacres, who will be the Bearer of this Letter, and had a Share in both
1258
AMERICAN THEATRE
Actions, particularly the first, where his gallant Behaviour in the Carle ton
Schooner, which he commanded, distinguished him so much as to merit
great Commendation; and I beg to recommend him to your Lordship’s No-
tice and Favour; at the same Time I cannot omit taking Notice to your
Lordship of the good Service done, in the first Action, by the spirited Con-
duct of a Number of Officers and Men of the Corps of Artillery, who served
the Gun Boats, which, together with the Carleton , sustained for many
Hours the whole Fire of the Enemy’s Fleet, the rest of our Vessels not being
able to work up near enough to join effectually in the Engagement.
The Rebels, upon the News reaching them of the Defeat of their Naval
Force, set Fire to all the Buildings and Houses in and near Crown Point,
and retired to Ticonderoga.
The Season is so far advanced, that I cannot yet pretend to inform
your Lordship whether any Thing farther can be done this Year. I am, 8cc.
Guy Carleton.
List of the Rebel Vessels on Lake Champlain, before their Defeat.
Schooners.
Row
Gallies
Royal Savage , 8 Six-pounders and 4 Four-pounders —
went on Shore, was set Fire to, and blown up.
Revenge, 4 Six-pounders and 4 Four-pounders —
Escaped.
A Sloop of 10 Four-pounders — Escaped.
' Congress , 2 Eighteen-pounders in the Bow, 2 Twelve and
2 Two-pounders in Stern, and 6 Six-pounders in the Sides
— Blew up.
Washington, same Force — Taken.
T rumble ditto — Escaped.
The Lee, A cutter, [1] Nine-pounder in the Bow, 1
Twelve pounder in the Stern, and 4 Six-pounders in Sides - Run into a Bay,
and not known whether destroyed.
Boston, 1 Eighteen-pounder in the Bow, 2 Twelve-pound-
ers in Sides - Sunk.
< Jersey - Ditto - Taken.
One, Name unknown, same Force - Run on Shore.
Five, Ditto, Ditto - Blown up.
Other Vessels in the Action
A Schooner, 8 Four-pounders - Sent from their Fleet for
Provisions.
A Galley, said to be of greater Force than those mentioned
above - Fitting out at Ticonderoga.
G. C.
1. London Gazette, November 19 to November 23, 1776.
Gondolas
OCTOBER 1776
1259
Journal of Captain George Pausch1
[Windmill-Point, Lake Champlain]
11th [October] We raised our anchor, and, with a favorable wind, got
very early under sail. At 5 o’clock in the morning, we received orders to get
in readiness for an engagement. About half after ten, we heard the sound of
artillery; and soon after, under a splendid and auspicious wind, all the bat-
teaux met the enemy’s ships in a bay behind an island. The first sight, en-
countered by our advance guard, was a frigate of the enemy stuck fast on a
stone cliff or island and abandoned; and soon after we saw two other frig-
ates sending forth a lively fire. Besides this they had several armed gondo-
las, which, one after another, emerged from a small bay of the island firing
rapidly and effectively. Every once in a while they would vanish in order to
get breath, and again suddenly reappear.
Our attack with about 27 batteaux armed with 24, 12, and 6 pound can-
non and a few howitzers became very fierce; and, after getting to close
quarters, very animated. But now our frigates approached. One of them,
the “Maria” having His Excellency, von Carleton on board, advanced and
opened a lively cannonade. This one was replaced by the frigate “Carleton;”
and as she in turn retreated, the “Inflexible” took her place only to retreat
as the others had done. One of the enemy’s frigates two of which were at
echelier, or rather at echelon, one behind the other, began to careen over on
one side, but in spite of this continued her fire. The cannon of the Rebels
were well served; for, as I saw afterwards, our ships were pretty well
mended and patched up with boards and stoppers.
Close to one o’clock in the afternoon, this naval battle began to get very
serious. Lieut. Dufais came very near perishing with all his men; for a can-
non ball from the enemy’s guns going through his powder magazine, it blew
up. He kept at a long distance to the right. The sergeant, who served the
cannon on my batteau, was the first one who saw the explosion, and called
my attention to it as I was taking aim with my cannon. At first, I could not
tell what men were on board; but directly, a chest went up into the air, and
after the smoke had cleared away, I recognized the men by the cords around
their hats. Dufais’s batteau came back burning; and I hurried toward it to
save, if possible, the Lieutenant and his men, for, as an additional misfor-
tune, the batteau was full of water. All who could, jumped on board my bat-
teau, which being thus overloaded, came near sinking. At this moment, a
Lieutenant of artillery by the name of Smith, came with his batteau to the
rescue, and took on board the Lieutenant, Bombadier Engell, and one can-
nonier. The remainder of Dufais’s men, viz: nine cannoniers and nine sail-
ors remained with me; and these, added to my own force of 10 cannoniers, 1
drummer, 1 Sergeant, 1 boy and 10 sailors — in all 48 persons — came near
upsetting my little boat, which was so over-loaded that it could hardly
move. In what a predicament was I? Every moment I was in danger of
drowning with all on board, and in the company, too, of those I had just res-
cued and who had been already half lost! It being, by this time, nearly eve-
1260
AMERICAN THEATRE
ning, the batteaux retired. Tne Radeau arrived at dusk because, although
we had a favorable wind, it was light, and it made, in consequence, but little
headway. Any way, the two 4 pounders did their best, in firing at the frig-
ates of the enemy. The distance, however, was too great, so that no ball was
effective, and the approach of night prevented our advancing nearer. This
night a chain was formed of all the batteaux; and every one had to be wide
awake and on the alert. The Captain’s frigate, which had run aground, was
set on fire at dusk by the orders of his Excellency; and her ammunition,
blowing up, caused a fine fire lasting all night. Up to this time, nothing
more occurred; for the enemy’s frigates remained in the same place where
they had acted on the defensive.
[12] Toward morning, however, it was clear that they had escaped. A
pursuit was begun and some vessels were captured. Five large and small
vessels, which had entered a bay on the left shore were set on fire and aban-
doned by the enemy.
[13] The following night, my batteau, together with some other armed
English batteaux, lost sight of the fleet on the Lake; and we were thus
forced to continue rowing by guess-work the entire night that we might not
be left behind. The next morning at day-break, we were lucky enough to
meet a few English vessels which had met with the same experience as I
had. Others followed in my rear, so that I arrived in time (ahead of some
and behind others) at 9 o’clock A.M. at Crown-Point.
During our last engagement, Lieut. Dufais lost one cannonier named
Rosemer, who was shot dead, and the drummer Pillant, and the pilot, who
were burned up. A sailor, also, lost his leg by the same ball that killed the
cannonier, and which dug a hole under the gun-carriage three inches above
water mark. During this time all ate and drank rum and water together —
officers as well as men; and for a change, water and rum! Salt meat and
Zweibach, continued to be our food.
1. Journal of Captain Pausch Chief of the Hanau Artillery During the Burgoyne Campaign.
Translated and Annotated by William L. Stone (Albany, 1886) , 82-85.
Diary of Dr. Lewis Beebe 1
[Ticonderoga] Monday 14th [October] Last evening about sunset two
Schooners, one shallop, 1 Gundalo and one Row galley; being the whole of
our fleet which remained out of 16 sail that were not destroyed or taken by
the enemy, arrived at the Garrision. Several of our vessels were obliged to
strike to them, some being disabled by their shot made for the shore, ran
aground, set fire to their vessels and made their escape, and this evening up-
wards of 160 have arrived safe in Camp. A flag, from the enemy is now
here, of 150 men, with whom came Genl Waterbury, the contents are not yet
known.
1. “Beebe’s Journal,” Pennsylvania Magazine of History and Biography, LIX, 354.
OCTOBER 1776
1261
Autobiography of Colonel Tohn Trumbull 1
*>
[Ticonderoga, October 14, 1776] 2
Early in October our naval preparations were completed, and our little
fleet, composed of a brig, several gallies and gun-boats, mounting altogether
more than one hundred guns, commanded by Generals Arnold and Water-
bury, proceeded down the lake to look for the enemy. His preparations were
completed about the same time, and on the 11th of October the two fleets
met, engaged, and we were defeated with total loss. Gen. Arnold ran the
galley which he commanded on shore, and escaped with the crew; the other
vessels were either taken or destroyed, and their crews, (with the exception
of some who got on shore and straggled up to the army,) with Gen. Water-
bury, remained prisoners of war.
On this occasion Sir Guy Carleton, who commanded the hostile fleet
and army, behaved with a degree of humanity, as well as policy, which, if it
had been generally employed by other royal commanders, might have ex-
posed to great hazard the success of America. As soon as the action was
over, Sir Guy gave orders to the surgeons of his own troops, to treat the
wounded prisoners with the same care as they did his own men. He then or-
dered that all the other prisoners should be immediately brought on board
his own ship, the Royal Charlotte } where he first treated them to a drink of
grog, and then spoke kindly to them, praised the bravery of their conduct,
regretted that it had not been displayed in the service of their lawful sover-
eign, and offered to send them home to their friends, on their giving their
parole that they would not again bear arms against Great Britain until they
should be exchanged. He then invited Gen. Waterbury to go below with him
to his cabin, and requested to see his commission, — the moment he saw
that it was signed by the governor of Connecticut, (my father,) he held out
his hand, and [s]aid, “General Waterbury, I am happy to take you by the
hand, now that I see that you are not serving under a commission and or-
ders of the rebel Congress, but of Governor Trumbull. You are acting under
a legitimate and acknowledged authority. He is responsible for the abuse he
has made of that authority. That which is a high crime in him, is but an
error in you; it was your duty to obey him, your legitimate superior.”
A few days after this defeat, a number of row-boats approached our
advanced post, and there lay upon their oars with a flag of truce. I was or-
dered to go down and learn their object. I found Capt. [James Henry]
Craig, with Gen. Waterbury and the other prisoners who had been taken in
the recent action; dismissed, as Sir Guy had promised, upon parole. The
usual civilities passed between Sir James and me, and I received the prison-
ers; all were warm in their acknowledgment of the kindness with which
they had been treated, and which appeared to me to have made a very dan-
gerous impression. I therefore placed the boats containing the prisoners
under the guns of a battery, and gave orders that no one should be permit-
ted to land, and no intercourse take place with the troops on shore until or-
ders should be received from Gen. Gates. I hurried to make my report to
1262
AMERICAN THEATRE
him, and suggested the danger of permitting these men to have any inter-
course with our troops; — accordingly they were ordered to proceed imme-
diately to Skeensborough, on their way home, and they went forward that
night, without being permitted to land.
1. Theodore Sizer, ed.. The Autobiography of Colonel John Trumbull (New Haven: Yale Uni-
versity Press, 1953) , 32-34.
2. Date based on contents of entry.
Memoirs of William Smith 1
[Manor of Livingston] 14t Octr
I dined at the Mansion House. A large Quantity of Ball Chain Shott
and Grapeshot lay on the Wharg [sic] for the Forts at Tcononderoge and
several Tons of Iron Bars ordered for the intended Chain across the River
in the High Lands, long since reported to have been constructed. My
Brother [Peter R.] L[ivingston] writes to his Wife 12 Inst, that the Ships
are before Haverstraw and Money demanded by Colo. [A. Hawkes] Hay for
the Support of the River Guards which the Convention not having a De-
mand is made upon the Cont: Congress for One hundred Thousand Dollars.
How astonishing the Confidence of the Public in the Obstruction of the
River below! — Boards & Provisions must now pass by Land from Fishkill
to King’s Bridge — but how can Bricks be transported for the Chimneys
and Hearths of the Hutts? - They ought to have been made near the Bridge
instead of Albany. The Ships have taken 2 American Row Galleys in as-
cending the River, and I did not percieve but one Fireship in the Highlands
- Colo. [Robert] Livingston assures me, that a Ship can find 5 Fathoms of
Water up [to] this Place. There must be great Consternation below -
1. Sabine, ed., Memoirs of William Smith, II, 17-18.
Journal of H.M.S. Perseus , Captain George Keith Elphin stone 1
October 1776 [New York Narrows]
Monday 14 At 6 [A. M.] weighed and run up the River. At 8 Anchored
at Staten Island in 7 faths found here the Greyhound and
Orpheus Frigates. Employed watering.
Modt and fine Wear Employed Watering on Shore. In the
Night a Party of Rebels came to the Watering Place and
destroyed many of our Casks.
1. PRO, Admiralty 51/688.
Journal of H.M.S. Prune, Captain James Ferguson1
October 1776 Moor’d off Morrisena [Morrisania]
Monday 14 AM sent the Boats to endeavour to purchase the Stream
Anchor, but imagine the Long Boat sunk not being able to
find her, Lost with her the Stream Anchor 8c Cable, Masts,
OCTOBER 1776
1263
Sails, Oars, Grapnel 8c rope, 4 Swivel Guns 8c some other
Gunners Stores
Light Airs 8c Variable P.M. Clear’d hawse, sent the Cut-
ter to assist a Tranpt that was near the Rebel shore in re-
turning 5 of the Crew put the other two on the North
Brother 8c deserted with the Cutter to the Rebels, lost with
the Cutter every thing belonging to her with an Arm Chest
with 8 Black 8c Bright Musquets 9 Cartridge boxes with
Ammunition 9 Cutlasses with belts Frogs Sec.2
1. PRO, Admiralty 51/117.
2. Ibid,., the cutter was recovered the next day “but the Rebels had taken every thing out of
her.”
Journal of Ambrose Serle 1
[On board H.M.S. Eagle , New York]
Monday 14th. October.
On this Day, the Perseus , Capt. Elphinstone, with eleven Sail of Trans-
ports, having on board Troops 8c Provisions, arrived in Port, after a Pas-
sage of 1 1 Weeks from Portsmouth. She came out with 20 Sail, but lost the
rest of her Convoy in a Fog upon the Bank of Newfoundland. She also took
two of the Rebel Privateers, and brought one in 8c sunk the other.
1. Tatum, ed., Serle’s Journal, 123, 124.
Journal of the Continental Congress 1
[Philadelphia] Monday, October 14, 1776
The committee appointed to hear and determine upon the appeal
brought against the sentence passed on the libel, Joshua Wentworth vs. the
ship Elizabeth, reported as follows:
Joshua Wentworth Esq. for and in behalf as well of the United States
of America, as of John Manly, Daniel Waters and John Ayres, com-
manders of the officers, marines and mariners, of the three armed vessels
Hancock , Lee and Lynch, in the service of the said states, having exhibited
a libel before Joshua Brackett, Esq. judge of the court maritime of the state
of New Hampshire, against the brigantine Elizabeth, commanded by Peter
Ramsay, and her cargo, and Richard Hart, of Portsmouth, in New Hamp-
shire, owner of the said brigantine, and William Jackson and others, of Bos-
ton, in the state of Massachusetts bay, owners of sundry goods and mer-
chandise on board of her, having put in their several claims thereto, and the
said judge of the court aforesaid, having, on the 21 day of August, in the
year of our Lord 1776, decreed and ordered the said brigantine, and so
much of her cargo as was claimed to be restored to the respective claimants,
and that the claimants recover their legal costs of court, from which decree
and sentence the said Joshua Wentworth appealed to Congress.
1264
AMERICAN THEATRE
The committee of Congress, to whom it was referred to hear and deter-
mine the said appeal, have diligently inspected the proceedings, and heard
the parties by their counsel, and it appearing that on the 1st day of October,
in the year of our Lord 1775, General Gage, commander in chief of the Bri-
tish forces, then in Boston, in the state of Massachusetts bay, by his com-
mission to Crean Brush, Esq. directed him to receive into his care, all such
goods, chattels, and effects of the inhabitants of that town, some of whom
had departed from it, as might be voluntarily delivered into his charge by
the owners, or by other persons with whom they were left, giving his re-
ceipts for them and to deliver them to the owners, when he should be re-
quired; that, on the 10th day of March then following, General Howe, who
had succeeded General Gage in the command of the British forces, by his
commission to the said Crean Brush, reciting, that as he was informed
there were large quantities of goods in Boston, which, if in the possession of
the rebels (as he termed the Americans) might enable them to carry on
war, and that he had given notice to all loyal inhabitants to remove such
goods from thence, and that those who should not remove them, or deliver
them to the care of the said Crean Brush, would be considered as abettors
of rebels, required him to take into his possession all such goods as an-
swered that description, and give certificates to the owners that he had re-
ceived them for their use, and would deliver them to the owners, unavoida-
ble accidents excepted, and to seize any such goods, as, upon enquiry, should
be found secreted, or left in stores, and to put them on board of the Minerva
ship, or brigantine Elizabeth . That, thereupon, the said Crean Brush, as-
sisted by other persons, took into his possession the goods of the claimants,
amongst others, and put them into the said brigantine Elizabeth , and other
vessels in the harbour of Boston, without the knowledge of some of the own-
ers, and without the consent of all the others, unless it be William Jackson
and James Jackson, of whose consent, however, there are no other proofs,
than that one of them went with his goods, and watched there on the wharf
from whence they were shipped, and that the other was a passenger in the
said brigantine Elizabeth , in her voyage towards Halifax. That the said
Crean Brush, by certificates under his hand, acknowledged several parcels
of the said goods to be in his custody, and engaged to preserve them safely,
to make up exact invoices thereof, and, with the approbation of the com-
mander in chief, to return them to the owners. That, on the 29th day of
March afterwards the said Peter Ramsay, by orders from Admiral Shuld-
ham, of the British fleet, given about eight days before, went on board the
said brigantine Elizabeth , into which some of the claimants’ goods had been
shifted from the other vessels; and the same day, between the hours of
three and four o’clock in the afternoon, sailed with her, under convoy of the
British ship of war Niger , for Halifax, in Nova Scotia, and that, on the
Tuesday following, the said John Manly, in the Hancock , coming up with
the said brigantine Elizabeth , which had, in the mean time, parted from her
convoy, fired a broadside at her, which was returned by a volley of small
arms; when the said Daniel Waters, in the Lee, and the said John Ayres, in
OCTOBER 1776
1265
the Lynch , joining the said John Manly, the said Peter Ramsay struck, it
being about four or five of the clock in the afternoon, and the said brigan-
tine was seized and carried into Piscataqua river in New Hampshire;
whereupon, the committee, after mature deliberation, are of opinion, that
the said brigantine Elizabeth is not comprehended in the description of ves-
sels, which, with their cargoes, by the resolutions of Congress of the 25th
day of November last, may be forfeited, not being an armed or a transport
vessel employed in the present war against the United States, nor carrying
provisions, or other necessaries, to the British army or navy, within any of
the United Colonies: and that the cases of re-captures, mentioned in the
resolution of Congress of the 5th day of December last, adjusting the pro-
portions of salvage, those cases only were intended, in which the vessels and
their cargoes remaining in possession of the enemy, might, by the law of
nations, be condemned as prize, which is conceived not to be the case of the
said brigantine Elizabeth and her cargo; but, that notwithstanding it was
the duty of the re-captors to recover the said brigantine and her cargo, and
that the owners, who otherwise might, and probably would, have lost their
whole property, ought to make a reasonable satisfaction; and that, there-
fore, the said sentence is erroneous, and ought to be reversed and annulled:
That the said brigantine Elizabeth, and such parts of her cargo as were
claimed in the said court maritime, be restored to the respective claimants,
upon their paying, to the United States, and the recaptors, ^th part of
the value thereof, to be determined by the appraisement of appraisers on
oath, appointed by the judge of the said court: That the residue of the
cargo be sold, and the proceeds, after deducting the like proportion and for
the same uses, retained for the persons who shall hereafter prove their
right to the same; that William Burk, commander, and the marines and
mariners of the Warren, an armed vessel in the service of the United
States, who claimed a part of the said brigantine Elizabeth and her cargo,
as being joint captors, are not entitled to a share of the salvage, it not ap-
pearing that they were present, or in sight, at the time of the recapture:
And that the appellants recover against the claimants their costs as well in
the said court maritime, as in the prosecution of their appeal here; and that
the cause be sent back to the said court maritime, for that court to proceed
in carrying this sentence into execution.
Resolved, That Congress agree to the said report.
Resolved, That such part of the twelfth, adjudged in the foregoing re-
port to be paid in lieu of salvage, as belongs to the United States, be re-
leased, and given up to the owners of the goods.
Resolved, That a committee of three be appointed, to consider what is
to be done with negroes taken by vessels of war, in the service of the
United States:
The members chosen, Mr. [James] Wilson, Mr. Rfichard] H[enry]
Lee, and Mr. [Samuel] Huntington.
1. Ford, ed., JCC, VI, 869, 870-73, 874.
1266
AMERICAN THEATRE
Minutes of the Pennsylvania Council of Safety1
In Council of Safety,
[Philadelphia] October 14th, 1776.
Mr. Nesbitt was directed to pay Doct’r Dunlap £ 15 9 3, for medicines
Purchased for the Use of the Fleet.
An order was drawn on Mr. Nesbitt in fav’r of Capt. Wm Brown for £
100, on acco’t of Inlisting men for the floating Battery, to be charged to his
acco’t.
Mr. Nesbitt was directed to pay Edmund Beach <£110 6i/2, for Pine
Boards for the use [of the] Convention Armed Boat.
2 o’clock afternoon
The Council having received from Congress a Copy of Letter from
General [Charles] Lee, informing that the Hessians had embarked from
Staten Island, 8c did not doubt but that they intended a visit to this State,
whereupon a Letter was wrote to the Commodore, directing him to get the
Fleet in a proper state of defence; likewise a letter to Sam’l Morris, jun’r,
Esq’r, requesting him to send up the Amunition Sloop, 8c supply himself
with a shallop in her stead, to assist in sinking the Chevaux de Frize at Bill-
ingsport; also an Express was dispatched with the Intelligence to Mr.
Henry Fisher at Lewis Town, directing him to dispatch two fast sailing
Boats to go as far as Egg harbor, 8c in order to give Intelligence of the
movements of the enemy, 8c if any discoveries were made, to forward the
same to this Council, 8c to direct the signals be attended to.2
The Council adjourned to 7 o’clock;
Resolved , That a Bounty of Ten Dollars be given to every able Bodied
Man who shall enter to serve during the War, on board the Fleet belonging
to this State; And that Commodore Seymour be directed to take the most
effectual measures for manning the Fleet to its full Compliment.
1. Pennsylvania Colonial Records , X, 752-53, 754.
2. Hazard, et al., eds., Pennsylvania Archives, 1st series, V, 42.
Journal of the Maryland Council of Safety 1
[Annapolis] Monday, - Octr - 14th 1776
The Council of Safety appointed Captain [John] Keltie to rigg and get
the Schooner Ninety two fit for Sea, she being bought of Cravath and
Dugan for eight hundred Pounds Currency. -
Ordered That Western shore Treasurer pay to John Keltie fifty Pounds,
to be accounted for.
1. Council of Safety Journal, 29 August 1775 to 20 March 1777, Md. Arch.
OCTOBER 1776
1267
Journal of the Virginia Council of Safety 1
[Williamsburg] Monday October 14th 1776
A Permit granted to the Sloop Eagle Captain Lennis to proceed on her
Voyage to Saint Croix. Also to the Sloop John's Releif Ephraim Gilbert
Master to proceed on her Voyage to Bermuda. Manifests of both Cargoes
filed and Bonds executed, acknowledged and ordered also to be filed.
A Permit granted to the Schooner Fanny Captain Darrell to proceed on
her return to Bermuda. Manifest of her Cargo filed Bond executed acknowl-
edged and ordered also to be filed.
A Permit granted to the Boat William Captain Mallory to proceed on
her Voyage to Martinico. Manifest of her Cargo filed and Bond executed ac-
knowledged and ordered also to be filed.
1. Mcllwaine, ed.. Journals of the Virginia Council, 195, 196, 197.
Journal of the Virginia Navy Board 1
[Williamsburg] Monday 14th October 1776. -
Ordered that a Warrant Issue to Josiah Foster for Fifteen pounds, on Ac-
count, to Purchase Necessaries for Building a Boat for the Transportation
of Troops. -
Ordered that a Warrant Issue to Josiah Foster for the use of Joel Foster
for Fifteen pounds, upon Account, to Purchase Necessaries for Building a
Boat for the Transportation of Troops. -
Ordered that the keeper of the Public Store deliver unto Capt Richard Tay-
lor fifteen Yards of Cloth, three Pieces of Stripes and one pound of Thread.
— And that Colo William Finnie deliver unto the said Taylor fifteen flannell
Jacketts for the use of the Schooner Horne tt. -
1. Navy Board Journal, 77, VSL.
Journal of the South Carolina General Assembly1
[Charleston] Monday the 14th day of October 1776.
Mr [John] Neufville reported from the Committee to examine the Public
Treasury accounts and to report to the House an exact and circumstantial
Account of the state of the Treasury what sums have been issued and for
what particular Service arranging under distinct Heads the particular
Services for which the monies have been expended, And he read the Report
in his Place and afterwards delivered it in at the Clerk’s Table where the
same was read and is as followeth
That the Commissioners of said Treasury have paid the following
Sums on the accounts and to the several Persons under mentioned viz
1167. .10.. 6
21865.. 17.. 5
Brigantine William
Schooner Islington & her Cargo
1268
AMERICAN THEATRE
Cargo per the Brigantine Notre Dame
and Disbursements for the vessel
Voyage per the Rebecca from George Town
Naval Department
Cargo per Schooner Peggy at George T own
Peter Lepoole and John Burnley for Rice
shiped on the Brigantine Liberty Philip
Conway master
Voyage for the schooner Little Thomas
Captain Nelmes to Bermuda
Commissioners for laying Obstructions
on the Bar
Naval Department at George Town
Edward Darrell Commissary to the
Naval Department
Paid John Scott the Balance on a Cargo
per Schooner Polly
Cargo per the Constitution and Purchase
of the said Vessel
Indico per the sloop Swift Captain
[Charles] Morgan
Cargo per Schooner Polly John Besnard master
The Commissioners of the Treasury have received
For Sugars per the ship Port Henderson
of George Abbot Hall from the Custom House
1. Salley, ed., South Carolina General Assembly Journals, 113, 114, 115, 116.
VIZ
29656. . 10. . 6
2687.. 4.. 4
101544.. 8.. 1
12737.. 11
5227.. 13
548.. 11
£5646. .12
5722.. 6
3000 . .
2695..
9262. . 14
16862. .12
11643. .
the following sums
46, 217.. 18.. 2
2606.. 2.. 6
15 Oct.
Sir George Collier’s Instructions to Thomas Stone1
[Halifax, October 15, 1776] 2
Instructions for the Commissary appointed to settle the Exchange of Pris-
oners at Newbury Port
1st — You are to Hoist a White Flag at the Mast Head of the Sloop Pacific
& to continue it abroad Night and Day ’till you return again to this
Port
2d — You are to be particularly careful that no Cannon, Musket, Pistol,
or Fire Arm of any kind be receiv’d into the Vessel whilst she is
consider’d as a Cartel a Violation of this Order may possibly occa-
sion the detention of the Sloop, and furnish a pretence to an Act of
Violence under the Assertion that the Vessel is fitted for War
3d — The Prisoners are to be Victualled at two thirds Allowance
4th — A Quiet peaceable demeanour towards the Prisoners is particularly
OCTOBER 1776
1269
recommended 8c to avoid all dissention on board, You are enjoin’d
not to make the present unhappy dispute the Subject of your Con-
versation with them
5th — On Your Arrival at Marble Head You are to Write the following
Letter to Mr Nathl Tracey at Newberry Port
Sir I am to inform you of my arrival at this Port in
the Pacific Cartel Sloop with 96 American Prisoners,
and as I understand you are empower’d to receive them,
and to treat for an equal Number 8c Rank of His Majes-
ties faithful Subjects now confin’d in this Province I
shall be glad to meet you as soon as possible for so Salu-
tary a Purpose I am Sir [8cc.]
Tho8 Stone
6th — It will be difficult on many Accounts to lay down the exact Mode you
are to follow in the Exchange the Commander of the Yankee Hero
is to be given up for Lieutenant [John] Knight late of His Majes-
ties Schooner Diligent, particular Circumstances respecting the Ex-
change must be left to your own Judgment, which that you may
exert for his Majesties Service in this Business entrusted to your
Care 8c Discretion, I shall certainly if you execute it properly recom-
mend you to the Notice of Lord Howe, who is ever ready to pay at-
tention to all appearance of Merit
7th — You are to make all the Dispatch that the Nature of the Service will
permit of, returning to this Port with those faithful Subjects of the
King whom you may receive in Exchange, and exacting a Written
Promisary Obligation from Mr Nathl Tracey, that in case there are
not Sufficient Loyal Subjects at present Prisoners in the Northern
Provinces, he will cause a Number equal to the deficiency in Rank 8c
Numbers to be releas’d in future, in case it shall please the Ruler of
all Human Events to permit so many more of His Majesties faithful
Subjects to be at the Disposition of the Colonists -
1. Mass. Arch., vol. 166, 160-61.
2. The date is approximated through contemporary accounts including Ethan Allen's narrative.
Acts and Resolves of the Massachusetts General Court 1
[Watertown] Tuesday October 15th 1776.
Whereas this Court on the ninth instant appointed Ephraim Spooner
Esqr in conjunction with Capt Clouston to see that the Masts Sails, and
Rigging belonging to the Brig Rising Empire be taken out of her, and
forthwith applied to Equip the Sloop Freedom as a Brig: - And Whereas
it appears to this Court necessary that some person acquainted with build-
ing, 8c rigging Vessels should be upon the sd Committee — Therefore Re-
solved That William Drew Esqr be added to the Committee aforesaid he to
repair forthwith to Plymouth, and advise, and direct in performing said
business. -
1270
AMERICAN THEATRE
Resolved, that the Honble Richard Derby Esqr be, 8c he is hereby di-
rected, to discharge the Sloop Machias Liberty from the Service of this
State, and to take into his possession all the Cannon 8c other Stores, which
are on board said Sloop, and are the property of this State. And the said Rich-
ard Derby Esq is hereby further directed to discharge Capt Jeremiah Obrien,
and the Officers, 8c Men under his Command from the Service of this State.
Resolved that the Commissary General of this State be, 8c he hereby is
directed to deliver to Alexander Shepard Junr or his Order Ten pieces of
small damag’d Cannon, if not already otherwise engag’d - also four Swivel
Guns to be used on Board a Vessel designed to cruise against the Enemies
of America, he the said Shepard obliging himself to repair said Cannon, 8c
Swivels at his own Expence, 8c return the same after the first cruize and
in case he has any further Occasion for them then to make a fresh applica-
tion to this Court for that purpose.
1. Mass. Arch., vol. 36, 19, 20, 22, 24.
Journal of the Massachusetts Council 1
[Watertown] Tuesday Octr 15th 1776.
In Council. The Committee of both Houses appointed to take into Consider-
ation a resolve of the Continental Congress of the 6th of March last, recom-
mending the appointment of proper Officers to take bonds for the Observing
the regulations of Congress concerning trade, And to report what steps are
proper for this Court to take thereon — have attended that Service, and are
of Opinion, that it will be necessary for this Court to appoint a Naval
Officer in the several Ports of Boston, Salem, Newbury port, Glocester 8c
Marblehead, Plymouth, Ipswich, Falmouth in Casco Bay, Dartmouth, York,
Pownalboro, and the Island of Nantucket, whose Business shall be, to take
bonds in adequate Penalties, for Observing the regulations made by the
General Congress or General Assembly of this State concerning Trade and
take Manifests of all Cargoes exported, and imported, and keep fair Ac-
counts, and Entries thereof give bills of Health when desired, and sign
Certificates that the requisites for qualifying Vessels to trade have been
complied with, and that the fees of the said Officers be stated by this Court,
and that a bill be brought in for the above Purposes.
all which is humbly Submitted
Moses Gill p order
In the House of Representatives. Read, 8c Concurr’d.
1. Mass. Arch., vol. 36, 19, 26-27.
Thomas Cushing to Nicholas Brown1
Sir Boston Oct. 15. 1776
I am in want of Two Cables for the Continental Ships 8c hear there are
some to be sold at Providence should be glad you would Inform me
OCTOBER 1776
1271
whether You Can obtain same 2 of abt 15i/2 Inches, pray let me know by
the first opportunity — be pleased also to Inform me whether either of your
Cables for either of the Continental Ships at Providence are a Double Shot
or abt 20 [illegible] fathom long — Yr [8cc.]
Thomas Cushing
pray let me know whether there is any Light Duck to be had at Providence
1. Nicholas Brown Papers, JCBL.
Commodore Esek Hopkins to Governor Jonathan Trumbull 1
Sir Newport October 15th 1776 —
I receiv’d yours of the 11th Instant, and can assure you that there is no
sort of Shot to be had in this State, as they Sent to Boston and could get but
a bare Sufficiency for the New Ships - have Order’d the Hamden out to
gain Intelligence — the Columbus is now a Graving — the new Ships and
Alfred are ready, all but Men, which we must have three hundred at least
for them — and one hundred for the Columbus , before we are able to En-
gage Ships of equal Force — and it will be with difficulty the Officers can be
got willing to go out, without being full Mann’d and I see but little Encour-
agement of getting them Mann’d in this State.
If you will use your Influence that we may get some Men out of the
Army soon, as we wait for nothing else, it will be of great Service. - I have
been down here ten days in Order to Enlist Men out of the Forces here, and
have not been able to get more than about One hundred and twenty — nor
don’t see any possibility of getting many more. - Mr [Nathaniel] Shaw
[Jr.] will be able to give you any further Information as to the Circum-
stances of the Ships here — and when the present appearance alters, shall
acquaint you. — I am with great Regard Sir [&c.]
E H. -
pr Mr Shaw — at Lebanon —
1. Hopkins Letter Book, RIHS.
Governor Jonathan Trumbull to Robert Treat Paine1
Sr New-Haven Octobr 15th 1776
in Answer to yours of the 21st Ultmo with Respect to the Cannon
Foundery att Salisbury in this state; — have to Inform you that this fur-
nace has been in Use for the Casting of pig Iron &c for many Years past,
when first set up it was surrounded with large quantitys of wood, Yet by
the Land round about being of good soil and much Cleard up for Use and
the great Consumption by the furnace it is much Exhausted and now be-
come Very scarce & dear; and we shall soon be Oblidged to goe 8 or 10 miles
for Coal —
This Furnace was last the property of one Mr Smith now Absconded 8c
gone to England leaving the Furnace in good Order. This State took it up
1272
AMERICAN THEATRE
last spring for the purpose of Casting Cannon. The Ore is extreemly good
perhaps no better in America and in great plenty, We have had great Suc-
cess is Our Opperations & have Cast to the Number of about 120 Cannon
from six to 18 pounders about 50 Swivel beside a large quantity of Shot the
12 pounders Wt 23 or 24 hundred they are short 8c fit only for Ship Cannon,
they will bear the highest proof, have all been tried by double quantity of
powder 8c Shot we mean to persue the Casting of Cannon to the Utmost of
our power and are in hopes of ariving to 24 pounders, tho it will be expen-
sive 8c the Cannon turn out dear by reason of the Scarcity of Wood, tho we
Imagine they are of the best quality 8c proof, we find it will by no means an-
swer to build another Stack at that place as the Water will now but just An-
swer and must be Content to make the best of the Works we now have
there, which we shall persue with the greatest Attention there may possibly
be some other place not far Distent and where wood is much more plenty
which may Answer to Erect works for the largest Cannon And shall make
further enquiry and let you know as soon as I am properly Informed -
We have supplied Mr Dean [Barnabas Deane] with the full Compli-
ment of Cannon for the Continental Ship built on Connecticut River2 am
Sir With great Truth and Regard [8cc.]
Jonth Trumbull
1. Robert Treat Paine Papers, MassHS.
2. Frigate Trumbull.
Governor Sir Guy Carleton to Lieutenant General John Burgoyne 1
[No.] 198 On Board the Maria off Isle Valcour October
Sir [October 12 to October 15] 2
We found the Rebel fleet Yesterday morning behind the Island of Val-
cour apparently, and as we hear since from Prisoners, unaprized either of
our force or motions. One of their Vessells perceived us only a little before
we came abreast of the Island, and our van got to the Southward of it time
enough to stop them just as they were making off. They then worked back
into the narrow part of the passage between the Island and main, where
they anchored in a line. Their principal vessell, the Royal Savage, one of the
first endeavouring to get out, in her confusion, upon finding our ships be-
fore her, ran upon the south end of the Island, and our Gun boats got pos-
session of her. Upon finding she could not get off she was afterwards set
fire to, and she blew up. Her crew except Twenty who were made prisoners,
got on shore.
After we had, in this manner, got beyond the enemy and cut them off,
the wind which had been favourable to bring us there, — however entirely
prevented our being able to bring our whole force to engage them, as we
had a narrow passage to work up, Ship by Ship, exposed to the fire of their
whole line. The Gun boats and Carleton only got up, and they sustained a
very unequal cannonade of several hours, and were obliged to be ordered to
General Arnold’s Squadron Engaged at Valcour Island.
1274
AMERICAN THEATRE
fall back, upon our finding that the rest of the fleet could not be brought up
to support them, We then Anchored in a line opposite the Rebels within
the distance of Cannon shot, expecting in the morning to be able to engage
them with our whole fleet, but, to our great mortification we perceived at
day break, that they had found means to escape us unobserved by any of
our guard boats or cruizers, thus an opportunity of destroying the whole
rebel naval force, at one stroke, was lost, first by an impossibility of bring-
ing all our vessels to action, and afterwards by the great diligence used by
the enemy in getting away from us.
We have been attempting to get up with part of them, which is still in
our sight, this morning, but the wind blowing very strong from the south-
ward we have been obliged to give over the chace for the present: The
Enemy however is retarded as well as us.
We have had one Gun boat which was served by the Hessian Artillery,
sunk; and about thirty men sailors and Artillery have been killed and
wounded.
14th Octor just as I had finished the above, and I could not but be very
dissatisfied, the wind sprung up fair and enabled us, after a long chase,
Yesterday to get up to the Rebels, and, in our second action, we have been
much more successfull; only three of their Vessels, as you will see by the
list enclosed having escaped. Their second in command Mr [David] Water-
bury struck to us in the Washington Galley, But Arnold run that he was on
board of on shore, and set fire to her and several others of his Vessels.
This succes cannot be deemed less than a compleat victory; but con-
sidering it was obtained over the kings subjects, that, which in other cir-
cumstances ought to be a proper cause of publick rejoicing, is, in these,
matter only of great concern; and therefore tho’ it may be right to communi-
cate it to the Troops, yet I dare say they think with me, that we should sup-
press all signs of triumph on the occation.
The Rebels upon the approach of the shattered little remains of their
fleet, set fire to all the buildings in and about Crown point, abandoning the
place and retired precipitately to Ticonderoga.
The sooner Frasers Brigade with all the matter I wrote about yester-
day arrive the better; I shall then be able to see what is to be done. I am 8cc
1. Guy Carleton Letter Book, Haldimand Papers, Additional Ms. 21699, BM.
2. Content makes it clear that Carleton began this letter on October 12. And, here in his last
paragraph he notes: “all the matter I wrote about yesterday.” Carleton had written
to Burgoyne on the 14th, ibid.
Captain Thomas Pringle, R. N., to Philip Stephens1
Copy of a Letter from Captain Thomas Pringle, on Board the Maria,
off Crown Point, the 15th of October, 1776.
It is with the greatest Pleasure that I embrace this opportunity of con-
gratulating their Lordships upon the Victory compleated the 13th of this
Month, by His Majesty’s Fleet under my Command, upon Lake Champlain.
OCTOBER 1776
1275
Upon the 11th I came up with the Rebel Fleet commanded by Benedict
Arnold: They were at Anchor under the Island Valicour, and formed a
strong Line, extending from the Island to the West Side of the Continent:
The Wind was so unfavourable, that for a considerable Time nothing could
be brought into Action with them; but the Gun Boats, the Carleton
Schooner, commanded by Mr. [James Richard] Dacres, (who brings their
Lordships this) by much Perseverance at last got up to their Assistance;
but as none of the other Vessels of the Fleet could then get up, I did not
think it by any Means adviseable to continue so partial and unequal a Com-
bat; consequently, with the Approbation of his Excellency General Carle-
ton, who did me the Honor of being on Board the Maria , I called off the Carle-
ton and Gun Boats, and brought the whole Fleet to anchor in a Line as
near as possible to the Rebels, that their Retreat might be cut off; which
Purpose was however frustrated by the extreme Obscurity of the Night;
and in the Morning the Rebels had got a considerable Distance from us up
the Lake.
Upon the 13th I again saw Eleven Sail of their Fleet making off to
Crown Point, who, after a Chace of seven Hours, I came up with in the
Maria, having the Carleton and Inflexible a small Distance a-stern; the rest
of the Fleet almost out of Sight. The Action began at Twelve o’Clock and
lasted two Hours; at wich Time Arnold, in the Congress Galley, and five
Gondolas, ran on Shore, and were directly abandoned and blown up by the
Enemy, a Circumstance they were greatly favoured in, by the Wind being
off Shore, and the Narrowness of the Lake. The Washington Galley struck
during the Action, and the rest made their Escape to Ticonderoga.
The Killed and Wounded in His Majesty’s Fleet, including the Artillery
in the Gun Boats, do not amount to Forty; but from every Information I
have yet got, the Loss of the Enemy must indeed be very considerable.
Many Particulars which their Lordships may wish to know I must at
present take the Liberty of referring you to Mr. Dacres for; but I am well
convinced his Modesty will not permit him to say how great a Share he had
in this Victory, give me Leave to assure you, that during both Actions,
nothing could be more pointedly good than his Conduct. I must also do the
Justice the Officers and Seamen of this Fleet merit; by saying that every
Person under my Command exerted themselves to act up to the Character
of British Seamen.
1. London Gazette, November 19 to November 23, 1776.
Brigadier General Benedict Arnold to Major General Philip
Schuyler 1
Dear General Ticonderoga 15th October 1776
I made no Doubt before this you have reed a Copy of my Letter to Genl
Gates of the 12th Inst dated at Schuylers Island advising of an Action be-
tween our Fleet and the Enemy the preceding day in which we lost a
1276
AMERICAN THEATRE
Schooner and a Gondola. We remained no longer at Schuylers Island than to
stop our Leaks and mend the Sails of the Washington. At 2 OClock P. M.
the 12th weighed Anchor with a fresh Breeze to the Southward. The Ene-
my’s Fleet at the same time got under Way, our Gondolas made very little
way a Head. In the Evening the Wind moderated and we made such Prog-
ress that at 6 OClock next Morning we were about off Willsborough 28
Miles from Crown Point. The Enemy’s Fleet were very little way above
Schuylers Island, the Wind breezed up to the Southward so that we gained
very little by beating or rowing, at the same time the Enemy took a fresh
Breeze from the N.E. and by the time we had reached split Rock were along
Side of us. The Washington and Congress were in a Rear, the rest of our
Fleet were a Head except two Gondolas sunk at Schuylers Island. The
Washington Galley was in such a shattered Condition and had so many Men
killed and wounded she struck to the Enemy after receiving a few Broad-
sides. we were then attacked in the Congress Galley by a Ship mounting
twelve Eighteen Pounders, a Schooner of fourteen Sixes and one of twelve
Sixes, two under our Stern and one on our Broadside within Musquet Shot.
They kept up an incessant Fire on us for about five Glasses with Round and
Grape Shot, which we returned as briskly — The Sails Rigging and Hull of
the Congress was shattered and torn in Peices, the first Lieutenant and 3
Men killed, when to prevent her falling into the Enemy’s hands, who had
seven Sail around me, I ran her ashore in a small Creek ten Miles from
Crown Point on the East Side when after saving our small Arms, I set her
on Fire with four Gondolas, with whose Crews I reached Crown point thro’
the Woods that Evening, and very luckily escaped the Savages who way laid
the Road in two Hours after we passed. At 4 OClock Yesterday Morning I
reached this place exceedingly fatigued and unwell having been without
Sleep or Refreshment for near three days.
Of our whole Fleet we have saved only two Gallies, two small schoon-
ers, one Gondola and one Sloop. General Waterbury with One hundred and
ten prisoners were returned by Carleton last Night. On Board of the Con-
gress we had twenty odd Men killed and wounded. Our whole loss amounted
to Eighty odd. The Enemy’s Fleet were last Night three Miles below Crown
Point, their Army is doubtless at their Heels, we are busily employed in
compleating our Lines [&] Redoubts which I am sorry to say are not so
forward as I could wish. We have very few heavy Cannon, but are mount-
ing every piece we have. It is the Opinion of Genl Gates and Sinclair [Ar-
thur St. Clair], that Eight or ten thousand Militia should be immediately
sent to our Assistance if they can be spared from below. I am of Opinion the
Enemy will attack us with their Fleet and Army at the same time, the for-
mer is very formidable, a List of which I am favoured with by Genl Water-
bury and have inclosed. The Season is so far advanced, our people are daily
growing more healthy. We have about Nine thousand Effectives and if
properly supported make no doubt of stopping the Carrier of the Enemy.
All your Letters to me of late have miscarried. I am extremely sorry to hear
by Genl Gates you are unwell.
OCTOBER 1776
1277
I have sent you by Genl Waterbury a small Box containing all my pub-
lic and private papers and Accounts with a considerable Sum of hard and
paper Money, Which beg the favr of your taking Care of. I am Dear Genl
[&c.]
B Arnold
List of the Enemys Fleet on Lake Champlain.
1 Ship
1 Schooner
1 do
1 Rediaux
18 — 12 ps.
14-6
12-6
6 24
12-12
4 8 Inch Howitz
Brass
28 Gondolas with one Gun each 12 18 & 24 pounders and one 8 Inch
Howitz
2 Gondolas 3 Guns each 1 2 pounders
N.B. Two of the above Gondolas sunk by our fleet the first day and one
blown up with 60 Men —
Copy.
1. Papers CC (Letters of Major General Philip Schuyler), 153, II, 453-56, NA.
Major General Horatio Gates to Major General Philip
Schuyler 1
Dear Genl Ticonderoga 15th October 1776 -
You will herewith receive Genl Arnolds Account of the Defeat and al-
most total Ruin of our Fleet Yesterday Morning. It has pleased providence
to preserve Genl Arnold. Few Men ever met with so many hair Breadth
Scapes in so short a space of time. Except the Capture of Genl Waterbury
and those with him I do not think we shall lose a great many Men. Up-
wards of 200 with their Officers escaped with Genl Arnold. The Ammuni-
tion &ca I so long [illegible] for is much wanted here. I am distressed to
the last Degree till it arrives. This Moment your favr from Saratoga of
Yesterday Afternoon is put in my Hands. Part of the Lead about three
Tons is arrived, and you make me happy in acquainting me the other tons
are so near at hand. The Guard you mention and the wise Caution you give
shall be carefully attended to. I am in haste [&c.]
Horatio Gates
P.S. I beg you will send me all the Spades you can collect as fast as possi-
ble
Copy
1. Papers CC (Letters of Major General Philip Schuyler), 153, II, 457, 458, NA.
Looking Forward on Gun Deck of Continental Gunboat Philadelphia.
OCTOBER 1776
1279
Diary of Dr. Lewis Beebe1
[Ticonderoga] Tuesday 15th: [October] The flag, mentioned yesterday,
came only to transport the prisoners, which they took, in the late engage-
ment, to this place; who were permitted to return to their several places of
abode on parole, that they would not take arms against them during the
present contest; and would return to them whenever called for; the number
taken was 104. one of which was Genl Waterbury. Carl [e] ton was with the
fleet, which we expect to visit us every hour; for which reason our works go
on day and night without any intermission.
1. “Beebe’s Journal,” Pennsylvania Magazine of History and Biography, LIX, 354.
Journal of H.M. Schooner St. Lawrence , Lieutenant John Graves 1
Octbr 1776 at Anchor in the East River
Monday 14 at 4 A M weigh’d and turnd into the Sound at 6 past by his
Majs Ship niger i/2 past came on Bd a Cutter man’d and
Arm’d from her Stood across the sound at 11 Came too in
5 fm Water to the NoW of Marroneck Harbour Kept all
Hands at Quarters all night
Tuesday 15 at 5 AM weighd and came to Sail and stood into the Entrance
of the Harbour a privateer Lying there fired 5 guns at
us at 7 TKd and stood to the Sowd to Join the Niger at 8
fired a Swivel at a Sloop at 1 1 past by the Niger
at 1 P M came too in 6 fm water near his Majs Ship
Carrysfort Frogg Point EBS 1 Mile
1. PRO, Admiralty 51/4330.
Journal of the Continental Congress1
[Philadelphia] Tuesday, October 15, 1776
The Secret Committee having, agreeable to the order of Congress,
taken into consideration how to make the best distribution of the cargo
lately arrived at Providence, Rhode Island, in the brig Happy Return;
brought in their report; Whereupon,
Resolved , That a copy of the invoice of the cloths and blankets be sent
to General [Thomas] Mifflin, quarter master general, with an order to
Messrs. Browns, of Rhode Island, to deliver the whole to his order, and that
it be recommended to the said quarter master general, to have the cloths im-
mediately made up for the soldiers, either in Rhode Island, Connecticut, or
by the taylors in the army, as may be thought best by General Washington
and himself:
That Messrs. Browns be directed to deliver to the continental agent, at
Rhode Island, the remaining part of the cargo, with orders to apply the
lead, bullets, flints, muskets and powder, to the use of the continental frig-
1280
AMERICAN THEATRE
ates and cruisers, or such part thereof as may be wanted for that service,
and the rest to remain for future orders:
That the said agent be directed to buy as much good fat beef and pork,
as can be cured by the salt in his possession, for the use of the navy:
1. Ford, ed., JCC, 875, 878-79.
Penet & Pliarne to the “Commitees of Rhodes Island” 1
Gentlemen Philadelphia 15th 8re [October] 1776
We have Established in trance a house destinated only for the Corre-
spondance with the united States, the honorable Continental Congress
have been Supplied there already Sc they will take for the future all the Ar-
ticles they Shall want for the army Sc other purposes, we believe Neces-
sary to inform you that it is upon the Encouragement Sc the assurances we
have Receiv’d from the Congress we have Got in Magazines in France a
Very Large quantity of Goods Sc other Articles of Every Kind Suitable to
the present Circumstances the States are in.
In Consequence of that, Gentlemen, we flater ourselves you will adress
your Vessels to that house Sc you may depend upon this you will find imme-
diately there Every thing you will want.
but there is an other advantage you Must be acquainted with, the Com-
mitees Sc the Merchants Meeting with Great Difficulties to send Money to
Europe, our house has taken that in Consideration, Sc you may have bills
upon our house Sc we will take here the Continental Money.
Our house is at Nantz in Britanny, Sc we have Chosen that port, be-
cause it is the best situated for the Business of this Continent, if you send
your Cargoes from here to the other ports, Nantz is in the Center Sc out of
the Channel; Sc after your Capts will have Sold the Cargoes in the other
ports, they May Go immediately to Nantz to be Loaded. So Beleave the hon-
orable Congress, Sc that speculation you will find advantageous because
from bordeaux, Rochelle, L’orient Sc other Ports in one, 2, 3 Days you Get to
Nantz and your Capts will not stay there as in other Ports one month to Ex-
pect their Loading.
you will find too the Articles Cheaper there, because our Great Con-
sumption with the Continent will Determine our house to Give the Greatest
satisfaction to the honorable Congress, the Commitees Sc the Merchants.
Add to these Reasons, the Market of Nantz is Extremely Good, because
there is a very Large River passing through different Cities.
this is the Direction of our house in trance
a Messieurs
Messieurs Pliarne Penet Sc Compe
Maison de M. Gruel, Negt Armateur
Isle Feydeau A Nantes
In Philadelphia
OCTOBER 1776
1281
To Mesrs Pliarne Penet Sc Compe
In Philadelphia2
We pray you to inform the Commitees Sc the Merchants in your state
of our dispositions
We have the honor to be with Respect Gentlemen [Sec.]
Pliarne Penet Sc Compe
1. Letters to the Governor, vol. 8, R. I. Arch.
2. The Philadelphia resident partner of the house was M. Pliarne.
William Richards to the Pennsylvania Council of
Safety1
[Extract] Philadelphia, Octor 15th, 1776.
Gentl’n: The Commodore was with me this morning, and says the Fleet
has not any Colours to hoist if they should be called on Duty, it is not in my
power to get them done, untill there is a design fix’d on to make the Colours
by-
Directed The Hon’ble Council of Safety, Pres’t.
1. Pennsylvania Archives, 1st series, V, 46.
Major Thomas Proctor to Thomas Wharton, Jr.1
Mr President, Fort Island, Octr 15th, 1776.
I would beg leave to offer my oppinion on a few particulars which
Occur, to be necessary for our present safety.
First, That the floating Chevaux du freese’s be brought and moored at
their proper place, fit for sinking.
Secondly, The boom which at present is in a useless state, to be fix’d to
the Piers as intended for service.
Thirdly, As the distance between the Eastmost piere and the west part
of the Sunk Chevaux du freeze, admitt large Ships to pass with ease,
whether it ought not to be properly secured, as the Chevaux du freese’s for
that purpose are floating along side the Fort Wharfe.
Fourthly, Having observed a Large Brigg under the care of Mich. Dor-
sey, to pass through the East Channell with safety, whether it might not be
proper to move the Chevaux du freese’s prepared at Gloster, to prevent the
passing of any vessels at so great a distance from the Fort, which vessels
are seldom, if ever, examined by the fleet, and might, through the means of
subtile persons, pass Troops to the City undiscover’d, till too late.
Fifthly, As the 18 P’rs on board the Province Ship are too long to be
work’d to any degree of advantage for action, if it would not be Expedient
imediately to change them for Cannon, more suitable, and the present Can-
non on Board to be mounted at Billingsport, to form a defence for, and with
the Chevaux du freese’s, and to send the six Gunns w’ch lays useless [on]
1282
AMERICAN THEATRE
Mr. Morriss’s Wharfe, to suitable places here I have to mount them on, un-
till they are wanted for other Service. I remain, Sir, [Sec.]
Thos. Proctor.
Directed to the Hon’ble Council of Safety, Philadelphia
1. Pennsylvania Archives, 1st series, V, 45-46.
Journal of the Virginia Council of Safety 1
[Williamsburg] Tuesday October 15th 1776
Ordered that the Commissioners of the Navy Board be requested to
order down to Portsmouth all such Row gallies and other Vessells that in
their opinion can be best spared for the purpose of assisting the Transpor-
tation of the Carolina Troops to the Head of Elk on their way to New Jer-
sey.
A Permit granted to the Sloop Olive Branch Captain Baine to proceed
on her Voyage to Saint Eustatia. Manifest of her Cargo filed. Bond executed
acknowledged and ordered also to be filed.
Upon Information given to this Board by Benjamin Harrison Junior
Esquire of his preparing to fit out a Continental Vessell on a Trading Voy-
age and being in want of some Articles for that purpose applied for the
Loan of some Canvas, Twine and a few Needles without which the said Ves-
sell could not be compleated so as to proceed on her intended Voyage. In
consequence of which Application a Letter was wrote to Thomas Whiting
Esquire first Commissioner of the Navy Board requesting him to order to
be delivered out of the Publick Store to Mr Harrison such a quantity of the
said Articles that he wants provided that the same can be conveniently
spared from the Public Service.
1. Mcllwaine, ed., Journals of the Virginia Council, I, 197-98.
Journal of the Virginia Navy Board 1
[Williamsburg] Tuesday 15th October 1776-
Pursuant to request of the honble the Council — Ordered that the following
Captains, to wit, Celey Saunders of the Lewis Galley, James Markham of
the Page Galley, George Elliott of the Safeguard Galley, Robert Conway of
the Protector Galley, George Muter of the Hero Galley and Lieut Harris of
the Manley Galley do Proceed immediately with their said Vessels from
their present stations to Portsmouth in Order to Assist in Transporting the
Carolina Troops up to the Head of Elk who are on their March to New
Jersey, and return again to their Respective Stations as soon as possible -
Capt Thomas Lilly of the Brig Liberty having been summoned to appear be-
fore the Board on this day to Answer the Complaint of Alexander Massen-
burg, Joseph Willson, John Chick, Thomas Coleman, Thomas Bailey Sc John
Royston lately exhibited against him appeared accordingly, whereupon sun-
dry Witnesses being sworn and examined On Consideration whereof It is
OCTOBER 1776
1283
the Opinion of the Board that the Allegations setforth in the said Complaint
have not been sufficiently Proved. It is therefore Ordered that the said Lilly
be acquitted of the said Complaint and that he discharge such of the Com-
plainants as are desirous of Quitting the Service. -
1. Navy Board Journal, 78-79, VSL.
Journal of the South Carolina General Assembly1
[Charleston] Tuesday the 15th Day of October 1776
Message to the Legislative Council
Honourable Gentlemen
On the 11th Instant we sent you for your Concurrence therein a Reso-
lution “That the Commissioners of the Treasury as a further Encourage-
ment to the Commander and marines belonging to the Vessel called the Re-
venge do pay and advance to the said Commander and men out of the
amount of the sales of the Cargo taken from on board the transport Brigan-
tine called the Glasgow Packet One Sixth of the neat amount of sales of the
said Cargo” And we now desire to know if your Honours have concurred ac-
cordingly and if you have, that you will please to order the same to be sent
to His Excellency for his assent
1. Salley, ed., South Carolina General Assembly Journals, 120, 122.
Journal of the South Carolina Navy Board 1
[Charleston] Tuesday 15th October 1776.
The Board met according to Adjournment
Present: Edward Blake Esq: First Commissioner
Geo: Abbott Hall, Josiah Smith Thos. Savage Thomas Corbett
George Smith Esquires
Read the Minutes of the last Meeting
Ordered, That the following Advertisement be inserted in the Gazette &
that three Hundred Handbills be struck off & dispersed in the Country
The Commissioners of the Navy are in want of a quantity of Salted
beef and Pork in barrels. Any persons inclined to furnish them therewith
are desired to send proposals in writing to the subscriber, mentioning the
quantity of salt required for each barrel of Beef and Pork, (which the Com-
missioners will supply the contractors with upon their entering into con-
tract with them,) and the price they will deliver the Beef and Pork at in
Charlestown, the same being properly cured and packed in tight barrels,
weighing two hundred pounds neat weight. They are also in want of a quan-
tity of Ship Bread and Flour, for which they will give the market price, or
enter into contract with any person inclined to supply them.
Edward Blake, First Commissioner.
Returns were received from the officers of the Brigantine Comet and
the Brigantine Defence.
1284
AMERICAN THEATRE
Orders were given to Captain Edward Allen to get his Water, Provi-
sions, and other necessaries on board, ready to proceed to sea as soon as
possible, and to report when he is ready.
Orders were given to Captain Thomas Pickering to apply to the Com-
missary to furnish him with such Sails as are wanting for the Brigantine
Defence , and other Necessaries to get her ready for Sea.
Alexander Horn the Public Boat keeper was ordered to attend the next
Meeting.
1. Salley, ed.. South Carolina Navy Board, 7.
Master’s Log of H. M. Armed Vessel Cherokee1
October 1776 At Single Anchor in St Augustine Bay
Tuesday 15 at 8 AM swayed up the Lower Yards Do saw a sail in
the NE Qr at 11 the Raven fired two Shot at the above
Vessel brot her too and Detained her She proved to be the
Brig Friendship - Townsend Master from Savannah Laden
with rice
1. PRO, Admiralty 52/1662.
“Extract of a letter from Kingston, Jamaica, dated Oct. 15.” 1
We are all very quiet at present, and have been so for some time past.
Martial law has been suspended about a month; but parochial guards were
kept throughout the island, till within this fortnight. The militia is now re-
stored to its former state, and I hope there will be no further occasion for
martial law being established here.
A few weeks ago the French frigate L’Hermione, commanded by Mons.
Demonteil, Brigadier-General and knight of the order of St. Louis, came in
here from St. Nichola Mole in Hispaniola, to demand a small American
schooner which had been taken by the Squirrel a few days before. He al-
ledged that the schooner was taken nearer the land than was permitted by
treaty between the two courts. The Admiral answered, that Capt. [Stair]
Douglas knew his duty, and if he had acted wrong, must answer for it; that
he deemed the schooner a lawful prize, and would not deliver her up; but
that if there were any differences to be adjusted, they must be settled by the
two courts. The French frigate did not remain here 48 hours. It is reported
that the admiral further told the captain, that he need not salute his ship
when he went away, as he had omitted it when he came in; for that conse-
quently the compliment should not be returned. There have been five or six
prizes brought in here within these three weeks.
1. Almon, ed.. Remembrancer, IV, 158.
OCTOBER 1776
1285
Journal of H. M. S. Antelope, Captain William Judd1
October 1776 The West end of Tortuda ESE 6 Leags
Tuesday 15th AM light Airs and fair, at 6 saw A Sail to the Westwd gave
Chace, at 10 hoisted the Boats out sent them Arm’d at
11 they Boarded the Chace found her to be a Brigg from
Philadelphia, took possession of her2
1. PRO, Admiralty 51/39.
2. James S. Biddle, ed.. Autobiography of Charles Biddle . . . 1745-1821 (Philadelphia, 1883) ,
90-93, contains an account of the capture of Ranger.
16 Oct.
Minutes of the Executive Council of Nova Scotia 1
At a Council holden at Halifax
on the 16th October 1776
Several depredations having been Committed on the Coast of this
Province, by Vessels Armed and Mann’d by the Rebels of New England. -
The Lieutenant Governor Asked the Advice of the Council as to the ex-
pediency of fitting Out two Arm’d Vessels of proper Burthen to pursue
such Pirate Vessels into Shoal Water and Creeks, and thereby defend the
Coast from any further Insults and depredations. -
On which the Council were Unanimously of Opinion, that such Vessels
shou’d be provided as the only Means to protect the Navigation on this
Coast, and to prevent any Outrages being Committed on Shore.
1. N. S. Arch.
Richard Bulkeley to the Justices of the Peace of
Liverpool, Yarmouth and Barrington 1
(Circular) Secy’s Office
Gentlemen Halifax 16th October 1776
I am to inform you from the Lieut Governor that His Majesty’s Ship
Albany is sent to Cruise on the Coast between this Harbour and Cape Sable,
and to look into every Port, and that she will be followed by other Ships and
Armed Vessells in order to secure you from such Insults and depredations
as have been lately committed, and to protect and defend His Majesty’s
Loyal Subjects. — I am Gent Your &c
Sign’d Richd Bulkeley
To Elisha Freeman Simeon Perkins and
William Johnstone Esqr’s Justice of the
Peac for Queen’s County or either of
them at Liverpool
John Crawley, Phinehas Durkee and
Ephraim Cook Esqrs Justices of the
1286
AMERICAN THEATRE
Peace for Queen’s County or either of
them at Yarmouth
Archelaus Smith and Hamman Kenney Esqrs
Justices of the Peace for Queen’s County
or either of them at Barrington2
1. Executive Council Letter Book, vol. 136, N. S. Arch. Bulkeley was Secretary of the Nova
Scotia Council.
2. Ibid., a similar letter was sent this date to John Creighton at Lunenburg.
Journal of H. M. Sloop Albany , Lieutenant Michael Hyndman1
October 1776 Moored in Halifax Harbour
Wednesday 16th Modt 8c fair Wear the People Empd doing the Needfull;
Set the rigging up Fore 8c aft, Came on Board Lieut
Michl Hyndman Pr Acting Order from Sir George Col-
lier to take the Command of the Ship;2 read his order
to the Ships Company Do Came on Board a Pilot
1. PRO, Admiralty 51/23.
2. Hyndman relieved Lieutenant Henry Mowat.
Journal of H.M.S. Lizard , Captain Thomas Mackenzie1
[Halifax Harbor]
Arrived here the Juno 8c Milford wt 4 Prizes 8c the Pem-
broke wt Stores
washd 8c clean’d between Decks -
Reed onbd p order of Sir Geo: Collier 103 Rebel Prisoners
from the Milford
Mod 8c fair Came alongside a Schooner to take away the
rebels. Imprest 18 of them 8c sent away the rest
1. PRO, Admiralty 51/550.
Elijah Freeman Payne to Captain Barzilla Smith1
To Capt Barzl Smith Plymouth Octr 16th 1776
Sir Youll Please to repair on board the Armd Schooner Eagle , belonging
to me — as Commander in chief - and there behave yourself according to
your Instructions given by Congress — you are hereby Order’d to sea in
said schooner under your command — There remain four mont[hs] (if
nothing happens which will cause your return) Cruizing for any Vessel, or
property of Great Britain Youll sail from the Cape Cod — direct for St
Georges Banks — from thence well to the Eastward — If you find nothing
worth Notice till to the Eastward of Grand Banks — Youll Dire[c]t your
course for the Ships that sail for Barbado[es] from London — to the win-
dard of Barbadoes 40 to 50 Leagues; there youll make your cruize when
your time is up — youll return directly to Boston — If you shoud take any
October 1776
Sunday 13
Monday 14
Tuesday 15
Wedy 16
OCTOBER 1776
1287
Prizes on your Cruize — order them to Boston — or some nigh Port — be
Carefull in maning your Prizes; put Plenty of men on board to secure
the same — if you shoud come thought [athwart] any Vessel that is not
rich, take out what you can of her goods and let her go — when you get a
good Prize, secure her well with men be carefull not to take any Vessel be-
longing to any inhabitant of the States of America for the rest act discre-
tionally — Yours &c
Elijah F. Payne
[Endorsed] Boston March the 17th 1777 —
The within writen Orders sign’d by Elijah F. Payne was at the date of said
Orders deliver’d to me by said Payne for my directions at sea while in and
commander of sd Schooner Eagle for four months cruize
Test. Barzilla Smith
1. Mass. Arch., vol. 197, 255-55a.
Libel of Commodore Esek Hopkins Against the Prize
Brigantine Kingston Packet 1
State of Rhode Island & To The Honorable John Foster Esq. Judge
Providence Plantations ss of the Court of Justice erected for the Tryal
of Prize Causes in and throughtout the State
of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations -
Esek Hopkins Esqr Commander in chief of the Fleete fitted out by the
most Honbl the Continental Congress for the protection of the united States
of America comes into this Honorable Court and gives your Honour to un-
derstand and be informed that John P. Jones Commander of the Sloope of
War called the Providence being one of the Squadron under his command
and duely commission’d to cruise against the Enemies of the united States
of America on the Twenty fifth Day of September AD. 1776. being on a
Cruise at a place call’d Narrowshock Harbour in the Island of Cape Bretton
together with his officers, Marines and Mariners belonging to said Sloope
took and captured the Brigantine Kingston Packet with her appurtanances
commanded by one Samuel Ingersoll together with her Cargo consisting of
dry Fish, pickled Fish and Skins and which said Brigantine and Cargo be-
fore and at the Time of Capture belonged to and were the property of some
of the Inhabitants of the Island of Jamaica Subject to the King of great
Brittain or to some other of his Brittannick Majesties Subjects not Inhab-
itants of the Island of Bermuda or New Providence or the Bahama Islands
which said King of Great Brittains Fleets and Armies are now acting
against the United States of America — And the said Esek Hopkins fur-
ther informs your Honor that the said John Jones hath sent the said Bri-
gantine with her appurtinancies and Cargo into the Port of Providence
within your Honors Jurisdiction for adjudication Wherefore he prays that
your Honor would take the Premisses into consideration and grant out the
1288
AMERICAN THEATRE
propper process & monitions in such Cases by Law required and further
proceede as to Right and Justice appertained!
John Cole for Libellant.
[Providence, October 16]
1. Revolutionary War Prize Cases, No. 6, Court of Appeals, 1776-1787, NA.
Interrogation of John Gordon1
Interogatories answered by John Gordon late Mate of the Kingston Packet.
Interog.
Answr
Interog
Answr
Interog.
Answer
Interog
Answr
When and where did you enter on Board the said Brigantine, and
who are the Owners of the said Brig and her Cargo.
I entered on Board as Mate of the said Brig at Gaspee in the
Province of Canada in the Month of July AD 1776 — the said
Brig and Cargo are Owned by Richard Derby and Haskel [Elias
Hasket] Derby of Salem in the State of the Massachusets Bay as
I was informed by the Captain.
Who was Master of the said Brig at the time you entered on
board as Mate, and where was she bound, and where has the Brig
been since you entered on board to the time She was taken by
Capt John Jones?
Samuel Ingersol was Master, the Said Brig was bound from Gas-
pee to Canso to purchase Fish and from thence to Cape Francois.
Did Capt Ingersoll inform you where he had been with Said Brig
from Salem before he came to Gaspee
He told me he had been to Jamaica & Dominica and was return-
ing from thence and came within 12 Hours Sail of Marble Head
and was chased by a Man of War and Obliged to go to Canso, and
from Canso he want to Gaspee to sell the remainder of his Rum
and Molasses which he brought from Dominica -
Do the Skins now on board the Said Brig belong to her Cargo?
No. — they were put on board the Brig by Capt Jones’s
orders they took them out of a Store in Narrow Shock, the said
Store belonged to one Roebin of the Island of Jersey in the Cha-
nel of England.
John Gordon.
NB he says He was to have
8 Dollars pr Month Wages
Sworn to in Providence Octor 16 1776 Before me
John Foster Judge in Prize Causes
1. Revolutionary War Prize Cases, No. 6, Court of Appeals, 1776-1787, NA.
Interrogation of Abel Coffin1
Interogatories answer’d by Able Coffin Prize Master of the Brigantine
called the Kingston Packet.
OCTOBER 1776
1289
Interog. When where and by whome was the said Brigantine taken what
is her Tonage, who was the Master of the said Brig taken, from
whence and to what Port was She Bound, what are the Contents
of her Cargo; and are the papers you now present all the papers
you received belonging to said Vessell
Answr The said Brigantine and her Cargo upon or about the Twenty
fifth Day of September AD 1776 in Narrowshock Harbour in the
Island of Cape Briton was taken by John Jones commander of
and his officers and men belonging to the Continental Sloop of
War called the Providence , the Masters Name I cannot
tell, the People on said Brig say she was bound to Cape Fran-
cois her Cargo Consists of Dry Fish, about 35 Barrels of Pick-
eled Macker[el] some Dear Skins and Moose Skins, the papers
now Presented are all the papers which were delivered to me by
Capt Jones. The said Brigantine is of the Burthen of about 110
Tons
Abel Coffin
Sworn to in Providence Octo 16. 1776 before me
John Foster Judge in Prize Causes
1. Revolutionary War Prize Cases, No. 6, Court of Appeals, 1776-1787, NA.
Commodore Esek Hopkins to Captain Hoysteed Hacker1
Sir Newport October 16th 1776 —
Upon receipt of this you are to go up Swansey River, and Take the
Privateer Sloop Captn [Joseph] Dennis, 2 who I have Intelligence has got
some of our Men belonging to the Fleet — and bring the Sloop and ail the
Men you find onboard of her in to Newport harbour - and for so doing this
Shall be your sufficient authority
F. H. Cr in Chief
1. Hopkins Letter Book, RIHS.
2. Commander of the Massachusetts privateer schooner Fair Lady, Mass. Arch., vol. 5, 286.
Major General Philip Schuyler to John Hancock1
[Extract] Saratoga Octr 16th 1776
Since the Letter from General Arnold of the 12th Instt which General
Washington has doubtless transmitted to you, I have not heard a Word
from the Fleet or Tyonderoga.
I am preparing to build Barracks for three Thousand Men at this Place
and Stillwater.
If we do not quite lose the Lake this Campaign, it will be necessary to
employ Four Hundred Carpenters all Winter in constructing a strong
Naval Force; Cordage, Sails, Oakham, and Anchors must be provided
somewhere below, and the whole brought up in Winter. Fifty whip Saws
1290
AMERICAN THEATRE
will be wanted, and should be sent immediately, they are not to be had in
this Quarter.
I wish a Quantity of Crocus, or any coarse Linnen, to be sent up for
Sacks for the Soldiers’ Bedding & Bolsters, it will be best to have them
made up at Philadelphia, large enough for two Men.
A great Quantity of intrenching Tools must be provided, and such a
Quantity of Ammunition sent next Winter to Tyonderoga, as will suffice for
the Campaign, some should be sent immediately.
Cannon of the largest Size should be Cast in every Quarter, and sent up
in Winter.
The Paymaster advises me that his Chest is reduced to less than One
Hundred Thousand Dollars, a Supply should be sent in Time. I am Sir
[Sec.]
Ph: Schuyler
1. Papers CC (Letters of Major General Philip Schuyler) , 153, II, 459-62, NA.
Major General Philip Schuyler to the Committee of
Berkshire County 1
Gentlemen Saratoga Octo 16th 1776
Our Fleet which suffered severely in an engagement on the 12th in-
stant with the Enemy has been still more severely handled in a subsequent
[one] — insomuch that the Enemy are left masters of the Lake and are
now coming on to attack our Army at Ticonderoga —
In this situation of affairs it is of the utmost importance that the Mili-
tia of your State should immediately march to sustain the Army — Such as
can most expeditiously come by the way of Albany should do so, and the
others take the Route to Skeensborough - Each man should come provided
with as much provision and ammunition as possible — The commanding
Officer must send me information of his number and the progress in his
march from time to time — I shall be either at Fort George or at Skeenes-
borough, but as I cannot determine which, it will be proper to send ex-
presses to both places - Please to forward Copies of this to Governor Trum-
bull and to every Committee in your State in a situation of affording assist-
ance, as also to the neighbouring Counties in the State of Connecticut. I
must repeat Gentlemen, that it is of great importance that I should be duly
furnished with an account of the movement and number of the Militia - I
am Gentlemen [&c.]
Ph: Schuyler
1. Trumbull Papers, XXVI, Letter Book I, 95, 96, ConnSL.
Journal of the New York Committee of Safety 1
[Fishkiil] Wednesday Afternoon, Octor. 16th, 1776.
A letter from John Sloss Hobart, Esqr. dated at Fairfield, Octor. 8th,
1776, setting forth the state and circumstances of the sloop Montgomery,
12 Pound Bow Gun of Continental Gunboat Philadelphia.
1292
AMERICAN THEATRE
and of the sum of money necessary for paying off the wages of the crew,
and other expenses. Thereupon,
Ordered , That the sum of £800 be transmitted by Mr. Gelston to Mr.
Hobart at Fairfield, or such other person as Mr. Gelston may think safe and
prudent, in the absence of Mr. Hobart, to be advanced to Capt. [William]
Rogers for defraying the expenses of fitting out and paying off the wages of
the officers and crew of the sloop Montgomery.
1. New York Provincial Congress, I, 680.
Brigadier General Hugh Mercer to George Washington1
Sir
Amboy October 16. 1776 —
General Green [Nathanael Greene] has informed your Excellency that
a party pass’d over last night to Staten Island with a view to attack the
Enemy, at the east end near the Watering Place — as we advanced towards
Richmond Town information was given, that some Companies of British 8c
Hessian Troops were stationed there — surprising them was therefore the
first object, which was effected this morning at break of day — Well disci-
plined Troops would have taken the whole without the loss of a man — but
we only took about twenty prisoners, partly Hessians 8c English — eight
Hessians 8c nine British, one of those wounded, 8c besides these two mor-
tally wounded left at Richmond Town — We lost two men in the Action — 2
What we have collected of intelligence from the Prisoners, is enclosed -
Your Instructions of October the 15th I shall immediately set about,
observing with the utmost diligence and Punctuality — Col Griffin re-
ceived a Wound in the Heel in the Action of this Morning 8c Lt Col Smith of
the flying Camp slightly wounded in the Arm — I shall send the Prisoners
on to Philadelphia. I have the honour to be Sir [8cc.]
H Mercer
[Enclosure]
Head Quarters 16 October 1776 So Amboy
The Examination of two Regular Soldiers 8c one Hessian taken Prisoners on
Staten Island this Morning at the Church —
Robt Holbrook - says he belongs to the 14th Regiment — Commanded by
Colnl Dalrimple — 20 Regulars 8c 45 Hessians were at the Church, — 8c
there were about 1500 on the Island at first — about 10 days ago the great-
est part of the Hessians embarked — Capt Stanton Commanded this Morn-
ing - 8c fled — Genl How has 22000 including Hessians 8c all other Troops
— Some new Troops landed last Monday — the Army in good Health 8c
plenty of Provisions — all Salt on the Island — they expect 15000 Hessians
every day — but no English Troops — the only reinforcement is the 6th
Regiment about 150 — Hessians in the Army supposed to be 15000 —
Peter Gee of the 6th Rt Coir Boothby says - 150 of them landed on Sta-
ten Island last Monday from the Chambury, Transport — left England the
3d July 20 Sail Came out with them 2 Men of War 8c 18 Provision Vessels
OCTOBER 1776
1293
— they were making great preparations at England recruited very fast —
but expected the Press to breakout — about 700 Hanoverians came out, as
many more expected — some of them lay at Plymouth - the greatest part of
the Hessians left the Island — a great many Sick in the Island — the num-
ber in the Fort not known — supposd about 600 — only two pieces of can-
non in the Fort — expected a reinforcement of the regulars —
Christian Guiler a Hessian Private — says tis 8 Years since he left his
own Country allmost all their Troops is with Genl How — 12000 of them
have come, expect more — expected if taken Prisoner to have Mercy shewn
him if we were a Christian People — that he was brought from his Country by
force, that detachments were sent through thier Country & if thier Parents
interferd were put into Jail — were told they were to be Garrisond in Eng-
land — but after 3 days arrival in England were orderd to embark for
America to their great disappointment, 8c against thier Will were
guarded to thier Ships — they saw no papers of any kind among them from
us — if they knew that they would be well treated by us, would if all lay
down thier Arms — have no desire to Return to thier Ridgment again —
are much pleasd & happy with the treatment they have receivd — and are
very thankful for the same —
1. Washington Papers, LC.
2. “By the accounts from Staten Island, the Rebels have landed near 1200 men there, have
burnt some houses, and done other damage. Captain Stanton of the 14th Regt who
was posted at Richmond with a Detachment of about 60 men, has, it is said, been
obliged to retire from thence with some loss.” Mackenzie’s Diary, October 16, 1776, I, 80.
Journal of the Continental Congress 1
[Philadelphia] Wednesday, October 16, 1776
Resolved, That it be recommended to the general court of Massachu-
setts bay, to give the continental agent the full weight of their influence to
make the frigate Hancock ready for sea immediately; that whatever ex-
pence shall accrue to the state of Massachusetts bay, either for procuring
guns or other stores for fitting the said frigate, shall be reimbursed on de-
mand; and that, in directing the cruise of the said frigate, the Congress will
pay all the regard to the protection of the commerce of Massachusetts bay,
that the zeal of that state, in the common cause, justly entitles it to.
Whereas sundry prizes have been heretofore taken by the cruisers
fitted out by General Washington, at the continental expence, and on conti-
nental accounts, and no accounts thereof have yet been rendered by the
agents who received and sold the said prizes; and, whereas, a just distribu-
tion of such shares of the said prizes as are due to the officers and men,
agreeable to the rules and regulations of Congress, ought to be made;
Resolved That the Marine Committee be empowered to order such dis-
tribution of the said prize money amongst the parties interested therein;
and that they recover from the said agents the continental share of all the
said prizes;
1294
AMERICAN THEATRE
That the present continental agents do account with the Marine Com-
mittee, from time to time, for the continental share of all prizes received
and sold by them, and that they pay the amount of such prizes to the order
of the said committee:
That the said agents make just distribution of the shares in all prizes
that appertain to the officers and crews of the continental ships of war,
agreeable to the rules and regulations of Congress, as soon after the sales of
each prize as possible:
That the Marine Committee apply all the prize money they receive
from the agents, to the service of the marine department, and hereafter
render accounts thereof to Congress:
That the Marine Committee report, from time to time, all sums of
money they received for prizes to the treasury, in order that the same may
be charged to their account in the treasury books.
The Board of Treasury reported, that there is due,
To Captain Sion Martindale and Lieutenant Moses Turner, for their
pay and rations from the 1st of January to the 14 October, 1776, the sum of
572 76/90 dollars.
Ordered , That the said account be paid.
1. Ford, ed., JCC, VI, 879, 881-83.
Will of John Harper, Master of the Continental Ship Reprisal 1
[Philadelphia, October 16]
I John Harper of the City of Philadelphia Master of the Ship Reprisal ,
Lambert Weeks [Wickes] Commander being bound on a Cruize consider-
ing the Uncertainty of this transitory Life, do make and declare these
Presents to contain my last Will and Testament: that is to say, I give and be-
queath unto my Loving Brothers James Harper and Ruben Harper all my
Prize Money due me from said Ship and Wages 8c Prize Money that hereafter
may become due Also all my Prize Money that is due me from the Horne tt
Sloop of War William Stone then Commander — and all the rest of my Es-
tate, real 8c Personal, wherewith at the Time of my Decease I shall be
possessed or invested, or which shall belong, or of Right appertain unto me,
I do give, devise 8c bequeath unto my said Brothers James Harper & Ruben
their Heirs & Assigns for ever to be equally divided between them Share 8c
Share alike - And I do hereby nominate and appoint my Trusty 8c loving
Friend William Davis of the said City Merchant to be the Executor of this
my last Will 8c Testament, hereby revoking all forqier Wills and Testaments
by me made, and do declare this to be my last Will. In Witness whereof I
have hereunto set my Hand 8c Seal, this Sixteenth Day of October Annoque
Domini, One Thousand Seven Hundred and Seventy Six.
John Harper
Signed, Sealed, 8c Declared to be the last Will and Testament of him the
said John Harper in the presence of Lambt. Wickes — Allen Moore -
1. Will Book R, No. 186, 179, Register of Wills Office, Philadelphia.
OCTOBER 1776
1295
Pennsylvania Journal , Wednesday, October 16, 1776
Philadelphia [October 16].
Saturday last arrived here the ship mentioned in our last, taken by the
brig General Montgomery , she proves to be the ship Thetis, Capt.
[Hezekiah] May, with 310 hogsheads of sugar, 90 puncheons of rum, &c.
from Montego Bay for London, and belonged to a fleet of near 200 sail, who
left Jamaica in August last, under convoy of two men of war.1 The above
ship, in coming up, touched on the Cheveaux de Frize, where she would
have, in all probability sunk, had it not been for the timely assistance she
received from the Row-Galley-Men.
Yesterday arrived from a cruize the continental schooner Wasp, Capt.
[John] Baldwin, and brought in a large Guinea ship, bound from Jamaica
for Liverpool, with 305 hogsheads of sugar, 55 puncheons of rum, 8cc. part
of the Jamaica August fleet. — 2 This is the third of that fleet sent in here.
V
1. Pennsylvania Gazette , October 16, 1776, contains libel filed against the Thetis in the Pennsyl-
vania Court of Admiralty.
2. The ship Leghorn Galley.
Henry Fisher to the Pennsylvania Council oe Safety 1
Gentlemen, Lewis, Oct’r the 16, 1776,
I Rec’d your letter per Express, last night at half-past Eleven o’clock,
wherein you order me to send two Pilot boats to Cruise to the Eastward, I
must acquaint you that there is no boats here that can be got, that is any
ways fit for the Service, they being all bought up by your Merchants to send
to sea. You likewise desire me to keep a strict look out, which you may de-
pend upon that I shall, as my Character is at stake, though but trifling to
your City. I must acquaint you that I have placed a very good and trusty
hand at the light house, to give me the Earliest Notice of the Approach of
any of the Pyrates, and you may Relie upon it that my Whale boat and Ex-
press horse is all Ready at a moments call. I should have answered your Let-
ter by the Express horses, but I did not know the moment that I might want
them, as the wind has been Eastwardly for this several Days. Haveing no
more to add at this time, I Remain [Sec.]
Henry Fisher.
1. Pennsylvania Archives, 1st series, V, 47.
George Wells to the Maryland Council of Safety 1
Gentlemen Baltimore October 16th 1776
As I expect to Launce one of the Row Galleys in about 18 Days I
Should be oblicfgd to You to let Me Know per Bearer Mr John Barry how
the Row Gallies Should be Masted 8c Rigged, or Whether Y[ou’]ll leave
1296
AMERICAN THEATRE
that Matter to Capt [James] Nicholson Sc Self. Please Alsoe, to let me
know, Who is to be the Sail Maker 8c Who is to find the Cordage Who
am Gentlemen [8cc.]
George Wells
P.S. Please to let me know What Weight of Mettal they are to Carry
1. Red Book, XI, Md. Arch.
Stephen Steward to the Maryland Council of Safety1
Gen tell Men [Wood Yard] October 16 1776
as Captain Paterson [William Patterson] boat is So Near Redey to
Sail I thought it Would be as Well for him to Com up In hir Redey to Re-
ceve your orders Which will be tomor[ro]w as the Larg Schooner Culd be
got Redey In a fue Days With Six Careg guns If you Would Consent to
swap two feild Pises Which you have In anaplois for two heve Pises that I
tuck out of the Reselution the Large Schooner is Persed [pierced] for ten
three and two Pounde[rs] but as wee are oblige to Put In fore Pounders
six will be near Equal In wait of Mett[a]l (the Schooner is a fine vesell)
thare is sum Vesells on the sea shore to sell If you ware to Buy one of
them and load them whare they are the danger would be Considrebell less to
git them out th[a]n giting them out of the Bay - My Son will Inform you
what sitiwat[io]n the vesell ar hear In I hope you will not think me to-
ward In atemting to dictate for you as I Raley Do not Intend it but am
Redey to oblige you In Evrey Employmen you Can set me about and am
[Sec.]
Stephen Steward
1. Red Book, XI, Md. Arch.
Journal of the Virginia Navy Board 1
[Williamsburg] Wednesday 16th October 1776. -
Ordered that a Warrant Issue to Mr Patrick Lochart for five hundred and
forty three Pounds five shillings and eleven pence for Hemp furnished Capt
Charles Thomas for the use of the Rope-Walk. -
Ordered that a Warrant Issue to John Bolling for the use of Daniel McCal-
lum for seven pounds seventeen shillings for Rugs furnished Lieut Henry
Stratton for the use of the Marines. -
The Board having had under Consideration a Letter from Colo George
Mason directed to the honble John Page Esq. also a Letter from the said
Mason to Messrs Stival Sc Son Merchants in Dunkirk respecting a Voiage to
be made by the Brig Adventure at Present lying at Portsmouth loaded with
1 obacco under the Command of Capt Sansford are of Opinion that the said
Brig Proceed immediately to Dunkirk agreeable to the Orders of Messrs
Mason Sc Dalton. -
OCTOBER 1776
1297
Ordered that a Warrant Issue to Capt James Barron for two hundred
and forty seven Pounds eighteen shillings and three pence for Disburse-
ments and pay of his Company on Board the Boat Liberty from the twenty
fifth day of June 1776 to the 25th Septr following. -
Ordered that the keeper of the Public Store deliver unto Capt Lawrence
Sanford three pieces of Thick and six pieces of thin Sail Cloth for the use of
the Tobacco Brig at present Ordered to Dunkirk -
1. Navy Board Journal, 80-81, VSL.
Journal of the South Carolina General Assembly1
[Charleston] Wednesday the 16th Day of October. 1776
Resolved That it is the Opinion of this House That the Commissioners
of the navy do forthwith furnish and supply Colonel [Christopher] Gads-
den with all the assistance of vessels and Hands in their power to Procure
to carry on the Public Work he is now about And that a copy of this Reso-
lution be served on the said Commissioners
Message from the Legislative Council by their Clerk
Mr Speaker and Gentlemen
In answer to your message of yesterdays Date desiring to be informed
if this House had agreed to the Resolution of your House of the 11th In-
stant “That the Commissioners of the Treasury as a further Encourage-
ment to the Commander and the marines belonging to the Vessel called the
Revenge do pay and advance to the said Commander and men out of the
amount of the sales of the Cargo taken on board the Transport Brigantine
called the Glasgow Packett One sixth of the nett amount of sales of said
Cargo” we acquaint you that this House upon considering the said Resolu-
tion thought proper to reject the same
In the Legislative Council
the 16th Day of October 1776
By Order of the House
Thomas Shubrick Speaker
1. Salley, ed.. South Carolina General Assembly Journals, 130, 131-32.
17 Oct.
David Smith to the Massachusetts General Court 1
To the Honorable the Council & the Honorable the House of Representa-
tives of the State of Massachusetts Bay
The Petition of David Smith humbly sheweth That your Petitioner has
been lately taken in the Schooner called the three Brothers , whereof Your
Petitioner was Master & part owner, by Capt Fisk, in the Tyrannicide , an
Armed Sloop in the service of this State, & carried into Dartemouth — half
of said Schooner & Cargo have been decreed by the Maritime Court for-
1298
AMERICAN THEATRE
feited to this State as Nova Scotia property, whereby Your Petitioner suf-
fers the loss of a Quarter part of said Vessel 8c Cargo, which, with his pri-
vate Adventure, being all your Petitioner had to depend on for the support
of a large Family with six young Children 8c an Aged Father 8c Mother.
Your Petitioner prays the Honoble Court would extend the favor that has
been granted unto others under similar circumstances, 8c order that his pri-
vate adventure be restored to him, 8c would also pray for the same indulg-
ence to the Sea-men belonging to said Schooner — And Your Petitioner as
in duty bound shall ever pray.
John Pitts for and in behalf
of David Smith -
[Endorsed] In Council Octr 17 1776 Read 8c Comitted to Moses Gill
Esqr with such as the Honble House shall join to take the above Petition
under Consideration - Sent down for Concurrence
John Avery Dpy Secy
In the House of Represent [ative]s Octr 17, 1776 Read and Concurred and
Colo Sartell 8c Majr Eppes are joined
J Warren Spkr2
1. Mass. Arch., vol. 211, 3,4.
2. Ibid., 2. Smith’s petition was approved on November 4, 1776.
Acts and Resolves of the Massachusetts General Court1
[Watertown] October 17th 1776.
Application from the Committees of South Hadley representing. That
Whereas Lieut John Knight a Prisoner on Parole is destin’d to reside at
South Hadley, and the Committee found in his possession a Box containing
sundry Surveys of the Coast of Newfoundland, Nova Scotia, New England,
including the Harbour of Boston, 8c Isles 8cc wch Box of Surveys they took
from him, least they might in future prove prejudicial to the Interest of
America. And he the said Knight urges that said Surveys may be returned
to him again alledging that they are certainly no other than Copies taken
from Capt Cook, Mr De Barras, Capt Holland 8cc published in London —
That Genl Washington inspected them at Cambridge, and suffer’d him to re-
tain them, That it cost him much time to copy them, and supposes them to
be his own private property —
The Committee upon Consideration judged proper to refer the matter
to the consideration of the General Assembly — praying that the Hon:
Court would signify their pleasure touching the premises by some early
opp [ortunit] y as there is a prospect that said Knight may soon be Ex-
changed, 8cc
In Council, Resolved that the Committee of Correspondance Inspection 8c
Safety of the Town of South Hadley be, 8c hereby are directed to transmit
to the Secretary of this State the Box mention’d in said Committee’s Letter
containing the sundry Surveys therein referred — also any Minutes of sur-
OCTOBER 1776
1299
veys that Lieut Knight may be possessed of the said Surveys, & Minutes to
be deposited in the Secretary’s Office until the further Order of this Court.
1. Mass. Arch., vol. 36, 34-35.
Independent Chronicle , Thursday, October 17, 1776
Boston, October 17.
Monday last was sent into Salem, by Captain [Simon] Forrester, a
Prize Brig, with a large Quantity of Sea-Coal, and 1600 Pieces of Woolen
Cloth. 1
Same Day, a Prize Schooner was sent into the same Place, laden with
Fish, &c. — She was taken by Capt. Carlton [William Carleton], in a Pri-
vateer fitted out from Salem.2
On Wednesday, last week, was sent into Falmouth, Casco-Bay, a large
Prize Ship, with 16 Carriage Guns, and 10 Swivels; her Cargo consists of
Beef, Pork, Butter, Pease, Bread, Oatmeal, Flour, 20 Casks and 2 half Ditto
Powder, and 207 Casks Nails. Capt. English, the Prize-Master, took two
Brigs, with Raisins, Beef, Pork, Butter, and Rice; but was obliged to dis-
miss one for Want of Hands.3
[Advertisement]
By Order Of The Agent. On Thursday, 24th October, At Ten in the
Morning, Will be sold by Public Auction,
On Mr. [Tristram] Dalton’s Wharf, Newbury-Port, In Time, the Ship
Batchelor , burthen about 180 Tons; together with her Appurtenances and
Cargo, consisting of
260 Hogsheads Muscovado Sugar, 35 Puncheons Rum
20Hogsheads best clayed Sugar 2 Pipes Madeira Wine,
and 4 Casks Coffee.
The Ship will be put up at XII o’Clock precisely.
John Warden, Auctioneer.
1. Brig Good Intent, prize of the Massachusetts privateer sloop Rover.
2. Schooner Dragon taken by the Massachusetts privateer schooner General Gates.
3. Ship Nancy taken by the Massachusetts schooner Hawke, Captain John Lee. See also The
Freeman’s Journal, October 12, 1776.
Joseph & William Russell to Barnabas Deane1
Sir Providence Octob: 17. 1776
Your Favour requesting us to procure You an Iron Hearth or Cabose
for the Ship of War under Your Care2 also requesting us to inform You
whether You could be supplied with 12 lb Shot and what Price we gave the
Riggers for Rigging the Warren & Providence we received and it has not
been in our Power to reply thereto until now by Reason of Mr Mumford
(who is the only Person who undertakes Iron Caboses) being at Warwick
and his Workmen at Warren & the great Difficulty in obtaining Bar Iron &
Iron Plates; the latter must be plated at Pawtucket — Mr Mumford has
1300
AMERICAN THEATRE
agreed to make this Cabose at the same Rate he has ever done only being al-
lowed the Difference in the extraordinary Rise of the Material which was
the Way the Naval Committee agreed with him for the two for the Warren
8c Providence: The Warren s was done first 8c weigh’d l0i/2 Cwt for which
we paid him 12d per Pound; that for the Providence was done next and
weighed 19 Cwt and odd for which we paid him l^l/2d per lb. The Reason of
the latter’s weighing so much more than the former was because she had
Iron Pots 8c the Warren a Copper Cook Kettle; but before Mr Mumford can
begin upon Your Cabose You must send Answers to the following
Questions Do You propose having a Copper Boiler or Iron Pots? If a Cop-
per then the Blacksmith must have the exact Dimensions of its Length,
Breadth 8c Depth from outside to outside; if Iron Pots it will then be best
that they be sent to the Smith at Warren if it can be done as the Cabose
may be more certainly made to fit them without Loss of Weight; But if they
cannot be sent conveniently, the Diameter over the biggest Part of the Pots
8c also the Height of them as they stand on a Floor: If the Cabose is to
stand under the Forecastle it will then be necessary to know the Height
from the Deck to the Carlines of the Forecastle that Room may be left for
cleaning the Pots &c.
As soon as Your Answer to the foregoing is received we will immedi-
ately forward it to Mr Mumford who has promised that no Time shall be
lost: But You must expect the Price will be much more than our last cost us
owing to the very great Scarcity and Demand for Iron. Any Quantity would
sell for Forty eight Pounds per Ton: It is with great Difficulty any can be
got -
The Price we gave our Riggers for working on the Continental Ships
was from 5/ to 6/ pr Day; but all Labour of every Kind has greatly ad-
vanced here since and we think You had better agree with Your Riggers
on the best Terms You can. In Regard to the 12 lb Shot we have advised
with our Naval Committee 8c they think they shall be able to supply You
with what You may want — You mention having sent Part of the Spars by
Capt who is arrived 8c has lost in the Sound two of the largest of
them, he says his Cable broke; we know not how it was but think he was
not so careful as he ought to have been or that his Cable was rotten 8c good
for Nothing. This is a very unlucky Affair; we hope better Luck will attend
those You have to forward — We are [8cc.]
(Copy)
Jos 8c Willm Russell
1. Barnabas Deane Papers, ConnHS.
2. The Trumbull.
Account of Money Disbursed by Commodore Esek Hopkins 1
[1776]
October 8th Paid Captn Hacker to pay Men belongg to the Hamden
One hundd 8c forty Dolls
OCTOBER 1776
1301
th 10
11
10
11
12
14.
Octr 14 -
15.
paid Sundry Men belonging to the Columbus on accot
Wages - Vizt John Lowder One dollar
Thomas Cox One dollar
William Hamilton twenty one dolls
John Clark two dollars
Nine Men - 7 dolls ea - Sixty three dolls
paid Ezra Winslow A months pay to go onboard the Alfred
Seven dollars -
Joshua Fanning Master of Columbus an Order on D1
Tillinghast for Six pounds twelve Shillings
Penn Curry ball, of half his Wages - 8c discharge -
John Rogers Mate of Columbus an Order on ditto for two
pounds 8/ penn Curry ball, of Wages - and discharge -
James Pearce belongg to the Fly or Hamden an Order on
ditto for twelve pounds 16/1 Penny Curry ball, of
Wages -
Joseph Hardy Clerk of Columbus an Order on ditto for
thirty dollars
paid Captn Hacker to pay Men belong to Hamden One
hundd 8c forty dollars -
Pearce Donovan Columbus an Order on Mr Manly [John
Manley] for four dollars -
Jonathan Lewis Pilot of the Alfred an Order on ditto for
a mo pay twenty dollars -
John Robinson Sloop Providence an Order on ditto for
Six 8c 2/3 dollars -
Elias Carr Gunner of Alfred an Order on ditto for fifteen
Dollars -
James Rankin Yeomn ditto an Order on do for nine dollars -
Mathew Parke Captn Marines Columbus an Order on Mr
Manley for twenty Six and two third Dollars -
John E. Kesler Doctor Columbus an Order on Mr Manley
for twenty four Dollars
Michael Knies Midshipmn ditto an Order on ditto for
twelve Dollars
Charles Bulkley Midshpn Alfred 1 an Order on ditto
Walter Spooner Master dittol for twenty dollars
Alexr Nelso[n] Lt Marines dittoj each
Esek Hopkins junr Midsh. ditto - an Order on ditto for
twelve Dollars —
Thomas Burns
Edwa Hagan
Marines belongg to the Alfred an Order on
do for Six 8c 2/3 dolls each —
Edward Belangee 1 Gr Mates - A If red an Order on ditto for
Edward Bowen J ten 8c 2/3 dollars each -
Lawrence Ash - Sloop Fly - an Order on D. Tillinghast for
four pounds 7/5 PC. ball. Accot
1302
AMERICAN THEATRE
“ Order on Mr Manley to pay Men who have Enter’d onboard
the Alfred One hundred and forty dollars -
“ paid John Nowell belongg to the Columbus - two dollars -
15. Joseph Lanahan belong, to Columbus an Order on Manley
for Eight dollars -
16. Samuel Tiley Carpr of Alfred - an Order on ditto for fifteen
Dollars -
John Scott - Surgeons Mate Columbus an Order on ditto for
thirteen & 2/3 dollars -
17. Martin Ingle Marine ditto an Order on D. Tillinghast for
four Pounds 9/4 P Curry ball, of his Wages -
David Norton an Order on Mr Manley for Piloting Ship
Lowther Prize taken by Captn [Elisha] Hinman -
1. Hopkins Papers, RIHS.
Captain John Paul Jones to Robert Morris1
Providence Sloop of War at Newport
Honoured Sir Rhode Island 17th Octr 1776
I wrote to you at Sea 4th Ulto by the Brigtine Sea Nymph my Second
Prize. I have taken Sixteen Sail — Manned and Sent in Eight Prizes and
sunk, burnt, or destroyed the rest. —
The list of Prizes is as follows.
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
The Brigantine Britannia, A Whaler -
Brigtine Sea Nymph, West India-Man
Brigtine Favourite , - Do
Ship Alexander, Jersey Newfoundland-man
Brigtine Success, - Do
Brigtine Kingston Packet, - Jamaica do
Brigtine Defiance, Jersey do-
Sloop Portland, - Whaler.
Ship Adventure - of Jersey
Brigtine Freindship - Do
Schooner John - London
Schooner Betsey - Jersey
Schooner Betsey - Hallifax
Schooner Sea Flower - Canso
Schooner Ebenezer - Do
Schooner Hope - Jersey
Manned & sent in
Burnt or otherwise Destroyed.
I have written from time to time to the Marine Board and furnished
them with Particular Accounts of all my Poceeedings [sic] and I now send
Copies of my former letters. — I arrived here 7th Currt — I would not have
lost a day without writing to you and to the Board — had not the Commo-
OCTOBER 1776
1303
dore Proposed to me to Take Command of an Expidition — with the Alfred ,
Providence and Hamden to Destroy the Fishery of Newfoundland — but
Principally to relieve an Hundred of our fellow Citizens who are detained
as Prisoners and Slaves in the Coal Pits of Cape Briton — All my humanity
was Awakened and called up to Action by this Laudable Proposal and I
have been successfully Employed in refitting and getting the Providence in
readiness — but am Under the greatest Apprehension that the Expidition
will fall to nothing as the Alfred is greatly Short of Men. — I found her
with only about thirty men and we have with much Adoe enlisted Thirty
more — but it seems Privateers entice them Away as fast as they receive
their Months Pay.
- It is to the last degree distressing to Contemplate the State and Es-
tablishment of our Navy. — The common Class of mankind are Actuated by
no nobler principle than that of Self Intrest — this and this Only determins
all Adventurers in Privateers; the Owners as well as those whom they Em-
ploy. And While this is the Case Unless the Private Emolument of individ-
uals in our Navy is made Superiour to that in Privateers it never can be-
come respectable — it never will become formadable. - And without a Re-
spectable Navy — Alas America! — In the Present Critical situation of Af-
fairs human Wisdom can Suggest no more than one infallable expedient. —
Enlist the Seamen during Pleasure and give them all the Prizes — What is
the Paltry emolument of two thirds of Prizes to the Finances of this Vast
Continent! - If so poor a Resourse is essential to its Independency, in sober
sadness we are involved in a Woeful Predicament, and our ruin is fast Ap-
proching —
- the Situation of America is new in the Annals of Mankind — her Af-
fairs Cry haste — and Speed must Answer them — Triffles therefore ought
to be wholly disregarded as being in the Old Vulgar Proverb “Penny Wise
and Pound Foolish” — Your Enemies, with the best established and most
formadable Navy in the Universe, have found it expedient to Assign all
Prizes to the Captors — how much more is such Policy essential to our in-
fant Fleet, but I need Use no Arguments to convince you of the necessity of
making the Emoluments of our Navy equal if not Superiour to theirs. — we
have had Proof that a Navy may be Officered almost on Any terms — but
we are not so sure that those Officers are equal to their Commissions — nor
will The Congress ever Obtain such certainty Untill they in their Wisdom
See Proper to Appoint a Board of Admiralty compitent to determin impar-
tially the respective Merits and Abilities of their Officers and to Superin-
tend regulate & Pointout all the Motions & Operations of the Navy. —
Govr [Stephen] Hopkins tells me that he Apprehends I am Appointed
to the Andrew Doria — She is a good Cruizer and would in my Judgement
Answer much better were She mounted with 12 six-pounders than as she is
at Present with 14 fours. — An expidition of Importance may be effected
this Winter — on the Coast of Africa — with part of the Original Fleet —
either the Alfred or Columbus , with the A. Doria and Providence would I
am persuaded carry all before them and give a Blow to the English African
1304
AMERICAN THEATRE
Trade which would not soon be recovered by not leaving them a Mast
Standing on that Coast. — this Expidition would be Attended with no great
Expence besides the Ship and Vessels mentioned are Unfit for Service on a
Winter Coast — which is not the Case with the New Frigates — the Small
Squadron for this Service ought to Sail early that the Prizes may reach our
Ports in march or April. - If I do not succeed in manning the Alfred so as
to proceed to the Eastward in course of this week the season will be lost —
the Coal Fleet will be gone to Hallifax and the Fishermen to Europe. — I
will not however remain inactive but Proceed to Cruise in the Sloop near
Sandy-Hook. — Three of my Prizes have Arrived here and one or two more
to the Eastward. I am Sec.
1. Papers of John Paul Jones, 6495-6496, LC.
Commodore Esek Hopkins to Daniel Tillinghast1
Sr/ Newport Octor 17. 1776
The Barer is a Lady on Bord the Cabits Prize Lowther2 Should be
glad you will take Care to Provide hur Such Logings as are Sutable to hur
and See that Shee is treated Every other ways as a womon of Caractor and
you will oblige yous at Command
EH
To Daniel Tillinghast Esqr
Aguent for the Contentell fleet
1. Hopkins Papers, RIHS.
2. Mrs. Mary Briggs, who addressed an undated note to “Admiral Hopkins” which reads:
Mrs. Briggs Presents her most respectful Compliments to Admiral Hopkins, returns
him her best thanks for his Polite Offer of providing her a Lodging - but being a
little Indisposed; and Captn Hamilton proposing to sail with the first fair wind thinks
it best to go up with him, as he has behaved in the kindest maner. Mrs. Briggs will
be much Oblig’d to Admiral Hopkins if he will take the trouble of writing a line with
her to Providence - Thursday afternoon.
Ibid.
John Manley in Account with the Prize Ship Alexander 1
Newport Octobr 17. 1776
Reed from Bedford out of the Ship Alexander Taken by Capt [John
Paul] Jones Se ship’d from thence by Ephraim Spooner & Wm Watson
Agents
did to fleet 4 quoils Cordage 4c weight a 120/ 24..-..-
1 Sale to Brig 2 Sales Value <£ 6 and <£ 13 19..-..-
Expences pd bringing round 8..-
£ 407
4 bolts to Warren Reed out of the Ship Alfred
3 to providence 8 boults of Duck
1 to Mandley Carting of Do
8~
1. John Manley’s Account Book, NHS. This John Manley was Deputy Continental Agent at
Newport, and is not to be confused with Captain John Manley of the Continental Navy.
OCTOBER 1776
1305
Order of Subcommittee of New London and Groton 1
New- London, 17th, Oct. 1776.
Whereas the frequent passing of Vessels, Boats, and other Water
Craft, between this and the Neighbouring States and Towns, may serve the
Purpose of conveying Persons Inimical, and Intelligence and Effects Detri-
mental, to the United States of America, unless Care is taken to prevent it.
For which Purpose, the several Committees of Correspondence and
Inspection, for the Towns of New- London, and Groton have directed, that
no Owner, or Master of any Vessel, Boat, or other Water Craft, shall con-
vey any Persons, Effects, Letters or Intelligence, to any other State, or to
any other Town in this State, without first applying to, and receiving a Per-
mit from two or more of us the Subscribers, a Sub-Committee appointed for
that Purpose, of which this Notice is given, by Order of said Committees,
that all concerned, may take Notice thereof, and conform thereto, as on fail-
ure, they will be treated as Persons inimical to the United States of Amer-
ica.
Nathaniel Shaw, jun.
Marvin West,
Robinson Munford,
Thomas Harris,
Griswold Avery,
William Ledyard,
Thomas Munford,
Daniel Avery,
Joseph Parker.
> Committee.
1. Connecticut Gazette , October 18, 1776.
Libel in Connecticut Admiralty Court Against Prize
Ship John and Cargo 1
State of Connecticut, ss.
New-London County, Oct. 17, 1776.
A Libel is filed in the County Court for the County of New-London,
against the Ship John , and her Cargo with all her Boats, Sails, Rigging and
Appurtenances, James Dunbar, Master, the Property of the Subjects of the
King of Great Britain, and not Inhabitants of Bermudas nor the Bahama
Islands, being taken on the high Seas by the armed Brig Defence, belonging
to the State of Connecticut, manned and set forth by said State and com-
manded by Seth Harding, Esq; and by him brought into the County of
New-London, for Trial, praying for condemnation of the same as lawful
Prize, to be disposed of for the Benefit of said State and Captors as the Law
directs. This is therefore to give publick Notice to all Persons having any
Claim or Demand on said Ship John , of her Appurtenances, or on the Cargo
taken on Board, or any part thereof, that said County Court will sit in Nor-
wich in the County of New-London, on the 7th Day of November next for
the Trial of said Capture, when and where it is expected that all Persons
1306
AMERICAN THEATRE
having any lawful Claim or Demand on said Ship, Sec. will appear and make
the same good, or be forever debarred. Per Order.
Wint. Saltonstall, Register.2
1. Connecticut Gazette, October 18, 1776.
2. Other libels carried in this newspaper issue included another of Harding’s prizes, the ship
Sally.
Major General Philip Schuyler to Colonel Elias Dayton 1
Dear Colonel Saratoga Octr 17th 1776
Our Fleet has been engaged with the Enemy and they have obliged us
to quit the Lake with the Loss of the greater part of our Vessels — The Mi-
litia is ordered up to support the Communication: but the Tardiness of
their Motions gives me great and just Cause to apprehend that the Enemy
will interrupt our Supplies — It is therefore of the greatest Moment that
you march with all Dispatch to Fort George and only to bring on your
Tents.2 I am Dear Sir [Sec.']
Ph: Schuyler.
1. Schuyler Papers, Letters & Orders, 18 April, 1776 - 28 June, 1777, NYPL.
2. Dayton’s regiment was stationed at Fort Schuyler, protecting the settlers in the Mohawk
Valley.
“Extract of a letter from a Gentleman at Albany,
dated October 17, 1776.”1
You doubtless have heard of the engagement between our fleet on the
Lake, and the enemy, on the 11th instant. Our advice left them the 12th, our
fleet then at anchor near Schuyler’s Island, in a Battered and leaky condi-
tion; the enemy just appearing in sight, beating up with a light southerly
breeze. Events since have been very unfavourable: Our fleet made but little
tarry at anchor, only to stop their leaks Sec. and proceeded with all the dis-
patch their condition would admit of, towards Crown Point. A favourable
northerly gale assisted the enemy to run up with the fleet when a second en-
gagement commenced, which lasted five glasses, most of the time in musket
shot, very warm and sharp, in which our men conducted with inimitable
spirit and bravery, but were obliged to submit to superior strength. In this
affair our fleet is almost totally ruined; only one galley escaped, with sloop
Enterprise, and two small schooners, and one gondola. — the rest all taken,
burnt and destroyed. General Arnold fought as long as possible in the galley
Congress, when he was obliged to run her ashore, burn her, and escape by
land to Tyconderoga, having lost 20 of his men. General Waterbury in the
Washington Galley, fought till he was so shattered that the galley was sink-
ing under him, and was obliged to strike; this is the only vessel that the
enemy possessed themselves of. Col. Wigglesworth, in the Trumbull galley
is arrived at Ticonderoga. — In both engagements we have lost a large
schooner — three galleys burnt and taken, 8 gondola’s burnt also; — have
remaining a sloop 12 guns, 6 schooners, 8 guns each, 2 galleys 1 gondola.
OCTOBER 1776
1307
The enemy’s fleet is amazing - one ship 18 twelve pounders, 1 schooner, 14
six pounders, 1 ditto, 12 ditto, 3 large radeaux 6 twenty four
pounders - 12 twelve pounders - 4 eight inch howitzers, all brass; 28 gon-
dola’s, 1 gun each, twelve, eighteen and twenty-four pounders, 1 eight inch
howitzer; our people are all [returned] to Ticonderoga, where they may
very soon expect an attack.
1. Connecticut Courant, October 21, 1776.
Joseph Williams to William Coit, Norwalk Merchant 1
[Extract] Camp Nigh Kingsbridge Octr 17th 1776 -
... we Expect a general battle here within a few days, As the Enemy
have been Landing on frogs Point Ever Since Last Saturday from Long Is-
land, Sc from the s[h]ipping which came through hell gate on Sunday, Sup-
posed to be About 40 Sail, Part of which has Since returnd — on Monday a
Number of boats with cannon Sc other warlike Stores, on board, were Lost
in hell gate — tis supposed the Enemy’s Plan is to Strike Across from the
Sound, to the North river, Sc Shut our Army in — they have Advanced up
frogs [Throg] Neck About 3 miles from where they first Landed, toward
Eastchester — this frogs Neck is An Island at high water, Sc at Low water
they can Cross the marsh in Severall Places — it is about five Miles from
the Point where they Landd to Eastchester, where tis Supposed they will
come across on to the Main, Sc it is Eight Miles from Eastchester to the
North river, where tis Supposed they Mean to strike Across, Sc it is about 6
miles from Eastchester to the Bridge - Since they began to Land there.
Our troops have been continually marching out, toward the Enemy, 3 Bri-
gades under Command of the Honle Majr Genl [Charles] Lee, 3 under, Majr
Genl [John] Sullivan, 3 under command of Majr Genl [William] Heath, Sc
3 under Genl [Joseph] Spencer, have Already came this Side the bridge,
Exclusive of twelve regiments of New draughted men from the Massachu-
sets, Sc Genl Saltanstalls [Gurdon Saltonstall] brigade of Militia from
Connecticut - Genl Lee says we Shall work them if they came out; As the
Land is very uneven Sc commodeous for forts, which our People Are very
buisy in building — by Severall deserters we Learnd, that the Enemy have
about 16000 men, on frogs Neck, Sc that Genl Howe, is on their himself, Sc is
determined to carry his Point I believe it will be the greatest battle that
has been yet, 8c tis most Likely a desisive one for this Season. . . .
1. Trumbull Papers, YUL.
Diary of Frederick Mackenzie 1
[New York] 17th Octr - The Recruits lately arrived for those Regiments
which are with the Army under General Howe, went through Hellgate this
morning in Flatboats.
The ships with the Hessians cannot go through for want of a proper
wind. Several ships with Horses and Waggons are detained for the same
reason.
1308
AMERICAN THEATRE
The Senegal Sloop of War got through this Morning with much diffi-
culty; she touched the Shore several times, but at last effected the passage
with much labor and danger.
1. Mackenzie’s Diary, I, 81.
Continental Marine Committee to John Langdon1
In Marine Committee
Sir Philadelphia October 17th 1776
Capt John Roche having laid his plan before Congress they have re-
ferred the same to this Committee with power to carry it into Execution,
and as we are of opinion the publick Service of America will be promoted
by it We hereby authorize and require you to have built with the utmost Ex-
pedition a Brigantine calculated for a Vessell of War a fast Sailer and of
strong Construction to carry Eighteen Six Pounders and about 120
Men 2 as both Capt Roche and you are well acquainted with Warlike Ves-
sells we think it best to leave the dimensions to be fixed by you with the ad-
vice of the Carpenters 8cca We Expect this business will be conducted on
the best terms for the Publick Interest and that you will not lose one Mo-
ments time untill compleated. You will take proper Measures for procur-
ing Guns and all other Stores necessary and Capt Roche will attend and as-
sist in this Business, inform us from time to time what occurs as neces-
sary for us to be acquainted with in this business and in proper Season we
shall direct further what is to be done, You are to pay for this Vessell out
of the Continental Share of Prize Money in your Hands — We are Sir [8cc.]
1. USNAM.
2. The Continental sloop of war Ranger.
John Hancock
Rob1 Morris
Geo Walton
Fra8 Hopkinson
Wm Ellery
Samel Huntington
Richard Henry Lee
Will Hooper
Continental Marine Committee to Captain Isaiah Robinson 1
Sir [Philadelphia] October 17th 1776
The Honorable the Congress having ordered that you should make
avoyage under direction of the Secret Committee therefore you will receive
their Instructions and comply with them — Those fulfilled you must give us
notice that we may again direct your further proceedings, and during your
present voyage we expect you will transmit us any useful or important in-
telligence that comes to your knowledge — that you take good care of the
Andrea Doria , her Stores provisions and materials that you maintain
proper discipline amongst your officers & men at the same time useing them
well. We dare say you will treat all such as become your prisoners with
tenderness and humanity and on your return lodge Coppies of your log book
& Journal in this office. We are sir [8cc.]
1. Marine Committee Letter Book, 34, NA.
Commissioners of the Continental Navy in Account with the
OCTOBER 1776
1309
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1310
AMERICAN THEATRE
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OCTOBER 1776
1311
Minutes of the Pennsylvania Council of Safety 1
In Council of Safety,
[Philadelphia] October 17th, 1776.
Mr. Nesbitt to pay Little Se Owner £ 9 7 0, for making Ammunition
Chest for Five Guard Boats.
Mr. Nesbitt to pay George Graham £ 3 3 0, for Wharfage of the
Armed Boat Convention.
Resolved , That no persons be permitted to view the Fortification or go
on Shore at Fort Island, unless they are employed in our Service, or have
permission from the Committee for Fort Island or this Board.
A letter was wrote to Commodore Seymour, directing him not to Suffer
any person (but such as are employed in the Service of this State) to Sound
the Channell through the Chevaux de Frize, or take any measures to gain
information of our Works of Defence, Sc if any such should be discovered, to
apprehend them & inform this board thereof.
3 o’Clock, afternoon
Resolved That Jonathan Cowpland be appointed Captain of a Guard
Boat in the Service of this State.
1. Pennsylvania Colonial Records, X, 758, 759.
Maryland Council of Safety to George Wells 1
Sir,
We send you by Mr [John] Barry the £ 400, you desire may be trans-
mitted by him, and will write you fully about the Masts, Sails, Rigging, and
Cordage, also the weight of Metal of the gallies as soon as we see Mr
Stewart [Stephen Steward], who has proper Drafts of those vessels Sec,
and has engaged the necessary Cordage. We are Sec:
[Annapolis] Octr 17th 1776
1. Council of Safety Letter Book, No. 2, Md. Arch.
Stephen Steward to the Maryland Council of Safety 1
Gentel Men/ [Wood Yard] October the 17 1776
This will be handed to you by Mr John David he I think is a verey
fiting Man for first Leftenent of one of the galleys he is a brisk active
Man he likewise Saild along time In one of the french galleys If you
shuld think well of giving him a Comition he may be Recruting till the gal-
ley is Redey to shipp which will be In a few Days - I am gentell men [Se c.]
Stephen Steward
1. Red Book, XI, Md. Arch.
1312
AMERICAN THEATRE
Journal of the Virginia Council of Safety 1
[Williamsburg] Thursday October 17th 1776
Ordered that the Boat with all her Tackle and Furniture that was
taken at Gwynns Island by some of the Provincial Officers from Thomas
Ohanow be redelivered to the said Owner he having been tried by the Court
of Commissioners for Gloucester County on suspicion of being inimical to
the Rights and Liberties of America but acquited by the said Court.
1. Mcllwaine, ed.. Journals of the Virginia Council, I, 201.
Journal of the Virginia Navy Board 1
[Williamsburg] Thursday 17th October 1776. -
Ordered that a Warrant Issue to William Brokenberry for the use of Archi-
bald Ritchie for four pounds sixteen shillings and nine Pence for necessar-
ies furnished Capt Robert Tompkins for the use of the Henry Galley. —
Also for Thirteen pounds nineteen shillings and three pence for the use of
Doctr John Brokenberry for Medicine furnished Capt Gabriel Jones’s Com-
pany of Marines. — Also for Ten pounds thirteen shillings and six pence
for the use of the said Doctr John Brokenberry for Attendance 8c Medicine
furnished Capt Alexander Dicks Company of Marines.
Ordered that a Warrant Issue to Colo Benjamin Harrison for Thirty five
Pounds for two Cannon and a Quantity of Shot furnished Capt [James]
Cocke of the Brig Raleigh. —
Ordered that the keeper of the Public Store deliver unto Capt Cocke five
hundred eight Penny nails five hundred ten penny Nails three handsaw files
eight Bolts of light Canvas eight pounds of Twine, one Dozen Sail needles,
one Dozen Shirts or Stripes or Chex to make them and one Dozn pr of Shoes
for the use of the Brig Raleigh. -
Ordered that Colo William Finnie deliver unto Capt Cocke twenty Waist-
coats for the Men on Board the Brig Raleigh -
Pursuant to a Resolution of Convention — It is Ordered that Capt James
Cocke Enlist any four of the Seamen that were lately taken prisoners on
Board the Ship Oxford provided they are willing to Engage in the service —
Ordered that Mr James Hunter deliver unto Colo Southy Simpson or Order
three Ton of Iron for the Purpose of Building the two Gallies on the East-
ern Shore. -
Ordered that the two Gallies now Building on the Eastern Shore under the
direction of Colo Southy Simpson be five feet 8c a half from the Top of the
Ceiling to the lower part of the Beam —
1. Navy Board Journal, 82-84, VSL.
OCTOBER 1776
1313
Journal of the South Carolina Navy Board 1
Navy Board [Charleston] Thursday 17th October 1776.
The Board met according to Adjournment
Present
Edward Blake Esq: First Commissioner
Thomas Savage, Thomas Corbett
Geo: Abbott Hall Josiah Smith l Esqrs:
George Smith, Roger Smith
Read the Minutes of last Meeting
The following Letter was agreed to be sent to Mr. Anthony Bonneau,
George Town
Navy Office Charlestown, October 17, 1776.
Mr. Anthony Bonneau
Sir Capt. Seymour having represented to the Commis-
sioners of the Navy, the Necessity of having a proper per-
son at Georgetown to furnish Provisions 8cca. for the
armed Schooner Rattlesnake stationed there, they will be
glad if it should suit your Convenience, to transact that
business; and in order that you may be acquainted with
the Nature of it, you will find enclosed an indent of such
provisions as the Seamen in the Navy are allowed daily;
also a form of a Return to be made 8c signed by the Purser
monthly, when your accounts ought to be made out and
transmitted to this Board, for the amount of which they
will pay your order, upon the account being separately
certified by the Purser and yourself. Captain Seymour is to
send to you for provisions as they are wanted; for which
purpose the Board recommend that you buy a good canoe
and oars for the schooner, to be used only as a harbour
boat; and whenever she may be ordered to sea, the canoe
to be left in your or some other person’s custody, to be
taken care of until her return. The Commissioners will
be glad to know on what terms you will transact the above
business, to which they will give you an immediate answer.
By order of the Board:
Edward Blake, First Commissioner.
The following Letter was wrote to Captain John Copithorn:
Captain John Copithorn:
Sir: The Commissioners of the Navy request that you do
immediately make use of your utmost endeavours to pro-
cure as many Schooners as you can hire for the service
of the publick, 8c inform me as soon as possible of your
success I am Sir [8cc.]
at
Edward Blake, first Commissioner
1814
AMERICAN THEATRE
The following Letter was wrote to Alexander Horn
Navy Board Chas. town 17th Octor. 1776
Mr. Alexander Horn
You are hereby required to hire a sufficient number of
Negroes to cleanse the entrance at the Flood Gate, of the
stones & rubbish now lying there, in Order to make it con-
venient to receive the Boats belonging to the Public, 8c
you are likewise required to have them moved imme-
diately there, as the place is made convenient, 8c where,
after being at any time employ’d they are to be put until
a more convenient place for their reception is fixed upon
You are also to take particular care that all the Boats are
kep’t in good order 8c constantly supplyed with Oars,
Rudders, 8c Tillers.
By order of the Board:
Edward Blake, first Commissioner
The following Letter was wrote to Edward Darrell Esqr.
Edward Darrell Esqr,
Sir The Commissioners of the Navy Board require that
you will, with all possible dispatch, Furnish Capt. Edwd.
Allen of the brigantine Comet , and Captain Thos. Pick-
ering of the Brigt. Defence , with all such stores as are
necessary to complete said Vessels for Sea I am [8cc.]
Edward Blake first Commissioner
October 17, 1776.
The following Letter was wrote to Captain Stephen Seymour:
Navy Board, Charles Town 17th Octobr 1776
Captain Stephen Seymour
Sir An Act having passed the General Assembly the 9th
April Last, For the more effectual prevention of the
Desertion of the Soldiers 8c Sailors in the service of this
state, The Commissioners of the Navy now Furnish you,
with some Copies of the same, for your guide, at the sta-
tion where your Vessell is, 8c you are hereby required
to give your utmost assistance, for the apprehending,
securing 8c sending to their respective Vessells, or Regi-
ments, such Deserters as may be taken at or about
George Town, 8c that you Furnish the Keeper of the
George Town Ferry, with one Of the Acts, that he may be
assisting therein, Also that you desire the attention of
the Majistrates 8c others to the same, — The Commission-
ers have wrote a Letter to Mr. Bonneau, desireing him to
furnish you with the necessary Provisions for the Rattle
Snake, and in Order that there may be proper regula-
tions observed, Mr. Bonneau is desired to purchase a
OCTOBER 1776
1315
Canoe, for the purpose of carrying the provissions, which
you are to send for as often as they are wanted. The Daily
allowance of which for each man is inclosed with a Form
for your purser or other Officer appointed for that pur-
pose, who is to give an Accot. to the Commissioners what
time the provissions are wanted, when they are to be punc-
tually sent for; & your self, your Purser, or person ap-
pointed for the purpose, are to make a Monthly Return
upon Oath, of the provissions, which shall be received,
& the Expenditure thereof, which you are to Transmit to
us, that the Commissary’s Accots. may be Examin’d -
You will also direct your Boatswain, Carpenter &
Gunner, to make a quarterly return of their Stores to you,
which you are to sign & forward to this Board
By Order of the Board
Edward Blake — first Commissioner
The following Letter was wrote to Capt Edward Allen
Capt. Edward Allen
Sir The Commissioners of the Navy have thought fit to
appoint, Nathaniel Havens to be Purser of the Brigt.
Comet , 8c desire that you will receive him to Act in that
station, & put all such stores as are now on board be-
longing to his Department into his Charge —
Octr. 17th. 1776 Edward Blake first Commissioner
The following Advertisement was Ordered to be given to Mr. Samuel Pri-
oleau Junr —
To be sold at Auction on Thursday the 24th Instant, before the Ex-
change, Two Schooners One Lying at Colo [Christopher] Gadsdens wharf,
the other in the Marsh near thereto, with their furniture and Tackle as they
now Lye - By Order of the Commissioners of the Navy
Octor. 17th. 1776 — Samuel Prioleau Junr & Co —
1. Salley, ed., South Carolina Navy Board, 8-10.
South-Carolina and American General Gazette, Wednesday,
October 9 to Thursday, October 17, 1776
Charlestown, October 17.
We are well informed, that the Men of War have left North Carolina,
and gone to New York. Previous to their Departure, they burnt the Cruizer,
being unfit for Service, and several Prize Vessels. It is more than probable,
that there is not at present one British Ship of War on any Part of the
American Coast between Pennsylvania and East Florida.
1316
AMERICAN THEATRE
18 Oct.
Petition of the Newburyport Committee of Correspondence,
Inspection and Safety to the Massachusetts General Court 1
To the Honble the Council And House of Representatives of the State of the
Massachusetts Bay
The Memorial of the Committee of Correspondence, Inspection and Safety,
for, the Town of Newbury port,
Humbly Sheweth,
That there are now in this Town, a Number of the Subjects of the King
of Great Britain, who were Taken Sc Sent into this port in Vessels, Either
Employ’d in his Immediate Service, or by the Inhabitants of his
Dominions, As at present We have no Authority to Restrain those People,
they have been down to our Fort, Viewed the Entrance And Every other
part of our Harbour, and Daily Visiting our Wharfs Frigates and Armed
Vessels, now Laying here; By Indulging them in these Libertys, We Con-
cieve they will be able, When they Return to England, to Give our Enemy,
Some Interesting Intelligence, — We Would further Represent to your
Honrs that by their taking Lodgings in Different parts of the Town, they
have Contracted an Acquaintance with many of the Inhabitants, to whom
they Represent Our Situation, in the Darkest Colours, and the Enemy we
are now Contending with as Invincible, We therefore Beg your Honrs
would Order, that those who are not Willing to Enter on Board the Conti-
nental Frigates, or Privateers, may be Removed to Some Inland Town, till they
are Exchanged or otherwise Released.
In Behalf Sc pr Order of the Committee
Newbury port 18th October 1776 Jacob Boardman Chairman. P.T
[Endorsements]
In Council Octr 25, 1776.
Read Sc Ordered that Danl Hopkins Esqr with such as may be joined by the
Hon House be a Committee to take the above Memorial into consideration,
and to consider the matter at Large.
Sent down for concurrence
John Avery Dpy Secy
In the house of Representatives] Octr 25 1776
Read and Concurred and Mr Murray and Mr Cooper are joined
J Warren Spkr
Colo Orne is added to the Comte
1. Mass. Arch., vol. 211, 40.
Commodore Esek Hopkins to Captain John Paul Jones 1
Sir Newport October 18th 1776 —
The Owners of Captn [Joseph] Dennis’s Sloop have deliver’d two of
the Men which Sign’d their Articles, and have given sufficient Security that
OCTOBER 1776
1317
they will not carry away any of the Men belonging to the Fleet - If you find
any Men onboard that do belong to the Fleet take them out and then dis-
charge the Sloop, as there are some of the Owners2 that are Men of honour
& will not do any such thing it will be hard that they should Suffer for one
Man who has behaved out of Character - So that upon the whole think it
best to let the Sloop and her people go — lam Your Friend Sec.
E H-
To John P. Jones Esqr Commr of the Providence
or
Hoysteed Hacker Esqr Commr of the Hamden —
1. Hopkins Letter Book, RIHS.
2. The owners of Captain Dennis’s Massachusetts privateer sloop Fair Lady were listed in the
bond as Nathaniel Farley, Jacob Treadwell and others, all of Ipswich. Mass. Arch., vol. 5,
286.
Connecticut Gazette , Friday, October 18, 1776
New- London, October 18.
The Montgomery Privateer, belonging to Providence, has taken and
sent into this Port, a Schooner from Cape Nichola Mole, bound to Halifax,
having on board 9000 Gallons of Molasses and 6000 Wt. of Sugar. The Pri-
vateer had been out but 24 Hours when she took this Vessel.
We hear that the Continental Brig Cabot , Capt. Elisha Hinman, has
taken seven Prizes, one of which, a Ship, is arrived at Rhode-Island.
Colonel Joseph Reed to Governor Jonathan Trumbull 1
Sir
The very critical state of our Army and frequent movements of the Enemy
render it almost impossible for the General to write himself without neg-
lecting more important duties. He therefore directs me to answer your let-
ter of the 14th and to say that the Captains of the Galleys from your State
have misbehaved invariably from the first moment they came to the time of
their departure from hence about a week ago — That the accumulation of
business and a hope that they would retrieve their reputation prevented
your having an earlier information of their behaviour. They are now under
the sentence of a Court Martial for misbehaviour in the first attack made on
the Ships in the North River, and on every other occasion since have mani-
fested such want of Spirit and Judgment as to be despised by the whole
Army. In the late affair Capt [John] McCleave must be excepted from the
general censure, as he managed with prudence and propriety — But Capt
[Jehiel] Tinker, 2 with the wind at South and on the Tide of Flood when the
Ships could move, left his vessel, though stationed as a guard, to go up to
Kingbridge after some cloaths as he pretended. The consequence was, that
in the hurry and confusion Se long before they were in danger they left the
Galley aground, tho’ they might have burnt or bilged her — The Enemy
1318
AMERICAN THEATRE
took possession of her in half an hour; and, she with the other left under
the like circumstances will probably prove the most formidable Force they
can have to oppose us on the River — There was a place of safety provided
for the other Galleys which they might have got into as well as McCleave,
but they passed it in their hurry — I am Sir by his Excellency’s Command
[&c.]
Joseph Reed Adjt Genl
Head Quarters Octor 18th 1776
Agreeable to your request the Genl has dismissed Capt McCleave and
his Crew. The other is up the River —
1. Trumbull Papers, XXIX, Letter Book IV, 368-69, ConnSL.
2. McCleave and Tinker commanded the Connecticut galleys Whiting and Crane.
Captain Anthony Hunt, R.N., to Vice Admiral
Richard Lord Howe 1
Copy
My Lord, I beg Leave to acquaint You that in Consequence of your Lord-
ship’s Directions signified to me of the 1st of September last; and finding
His Majesty’s Sloop Cruizer to be in a worse Condition than represented by
the several Surveys held on her; (as will appear by Captain [Francis] Par-
ry’s Report of the 27th September here inclosed) I gave the necessary
Directions for her Stores, Ammunition and Furniture remaining on board,
to be taken out and put on board the Active , Falcon and Scorpion ; the
Officers Company to be accomodated on board the said Ships, and the
Sloop to be hauled on Shore & burnt, which was accordingly done on the 2d
instant. Captain Parry will lay before Your Lordship, an Account of the
distribution of her Stores, Ammunition, Sec. and the Accomodation of her
Officers and Company for a Passage to this Port. I am, with great Defer-
ence, My Lord [8cc.]
Anthy Hunt
Active, off New York, Octr 18th 1776.
1. PRO, Admiralty 1/487.
Journal of Ambrose Serle1
[On board H. M. S. Eagle , New York]
Friday 18th. October.
Early this Morning the great Fleet, with the second Division of the Hes-
sians, Waldeckers, & British Recruits on board, appeared in the
offing: about Noon, five or six Transports came up to the Town, the rest
not being able to pass by the Hook through the contrary Wind. The Active
Frigate of 28 Guns, Capt. [Anthony] Hunt, and the Cruizer Sloop of 8,
also came into Harbor from the Southward. 2 The Intelligence of this Fleet
arriving was good news indeed, and especially as a North West Wind has
OCTOBER 1776
1319
been expected almost every Day, which might have blown them so far off
the Coast, as to have prevented their reaching it again all the Winter. It
began to blow very fresh to-day. The Fleet had no sooner come under Land,
but the Wind changed from S.E. wch was favorable to the N.W. and came
on very strong.
1. Tatum, ed., Serle’s Journal, 125.
2. This statement is in error regarding the Cruizer which, being no longer seaworthy, was dis-
mantled and destroyed.
Diary of Frederick Mackenzie 1
[New York] 18th Octr — The Rose of 20 Guns went through Hellgate
this Morning without any difficulty, having a fine wind, 8c favorable tide.
The transports with the Hessian brigade, from Staten Island, which have
waited so long for a favorable opportunity, went through without any acci-
dent, and proceeded to join the Army.
A Signal this morning at Staten Island for a fleet, supposed to be that
with the Hessians. In the Evening 7 ships came up to New York, in one of
which arrived Major Donkin of The Welch Fusileers, who confirms the ac-
count of its being the fleet so long looked for, with about 7000 troops; out 14
weeks, 8c all arrived safe, under Convoy of The Diamond , Ambuscade , and
another Frigate.
1. Mackenzie’s Diary, I, 82.
Continental Marine Committee to Captain James Robinson,
Continental Sloop Sachem 1
Sir [Philadelphia] October 18th 1776
The honorable Congress having directed that you should make a voy-
age under orders of the Secret Committee you are therefore to receive their
Instructions and comply with them giving us notice when the service by
them required is performed that we may direct your future operations.
During the present voyage we expect you will transmit us any useful or im-
portant intelligence that comes to your knowledge. You are to take good
care of the Sachem her Stores provisions and materials — preserve good
discipline amongst your officers and men, but use them well, treat any that
become your prisoners with humanity and in due time return Coppies of
your Journal and Log Book into this office. Wishing you success we are Sir
[8cc.]2
1. Marine Committee Letter Book, 35, NA.
2. Ibid., similar orders were issued this date to Captain William Hallock of the brig Lexington.
1320
AMERICAN THEATRE
Commissioners of the Continental Navy in Account with the Sloop
Sachem 1 2
The Sloop Sachem
Isaiah [sic James] Robinson Commander
1776
For Second Cruise. - [Philadelphia, October 18, 1776]
Septr 30. To Cash paid days labour p Locktons Bill &
Carlisle for 3 h[i]des
October 3. “ 7 Bolts Russia Duck a£7.10 p
7. “ Cash paid days labour p Locktons Bill &
for sawing 2 Cord Wood
12. “ “ “ 8 Bushels of Potatoes
17. “ 15 Hammocks
21. “ 15 ditto
Cash paid Wm Shute for 1 Box of
Candles & A. Don-
£ 12. .1. .-
52.10. .-
24. .2. .6
1 . . 8 . .—
aldson for Boards
14.10. .6
Henry Lisle for 14 Bbs
Ship & 2 Bbs
of Pilot Bread
14. .9. .6
hauling 5 Bbs & 1 Keg
of Powder
4. .4
Benja Condys Bill 14/
- Wm Rigdens do
30/9 & Alenbys do
30/8
3.15. .5
32.19. .9
23.
November 6.
9.
23.
December 3.
1777
January 18.
February 1
4 Bbs Country Rum q[uantity] 132 Ga @5/
1. do West India do q. 33 Ga @
l.do Bread @21/4
1. do do 40/9
Cash paid Philip Hall & Co’s Bill
“ Jas Fulton’s Bill
Anthony Morris Brewers Bill
“ Thos Cliftons Bill
Arthur Donaldsons Bill
Sundry Chandlery as p Chandlery
Book 62.17.10i^>
Sundry Cordage as p Book of Is-
sues Wt 12. .2.6 @ 69/5 pC 43.12. .9
24. .0. .3
1. .4
3 . . 8 . .—
7. .6
12. .3
May 10.
Cash paid Jas Allenbys Bill
106.10. .7i/2
2. .6
1. Woodhouse Collection, HSP. Isaiah Robinson had been appointed to the Andrew Doria
on September 20, 1776, FDRL.
2. The approximated date is that of the Marine Committee order to Captain James Robin-
son. See preceding entry.
OCTOBER 1776
1321
Continental Marine Committee to all Continental Agents1
(Circular)
Sir [Philadelphia] October 18th 1776
Herein you will find two Resolves of the Continental Congress2 of
which we have the honor to be members, whereby you! observe you are or-
dered to account with us from time to time for the Continental Share of all
Prizes received and sold by you as Agent and to pay the amount thereof to
our order. In obedience to this Resolve we think proper to lay it down as a
Rule, that you State your accounts every three Months crediting therein the
Continental Share of every Prize whose accounts can be settled and in-
cluded within that quarter of a year, and that you add thereto aSchedule
containing an exact account of all the prizes that then remain in your care
whose accounts are unsettled, and we desire that you will constantly remit
us undoubted good bills on this place as you can meet with them which will
save the trouble and risque of sending money, in taking drafts prefer those
of the Continental Agents, Paymasters & Commissarys to any other pro-
vided they are drawn on the President of Congress, this Committee or any
other public Board for public Service — Next to these undoubted good pri-
vate Bills but none others. When neither One or the Other can be met with,
inform us and of the sums you have, that we may give particular Orders re-
specting the Remittance or application thereof.
By the other Resolve you will find yourself under orders of Congress to
make a just distribution amongst the officers and men concerned in taking
each Prize as soon after the sales as possible agreeable to the Rules and
Regulations made by Congress in this respect, and it is our duty to see this
punctually complied with as the Service has already suffered by delay —
therefore you will always make the said distributions as soon as can be
after the Sale and transmit us duplicates of the accounts and your proceed-
ings therein. We shall allow all your just expenditures on account of the
Continent to be charged against their share of Prize Money but those
charges must be supported by vouchers. We are Sir [8cc.]
To
John Langdon Esqr Continental Agent, rortsmouth New Hampshire
John Bradford Esqr Do Boston Massachusets
Daniel Tillinghast Esqr do Providence Rhode Island
Nathl Shaw jr Esqr do New London Connecticut
Jacobus Vantzantz Esqr3 do New York
John Nixon & John Maxwell Nesbitt Esqrs Philada Pennsylvania
William Lux Esqr Baltimore Maryland
John Teazwell Esqr4 Williamsburg Virginia
Robert Smith Esqr Edenton
Richard Ellis, esqr Newbem > No Carolina
Corneilus Hamet esqr 5 Wilmington
1322
AMERICAN THEATRE
Livinus Clarkson & John Dorsius esqrs Chs Town So Carolina
John Wereat Esqr Savannah Georgia
1. Marine Committee Letter Book, 35-36, NA.
2. See Journal of the Continental Congress, October 17, 1776.
3. Jacobus Van Zandt.
4. John Tazewell.
5. Cornelius Hartnett.
Continental Marine Committee to the Prize Agents Appointed
by George Washington1
[Circular] [Philadelphia] October 18th 1776.
Sir We have the honor to inclose herein a Resolve of the Continental
Congress 2 of which we are members whereby you will see we are empow-
ered to order a proper and just distribution of all Prizes taken by the Cruiz-
ers Genl Washington caused to be fitted out on Continental Account, and
also that we are authorized or rather Ordered to receive from the Agents
who received and sold the said Prizes, the Continental share thereof, and as
we find you have been employed as an Agent in this business, we desire that
you will immediately send us an Account of the Prizes that have been put
under your care, with Coppies of the decrees of the Court of Admiralty, In-
ventories of Ships and Cargoes, with Copys of the Accounts Sales properly
Authenticated, an Account Current for each Prize wherein you Credit the
Neat Proceeds, and charge the share appertaining to the Officers and Crews
who were interested in the Capture and also the Continental share agreea-
ble to the Rules and Regulations laid down by Congress and a General Ac-
count Current wherein you will credit the Continent for their share in
every Prize and charge for all such Remittances as you make to us in conse-
quence of these Orders as well as for any other just charge you have to
make against them. We desire that you will remit to this Board whatever
moneys you have in hand arising from the Continental share of the Prizes
put under your management, and as there are many persons gone from
hence to purchase prize goods, you may procure drafts on this place from
undoubted safe good men which will save the trouble and risque of sending
the money, or you may pay it in to the Continental paymaster at Boston
Ebenezer Hancock Esqr and transmit us his draft on the President of Con-
gress, or the Honorable Thomas Cushing Esqr, John Bradford esqr of Bos-
ton or John Langdon Esqr of New Hampshire have occasion for money on
our account — their drafts on ourselves will be good and the sooner you
make these Remittances and render the Accounts the better. We must also
enjoin you to make an immediate division and distribution of that share of
Prizes that appertains to the Officers and Crews that took them, agreeable
to and in strict conformity with the Rules and Regulations of Congress, and
that you transmit as soon as can be duplicates of those Accounts as it is our
duty to see this business perfected, otherways the maritime service of
America will suffer greatly, by the discouragements arising from delays in
OCTOBER 1776
1323
the payment of Prize money &c. Where any part of the Prizes have been ap-
plyed to Continental use, that part must be valued and included at the val-
uation in the new account of Sales — if applyed to the use of yours or any
other State, they must pay the valuation and that be included in the Acct
Sales. Expecting your complyance with an answer to this Letter We remain
Sir [Sec.]
To
William Bartlet[t] Esqr in Beverly
William Watson Esqr in Plymouth
John [sic Joshua] Wentworth Esqr in Portsmouth
Wintrop Serjent [Winthrop Sargent] Esqr in Cape Anne
Messrs Bartlet[t] Sc Glover3 in Lynn Marble head and Boston
John Bradford Esqr Boston
1. Marine Committee Letter Book, 37-38, NA.
2. See Journal of the Continental Congress, October 16, 1776.
3. Jonathan Glover.
Minutes of the Pennsylvania Council of Safety1
In Council of Safety,
[Philadelphia] October 18th, 1776.
Resolved, That in Consideration of the high price of Cloathing. &ca.,
the pay of the men on board the Fleet belonging to this State, be advanced
to Three Pounds P month, to commence from the next pay day.
1. Pennsylvania Colonial Records , X, 759.
Stephen Steward to the Maryland Council of Safety1
Gen tell Men [Wood Yard] October the 18 1776
this will be handed to you by Mr Gideon Dair [Adair] he is averey sper-
ited young fellow and has all Ways ben verey Desirous of geting Into the
Cuntreys service he now is verey Desirous going out In your Largest
Armd Schooner Captain of Moreins I think no one of My aQuantance
More Deserving of a Cometion than Mr adair I Would aWaited on you
Myself Was not My Presence Much want’d In the yard but Will Com to you
as Sun as you Desier Me to Com — I am afraid I Shal be forsed to Send
Sum body off to Phila for Sum Metearels theses vesell Cant Sail With out.
Som Metearels that I bought In Phila such as Iron Hoops for Water Casks
thay are sertenly [illegible] lying In Sum Ware: Houss by the Way I am
[Sec.]
I. Executive Papers, Box 2, Folder 80, Md. Arch.
Stephen Steward
1324
AMERICAN THEATRE
Deposition of John Matthews and William Stoddert1
Charles county, the 18th October, 1776.
We, the subscribers, joined three companies of the 26th battalion of
militia, under the command of col. [William] Harrison, at Sandy-Point, on
Tuesday the 23d July last, early in the morning, in the character of volun-
teers. About 9 o’clock the ships began to man their tenders and small boats,
when col. Harrison ordered the three companies to stand to their arms, and
after watching the motions of the enemy a few minutes, gave orders for
capt. [Francis] Martin’s company, consisting of about 45 men, including
officers, to repair to the head of a valley which led down to the river nearly
opposite the Roebuck. - We fell in with this company at the head of the
valley. - A little while after that came three or four strangers, who were
questioned by col. Harrison, and informed him that they had come up the
river, were going to Alexandria, and had landed a little below in two small
boats: - those we understood to be capt. [Robert] Conway, his lieutenant,
and two men: - By this time ten rowboats, two tenders and a gondola were
[illegible] ed with men along side of the Roebuck , which lay near 400 yards
from the Maryland shore. It was every moment expected the enemy would
land and attack us. - col. Harrison told capt. Martin’s company that, in
case the enemy attempted to land there, he should instantly march down at
their head and post them behind the beach, and after admonishing them,
begged that if any one felt confused or under any panic, to candidly inform
him and turn out of the ranks, on which one of the privates turned out and
told him that he did not like to march down the hill. - He was then ordered
to give up his gun and ammunition to some other, that would, and col. Har-
rison delivered his gun to capt. Conway’s lieutenant, who said he would
march down with us. About ten oclock the enemy’s boats, tenders and gon-
dola left the Roebuck , giving three cheers, and contrary to our expectation,
went over to Virginia, where they landed and set fire to Mr. Brent’s
house. - Col. Harrison ordered the company down to the beach in order to
show them where he intended to post them, had the enemy attempted, or in
case they should attempt a landing at that place - Before the enemy re-
turned from Virginia, we were reinforced with about 120 men under col.
[Samuel] Hanson - About 5 or 6 o’clock afternoon, the enemy’s small
tender, and the gondola, were observed to be manning, and in a few minutes
left the Roebuck and directed their course towards the bay where capt. Con-
way’s boats were landed. - Col. Harrison immediately ordered the men to
arms, and conceiving the enemy’s design was to take off capt. Conway’s
boats, gave capt. Martin orders to take about 20 of his best armed men, and
follow him down to watch the motions of the tender and gondola. - This
detachment we joined with two other volunteers - in the whole we think it
consisted of 25 persons - We proceeded towards the bay with all haste, and
near the head of a valley met with capt. Conway and some of his
men. - Capt Conway went down the valley with col. Harrison to shew
where his boats lay, and we followed close after in [illegible] and were
OCTOBER 1776
1325
halted at the mouth of the valley - He told the colonel that one of his boats
was drawn over the beach into a marsh, the other, was on the shore staved,
which was about 50 yards from us, though we could not see her from the
mouth of the valley on account of some bushes, which grew on the beach. —
The tender had got in the bay before we reached our post, and lay about
150 yards off. — As soon as we were halted, the tender fired one of her
carriage guns, which was presently succeeded by a discharge of grape shot
from the gondola; this load grounded within a few paces of us, and
many of the shot, with several cannon balls, were picked up the next
day - sundry great guns were discharged at us whilst we remained at this
post. - The gondola, after she came against the boat, rowed off and on,
and, after a short time seemed to be gradually getting more into the bay, as
it designed to open the valley and rake it. - We heard capt. Conway say to
col. Harrison, that he thought she was endeavouring to rake the valley, and
advised him to order a retreat, or words to the same purpose. - The colo-
nel, after taking a view of the gondola, turned about, and in a low tone gave
orders for a retreat to the head of the valley, the gondola being within 70 or
80 yards of us at the time. - Five or six of the men who were in the rear
retreated some distance beyond the place intended, which we firmly believe
proceeded from their not having heard the orders distinctly, as most of
them returned immediately to the head of the valley, on being called to by
some of the others. - From this place we observed the Roebuck had got
under way and fallen down, and began to fire on us; also the tender, our sit-
uation being open to them both. The colonel returned to the mouth of the
valley, and we and others went different ways to take another view of the
gondola, which we found lying quite still, nearly opposite the boat, with her
hatches close shut, and nothing visible but her oars and guns, though capt.
Conway’s lieutenant had just before informed, that her hatches were up
and men exposed, which raised our hopes of getting a shoot. - We recollect
that, previous to our leaving the mouth of the valley, capt. Conway asked
col. Harrison to let the gondola be fired at, to scare her off from the shore,
which was refused, as there was no living object to shoot at. - A retreat
was then ordered to the main body by col. Harrison, and the detachment di-
rected to scatter as they retreated through the old fields, to observe the flash
of the enemy’s cannon, and to fall down whenever they saw it. - The fire
from the Roebuck , armed schooner, and gondola, grew very warm, and the
frequent falling down of the men occasioned a general laughter. - We re-
treated to a fence at the edge of a wood, and lay behind it until the enemy’s
fire ceased - then returned to the main body, with which we remained until
the ships went down the river, and the troops were discharged.
John Matthews,
William Stoddert,
(Copy.) Charles county, October 18, 1776.
Then came Messrs. John Matthews and William Stoddert, gentlemen,
and made oath on the holy Evangelists of Almighty God, that the above is a
1326
AMERICAN THEATRE
true state of the transactions at Sandy-Point, under col. William Harrison,
on the 23d of July last.
G. R. Brown.
1. Maryland Gazette, November 7, 1776.
Journal of the Virginia Council of Safety1
[Williamsburg] Friday October 18th 1776
Captain Sandford Commander of the Brig Adventure bound to Dun-
kirk requested this Board to inform him the Termes for his undertaking the
Voyage Ordered therefore that he be allowed eight shillings per day and
Cabbin Stores and it was also further Ordered that his Mate be allowed six
shillings per day.
1. Mcllwaine, ed., Journals of the Virginia Council, I, 203, 204.
Journal of the Virginia Navy Board 1
[Williamsburg] Friday 18th October 1776. —
Ordered that Capt Robert Cooke of the Schooner Speedwell proceed imme-
diately with his Vessel to Alexandria and wait on Mr John Dalton with a
letter from this Board who will furnish him with such necessaries as he
may be in want of for fitting his Vessel for a Voiage to the West-Indies,
which being done, he is to take on Board a Load of Flour and Tobo which
will be delivered him by the said Dalton and then Return with his Vessell to
York Town and wait on the Board for further Orders -
1. Navy Board Journal, 84-85, VSL.
Dixon and Hunter’s Virginia Gazette , Friday, October 18, 1776
Williamsburg, October 18.
A Maryland privateer, fitted out by Mr. [Gilbert] Middleton, of
Annapolis, 1 has taken a Jamaica ship, and sent her into Hampton Road,
having on board upwards of 300 hogsheads of rum and sugar, some cotton,
coffee, indigo. Sec.
1. The Maryland privateer schooner Montgomery . The prize was the 170 ton brigantine Sarah.
Dixon and Hunter’s Virginia Gazette, November 8, 1776.
Commissioners for Fitting Out the Brig King Tammany to the
North Carolina Council of Safety 1
Sir, Edenton 18th Octr 1776
Since the Resolve of your Honorable Board came to hand for the King
Tamminy to Cruize we have been indefaticable in Our Endeavours to get
her Mann’d and rendered fit for Sea, and we have the pleasure to inform
you that She is now nearly, or quite complete.
OCTOBER 1776
1327
We have lately been informed the Pennsylvania Farmer is gone up to
New Bern, to heave down, and will not be ready for some considerable time
to proceed on her intended Cruize.
We beg leave to Submit it to your Honl Board whether it might not be
best to Alter the Cruizes of the Two Vessells and Order the King Tamminy
to take the first Cruize Also to Allow her to Cruize from Lat: 35 to Lat:
30, to leave the distance from the Coast to the discretion of the Captain, and
allow Six weeks for the Cruize in place of four.
What induced us to trouble you on this Occasion was this Considera-
tion that by the last of the month of November, in all probability the Ja-
maica Fleet homeward bound will have crossed these Latitudes, and render
the Cruize fruitless to all intents and purposes.
We have no doubt but it will Occur to you, it will be necessary to give
the Bearer as much dispatch as possible as the King Tamminy will be ready
to go down next Wednesday, We have the Honor to be Most respectfully
sir [&c.]
Tho: Jones
Rob1 Hardy
Rob Smith
Commissioners &ca
1. Secretary of State Papers (Council of Safety, 1775-1776), NCDAH.
Journal of the Georgia Council of Safety 1
At a meeting of the Council,
[Savannah] 18th October, 1776.
Ordered, that Capt. Pray be directed to proceed on a voyage to the Is-
land of Saint Thomas and to procure as many seamen, arms, ammunition
and swivels as he possibly can, and that he be permitted to mount as many
carriage guns, as the vessel can bear on his return hither.
1. Candler, comp., Georgia Records , I, 208.
Governor Patrick Tonyn to Lord George Germain 1
[Extract]
No 26.
My Lord; I am sorry to inform your Lordship that the Cumberland
Packet Boat, which was dispatched the Jh of September, after out living
a severe Storm at Sea, returned in about three weeks, in distress, and
sunk in the Harbour. The amer[i]can male [sic] was sent by Captain
[Thomas] Bishop of the Lively to New York. The Captain and Crew with
the Guns that were on Board the Packet, are on Board the Betsey Ship Cap-
tain Lofthouse, who carries home our annual produce.
I have the honour to acquaint your Lordship that, at the Critical time,
when an expedition was planned and commenced against this province, and
when depredations were made by the Rebels as far as Saint John River, to
1328
AMERICAN THEATRE
secure that Barrier, and the Plantations and. Provisions on that River, as
there was not at that time any of the Kings Vessels of force in the province,
I was, my Lord, under the absolutely [sic] necessity, of commissioning and
employing the Sloop Rebeca Captain Mowbray for three Months certain to
secure the inland water passage to Saint John River from Georgia.
There are numbers of fugitives from the Neighbouring Provinces,
many of whom, without a little assistance have not where withal to support
themselves; there are a number of Run away Negros from Georgia, whom
I releived the Captains of the Navy of, to whom they fled for protection,
and twenty eight Prisoners taken by Lord Dunmore, and sent here to be
kept in custody; I have committed them to the Fort untill these unhappy
differences terminate.
St Augustine J_8 Octr 1776
1. PRO, Colonial Office, 5/557, 1.
19 Oct.
Petition of Inhabitants of Barrington, Nova Scotia, to
the Massachusetts General Court1
Barrington Nova Scotia October 19th 1776 —
Gentlemen
We the Subscribers Inhabitants of Barrington in the Province of Nova Sco-
tia, Haveing hired and partly Loaded the Schooner Hope with Fish and
Liver Oyl bound for Salem or Newbary In the Province of the Massachu-
setts Bay — Earnestly Pray and Request of you the Honble Congress or
those whose business it may be to see to it, To permitt and Suffer the said
Loading to be disposed of by Herman Kenney and part of the amount to be
Lay’d out in provissions for the Support of us the Subscribers which are In-
tirely Destitute of any for the Support of them or their Children and it is
Impossible to get any Any where, - And a Long Winter Approching God
only knows what will become of us; We Look on ourselves as Unhappyly
situated as any People in the world; being Settelers from the Massachusetts
bay for whose wellfare we Earnestly pray having Fathers Brothers and
Children living there; And we have in the Course of these Unhappy Times
done every thing in our power to Assist those Unfortunate people that
have been Taken and come into this place from Halifax to help them over
the bay on their way home. And have not at any Time done any thing Ei-
ther by Supplys or men to Injure our native place and Country; - In the
above Vessell are Three Families with their Effects which have Left this
place and gone to the places in your province where they formerly came
from, And we the Subscribers dont see but that we must follow them for we
don’t think we can Live Quietly here for our Imployment is such for the
Support of our families Vizt Fishing as you look upon as a Disservice to the
great cause you are imbarked in and we cannot but follow it while we are
OCTOBER 1776
1329
thus Situated; Therefore we Earnestly pray and Request of you in your
great Goodness and Wisdom to Assist us with provisions as we the sub-
scribers shall want for this winter and till such time as we can remove our-
selves from this place to our former homes Unless these Tremendus Times
are Settled, Which God grant may be soon; We have Authorised and Ap-
pointed our Friend Mr Herman Kenney to Answer and Reply to any Ques-
tions and to represent our Deplorable Situation to you the Honble. Congress
or others who he may be call’d before; And we are ready to keep up a Cor-
respondence with the Inhabitants of your province to Exchange fish for
other provisions if you should see fit to Incourage such a Trade untill such
Time as we can Remove ourselves from this place, provided you are Deter-
min’d to prevent our fishing on this Shore, For the privaters have taken
Several of our Schooners from us and the fish caught in them to the great
Distress of the fishermen which have not done any Thing but fishing to In-
jure you which they could not help being the only way they have to main-
tain their families, For all which causes and Reasons we cannot but flatter
ourselves that you will Receive this Memoriall from us And Answer our Re-
quest which will Enable us to Support our Wifes And Children, and we can-
not think the Request being Granted any Damage to you, We mean not to
Offend you in any thing but should be glad to know our Destiney if any of
us should tarry at this place dureing these times for we have not seen nor
heard from you anything who are in Authority, but only from some of the
men on board the privaters that have made this, a place of Rendevous who
tell us all the Dreadfull Things that can befall any People, to Vizt That the
Indians are Commission’d to come on the back of us to kill burn and De-
stroy, A picture, this drawn by them, that we the Decendants from America
Cannot think ever Enterd into the breasts of the free and Generous sons of
America. We are Gentlemen your most humble petitioners and very humble
Servants —
Solomon Smith
Isaac King
Tho Doane
Reuben Cohoon
Theodore Smith
Stephen Nickerson
Elkanah Smith
Jonathan Smith
Isaac Kenney
Gamaliel Kenney
Marcy Kenney
Isaac King Juner
Sami Osborn Doane
Thomas Crowell
Edward Doane
David Crowell
Elisha Smith
William Greenwood
Solomon Smith juner
Benjamin Kirby
Samuel Britman
Joseph Smith
Jonathan Smith Jr.
Joseph Atwood
Timothy Covell
[illegible] Atwood
John Raynolds
Joseph Ren wrick
Solomon Renwrick junr
1330
AMERICAN THEATRE
NB. We hope and Desire you will not give this a place in your News pa-
pers tho you should think it worthy, which may be of Damage to us if we
should remain at this place - 2
1. Mass. Arch., vol. 211, 122-24.
2. The petition was granted on November 15, 1776, ibid., 125.
Former Officers of the Massachusetts Schooner Diligent to the
Massachusetts Council1
To The Honl Council of the State of the Massachusetts Bay the
Petition of the Following Persons
Humbly Sheweth
That We your Petitioners can Testify that Walter Perkins have Acted
and Serv’d as Second Lieut on Bord the Schooner Dilligent John Lambert
Commander since the 16th March last, and to general Satisfaction both to
Officers & Seamen as he took a Commission for said Schooner in the Name
of Jonathan Knight for Executing the Office as above and did it from the
Above Date, the said Commission was sent up for an Endorsement to the
Honl Council but by some means or other got lost and as a Commission
from your Hons may be of Service to him even in future time, We humbly
beg that your Hons wou’d Isshue a New Commission in the Name of the
said Walter Perkins, that he may retain the same [un] dr the Honour of the
Court and the Service he has been engaged in as we look upon him to be
highly Deserving in the Station he has acted in, as we was on Bord with
him during the said Service we therefore Request the same to be Executed
and as in Duty Bound shall ever pray
John Lambert
John Obrien
Joshua Wing
Peter Clark
Capt
1st Lieut
Master
Comr Marines
[Endorsed] In Council [Watertown] Octr 1 9t [h] 1776 Read & Or-
dered that as Jona Knight have not acted in the Capacity of 2d Lieut on
Board the Schr Diligent since his Appointment that the Name of Walter
Perkins be inserted & the Said Jona Knights Name be erased in his Said
Comission
1. Mass. Arch., vol. 165, 366.
John Avery Dpy Secy
Providence Gazette , Saturday, October 19, 1776
Providence, October 19.
The Montgomery and Eagle Privateers have taken and sent into a Port
at the Westward a Schooner from Cape-Nichola Mole, bound to Halifax,
having on board 9000 Gallons of Melasses, and 3000 Weight of Sugar. The
Privateers had been out but 24 Hours when they took this Vessel.1
OCTOBER 1776
1331
Capt. [Abner] Coffin in the Privateer Favourite , has taken and sent
into Port a Schooner from Dominica, bound to Newfoundland, laden with
Rum, Coffee, Limes, &c.2
We hear the Brig Cabot , in the Service of the United States, has taken
several Prizes.
A Ship of 16 Carriage Guns, bound from London for New York, hav-
ing on board Provisions, some Powder, and 207 Casks of Nails, is taken by
Capt. [John] Lee, in a Schooner of 6 Guns, from Newbury-Port, and car-
ried in at the Eastward.3
It is said that some of the Enemy’s Frigates and Tenders passed up the
North River, above Fort Washington, on Wednesday Se’nnight, and were
roughly handled by our Forts as they passed.
1. The Rhode Island privateer sloops Montgomery, Captain Thomas Ruttenber, commissioned
September 30, and the Eagle, Captain Isaac Field, commissioned September 29, 1776.
2. The 40 ton schooner Hannah.
3. Lee commanded the Massachusetts privateer schooner Hawke.
Commodore Esek Hopkins to Captain Hoysteed Hacker 1
Sr Newport octor 19. 1776
I have a Complant Enter a gainst Mr James Bryant your goner [gunner]
for Carring a way with out Leave out of the alfred a pare of pistoles and
Sum other things belonging to the goner of the alfred and on Rescept of
this you are to Lett Leut [Robert] Saunders have the pistoles if to be found
and Lett him Sarch to his Satisfaction for the other things mising.
E H
To Histate Hacker Esqr or the Commanding officer that may be on Bord the
Hamden, at the time Mr Sanders Comes
1. Hopkins Papers, RIHS.
Commodore Esek Hopkins to John Bradford 1
Sir Newport October 19th. 1776 —
I understand by Captn [John Paul] Jones that there is some Junk and
Sails onboard the Prize Ship which he sent in to Bedford — 2 and as them
Articles are much wanted onboard several of the Continental Vessels in this
Port Should be glad you would Send all those Articles more than barely for
the Ship by the first Opportunity to this place to me, or in my absence to
Mr. John Manley deputy Agent here — and by so doing you will forward
the Service — I am Sir [&c.]
EH-
To John Bradford Esqr Agent for the Massachusetts,
or in his absence to his Deputy at Bedford —
1. Hopkins Letter Book, RIHS.
2. The ship Alexander.
1332
AMERICAN THEATRE
Journal of H. M. S. Cerberus , Captain John Symons1
October 1776
Friday 18
Saturday 19
Town of Et Hampton NEbE 7 or 8 Miles
at 1 A M spoke the True Briton Arm’d Ship wth a
Prize at 8 spoke his Majts Ship Syren bound to New
York, bore away 8c parted Co wth. do Sailmkr repairing
the Fore Topmt stays
Fresh Gales at 3 P M saw a SI to the Et wd gave Chace
fired 12-9 pdrs 8c 6-3 pdrs 8c Brot too the chace a Brigg
from Cape Nicholas Mole Ladend with Molasses bound to
Newbury2 at 7 split the Jibb 8c found the Strapp of the
lower dead Eye of the Starbd M: preventer Shroud gone
fixd a new one, splitt the Mizn bent a New Jibb
at 6 saw a SI to the N E gave Chace at 9 Brot too the
Chace a Schooner from Hispaniola wth Molasses bound to
Nantuckett 3 bent a New Mizn Syren in Co
Mod. and Clear hoisted the Boat out and took possession
of the Prizes
1. PRO, Admiralty 51/181.
2. The Success, J. Coffin, master, Howe’s Prize List, March 31, 1777, ibid., 1/487.
3. Ibid., the Betsey, E. Bacon, master.
Journal of H. M.S. Syren , Captain Tobias Furneaux1
October 1776
Friday 18
Saturday 19
Montock Point No 30° Wt 18 Lgs
AM l/^ pt 1 saw 2 Sail to the No wd Tkd 8c stood after
them i/2 pt 2 Brot too spoke the True Briton an English
Letter a Marque who had retaken the Irwin a Ship for Lon-
don from Jamaica, which was taken by a Rebel
Privateer, at 3 mde Sail at 6 a Sail to the So
wd chaced p Sigl at 8 mde a Sigl which was Answered
1/2 pt spoke His Majs Ship Unicorn [at] 9 parted Co
the Unicorn 8c bore away a SE Swell. -
First pt Fresh Gales latter Cloudy, at 3 a Sail in the
Ed gave chace, at 5 the Cerberus bro’t too [a] Brigg
from Hispaniola for Newberry, handd F T/S: down
F:T:G: Yds got the Spritsl Yd in 8c stood to the S E could
not board the Prize there being so great a Sea.
AM at 6 a Sail bearg E the Cerberus made our Sigl to
lye by the brigg while she chaced. at l/2 pt 10 Joined the
Cerberus with a small Schooner set Fore T /SI 8c out
Spritsl Yd the above Vessels in Co
Mode Wr at 3H 8M 22s true time by an Obsn of the Qr
[moon] found the Longde to be 71°.0'6 Wt sent a [Pe]tty
Officer 8c 5 Men on bd the Brigg at 5 Saw a Sail bearg S
W. gave chace. at 7 left of [f] Chace TKd Ship
1. PRO, Admiralty 51/930.
OCTOBER 1776
1333
Minutes of the New York Committee of Safety 1
[Fishkill] Saturday Morning. Octo. 19th, 1776.
A letter from the marine committee of the Continent, dated the 12th
inst.2 signed by John Hancock, Robert Morris and seven others, was read,
relative to the safety of the Continental ships building at Poughkeepsie.
Ordered , That a copy thereof be immediately transmitted to the super-
intendent there.
1. New York Provincial Congress, I, 683, 684.
2. The Marine Committee letter book dates this letter October 9. See under that date to New
York Convention.
Colonel George Taylor to John Hancock 1
[Extract] Shrewsbury October the 19th 1776 —
Sir I herewith Send you by the bearer Captn. [Hendrick] Smock Six
prisoners which I Took Out of a Schooner which was Drove On Shore the 14
Inst on the Jersey Shore near where I was stationed to Guard the
Coast As to particular Circumstances I refer you to sd Captn Smock I
have given an Account of the Vessel and Cargo to General Mercer and Make
no Doubt but its Come to hand I have Orders from the General to Take
Care of the Vessel Till Further Orders as to the Vessels Hull it Lies Much
Exposed and Likely to be Lost the First Eastwardly Storm She Might
perhaps be Sold to the Advantage of the Owners or Publick who Ever it is
that is to have the Benefit Your Directions in the Above Shall be my par-
ticular Guides. . .
1. Papers CC (Letters addressed to Congress) , 78, XXII, 157, NA. Taylor and Smock were
officers in the New Jersey militia.
Captain William Gamble to the Pennsylvania Council of
Safety 1
Gentlemen:
The Day before this Honorable board Fill’d up the small Vacancies
then in the Armed Boats; I delivered to one of your members, a request in
writing, the prayer of which was to be removed from the Sloop Aetna , on
board one of the then Vacant Armed boats, which request was only meant by
me, to the End, that I might be in a more Active part of the service; This
Honourable board not Granting the above request, Induces me to think it
was Disrespected. Gentlemen, Inclosed is the Commission I had the Honor
of Bearing, and Beg this Board to accept this My Resignation. I should have
resigned at the time above mentioned, But apprehending the enemy might
make a diversion in our river, determined to remaine in the service untill
the season of the year would Prevent them, which season I hope is Come;
1334
AMERICAN THEATRE
this Honourable Board will please to Believe, I Am, with Due Respect
[&c.]
William Gamble2
[Philadelphia] October 19th, 1776.
1. Pennsylvania Archives , 2nd series, I, 386.
2. The Council accepted Gamble’s resignation, and appointed John Brice to command the
Aetna. Pennsylvania Colonial Records , X, 760.
Journal of the Virginia Council of Safety 1
[Williamsburg] Saturday October 19th 1776
A Permit granted to Captain Lehoux of the Schooner Saint Jeanne
lately arrived from Saint Domingo allowing him Liberty to dispose of his
Cargo and to trade in this State.
A Certificate being returned of the Review of Lieutenant Gabriel Madi-
son’s Quota of Marines the same was ordered to be registered and that a
Commission issue accordingly.
1. Mcllwaine, ed.. Journals of the Virginia Council, I, 205, 207.
Journal of the Virginia Navy Board 1
[Williamsburg] Saturday 19th October 1776
Ordered that a Warrant Issue to Doctr Corbin Griffin for six Pounds for
Nursing & Victualling sick Sailors in the Hospital at York-Town belonging
to the Schooner Revenge. — Also for Seventeen pounds Eleven shillings &
six pence for Nursing & Victualling Sick Sailors & Marines in the Hospital
at York-Town belonging to the Brig Liberty -
Ordered that a Warrant Issue to John Rogers for six hundred & Ten pounds
nineteen shillings and nine pence for Necessaries furnished & pay of Work-
men for Building six Boats at Portsmouth under the direction of Colo Adam
Stephens as pr [illegible] Rogers’s Accts this day settled who entered into
Bond with Security for his faithfully applying the said Sum of Money. -
1. Navy Board Journal, 85-86, VSL.
Journal of the North Carolina Council of Safety 1
[Halifax] Saturday October 19th 1776.
Resolved That Ambrose Knox and Company William Brown, John
Chase and Daniel Cartwright be permitted to send to Sea the Sloop Polly
taken into Possession by Andrew Little and Robert Hardy in consequence
of a Resolve of this Board; on the said Ambrose Knox and Company Wil-
liam Brown and John Chase’s giving Bond and Security to the president of
the Congress of the State and his Successor in the sum of one hundred and
thirty five pounds, being the value of Daniel Cartwrights part of said Sloop
and on leaving one third of the Debts left in the Hands of William Skinner
OCTOBER 1776
1335
subject to the payment of such demands as may be due this State from the
said Daniel Cartwright, on account of a Cargo Shipped by this State on
Board the said Sloop Commanded by the said Daniel Cartwright
Resolved That Andrew Little and Robert Hardy be directed to Attend
the Execution of the above Resolve and on the said Resolves being Complied
with to grant a Certificate thereof to the Commissioner of the port of Eden-
ton
1. Secretary of State Papers (Council of Safety, 1775-1776) , NCDAH.
Journal of the South Carolina General Assembly 1
[Charleston] Saturday the 19th Day of October 1776
Message to the President
May it please Your Excellency
This House being informed That the Trade of this Place is subject to
many Inconveniences by the Delay attending Vessels being obliged to call at
Fort Johnson and Fort Moultrie both in going out and coming in request
your Excellency will give Orders that in future Vessels coming in may only
be obliged to call at Fort Moultrie and going out at Fort Johnson and may
be allowed to pass by some proper signal from the Fort they first pass
It appearing to the House that the late Commander and mariners of
the Armed Vessel called the Revenge had received no more than Two Sixth
Parts of the nett Amount of Sales of the Cargo taken by them on board the
Transport Brigantine Glasgow Packet and that the other Four Sixth Parts
had been paid into the Treasury as the share of the State
Resolved That the Commissioners of the Treasury do advance and pay
to Captain [Thomas] Pickering late Commander and the mariners late be-
longing to the said armed Vessel One Sixth Part of the Four Sixths of the
net amount of the said Sales so paid into the Treasury as a further Encour-
agement for their Gallant Behaviour in the taking the said Brigantine Glas-
gow Packet .2
1. Salley, ed., South Carolina General Assembly Journals, 145, 152.
2. Pickering had arrived in South Carolina on board the sloop General Washington from
Providence, Rhode Island. He was active in the defense of Charleston, and took the
Glasgow Packet. See Volumes 4 and 5.
Journal of the South Carolina Navy Board 1
Navy Board [Charleston] Saturday 19th. October 1776
The following Letter was sent to Mr. Anthy. Bonneau
Chas Town 19th Octobr. 1776
Sir The Commissioners of the Navy are in want of 100 Bbls hard
Pitch 100 Bbls Tarr & 20 Bbls good Clean Turpentine, the Casks
to be very good, Also any quantity of Tallow that can be Procured;
they will be glad that you will Purchase and ship them by any
1336
AMERICAN THEATRE
good Opportunity for Charles Town, & as Speedily as possible the
above Articles for the Amot. of which your Order on the Commis-
sioners of the Navy will be punctually paid — The Commissioners
are informed that you have a Quantity of Cordage by you such as
the Public are at present in want of — They will be glad to have it
sent round to Charles Town at the same time as the Naval stores
are shipped; also any other Cordage, and sail-duck that you can
purchase at George Town, for which your order will be paid.
By order of the Board:
Edward Blake First Commissioner
P S The Price of Cordage in Charles Town is £15. P lOOtw. which
the Commissioners are willing to Allow you at George Town
Capt. Stephen Seymour applyed to the Board to know what
Number of Men would be allowed for the Schooner Rattle Snake —
And the Board Resolved to allow the said Vessell Fifty men as
her full Complement. —
1. Salley, ed.. South Carolina Navy Board, 11-12.
20 Oct. (Sunday)
Governor Sir Guy Carleton to Major General William Howe 1
[No.] 200 Crown Point 20th October 1776
Sir We have defeated the Rebel Fleet upon lake Champlain, three sail only
out of 15 having escaped, the rest we have taken or destroyed, upon the
news of this event reaching crown point the Rebels posted there, set fire to
all the buildings and retired to Ticonderoga. His Majesty’s Forces there-
fore are now in possession of the former place, but I fear the want of time
(the severe season approaching very fast) to put it in a proper state of de-
fence, and of materials to put it in a condition to lodge the Troops, provi-
sions and stores, which would be necessary to leave there, will force us back
to Canada. I am in hopes however that our appearance on this side the lake
will occation a diversion which may be favourable to your opperations.
I have not heard from you since you left Hallifax.
Some Officers of the Regiments serving under your command, not find-
ing opportunity of joining your army at the beginning, I gave them leave to
serve with the Troops here; I have now directed them to repair to their re-
spective corps, and think it just to acquaint you, I have been very much sat-
isfied with their conduct during this campaign. I am 8cc
1. Guy Carleton Letter Book, Haldimand Papers, Additional Ms. 21699, BM.
Captain James Wilkinson to Brigadier General Arthur St. Clair 1
[Extract] Albany October 20th 1776
The Vessels which have passed the Cheveaux d Frize are two 40 Gun
Ships 8c a Number of Tenders, they vary their Station tho for the most part
OCTOBER 1776
1337
they remain in Toppon Sea or Bay they have picked up several Albany
Sloops 8c greatly harrass the rest. -
1. US Revolution, LC.
Journal of H.M.S. Niger , Captain George Talbot 1
October 1776
Sunday 19
[Saturday]
Monday 20
[Sunday]
Moor’d off Hunts Point
A M Fir’d 2 Six Pounders wth Shot at some Rebels who
kept Fireing at the Boats passing
Mode Breezes 8c Fair Wr at 4 P M Fir’d a Twelve pound
shot at some Rebbels Attempting to take a Boat from
Hunts Point
at 6 A M Unmoor’d at 8 Weigh’d 8c came to sail being
Reliev’d by HMs Rose
at 7 P M came too wth the Bt Br in 18 Faths 8c Veer’d a
Whole Cable
1. PRO, Admiralty 51/637.
Willing, Morris 8c Co. to William Bingham1
[Extract] Philadelphia Octr 20th 1776
. . . Your favor of the 24th Septr or rather the Copy of it was handed
us yesterday by Capt Lockhart of the Brigt Cornelia & Molly which ar-
rived here safe and we have this day sold the Molasses at Publick Vendue
for upwards of 6 P Gal 8c Mr Harrison 8c your Limes for 40/ to 50 P bbl
they are rather plenty You see it is hard to form just opinions concerning
adventures in our present situation, when we wrote You in July there
seemed little Chance of getting any thing safe and almost ever since the
Coast has been quite clear so that the spirit of enterprize has seized most
People 8c they are making or trying to make Fortunes, their Attempts will
probably have the happy effect of procuring us many supplys that we stand
much in need of
... We are fearful the Farmers General of France will have so many
offers for supplying them with Tobacco that instead of expecting to pay
prices suited to the risque of Exporting it, they will begin to think it is in
their power to engross our whole Crops on their own terms for you cannot
conceive how many proposals made to them have come to our knowledge,
however when they answer your letter transmit us a Copy and if they leave
room for doing any thing you may depend we will back you properly — You
desire us to point out the Articles wanted and were to send you patterns but
we answer as we did in our former letter that this is not necessary We are
in great want of all kinds of European Manufactures especially for Winter
Wear nothing can come amiss, Silks are perhaps the least demanded of any
thing especially in Winter. French Wines do not sell well unless they are of
the very best quality and its best not to meddle with them unless you im-
ported them from France on purpose and coud depend on having the best.
1338
AMERICAN THEATRE
Nails, Glass (Window Glass) as well as Glass Ware is wanted. Some Coarse
Hats, Coarse Stockings 8c Soldier’s Shoes wou’d sell well, all kind of West
India produce is and will be dear, notwithstanding the great Number of
Prizes taken with those Commodities, all sorts of woolen Goods must an-
swer well this whole Winter 8c every kind Goods fit for warm weather will
sell well all the year round; therefore we think you cannot be at a
loss. . . . We think our Publick affairs wear a better aspect than when we
wrote you last, therefore no need to stop any thing from coming this way. If
many Goods are arrived for us from Europe send them forward by the best
Conveyances, and advise our T. Morris the Vessells, Masters 8c value by
each. We have now fixed him in the Mercantile line in France during the
present troubles and you may keep up a Constant Correspondence with him,
perhaps he may soon have it in his power to supply both you 8c us with all
the Goods that will be wanted from thence. We have given orders for a little
Vessell to be sent you from Maryland, another from Carolina with Rice 8c
Indigo and shall keep sending and ordering as many as we can. You dont
seem to write as if you approved much of Mr Harrison being joined with
you in Consignments and Capt. Lockhart says the business of his Vessell
was not well attended to or he might have been here some weeks ago, this
shoud not happen Vessells now sail at a monstrous Expense and the dis-
patch ought to be quick. If you cannot attend closely you had better get Mr
Harrison or some other to do the business or hire an excellent Clerk to as-
sist you. When any Vessells of our Concern or recommendation arrive we
know you will exert yourself to serve them 8c Comply with the Orders but
pray cfispatch them for Vessells being scarce delay hinders your own reim-
bursement. —
The Cornelia & Molly shall go back to you but not on Publick account
as we want to throw Funds into your hands indeed we shall make you many
Consignments as possible.
We think if you cou’d hire a small fast sailing French Vessell and dis-
patch her immediately for Carolina Consd to Mr John Dorsius Mercht there
with a Cargo of Powder, some linens Checks 8cc. you will make a Golden
Voyage. You may Interest us half or two thirds, there is some British
Cruizers on that Coast but if the Vessell is small she may easily escape by
lying Hull too every Morning at Day break untill she can see all round her,
she will see the Enemy when they cannot see her and by setting their course
avoid em. She shoud not cross the Gulph Stream untill in the Latitd of
Charles Town 8c then run right in, dont lose a Moment in executing this
Scheme if you do execute it 8c we hope you will, pray take care to have a
trusty faithfull Master, you can order back Rice 8c Indigo 8c ship the latter
Ordr Mr Thos Morris or his order at any Port you please in France, he will
have agents at every Port, therefore you cannot go amiss, but we believe he
will fix with Messrs Pliarne Penet 8c Co at Nantes instead of Mr Schweig-
hauser all the rest as mentioned to you before. Capt. James Robinson the
Bearer of this has orders to take in any Goods you have to ship 8c if you
shou’d not have enough to fill him on the Publick Account, you had best put
OCTOBER 1776
1339
some onboard on your & our account, but if you fill him on Publick Account,
then hire if you can some Vessells to sail under his Convoy which you can
ballast with Limes 8c Molasses 8c put onbd such other Goods as you think
proper, indeed We think you cannot do better than to keep Chartering
French Vessells to come this way, they can navigate cheaper than our Ves-
sells 8c consequently can afford to take lower freights 8c they shall all go
back to you with Flour Lumber Tobacco 8cc. In short when Cargoes arrive
either one way or t’other, the Proffits are now so great it is well worth
risquing largely for one Arrival will pay for two three or four losses there-
fore its best to keep doing something constantly. We are Sir [8cc.]
Willing Morris 8c Co.
1. Papers of William Bingham, 1776-79, LC.
Diary of Christopher Marshall 1
[Philadelphia] Octr 20th 1776
. . . in the Evening Post Numb. 273. 2 is this remarkable Extract of a Let-
ter dated Dominica Sept. — viz, Capt Stout of Antigua told us that he had
heard, from Taylor 8c Bell of that Island, that a house, that does the govern-
ment business there, had poisned ten Cags of Rum, which they shipped in
the Creighton , Capt Ross, and directed for General Howe, in hopes that if
the Ship Should be taken, the Americans would Send those to the Camp, on
Supposing them of an Uncommon good Quality, what a diabolical Project!
— He had it from their own mouths! O dreadful! — 3
1. Diary of Christopher Marshall, HSP.
2. Pennsylvania Evening Post , October 19th, 1776.
3. The Creighton was captured, but the poisoned rum story seems to be without foundation.
See Volume 5.
Van Bebber 8c Harrison to the Maryland Council of Safety 1
Gent St Pierre Mart [ini] que Octo 20. 1776
Our last respects to you were by Capt [John] Martin, who sailed from
this port the 11th Currt with a valuable Cargoe - since then your favours of
the 12th Sept have come safe to hand p the Molly Capt [Thomas] Conway
- His Cargoe, tho’ a very proper one, we are sorry to acquaint, has come to
a most wretched Market - 57/. p barrl for his Flour 8c 36/. for his Bread is
the most we have been able to obtain, 8c his Tobacco is yet unsold. - Since
disposing of this Flour, a Cargoe of Philadelphia Superfine has been sold
for 53/. This fall has been occasioned by the immense Quantities that have
arrived 8c continue to arrive from France on a Supposition that it would be
a scarce article here. - We fear there will be no change for the better till to-
wards the middle of Winter 8c Spring when we imagine it will begin to ad-
vance again as in all probability the Exportations from France will cease
when it is known how badly their Speculations must turn out. - And plenty
as Flour is, we know of nothing that can be sent from Maryland that will
1340
AMERICAN THEATRE
turn to a better Acot so surprizingly are we glutted with Tobacco 8c all
kinds of provisions -
We almost despair of supplying you with the large Quantities of Wool-
ens 8c Salt that you want - they are scarce 8c command ready Cash - but we
shall do our best -
As Vessells with you are difficult to procure 8c Markets here very low,
we fear you cannot easily remit us money sufficient for the extensive En-
gagements we have 8c are to enter into — We would therefore beg leave to
propose a Method which we think may be employ'd with more Success 8c fa-
cility than any other at present - It is, if possible, to get a Boat or two out
from S. Carolina with Indigo - One Pilot Boat ballasted with that Article
would yield more Money here than three or four Brigts with Flour 8c
Tobo It is constantly worth from 6/a 12/. p lb according to Quality, 8c is
the only Article of our Exports that can be shippd from hence to France,
and the risk of getting it here will be trifling as it may be sent in such small
fast sailing Vessells. -
A part of Capt Martin’s Tobacco has been sold in Statia a 42/. p C[w]t
8c yesterday we shipped the remainder for that place.
We hope to dispatch Conway in 8 or 10 days with some Woolens, Mus-
kets, Duck 8cca 8c are 8cca
1. Red Book, XI, Md. Arch.
21 Oct.
Journal of H. M. S. Blonde , Captain Philemon Pownoll1
Octor 1776 Moored off Quebec
Monday 21 Fresh Gales and Squally, AM rec’d our Stores from the Lord
Howe P M arrived from the Command of the Carle ton
Armed Schooner on Lake Champlain Lieutt [James Richard]
Dacres, with the news of Taking and Destroying 11 Sail of
Rebel Armed Vessels on the said Lake
1. PRO, Admiralty 51/118.
Captain Charles Douglas, R. N., to Philip Stephens1
(Copy) Isis Quebec 21st October 1776
Sir Having for the space of Six Weeks, attended the Naval Equipment
for the important Expedition on Lake Champlain, I (on the 4h instant) saw
with unspeakable joy the reconstructed Ship alluded to in former Letters
now called the Inflexible and commanded by Lieutenant [John] Schank her
rebuilder; sail from St Johns twenty Eight Days after her keel was laid, to-
wards the place of rendezvous — taking in her eighteen twelve pounders,
beyond the Shoal which is on this side the Isle aux Noix, in her way up.
The prodigies of labor which have been effected, since the Rebels were
driven out of Canada in creating, recreating, and equiping a fleet of above
OCTOBER 1776
1341
thirty fighting Vessels of different Sorts and Sizes, and all carrying Can-
non, since the beginning of July, together with the transporting over Land
& afterwards drigging up the two rapids of St Terese and St Johns, thirty
Long boats, the flat bottom boats, a Gondola weighing about thirty Tons,
and above four hundred Battoes, almost exceeds belief. His Excellency the
Commander in Chief of the Army and all the other Generals, are of the
opinion that the Sailors of His Majesty’s Ships and Transports, have (far
beyond the usual limits of their duty) Exerted themselves to the utmost, on
this great and toilsome Occasion. Nor has a Man of that profession, uttered
a single Words expressive of discontent amidst all the hardships they have
undergone so truly patriotic are the motives, by which they are actuated. To
Crown the whole above two hundred prime Seamen of the Transports, im-
pelled by a due sense of their Country’s wrongs did most generously engage
themselves, to serve in our armed Vessels, during the Expedition; and Em-
barked accordingly, such having then been our unremitting toils, I am
happy beyond Expression in hereby acquainting my Lords Commissioners
of the Admiralty, that the destruction of almost the whole of the Rebel
Fleet, in two several Battles on the 11th and 13th instant is our reward as
may appear by a Letter of General Burgoyne’s of the 12th Instant, and by
the Accounts I am this day honoured with, from General Carleton, of which
I send you Copies; as also by a Letter from Captain [Thomas] Pringle of
the Lord Howe armed Ship who commands the Officers and Seamen on the
Lake, and, who bestows the highest Encomiums on their behaviour in both
Engagements The Rebels did by no means believe it possible, for us to get
upon Lake Champlain this Year; were much surprized at the first sight of
the Van of our force but ran into immediate and utter confusion, the mo-
ment a three masted Ship made her appearance being a phenomenon, they
never so much as dreamt of. Thus have His Majesty’s faithful Subjects here
(contrary to a Crude but prevailing idea) by straining every nerve in their
Countrys cause outdone them in working, as much as in fighting.
The Ship Inflexible with the Maria and Carleton Schooners, all recon-
structions did the whole of the second days business, the flat bottomed Ra-
deau, called the Thunderer, and the Gondola called the Loyal Convert ; with
the Gun boats, not having been able to keep up with them: the said Gondola
was taken from the Rebels, the day the seige of Quebec was raised The
loss we have sustained, considering the great superiority of the Insurgents,
is very small consisting of between thirty and forty Men, killed and
wounded Seamen, Soldiers, artillery men and all eight whereof were slain
outwright, and Six wounded on board of the Carleton ; as to further partic-
ulars, I must refer you to Lieutenant Dacres, who (in justice due to his
merit for the part he bore in destroying the Rebel Fleet) I am happy in
sending upon this occasion to their Lordships in the Stag Transport as also
in thereby complying with the General’s desire, who for the same reason, is
pleased to honor him with the Conveyance of his Dispatches.
If any further occurrences happen, which may be worthy of their
Lordships cognizance, they shall be the subject of some future Letter. In the
OCTOBER 1776
1343
mean time, being about to prepare an Express for Lord Howe, and recom-
mending all the Gentlemen, according to the herewith inclosed List, who
have had the honor of serving His Majesty in this brilliant Expedition, to
that of the present notice, or future protection of my Lords Commissioners
of the Admiralty, remain &c
Charles Douglas.
P:S: Presuming that the early knowledge of this great Event, in the
Southern parts of Europe, may be of advantage to His Majesty’s Service I
have written an account thereof to his ambassador at Madrid, by a Ship
which is sailed for Barcelona with a fair wind. I hope their Lordships will
approve thereof.
[Enclosures]
Copy
Officers & Petty Officers detached from His Majts Squadron in the
River St Lawrence to serve on Lake Champlain
By Captain Douglas’s
appointmt
lost his right arm
the Engagement
Capt Thos Pringle
2d Lieut Jas Richd Dacres
Lieut John Schank Commander
Lieut John Starke Do
Lord Howe
Blonde
Canceaux
Maria (recreated
at St Johns)
Brunswick
Isis
Lieut Edwd Longcroft
Commander
3d Lieut Thomas Butler
Lieut Geo. Scott Commander Gaspee
2d Lieut Augt Hervey Triton
Mr Jno Curling Mate of the Isis
“ Jas Peavey Do Triton
“ Robt Brown Do Blonde
“ Edwd Pelleu Do Do
“ Thos Harrison Do Garland
Having nearly
serv’d their
time
Midshipmen
Mr Paul Minichin
Wm Anderson
Patk Camegy
Jas Mears
“ Thos Dalby
Edwd Garston
Isis
Triton
Blonde
A List of His Majesty’s Naval force on Lake Champlain.
Ship Inflexible
Schooner Maria
Do Carleton
Lieut [John] Schank.
Lieut [John] Starke.
Lieut [James Richard]
Dacres.
1 8 twelve pounder.
14 Sixes
12 Sixes
1344
AMERICAN THEATRE
f 6 Twenty fours
Radeau Thunderer Lieut [George] Scott \ 6 Twelves
2 Howitzers
Gondola Loyal Convert Lieut [Edward] Longcroft 7 Nines
20 Gun Boats Each a brass field piece some
tweny fours to nines some with
Howitzers
4 Long Boats With each a Carriage Gun
serving as Arm’d Tenders
24 Long boats With Provisions
A List of the Rebel Fleet on Lake Champlain
Schooner Royal Savage
Schooner Revenge
A Sloop
Cutter
Lee
Galley
Congress
Galley
Washington
Galley
T rumble
Eight Gondola’s
Schooner
Galley Gates
8 Six pounders and 4 fours burnt 11th October at
Valicour [Valcour]
4. 6 pounders & 4 fours Escaped to Ticonderogo
the 13th October
10 four Pounders, Escaped to Ticonderogo, the
13 th October
One 9 pounder in her bow, one twelve pounder
in her Stem, and 2 Sixes in her Sides, Abandon’d
13 th October
Two Eighteen pounders in her bow, Two 12
poundrs in her Stern, and 6 Sixes in her sides,
run on Shore Sc Burnt 13th Octr
One Eighteen, And one 12 Poundr in her bow
Two Nines in her Stern, and Six Sixes in her
Sides; taken the 13th October
Like the Washington , Escaped to Ticonderogo the
13th October
Carrying one 8 Pounder in the Bow, and two
nines in the Sides, Some of these had four Guns
in their Sides — One taken the 1 1 [th] One
Sunk the 11th four burnt the 13th — 1 Escaped
And one Missing.
Taken from Major Skeene was gone for Pro-
visions
Expected to join them in a few days.
Copy
A List of the Seamen detached from His Majts Ships Sc Vessels in the
River St Lawrence to serve on Lake Champlain
Isis
Blonde
Seamen
100
70
OCTOBER 1776
1345
lately wrecked
Triton
Garland
Canceaux
Magdalen '
Brunswic >
Gaspee
Treasury Armed
Brig
Fell
Charlotte
Voluntiers from
no Ship
Do from the
Transports
>
60
30
40
18
Province armed Vessels
9
214
Total
1. PRO, Colonial Office, 5/125, 81b, 81e, 81f, 81h.
670 Exclusive of Eight
Officers and 19
Petty Officers
John Langdon to Captain George Wentworth1
Portsmouth October 21st 1776
You have herewith a Letter from the Honle Continental Marine Com-
mittee Directed to the Honle Committee at Providence to Deliver me a Sett
of Guns for the Ship Raleigh which You are to Receive & forward by Land
to Boston, from whence they are to come by Water you are also to receive
& forward a Quantity of Ball, from the Honle Committee and forward with
the Guns the Memorandum of which you have herewith, I shall Depend
much on your Care & Dispatch, by all means forward as soon as possible
one or two of the Guns of each sort, That we may close all the Carriages
(which have been laying all Summer ready for putting together [) ] that
we may have them all Ready by the Time the whole of the Guns get round
here don’t fail to write me on your Arrival at Providence, whether the Guns
can be had and how soon you can get them forward That I may send a Ves-
sel to Boston in Readiness for them
You have a Letter herewith to Messrs Clarke & Nightingale2 Who are
Gentlemen will do any thing in their Power to give you Dispatch. Your
most [&c.]
J Langdon — Agent
for the United States
[Enclosure]
Memorandum of Guns & Shott for Frigate Raleigh of 32 Guns Vizt
26 — 12 Pounders
6 — 6 or 4 ditto
1346 AMERICAN THEATRE
Shott 50 to each 12 Pounder round
20 ditto Chain
20 ditto Cross Barr
20 ditto Grape ditto
T o each 6 or 4 Pounder —
50 Grape
50 Round
1300
520
520
520
300 -
300 -
'50 Grape to each'
1000 '
20 Swivels <
> Shott
50 round ditto
k J
1000
J
Cap. George Wentworth [Portsmouth, October 21, 1776]
You are to Receive the above Guns & Shott from the Honle Committee
at Providence Sc forward them, with all dispatch to Boston by Land in order
to come Round here by Water from thence Your [Sec.]
Jn° Langdon Agent for the
United States -
1. John Langdon Letter Book, Captain J. G. M. Stone Private Collection, Annapolis.
2. Ibid.
John Langdon to William Whipple1
My Friend Portsmo October 21st 1776 -
Inclosed you have a Letter from your Lady which wish safe to hand,
nothing material since [y]our Departure, excepting many valuable Prizes
carried into Falmouth, Salem Sc Newbury, — The Ship Royal Exchange has
been Tryed & Condemned, nothing allowed either to Capt or Passengers, ex-
cept Wages as p Portledge Bill, - Capt Plaince had two or three Hhds of
Rum which were not Included in Cargo and as he is passenger and not Inti-
tled to Wages and of Course nothing to support him, I have given them up
for his use, no doubt you’ll remember what Cap. [Joseph] Olney the prize
Master mentioned relative to the mutiny on board Sc that Cap. Bowden Sc
also Cap. Plaince, behaved like Gentlemen of Honor by Giveing up their
Arms Sec for the Defence of the Ship Their Conduct since here notwith-
standing their hard Fortune has been verry Genteel, well becoming the
True Sons of Ireland
I have an order from the Honle Committee for Guns this Instant Re-
ceived, shall send off this Day to procure them if it is to be done without In-
jureing those Ships at Providence my respects to Collo [Josiah] Bartlett if
he is with you 8c all Friends - Honle Your [Sec.]
J. Langdon
1* J°hn Langdon Letter Book, Captain J. G. M. Stone Private Collection, Annapolis.
OCTOBER 1776
1347
Journal of the Massachusetts Council 1
[Watertown] Monday October 21st 1776.
On Motion Ordered that as the Sloop Tyrannicide is now altered into a
Brigantine that the Name of Sloop be erased and the name of Brigantine be
inserted in the Commission of Capt [John] Fisk Commander and Jonathan
Haradan’s Lieut presented this day.
1. Mass. Arch., vol. 20, 1, 2.
Petition of James Arnaud, Master of the Prize Ship Queen of England ,
to the Massachusetts Council 1
To the Honble the Council of the State of the Massachusetts Bay
The Petition of James Arnaud late Master of the Ship Queen of England,
and brought into the Port of Boston. —
Humbly Sheweth
That one Capt Prince in a Ship belonging to Mr Thomas Russell hath
liberty, and is about proceeding on a Voyage to Cape Francois, and your pe-
titioner may have a passage in said Ship
He humbly prays your Honors would permit him to take passage in
said Ship that he may get home to his Family again. —
And as in duty bound shall pray
James Arnaud
[Endorsed] In Council Octr 21. 1776 Read & Ordered that the prayer of
the Petition be granted and that the Petitioner have leave to depart this
State in a Ship Owned by Mr Thomas Russell whereof is Commander Job
Prince bound to Cape Francois - 2
John Avery Dpy Secy
1. Mass. Arch., vol. 165, 367.
2. Arnaud did not depart on the ship for Cape Francois. On October 24 he petitioned again,
and was granted permission to leave on board the brig Dolphin for Spain or Portugal.
Boston Gazette, Monday, October 21, 1776
Watertown, October 21.
The brig mentioned in our last, taken by Capt. [Simon] Forrester,
then said to be worth £36,000, is safe arrived at Falmouth, Casco Bay, and
we hear she proves to be worth more than double that sum sterl.1
Last Thursday a brig the fourth prize of Capt. Silas Atkins [Jr.] ar-
rived safe at Boston, with about 1500 quintals of dry Cod Fish.2 ’Tis said
he had like to have taken a West Indiaman, a three decker, laden with cot-
ton Sec.
1. The brig Mary and James, 120 tons, Thomas Moore, master.
2. The brigantine Montague, Alexander Blues, master.
1348
AMERICAN THEATRE
John Bradford to John Hancock 1
Sir _ Boston 21st Octobr. 1776 -
I have the pleasure to acquaint you with the arrival of the Ship Alex-
ander at Dartmouth with abot 3000 Quintals fish sent in by the providence
Sloop Capt [John P[aul] Jones this intelligence I Reed Last Evg. in a
Ltr from Messrs Watson Sc Spooner from Plimouth.2 its the first line Eve
reed from Mr Watson since I been in this department tho Eve wrote Sundry
Letters to him urging the Settlement of his Accounts he now promises to
get them ready soon — 3
I pray Sir I may be favour’d with Orders how to conduct with pas-
sengers who are, or may be br[ough]t here in prizes here are several now
in town who have nothing to Subsist on. their bills not obtaining Credit I
have apply’d to some of the Council and they refer me to the Congress it
would prevent many uneasy feelings if I knew the mind of the Hon Con-
gress respecting that matter -
It is some time since the Appeal from the decree given against the ship
peggy was sent to Philadelphia when that matter is determin’d I shall be
highly favour’d to know it, as I am Obliged to keep a person on board to
pump her she being very leaky, the Beef on board her is Still unsold, as I
was Apply’d to by the deputy Commissary to reserve it for the Army, but
no Orders are yet come forwd to deliver it,4 shall be glad to receive orders
so Soon as may be respecting the Lynch as She is at present haul’d up, but
rimains in pay. I have had no intelligence of the hancock or Franklin since
they Sail’d wch is now four weeks But hope soon to have good tidings, the
Lee Sail’d Last week.
this day the independant Company making a most Respectable Apperance
set of [f] for Newbury to Accompany Capt McNeil [Hector McNeill] to this
port in the boston Frigat, Sc this hour a large Ship from Antigua prize to
the putnam of providence Anchored here5
Your friends are great disappointd in they happiness they promised
themselves in Seeing you this Fall but none more than Your [8cc.]
1. John Bradford Letter Book, LC.
2. Ephraim Spooner and William Watson, Plymouth merchants.
3. Watson had been agent at Plymouth for Washington’s fleet.
4. The Peggy, taken by Washington’s schooners Hancock and Franklin, was the subject of long
fruitless litigation.
5. The ship Camden, 300 tons, taken by the Rhode Island privateer Putnam, Captain Chris-
topher Whipple.
Journal of the Committee Appointed to Build Two Continental
Frigates in Rhode Island 1
[Providence] October 21. 1776 Meeting in being Sec
This Committee having Received a Letter from the Marine Committee at
Philadelphia in which the Conduct of this Committee was much blamed, for
not delivering Mr Langdon Esqr a suit of the Cannon made for Frigates
OCTOBER 1776
1349
Built hear, and as their is many things bare hard on the Charrecters of the
Committee Men as Merchants and as Gentlemen, Mr Ward Mr John Brown
and Mr Clarke, are appointed a Committee to answer the same, and for-
ward it by the next post.
1. Journal R. I. Frigates, RIHS.
Newport Mercury , Monday, October 21, 1776
Newport, October 21.
Since our last have arrived at safe ports; a transport snow of 250 tons,
loaded with provisions for New York, taken by Capt. [Joseph] Jauncey; a
bark of about 200 tons, from Jamaica, loaded with sugar, Sec. taken by the
Cabot , Capt. [Elisha] Hinman; a ship of 370 tons, loaded with fish and
lumber from Nova-Scotia for Jamaica, taken by Capt. Job Pearce; a ship of
about 300 tons, from Quebec for London, ballast with coal, Sec. taken by
Capt. [Thomas] Stacey; a schooner from the West Indies for Newfound-
land, loaded with rum, Sec. taken by Capt. [Abner] Coffin; and several oth-
ers, but by whom taken we have not learned.1
There is much talk, in the French islands, of a speedy rupture between
France and England, and it was said that Jamaica was actually besieged.
Capt. Vickary, in [illegible] days from Hispaniola, informs that about
a fortnight before he sailed, an English frigate took an American vessel,
near that island, and carried her off for Jamaica; and that a French frigate,
whose topmasts were then down, got ready and sailed in two hours for Ja-
maica to demand the American vessel, but had not returned when Capt.
Vickary came away; and that no vessel is suffered to wear English colours
in apy French port; but Continental colours are displayed every Sunday,
and much admired.2
1. For libels see Providence Gazette, October 26, 1776.
2. David Vickary was master of the sloop Union.
Governor Jonathan Trumbull to George Washington1
[Extract] New Haven October 21st 1776
Colo [William] Richmond with his Regiment consisting of 400 men,
with 54 Whale Boats arrived some days since at New London. I have or-
dered him and Lieut Colo [Henry Beekman] Livingston with their men,
the Whale Boats and 1200 Tons of small craft to come to me at this place
without delay. They are designed for the Long Island expedition with Colo
[William] McIntosh at Fairfield. They may be hourly expected — I could
wish General Clinton Brigadier General of the Militia in the State of New
York might be sent, to take upon him the conduct of this expedition, if he
can be spared, and also to be informed whether Your Excellency would
think proper to give any different orders respecting it —
1. Trumbull Papers, XXIX, Letter Book IV, 373, ConnSL.
388-825 0-73-87
1350
AMERICAN THEATRE
Governor Sir Guy Carleton to Captain Charles Douglas, R. N.1
[No.] 201 Crown Point 21st of October 1776
Sir I have received your letters of the 8th and 13th Inst relating to the
seamen whom you desire to be sent down, orders for which have already
been given by me, as Captain [Thomas] Pringle will more particularly in-
form you of.
I am very sorry to hear you think the Blonde cannot winter here. I was
in hopes that if she could not remain in the Cul de sac some other place
might be found, such as Chaudiere or St Patricks Hole as the service very
much requires her stay; for altho we have defeated the Rebels upon the
Lake, and for the present made ourselves masters of it, yet as the advanced
season of the year may make our establishing of this post impracticable,
and therefore oblige us to fall back into Canada for our winter quarters, the
Rebels may probably exert themselves to equip another fleet, and dispute
the lake again with us, it is therefore of the utmost importance to His Maj-
esty’s Service that the Blonde as well as the other ship and as many seamen
as they can bear, remain in the river St Lawrence if it be practicable, in
order that we may be prepared to be before the Rebels upon the lake in the
Spring.
It has always been intended by me that the victualling ships should be
dispatched as fast as possible, having received an order to that effect from
the Treasury, which I communicated to you some time past,2 and gave
directions about to the Lieutenant Governor at the same time, if I remem-
ber right.
Least I should not have the pleasure of writing to you again before
your departure I must again thank you for the many good offices you have
done, and the ready assistance you have given to His Majesty’s service here,
and I wish you a good Voyage and safe arrival in England. I am 8cc
1. Guy Carleton Letter Book, Haldimand Papers, Additional Ms. 21699, BM.
2. See Carleton to Douglas, June 29, 1776, in Volume 5.
Memoirs of William Smith 1
[Manor of Livingston] 21 Octr
Collo. [Robert] Livingston made us a Morning Visit and shewed me a Copy
of Genl. Arnold’s Letter of 12t to General Gates. It was dated at Schuyler
Island and informs him of an Engagement on the lit. off Cumberland Bay
at the North End of Lake Champlaine — He lost a Schooner with 60 Men
(which was the most considerable of his Vessels) ran on Shore 8c burnt by
the British Forces 8c had another Vessel sunk. He begs for Boats to meet
him and two [szc tow] of his Fleet to Tcononderoge in Case the Wind
should be southerly 8c says he has expended 34 th. of his Ammunition This
Letter also represents that Naval Strength of Burgoyne to be a Ship of
16 Guns — about 10 or 12 more less considerable besides 15 Gondolas
with large Cannon in their Prows. Arnold says the Engagemt. was from
OCTOBER 1776
1351
half after 12 o’Clock till 5 PM. and that his Opponents first attacked 8c first
withdrew. By a Letter from PRL [Peter R. Livingston] of the 19t. I find
that the Convention at Fish kill consider the Fleet of the Provincials as to-
tally destroyed 8c that the whole Militia are ordered up on the Apprehension
that the British Army will be across the Lake in a few Days. He informs me
also that [Charles] Lee has repelled an advanced Party of 1500 near West
Chester and that a Ship is carried into Providence bound to Quebec laden
with 15000 Blankets, Linnen 8cc. If these Blankets are wanted there this
Loss cannot be provided for this Year. Nothing could be more opportune to
the Provincials. At this very Juncture private Families were in Expectation
of being called upon for a Contribution to cover the naked Soldiers and the
Philad: Papers sound an Alarm of the Necessity.
1. Sabine, ed.. Memoirs of William Smith, II, 26-27.
Journal of Ambrose Serle 1
[On board H. M. S. Eagle , New York]
Monday, 21st. [October]
This Afternoon the Harriot Packet came in from England, after a Pas-
sage of 6 Weeks 8c 5 Days, and brought me long-expected Letters from my
dearest Wife 8c other Friends. The Packet was attacked by a Rebel Priva-
teer so near England as Long. 20°. and lost her Captain and 5 men who
were killed in the Engagement. About 9 or 10 were wounded. The Priva-
teer, meeting with a stout Resistance, at last sheered off; and the Packet ar-
rived without further molestation.
1. Tatum, ed., Serle’ s Journal, 126, 127.
New-York Gazette, Monday, October 21, 1776
New-York, October 21.
On Monday last, the Perseus, Captain Elphinstone, with eleven Sail of
Transports, having on board Troops and Provisions, arrived in Port, after a
passage of eleven Weeks from Portsmouth. The Perseus took two Rebel Pri-
vateers and a trading Vessel with a valuable Cargo, off the Coast, and
brought them safe into Port.
On Friday 65 Sail of Vessels, under Convoy of the Diamond and Am-
buscade, with the second Division of the Hessians, and 1000 Wal deckers,
under the command of the Generals Kniphausen and Schmidtz, and a Num-
ber of Recruits for the British Troops, in all about 8000 effective Men,
arrived off Sandy-Hook. They sailed from Plymouth Sound the 27th of
last July. In the Fleet were several Victualers, and Vessels laden with Draught
Horses for the Train, and Baggage of the Army.
The Unicorn Frigate, one of the swiftest sailing Ships in the Fleet
parted Company off Nantucket Shoals, in chase of an American Vessel.1
1352
AMERICAN THEATRE
The Falcon and Active Frigates, and other Ships, came in from the
Southward, in the Course of last week.
1. See Independent Chronicle, Boston, October 10, 1776.
Alexander Brown to Vice Admiral Richard Lord Howe1
May it please Your Lordship,
Upon the thirtieth of July last, the Dinah Brig a Victualler whereof I
was Master sailed from St Helens under the Convoy of His Majesty’s Ship
Perseus; the Brig sailed very heavy upon a Wind in so much She would
scarcely steer keeping the Helm for the post part a Lee. I kept Company
with the Fleet, until the sixteenth of August, when being far to Leeward,
tho’ could see the Man of War back 8c fill his Main-Top sail, 8c told twenty
Sail of Ships to Windward; the Burstwick Brig, a Victualler being to Lee-
ward tack’d and joined me. We made the proper Signal as Leewardmost
Ships: Vizt the Main-top Sail clued up with a Jack at the Main-top-mast-
Shrouds; the Signal continued out from three until four O’Clock P. M. of
the same Day. We kept sight of some of the Fleet ’till dark, having our
Starboard Tacks on board, the Wind NWBW, lying SWBW that same
Night We lost Sight of the Fleet intirely. I kept Company with the Burst-
wick & steered to Westward inclining a little Southward as the Winds
permitted, and endeavoured to keep to the Westward as much as possible to
shorten the distance. Upon the 24th of August I parted from the Burstwick
8c joined Company again September the first, steering as before as the
Winds favoured. Upon the 18th instant at 6 A M saw a strange Ship W N
W from me, it being calm 8c great Sea from the Westward - upon 19th at 1
P M a Breese sprung up from the Southward, the Burstwick being some
distance from me to the N W, I steered down to join Company, this Ship
did the same, the Wind coming to the Westward, I fell to Leeward of the
Burstwick 8c could not join her, this Ship steered for the Burstwick, I
stood to the Northward from them, it was dark, cloudy 8c variable
Weather, at 6 A.M. the Ship gave Chace to me, She appeared to be a
Transport, I kept on as before, having the Wind at SWBW, at 9 Do they
hailed me 8c run up along Side, having all Hands at Quarters with lighted
Matches 8c Tompkins out, order’d me on board with my Papers. She
mounted 14 Guns formerly 16 with eight Swivels about twenty hands or
Men — She proved to be the Nancy of London fitted out by Messrs Muir;
Son 8c Atkinson, sailed from Cork about Six Weeks, was taken Eight Days
before,2 the Master of the Privateer not being able to man both Vessels,
sent me and Company on board the Burstwick 8c set Us at liberty. Upon
the 22d instant We joined His Majesty’s Ship Diamond 8c fleet 8c kept Com-
pany ’till our Arrival at this Port.
The above account is as exact and real as I am able to give. I am, with pro-
found respect, Your Lordship’s [8cc.]
Alexr Brown
OCTOBER 1776
1353
(Copy) Howe
Dated at New York, 21st Day of October 1776.
1. PRO, Admiralty 1 /487. Enclosed in Howe to Stephens, October 23.
2. The Nancy had been captured by the Massachusetts privateer schooner Hawke, Captain
John Lee. Nancy’s prize, the Dinah, was retaken by H. M. S. Juno on October 6, 1776,
Vice Admiralty Register, vol. 5, N. S. Arch.
Journal of the Continental Congress 1
[Philadelphia] Monday, October 21, 1776
The Secret Committee having informed Congress that a vessel was ar-
rived in New Hampshire, with a cargo on account of the Continent, among
which was a quantity of flints.
Resolved , That the Secret Committee be directed to order 30,000 of the
said flints to General Schuyler, for the use of the army in the northern de-
partment, and the remainder to General Washington, for the use of the
army under his immediate command.
Congress took into consideration the form of the oath to be taken by
the officers in the service of the continent, which was agreed to as follows:
I , do acknowledge the Thirteen United States of America,
namely, New Hampshire, Massachusetts Bay, Rhode Island, Connecticut,
New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, Maryland, Virginia,
North Carolina, South Carolina, and Georgia, to be free, independent, and
sovereign states, and declare, that the people thereof owe no allegiance or
obedience to George the third, king of Great Britain; and I renounce, refuse
and abjure any allegiance or obedience to him; and I do swear, that I will,
to the utmost of my power, support, maintain, and defend the said United
States against the said king, George the third, and his heirs and successors,
and his and their abettors, assistants and adherents; and will serve the said
United States in the office of , which I now hold, and in any other
office which I may hereafter hold by their appointment, or under their au-
thority, with fidelity and honour, and according to the best of my skill and
understanding. So help me God.
Resolved , That every officer who holds, or shall hereafter hold, a com-
mission or office from Congress, shall subscribe the above declaration, and
take the foregoing oath.
1. Ford, ed., JCC, VI, 889, 890, 89S-94.
Continental Marine Committee to Augustin Lawrence and Samuel
Tuder 1
Gentlemen - Philadelphia, 21st October, 1776.
Your letter of the 7th inst. advising that the ships Congress and Mont-
gomery were nearly ready for launching, was received. You will observe the
above names are now to be given to those ships. We are, at this distance, at
a loss to direct their destination. The marine committee have therefore
1354
AMERICAN THEATRE
wrote to the Convention for the State of New- York, now at the Fishkills,
requesting that they would give you proper directions relative to the
launching and otherwise disposing of those ships with their stores, so as to
preserve them in the best manner you can from being destroyed. You are
therefore to correspond with the said Convention for that purpose.
Fra. Lewis, Phil. Livingston.
1. New York Provincial Congress, II, 340-41.
Francis Lewis to Captain John Hodge1
Capt. John Hodge: Philadelphia, 21st October, 1776.
Sir — I have received your letter of the 18th instant. In answer thereto re-
lative to the ship Montgomery, we have lately wrote the Convention of the
State of New-York leaving it to them to give direction in what manner to
dispose of the ships at Poughkeepsie; they are now convened at the Fish-
kills. If they should find it practicable to get these ships out this year, Con-
gress are disposed to have them fitted and manned with all expedition, but
in this you must consult the Convention and superintendents. If there
should be a probability of getting the ships out, you should furnish us with
a list of such officers as yourself with the gentlemen of the Convention shall
recommend.
You may apply to the Treasurer, Mr. Denning, to draw upon me here
for what money you may be in want of for your present supplies on account
of your sloop freight. I am sir, [&c.]
Fra. Lewis.
To Capt. John Hodge.
1. New York Provincial Congress, II, 340.
Secret Committee to William Bingham, Martinique1
In Secret Committee Philada October 21st 1776
Sir You have herewith a Copy of a letter we wrote you the 20th Ulto by
the Sloop Independance Capt [John] Young which we hope may arrive
safe as well as the Ship Betsey Capt Stevens and they will furnish you with
some Funds in addition to what you received by the Brigt Cornelia & Molly
Capt Lockard which is safely returned & by her we received your favour of
the 24th Ulto the Contents whereof are very agreable, the Mollasses you
remitted us sold high but we shou’d have preferred more Powder Muskets,
&c We send this by the Continental Armed Sloop Sachem commanded by
Capt James Robinson who we hope will have the pleasure to deliver it in
due time
This Vessell we have dispatched for the sole purpose of bringing back
such a supply of Blankets, Coarse Cloths, Coatings, Flannells & other
Woolen Goods suitable for Winters Wear as you can procure in
Maitinico they are already much wanted & will be more so, therefore we
OCTOBER 1776
1355
earnestly entreat You to exert your utmost interest to procure on the best
terms you possibly can a large supply of all the above Articles, You may
apply what Funds You are already possessed of towards the payment for
them & be assured that we shall Continue our remittances untill You dis-
charge every debt you Contract on the Publick Account We must press
you to dispatch Capt Robinson with as much of these Goods as he can take
in immediately 8c if you can procure more than he can carry You will please
to Charter or buy a Suitable Vessell to bring the surplus under his Convoy
but both must be dispatched immediately. We have sent another Vessell to
St Eustatia 8c one to the Cape2 on the like errands 8c our want of these
Goods is so great that many Ship load cou’d be dispensed with therefore
send all you possibly can. You will supply Capt Robinson what may be nec-
essary for the Sloops Expences 8c send his draft for the Amount on the Ma-
rine Committee We must not be disappointed of these Goods therefore you
must pledge the Credit of the United States pretty freely and we will leave
nothing in our power undone to send you supplys but Vessells are Scarce at
present, If you charter one or more [to] Send with Goods, Mollasses, Cof-
fee, Sugar 8cc we will load them all back with flour 8c Tobacco 8cc You shall
soon hear from us again being Sir [8cc.]
Rob1 Morris Josiah Bartlett
Richard Henry Lee Phil. Livingston
Fra8 Lewis
1. Simon Gratz Autograph Collection, Case 1, Box 20, HSP.
2. The Continental brig Andrew Doria, Captain Isaiah Robinson, sailed for St. Eustatius, and
the Continental brig Lexington, Captain William Hallock, for Cape Francois.
Minutes of the Pennsylvania Council of Safety1
In Council of Safety,
[Philadelphia] October 21st, 1776.
Resolved , That Mr. [George] Gray 8c Capt. [Joseph] Blewer be ap-
pointed to Sound the Eastern Channel of the River Delaware, near Fort Is-
land; to give directions for Stoping that Passage, if they should find it nec-
essary.
Mr. Towers was directed to deliver Wm. Kinnard One Piece of Russia
Duck, for making Sails for the Armed Boat Delaware.
1. Pennsylvania Colonial Records, X, 761.
Virginia Navy Board to Captain William Mitchell1
Sir,
We are inform’d by Captain Dean that you have taken three Men also
lately inlisted with him as Seamen (out of your Company of Marines) from
their duty on board his Vessel. - by the rules of the Navy Capt Dean had a
1356
AMERICAN THEATRE
right to inlist these Men and we therefore require you to deliver them to
Captain Dean on demand. - He complains of your having treated him very
ill, which will be inquird into hereafter, and in the mean time you are dis-
charg’d from Arrest by an Order of the Board herewith sent to Captain
Dean ^
(Signd) Thomas Whiting 1st Comr
[Williamsburg] 21st Octr 1776 —
1. Navy Board Letter Book, VSL. Captain William Deane of the schooner Revenge.
2. Ibid.
Journal of the North Carolina Council of Safety 1
[Halifax] Monday October 21st 1776.
Mr John Chase made Application for Letters of Marque and Reprisal
for the Sloop Polly belonging to Ambrose [Knox] and Company, William
Brown John Chase and Daniel Cartwright of this State and hath also deliv-
ered in a Schedule of the Number of Guns the names of the Officers the Pro-
visions and Warlike Stores on Board and hath given Bond and Security
agreeable to the Resolutions of the Continental Congress Resolved That
Commissions issue for the said Sloop Polly accordingly
Whereas it hath been represented that the Armed Brig Pennsylvania
Farmer ordered by this Board on a Cruize is not at this time fit to proceed
to Sea and that the Jamaica Fleet the object in view may pass our Latitudes
before the said Brig can be in readiness and thereby defeat the purpose of
said Cruize
Resolved That Sylvanus Pendleton Esqr commander of the Armed Ves-
sel King Taminy, fitted out by this State do immediately proceed to Sea and
Cruize the Term of Six Weeks against the Enemies of the United States of
America and to take as many of the British Ships as may be in his power
sending the same as soon as possible into some of the ports in this State for
Tryal and Condemnation and for that purpose to Cruize between the Lati-
tudes of thirty and thirty six and that after the Expiration of the said
Term of Six Weeks the said Sylvanus Pendleton shall return with the said
Vessel to Occacock or some other convenient port within the Limits of this
State
The Armed Vessels King Taminy and Pennsylvania Farmer being
ordered on a Cruize against the Enemies of the United States of America Re-
solved That Captain John Forster commander of the Armed Brig the General
Washington now lying at Wilmington do proceed with all possible dispatch
to Occacock Bar and to remain within the said Bar in Order to protect the
Trading Vessells which may be comeing into or going out of that port until
one of the aforesaid Armed Vessells shall return there or he shall be otherwise
Ordered2
1. Secretary of State Papers (Council of Safety, 1775-1776) , NCDAH.
2. Ibid., the Council notified the Commissioners at Edenton of this decision by a letter of this
date.
OCTOBER 1776
1357
Journal of the Georgia Council of Safety1
At a meeting of Council,
[Savannah] Oct. 21st, 1776.
Capt. Pray recommended Mr. Nudigate as his First Lieutenant, which
was agreed to.
1. Candler, comp., Georgia Records, I, 209.
Journal of H. M. Sloop Nautilus , Captain John Collins 1
October 1776 Lattde In 32.. 06 N
Sunday 20 at Noon Saw a Sail under the Lee gave Chace in Company
with HM Ship Galatea & Brig
First Part fresh Breezes and Cloudy Middle 8c Latter
Light Airs \/2 pt 6 PM Lost sight of the Chace at 9 Saw
a Light to the WNW
Monday 21 i/2 pt 1 Saw a Sail Cleared Ship for Action Spoke the Gal-
atea found She had taken the Sloop Little Dolphin of Ber-
muda from Philadelphia2 Sent a Midn and 4 Men on
board the Sloop A Northern Current Brot too
1. PRO, Admiralty 51/630.
2. Dolphin was carrying much needed flour and corn to Bermuda, Howe’s Prize List, March 31,
1777, ibid., 1/487.
22 Oct.
Certificate of Sir George Collier, R.N.1
I think proper to certifye that Mr Thos Stone whom I have appointed Com-
missary for the Exchange of Prisoners, is at the same Time Commander of
the Pacific Sloop, & has also the Direction of the Hostage Cartel Schooner —
Given on board the Rainbow 22d Octr 1776 [at Halifax]
Geo Collier
1. Mass. Arch., vol. 8, 104.
N ew -Hampshire [ State ] Gazette, Tuesday, October 22, 1776
Exeter, Octo. 22.
Last Sunday arrived at Saco a small prize schooner sent in by the Put-
nam Privateer, John Harmon Commander, having on board 300 bushels of
salt and some oyl. Next day arrived another schooner, taken by the same
privateer, having on board 375 quintals of green fish, and some oyl; she
brings an account of another small vessel taken that is not yet arrived, and
one that they took, which was afterwards drove ashore by a frigate. — The
vessel lost, but the people got on board the privateer again; the frigate drove
1358
AMERICAN THEATRE
the privateer into a harbour, and came to anchor, with intention of keeping
her in; but Capt. Harmon got one of his guns ashore on a point of land, and
fired on the frigate, when she returned whole broadsides into the woods at
them, but did no damage. Capt. Harmon after a few shot was so lucky as to
cut away her fore-stay, which obliged her to come to sail, and put to sea.
The Freeman’s Journal , Tuesday, October 22, 1776
Portsmouth, Oct. 22.
Saturday last was sent into this port a prize brig, bound to Bilboa, with
2000 quintals of fish, taken by a Salem privateer.
Yesterday was brought to this town, from Falmouth, 16 English Light
Horse, which were taken some time ago in a prize, and carried into that
port.
Monday 14th inst. arriv’d at Falmouth (C[asco] Bay) a large ship
from Jamaica, bound to London, laden with 500 hogsheads of sugar and 50
ditto of Rum, taken by the privateer Retaliation from Beverly, [Eleazer]
Giles commander. The ship mounted 6 carriage guns and fought the Priva-
teer two hours before she struck.1
Tuesday last arrived at Falmouth [Casco-Bay) a large brig (the Mary
and James ) commanded by Thomas More; she was from Falmouth in Eng-
land, bound to Naples, laden with balls, boxes of goods, cocoa, pepper,
allom, tin, head, 8cc. taken by Capt. Simon Forrester in the privateer sloop
Rover from Salem.
1. The prize was the St. Lucia , 300 tons, George Childs, master.
Massachusetts Council to Captain John Fisk, Commander of
the State Brigantine Tyrannicide 1
Capt John Fisk -
The Brigantine Tyrannicide under your Command being properly
Armed & Man’d, and in other respects fitted for a Cruise, You are hereby
Ordered & directed immediately to proceed to Sea, and Use your utmost
Endeavours to protect the Sea Coast, and Trade of the united States, And
you are also directed to exert yourself in making Captures of all Ships 8c
other Vessels, Goods, Wares, 8c Merchandize belonging to the King of Great
Britain, or any of his Subjects wherever residing, excepting only the Ships
8c Goods of the Inhabitants of Bermuda 8c the Bahama Islands. And you are
directed not to Cruise farther to the Southard than Lattitude twelve North,
nor farther East than Longitude [illegible] Degrees West from [London]
nor farther West than the Sholes of Nantucket, At all times using necessary
Precaution to prevent your Vessel from falling into the hands of the Enemy —
And whereas you have received a Commission Authorizing you to make
Captures as aforesaid, and a set of Instructions have been delivered you for
regulating your Conduct in that Matter, these Instructions you are hereby
Captain John Fisk of the Tyrannicide
1360
AMERICAN THEATRE
directed diligently to attend to, and if you are so fortunate as to make any
Captures you are to Order them to make the first safe Harbour within the
United States of America. And you are further Ordered not to expend
Your Ammunition unnecessarily, and only in times of Action or firing
Alarm, or Signall Guns.
In the Name & pr Order of Council
John Avery Dpy Secy
Council Chamber [Watertown] October 22d 1776
1. Mass. Arch., vol. 165, 377.
John Bradford to Robert Morris1
Sir Boston 22d Octor 1776
I am happy in receiveing the dispatches from the secret Committe by
this days post with directions how to conduct relative to the unfortunate
Capt [William] Tokely 8c his New Master Capt [Elijah Freeman]
Paine, with pleasure I acquaint you that after an interview with Mr
[Samuel] Adams 8c Colli [William] Whipple concerning this affair, the
same evening they left this Town — I saw Capt Tokely 8c Paine together, 8c
heard what each had to offer — the latter is a man of great volubility, 8c
realy offer’d such Arguments that I my self was not fully satisfied that the
Fanny was not bound to London, he charg’d the Capt with the Crime of be-
longing to England, and that he was only mate of this same Brig some time
ago imploy’d in being a victular to the fleet and Army, that the Brig sail’d
very heavy, and that the Congress wou’d not have imploy’d a stranger to
Command a heavy sailing vessell to go on such an Errand, the honest Capt
never let me into the secret that he was not Master when this voyage was
plann’d, which your letter inform’d me of — however Sir I was so well sat-
isfied of the integrity of Capt. Tokely that I dispatch’d him to piimouth the
15th Inst after obtaining the mighty boon from Paine to suffer him to re-
pair his vessell and furnish’d him with letters of credit for what he might
need, I set out this afternoon for piimouth where Capt Paine happens to
be fitting his privateer — I shall most strictly conform to your directions
and hope my conduct may meet your approbation2 — I am Sir with the
greatest respects Yours 8c the Committees [8cc.]
jn° Bradford
1. John Bradford Letter Book, LC.
2. The brig Fanny, Captain Tokely, sailing under order of the Secret Committee of Congress,
was seized by Captain Payne in the Rhode Island privateer Eagle. Payne suspected that
Fanny was en route to London. See Volume 5.
Interrogation in Rhode Island Admiralty Court of the
Mate of Prize Ship Belle 1
Interogations answered by Thomas Turnbull late Mate on board thex
Prize Ship Belle
Interog: When where and by whom was the Said Ship and her Cargo
taken, who was the Master of the said Ship when taken, what is
OCTOBER 1776
1361
her Tonage, from whence and to what Port was She
bound what are the Contents of her Cargo, and who are the
Owners of said Ship and her Cargo?
Answr The said Ship and her Cargo upon the Fourth Day of October
AD: 1776 being upon the High Seas in Lat 36. . Long 57 was
Captured and taken by Job Pearce Commander and his Officers
and men belonging to the private Sloop of War called the Green-
wich, Thomas Jones was then Master She is of the Burthen of
300 Tons, She was bound from Annapolis Royal in Nova Scotia
to Jamaice, her Cargo consists of 15015 Feet of Boards, 52600
Feet of Timber, 47050 Shingles, 2900 Hoops, 71056 Staves, 22191
Feet Sparrs, 280 Quintals of Fish Moses Franks of London is
owner of the said Ship and her Cargo.
Thomas Turnbull2
Sworn to in Providence October 22: 1776 —
Before me John Foster Judge in Prize Causes
1. Admiralty Papers, vol. 9, R. I. Arch.
2. Turnbull and six others of the crew of the Belle, in an undated petition to the Judge of the
Admiralty asked for their wages up to the time of capture as “Your Petitioners is informed
that by an Order of the Honble Continental Congress they are intitled to their wages
due whilst on board of sd Ship,” ibid.
“Extract of a Letter from Providence dated Oct 22d 1776 — ” 1
The Continental Frigate called the Providence is gone to Newport. The
Warren was under Sail last Sunday, and out sails all the Boats in the River
upon a Wind without Mainsail or Top gallant Sails being set. How the
Providence sails I know not, as She went down before the Wind directly
from Me. They are Two very fine Ships, and a Credit to our little State.
There has been bro’t into this Port 32 Prizes, a pretty good Beginning.
There is now fitting out Two 20 Gun Ships, and there will be soon Two new
Brigs built on Purpose for the Business to mount Eighteen 6 Pounders each
— This Addition to our Fleet will make no small Show upon the List of our
Naval Department. -
1. Secretary of State Papers (Council of Safety 1775-1776), NCDAH.
Samuel Lyon to Captain John Paul Jones1
Sir Newport October 22nd 1776
You are desired to attend at a Court Martial to be held onboard the
Ship Alfred at two OClock this afternoon for the Tryal of Samuel Halm or
Einom James Robinson and John Robinson for Mutiny and Thomas Done-
hoe
By Order of the honble Esek Hopkins Esqr
Commander in Chief -
Sam. Lyon Secy
To John P. Jones Esqr Commander of the Providence
1. Papers of John Paul Jones, LC.
1362
AMERICAN THEATRE
Commodore Esek Hopkins to Captain John Paul Jones1
Sir Newport October 22nd 1776 -
You are directed to go onboard the Alfred and take the Command of
her and go to Sea with her and the Hamden [ Hampden ] Captn [Hoy-
steed] Hacker, who will be directed to keep Company with you, and fol-
low your directions - You will form such Signals, and appoint such Rendez-
vous, as you think will best answer the end of keeping Company —
You are to Take all british Vessels, and all Vessels bound to any port
under the jurisdiction of the King of Great Britain, except Bermudas and
New Providence — You are with the Force under your Command, to endea-
vour all in your power to destroy all the Coal Vessels you may find at, or
near the Coal Mines at the Island of Cape Breton, and do all in your power
to Relieve a number of our Unfortunate brethern who are Prisoners, and
employed in that cruel and hard Service — When that is effected and the
Weather will permit, you are to Cruise for Transports, and other Vessels
bound to Canada, or go to Newfoundland and destroy as much of the Fish-
ery as you possibly can; if you think the Season not too far advanced. And
when you think the Season too Cold for that Station, you may Cruise as
long as you well can for Transports bound from Great Britain to Newyork
- You may Send any Vessels into Port for Tryal, that you may think are
acting detrimental to the Interest of the American States Such Vessels as
you may Take, which you think are not worth your while, or may not be
Convenient to send into Port, You may destroy (first taking the hands out) —
My advice is when your Cruise is over, that you return in to some Port
in New England in order for a Winters Expedition
You will send your Prizes in to such Ports in the United States of
America as you judge you can get them in with most Safety - You may if
you please send a proper Person in a Prize, if you should take any one fit
for that purpose to some Port in France; and there to sell her and Cargo,
and purchase some small Armed Vessel, and with the Overplus money Lade
onboard her such Goods as may answer best, for the Supply of the Navy or
Army; first ballasting her with Sulphur - You giving him Orders for that
Purpose — I am with Respect [8cc.]
E.H Cr in Chief -
1. Hopkins Letter Book, RIHS. A copy is in Papers CC (Letters of John Hancock, and Mis-
cellaneous Papers) , 58, 175-76, NA.
Commodore Esek Hopkins to Captain Hoysteed Hacker1
Sir Newport October 22d 1776
You are to go to Sea with the Hamden [ Hampden ] under your Com-
mand, in Company with the Alfred , and take and follow such directions as
you may receive from time to time from Captn [John Paul] Jones respect-
ing your Cruise - If you should part with the Alfred by accident, you are to
OCTOBER 1776
1363
do all in your power to join her — but should you not be able to join You
are to cruise as long as you can in such Station, as you think will be most
likely to intercept the Provision Vessels from Great Britain bound either to
Canada or New york —
You may destroy any Ship or Ships which you cannot easily mann and
send in to Port (first taking out the hands) - You will send your Prizes in
to such Ports as you judge you can with most Safety get them in to any of
the United States of America
E H Cr in Chief -
1. Hopkins Letter Book, RIHS.
Commodore Esek Hopkins to John Bradford 1
Sir Newport October 22d. 1776 —
The above and annex’d is a list of what Goods belonged to the Captain
and Passengers onboard the Ship Ester sent in to Deptford by the Cabot —
and as it has been Customary in this State for the Captains to have their
private Adventures, and the Agent here has always delivered it by my Con-
sent — and as the above Lists does not to me seem unreasonable — I think you
will do well do [iic] deliver the same to the Persons they belong too and you
may depend that in so doing you will do but right —
Lieutt [Thomas] Weaver acquaints me that the Men onboard the
Prize Ship Ester wants some Supplys, these are therefore to desire you to
Supply him with Sufficient Money for that purpose and take his receipt and
Charge it to the Continent - I am &c
EH-
To John Bradford Esqr Agent for the Continent
in the State of Massachusetts Bay at Deptford
or in his absence to his Deputy there —
1. Hopkins Letter Book, RIHS.
Journal of the Connecticut Council of Safety1
At a Meeting of the Governor and Council of Safety [Lebanon] Octo. 22d,
1776.
Voted, To allow Mr. Adam Babcock & Co., to export sixty barrels of
salt beef to Rhode Island, for the use of their privateer.
Voted, To sell to Mr. Adam Babcock & Co., two of the cannon and car-
riages taken on board the ship Guinea Man and brought in by Capt. [Seth]
Harding to New London.2
Voted, To desire Mr. [Titus] Hosmer to give orders to Mr. [Abel]
Buell for 40 fire-arms to be delivered to Capt. Wm. Coit for the use of the
ship Oliver Cromwell.
1. Charles J. Hoadly, ed., Public Records of the State of Connecticut . . . 1776-1781 (Hartford,
1894-1922), I, 53. Hereafter cited as Hoadly, ed., Connecticut State Records.
2. For the Rhode Island privateer brig Minerva owned by Babcock.
1364
AMERICAN THEATRE
Journal of H. M. Sloop Senegal , Captain Roger Curtis 1
Octobr 76 At single Anchr in Huntingdon Bay — Loyds pt.
NWbN 1 M.
Tuesday 22d AM saw the Niger at Anchor in the sound at 6 more Mod-
erate Weigh’d 8c came to sail the Niger working to
Windwd past by her, fir’d a six poundr at a Privateer
Sloop that run into Norwalk Harbor, stood into 5 faths and
run along shore as far as Fairfield at Noon the Fore NbE
6 ms
haul’d our Wind Employ’d working into Huntingdon
bay at 7 Anchd with the Bt Br in 5 faths Veer’d to l/3d
of a Cable, Loyd’s head NWbN 2 Leags
1. PRO, Admiralty 51/885.
Governor Sir Guy Carleton to Major General John Burgoyne 1
[No.] 203 Crown Point 22nd October 1776
Sir In addition to the memorandums with which I have troubled you, to be
communicated to His Majesty’s Ministers; I must beg you will represent the
necessity of sending out for this service, as early as possible, a Battalion
consisting, at least, of three hundred seamen, it being to be wished that the
expensive expedient, to which we have been obliged to have recourse this
year, of detaining transports on account of their seamen, might be avoided
in future, even if it should be in our power to use it; but as there may not be
a number sufficient of those ships in the river to furnish us as before, we
should in that case be at a loss to man our Vessels again, and it seems most
probable that we shall have the same, if not a greater, occation for them
next spring, At last it must be necessary to be provided against all which
may happen. I find it impossible to remain here.
I wish you a very good Voyage and safe arrival in England, and hope
nothing may prevent my having the pleasure of seeing you here again next
Campaign. I am 8cc
1. Guy Carleton Letter Book, Haldimand Papers, Additional Ms. 21699, BM.
Governor Sir Guy Carleton to Captain Charles Douglas, R. N.1
[Extract]
[No.] 205 Crown Point 22nd October 1776
Sir I have already said so much to you upon the necessity of having a con-
siderable number of seamen in readiness for the Lake Service, that I can
now only repeat, for the reasons before alledged, my request that you will
leave as many as possible in Canada; and that particularly the Frigates of
which I wrote lately may remain, as they can furnish in the greatest pro-
portion, and our wants will be as great the next campaign as they have been
OCTOBER 1776
1365
this, it being my intention, in order that our possession of the lake may be
put to no hazard, to build another Vessel of equal force to the Inflexible.
Lieutenants Longcroft and Stone being now the only Gentlemen of the
Navy, who have not received some mark of His Majesty’s favour, for their
services in Quebec during last winter and as they are both Officers, with
whose merits you are, yourself, well acquainted, I must beg you will remind
Lord Sandwich of them on your arrival in England.
Captain [Thomas] Pringle has chosen to remain in Canada. . . .
1. Guy Carleton Letter Book, Haldimand Papers, Additional Ms. 21699, BM.
Journal of the New York Committee of Safety1
Tuesday Morning,
[Fishkill] Octor. 22nd, 1776.
Capt. Samuel Tuder one of the superintendents of the Continental frig-
ates building at Poughkeepsie, attending, informed the Committee that the
said frigates were by the Honourable the Continental Congress, ordered to
be launched as soon as possible, that one if not both of them will be ready to
be launched in a few days, but that they are at present destitute of anchors
and cables. Capt. Tuder therefore requests that he may be furnished with
an order on the person at the landing at Fishkill, for the loan of such an-
chors, cables and other stores belonging to and taken out of the vessels sunk
at Fort Washington, as may be necessarily required in the launching of the
said frigates. Thereupon,
Ordered , That the person who hath the charge of the anchors, cables
and other stores at Fishkill landing, and which were taken from on board
the vessels now sunk at Mount Washington, deliver to Capt. Samuel Tudor,
or his order, such of the said anchors, cables or other stores as he may re-
quire for the use of the Continental frigates building at Poughkeepsie.
Resolved, That Mr. Gilbert Livingston be one of the secret committee
directed to be sent down with the utmost despatch to Fort Montgomery,
with such parts of the chain as is fixed in the logs, and that Mr. Henry Wis-
ner, Junr. cooperate with him in carrying this measure into execution in the
most safe and expeditious manner possible.
Capt. Sami Tudor, one of the superintendents of the building the Conti-
nental frigates at Poughkeepsie, informed the Committee of Safety that the
said superintendents have lately received a raft of timber for which they
are indebted, and daily expect some other rafts of timber for which they are
to pay ready money. That the said superintendents have also some other ac-
counts to discharge, are at present destitute of money, and cannot obtain a
supply from the Treasurer of the marine committee
Mr. Tudor therefore on behalf of the said superintendents, requested
an advance or a loan of £600.
1366
AMERICAN THEATRE
Ordered , That the Treasurer of this State advance to Capt. Samuel
Tudor as one of the superintendents, on his receipt, the sum of £600, and
charge the same to Continental account.
1. New York Provincial Congress, I, 686, 687.
General William Howe’s Certificate to Daniel Chamier1
New York 22nd October 1776.
These are to Certify the Right Honorable The Lords Commissioners of
His Majestys Treasury that John Blackburn Esquire of London hath sup-
plied from on Board the Brigantine Burgoyne James Emerton Master for
the Use of His Majestys Land Forces under my Command and delivered at
this place to His Majestys Commissary General of Stores and Provissions
One hundred and thirty Hogsheads containing Thirteen thousand Eight
hundred and forty five Gallons of Rum from the Island of
Montserratt And I do further Certify to the Right Honorable the Lords
Commissioners of His Majestys Treasury that the said Rum is of the
proper proof and Strength usual for the Rum from the said Island of Mont-
serratt according to proof made thereof by an Instrument for that purpose
and I do also certify their Lordships that no payment hath been made here
to the said John Blackburn Esquire for the same and for which I have
signed four Certificates of this tenor and date.
Given under my Hand at Head Quarters
W Howe
D: Chamier Commissary General
1. Conarroe Papers, vol. 7, 26, HSP.
Journal of the Continental Congress1
[Philadelphia] Tuesday, October 22, 1776
Resolved , That the Commissioners going to the Court of France be di-
rected to procure from that Court, at the expence of these United States,
either by purchase or loan, eight line of battle ships of 74 and 64 guns, well
manned, and fitted in every respect for service; That as these ships may be
useful in proportion to the quickness with which they reach North America,
the Commissioners be directed to expedite this negotiation with all possible
diligence.
The Secret Committee reported, that the cargo lately imported into
Portsmouth, in the brig Marquis of Kildare, Captain Palmer, consists of the
following articles, viz. 5,000 lb of powder, 250 small arms, 100,000 flints,
4,000 yards of small canvass, 4 to 500 jackcoats, 100 knapsacks, 100 leggins,
80 large rugs, 2 bales of woollens, 1 bale of linens, and 10 tons of lead;
Whereupon,
Resolved, That the powder, 100 small arms, 2,000 flints, part of the
canvass, 80 rugs, and part of the lead, be applied by the continental agent
for the use of the continental frigate Raleigh :
OCTOBER 1776
1367
That 60,000 flints be sent to General Washington:
That 38,000 flints, 150 small arms, 100 knapsacks, 100 leggins, and 8
tons of lead, be sent to the northern army, under Generals Schuyler and
Gates:
That the remainder of the small canvass be made into tents, and sent to
the northern army:
That the jackets, if fit for soldiers, be sent to the northern army; if fit
for sailors, to be distributed amongst the continental frigates at Ports-
mouth and Boston:
That two bales of woollens be made up into soldier’s cloaths, for the
northern army:
That the bale of linens, if fit for soldiers’ shirts, or other purposes, for
the army, to be made up, and sent to the northern army; if not suitable for
public use, to be sold to the best advantage.
Mr. [Thomas] Jefferson having informed Congress that the state of
his family will not permit him to accept the honour of going as their Com-
missioner to France, thereupon,
Resolved , That another be elected in his room.
The ballots being taken,
Arthur Lee Esqr was elected.
Resolved, That the Committee of Secret Correspondence be directed to
acquaint him of his appointment, and that his powers and instructions are
lodged in Paris. This to be kept secret.
1. Ford, ed., JCC, VI, 894, 895-97.
Will of Elijah Bowen, Second Lieutenant of the Continental
Brig Lexington1
[Philadelphia, October 22, 1776]
I Elijah Bowen of the City of Philadelphia - considering the Uncer-
tainty of this transitory Life, do make and declare these Presents to contain
my last Will Sc Testament: That is to say , I give and Bequeath unto my Loving
Friend Susannah Derry of said City all my Estate & Property wheresoever it
may be found being Second Lieutenant on Board the Brigt Lexington - And
all the rest of my Estate, real Sc Personal wherewith at the Time of my De-
cease I shall be possessed or invested or which shall belong, or of Right apper-
tain unto me, I do give, devise and bequeath unto the said Susannah Derry
her heirs & assigns for Ever-and I do hereby nominate and appoint Susannah
Derry to be Sole Executrix of this my last Will and Testament, hereby re-
voking all former Wills and Testaments by me made, and do declare this to
be my last Will. In Witness whereof, I have hereunto set my Hand 8c Seal,
this 22d Day of October Annoque Domini One Thousand Seven Hundred
and Seventy Six -
Elijah Bowen Seal
1368
AMERICAN THEATRE
Signed, Sealed, and Declared to be the last Will and Testament of h[im] the
said in the Presence of David Lapsley Sworn Willm Hallock2
1. Will Book W, No. 103, 187, Register of Wills Office, Philadelphia.
2. Hallock was captain of the Lexington.
Diary of Christopher Marshall1
[Philadelphia] Octr 22d 1776
. . . on the 21st arrived a Schooner with 1200 bushels of Salt (its Said) the
22d was Sent in here the Brigg Sherburn Capt Burnell with 589 barrels of
oil, being a prize to Brig Handcock, Capt Newman2 8cc an accot also of an
Engagment on the Lakes the 11th Instant & as the Enemy were vastly Su-
perior, our People retreated to Crown Point Sec
1. Diary of Christopher Marshall, HSP.
2. The 75 ton brig Sherburne, Jonathan Bunnell, master, taken by the Pennsylvania privateer
Hancock, Captain Wingate Newman. Pennsylvania Gazette, October 23, 1776.
Pennsylvania Packet , Tuesday, October 22, 1776
Philadelphia [October 22].
Saturday se’nnight arrived here a ship taken by the brig General
Montgomery, she proves to be the ship Thetis, Capt. [Hezekiah] May, with
310 hogsheads of sugar, 90 puncheons of rum, 8cc. from Montego Bay for
London, and belonged to a fleet of near 200 sail, who left Jamaica in August
last, under convoy of two men of war. The above ship, in coming up,
touched on the Cheveaux de Frize, where she would have, in all probability
sunk, had it not been for the timely assistance she received from the Row
Galley-men.
Journal of the Maryland Convention1
[Annapolis] Tuesday, October 22, 1776.
A petition from William Richardson,2 setting forth, that he, at the
time of the alarming appearance of a hostile fleet under the direction of lord
Dunmore, on the thirteenth of July last, observed a sloop drifting towards
the shore within about a mile and a half of his dwelling house, and a barge
from the fleet rowing towards her, which soon scuttled the said sloop; that
he went off with his own negroes, intending to board her and save every
thing on board the said sloop he possibly could; that he accordingly saved
and brought away a mainsail, topsail, and gib, a quantity of old iron, thir-
ty-six pair of iron hinges, and fifty-three cow hides; and that all the said ar-
ticles were sent for and taken away by captain Uriah Forrest; and praying
to be authorized to receive a moiety of the said articles procured by him as
aforesaid, was read and ordered to lie on the table.
1. Maryland Convention, 43.
2. Revolutionary Papers, Box 12, Folder 11, Md. Arch.
OCTOBER 1776
1369
Journal of the Virginia Navy Board1
[Williamsburg] Tuesday 22d October 1776. -
Ordered that a Warrant Issue to John Newton Cook for One pound sixteen
shillings for Attendance and Victualling Sick Men belonging to the Page
Galley. — Also for six shillings for attending & Victualling Sick Men be-
longing to the Lewis Galley. -
Ordered that a Warrant Issue to Doctr Joseph S. Pell for Eight Pounds six-
teen shillings and three pence for Necessaries & Medicines furnished for
the use of the Norfolk Revenge Galley. -
Ordered that Capt Richard Taylor of the Schooner Hornett Land all the
Stores he hath on Board his Vessel with Mr William Holt, who is to Store
them, except the following Articles which he is to keep on Board, Vizt, Two
six Pounders, Two two Pounders, six Swivels, two Rifles & one Musquett, 50
six pound Shott, twenty double headed six pound Shott, two two Pounders,
fifty two pound Shot, Twenty Bags of Grape Shot, One hundred and twenty
five Swivels, Shot, all the Powder that is made up in Cartridges, one Quire
of Cartridge Paper, Seven pound & a half of Match Shott for Cannon, four
Powder Horns & Priming Wires, two Worming Irons, four Iron Crows, six
Handspikes, four Spunges & Rammers, Twelve Pikes, fifteen dozen Wads,
twenty pound of Swan Shott, Seven Water Casks and one Harness Tubb.
And then Proceed with his Vessel immediately to Hoods and have her prop-
erly fitted for going to Sea after which apply to the Board for further Or-
ders. -
1. Navy Board Journal, 86-88, VSL.
Journal of H. M. S. Solebay , Captain Thomas Symonds1
Octr 1776 Cape Hatteras N44:52 Wt 178 Lgs
Tuesday 22 Mod: & Cloudy at 1 PM saw a si ahead gave chace at 6
fired 4 nine pd shot at the Chace bt her too fd her to be a sloop
from No Carolina bd to St Eustatia loaded with Tar &
Lumber2 took the Mastr & Men out of her & Sent some of our
men on bd Tkd Ship & Made si
1. PRO, Admiralty 51/909.
2. Sloop Nancy from North Carolina for St. Eustatius, Howe’s Prize List, March 31, 1777, ibid.,
1/487.
Journal of H. M. S. Galatea , Captain Thomas Jordan1
October 1777 Bermuda No 49.10 W 36 Miles
[sic 1776] at 6 AM Saw two Sail to the Wtward, do gave Chace at
Tuesday 22d Noon brot too the Chace, being the William Schooner,
Josha Bunker, Mastr from Bourdeaux to Rhode Island with
Powder & Small arms out 6 weeks2 made Sail.
Modt and Clear Wr Two prizes in sight
1. PRO, Admiralty 51/380.
2. The William had sailed from Rhode Island for Spain in April 1776. See Volumes 4 and 5.
1370
AMERICAN THEATRE
23 Oct.
Captain Charles Douglas, R. N., to Philip Stephens1
(Copy) Isis off Quebec 23d Octr 1776
Sir In addition to my Letter of the 21st I acquaint you, that I am exerting
myself to the utmost in order to get the remaining Transports out of the
River, the moment their Men (without whose generous Services, the expedi-
tion could not have been carried on) are returned to them, from the Lake;
Pilots both here and at Sorel, being kept in readiness for that purpose. Had
not the destruction of the Rebel fleet, been so nearly effected, the Triton and
Garland must at General Carleton’s desire have wintered here, but as mat-
ters now happily stand, I hope the former may get away; and the endea-
vours shall be made to hasten most of her Men down, from Lake Champlain
for that purpose — The latter must winter at Quebec at all events with a
view to the Service of next Spring, and moreover to take care of the people
the other Ships must unavoidably leave behind, on the Lake for the comple-
tion of the little, that yet remains to be done. This His Majesty’s Ship under
my Command being 14 Guns short of her number Vizt Ten 12 and four 6
pounders, short of Stores, having spared of every kind to promote the expe-
dition in question; having her Bottom injured by her passage thro’ the Ice,
possibly more than we are aware of; but above all the best of her Seamen
on the Lake, whose return to her in due time to leave this River where it is
impossible for her to Winter is doubtful and moreover having no directions
how to act in that respect from our Commander in Chief, I find myself im-
pelled to run her home — which I the less regret, as it affords me the means
of providing General Burgoyne with a good conveyance - so soon as it ap-
peared that the important undertaking of destroying the Rebel Fleet
on Lake Champlain could not be carried into Execution without the Sea-
men from the Transports — I, at General Carleton’s desire ordered Lieu-
tenant [John] Schank, commanding the Canceaux , to enter as Supernu-
meraries for Wages and Victuals, on the books of that armed Ship, to the
number of 300 Seamen to be discharged by or before the 30th of next Month
excepting such of them, as from wounds or disease, should be disabled, in
thus Willingly & generously thus exposing themselves in their Country’s
cause, who are to be treated according to the usage of the Royal Navy in
all respects. I am 8cc
1. PRO, Colonial Office, 5/125, 81i.
Charles Douglas
Muster Roll onboard the Sloop Providence Commanded by John Paul Jones Esqr from May 10th [1776]
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Abel Coffin 3rd Mate Aug. 26 107 taken from the brig Britania & Sick at Providence
Muster Roll onboard the Sloop Providence Commanded by John Paul Jones Esqr from May 10th [1776]
Continued
1376
AMERICAN THEATRE
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1378
AMERICAN THEATRE
Court Martial of James Bryant, Gunner of the Continental Brig
Hampden 1
At a Court Martial held on board the Ship Alfred at Newport, in the
State of Rhode Island, on the 23d Day of October, 1776, by Order of the
Honourable Esek Hopkins, Esqr Commander in Chief of the American
Fleet for the Trial of James Bryant, Gunner, of the Brigantine Hamden ,
for Mutiny
Present, Captains -
Lieutenants
John Paul Jones
Hoysteed Hacker
Joseph Olney
Matthew Parke
Edmund Arrowsmith
Jonathan Pitcher
John P. Rathbun
Robert Sanders
Peter Deville
Edward Burke
William Hamilton
Adam W. Thaxter
President
Members -
James Bryant aforesaid being brought before the Court as Prisoner on the
Complaint of Philip Brown, Esqr for Mutiny on board the Brigantine Ham-
den bearing date the 20th of October 1776. The Charge being Read in the
hearing of the Prisoner, he Plead Not Guilty. Whereupon the Court pro-
ceeded to examine the Evidences who Deposed as follows, Viz —
Adam W. Thaxter appeared before the Court and gave Evidence, That
on the 20th of October, James Bryant applied to the Commanding Officer
Philip Brown. Esqr for leave to go on shore, and upon being [refuse] d that
Liberty, behaved in a Mutinous manner by giving him abusive language;
and upon being again denied going on shore repeated his abusive language
Collared, and otherwise abused the Commanding Officer — Afterwards
questioning him concerning his Behaviour to Mr Brown he replied that
Were it the Captain or Admiral he would behave in the Same Manner, and
challenged Mr Brown to single Combat —
William Earle, Joseph Allen, and Willaim Wardwell all confirm the above
Evidence —
Benonie Taylor confirmed the above with respect to the first part of the
Evidence but was absent at the latter part of the Disturbance and further
saith not —
John Davis confirmed the above Evidence, and added that Mr Brown
called for a double Headed Shot —
Caleb Howard confirmed the foregoing Deposition of John Davis
The Opininion of this Court is That the Prisoner James Bryant, hath
according to the laws and regulations of the Congress of the United States
of America been found Guilty of the Charge alledged against him: That he
British Armed Vessels on Lake Champlain.
1380
AMERICAN THEATRE
be Cashiered and rendered incapable of
sion in the American Service; and that
him from the American Fleet — but not
during the Pleasure of the Commander in
Jn° P. Jones President
Hoysteed Hacker
Joseph Olney
Matthew Parke
Edmund Arrowsmith
Jonathan Pitcher
holding any Warrant or Commis-
he forfeit all Prize Money due to
his Wages - That he be Confined
Chief of the American Fleet.
John P Rathbun
Rob* Sanders
Adam W Thaxter
Par douville
Edward Burke
William Hamilton
[Endorsed] Having examined the foregoing proceedings of the Court Mar-
tial, I do hereby Ratifie and Confirm the same — and Order that the said
James Bryant deliver up his Warrant to the President of the Court Martial;
that he be turn’d onshore
Newport October 24th. 1776 Esek Hopkins
1. Miscellaneous Collection, vol. 15, 219, RIHS.
Governor Jonathan Trumbull to Governor Nicholas Cooke1
Sir New Haven October 23d 1776 —
You will find inclosed Copy of Letter from General Gates, from
Genl Arnold respecting the Transactions at the Northward, I am further
advised that after the Action of the 12th, which General Arnold describes,
the Fleet under his Command began to fall down the Lake but had not got
far from Schuylers Island when a Northerly Gale favourable to the Enemy
pushed them up with our Shattered Fleet, and obliged them to commence a
second Engagement which was continued with great Disadvantage on our
Side — tho’ with great Spirit and Bravery for 5 Glasses, when the Supe-
riour Strength of the Enemy prevailed to the almost total Ruin of our Fleet;
— General Arnold in the Congress Galley fought till he could stand no
longer, run her on shore, burnt her & escaped — General Waterbury fought
the Washington till she was Sinking under him, he was obliged to strike and
was made a Prisoner, tho it seems he is returned to Ticonderoga, probably
on his Parole, and is expected here soon, Colo Wigglesworth in the Trum-
bull is got to Ty — and is the only Galley saved, one Galley, not compleated,
is safe, our strenght on the Water now Remaining is one Sloop, 12 Guns,
Two Schooners, 8 Guns each, Two Galleys & one Gundola — what it was be-
fore these Rencounters the inclosed Copy of a Return will shew. - The Ene-
mies Strenght appears larger than at first, it is as follows —
1 Ship 18 12 pounders
1 Schooner 14 6 Ditto
1 Do 12 Do Do
1 Redeaux
6 24
12 12
4 — 8 Inch Howitzes
.all Brass
OCTOBER 1776
1381
28 Gondolas — 1 Gun each — 12 — 18 — & 24 Pounders, 1, 8 Inch
Howitzer. Our People are all Retired to Ticonderoga, where it is their De-
sign, it is said, to force the Enemy to make an Attack on our Works at the
French Lines by the Crown Point Road by obliging them to Land below our
Army, that they will lay our two remaining Galleys in the Channel, where
their Fire will cooperate with the Jersey Redoubt, and the Battery on
Mount Independance by this means they hope to prevent their passing
higher up than our advanced posts. — I hope for a more full and particular
Account from General Waterbury who is soon expected here. —
Colo [William] Richmond came to this Town by Land yesterday, and
Waits here for his Regiment to come in the Whale boats, which are hourly
expected —
Mr Hazzard will communicate his knowledge from General Washing-
ton’s Head Quarters — which is the fullest that I have - I am with Esteem
and Regard Sir [&c.]
Jonth Trumbull
1. Letters to the Governor, vol. 8, R. I. Arch.
Journal of the Connecticut Council of Safety1
At a Meeting of the Governor and Council of Safety [New Haven] October
23d, 1776.
Voted, That Mr. Levi Young be and he is hereby appointed Master of
the ship Oliver Cromwell ; and his Honor the Governor is desired to grant
him a warrant to exercise the said office accordingly.
Voted, To order Capt. Harding with the brig Defence to sail on a cruise
against the enemies of these States for about two months.
Voted, That Capt. Wm. Coit with the ship Oliver Cromwell under his
command be ordered on a cruise of about two months. Orders given Octr
23d, 1776 .
Voted, Give orders to Mr. Nathll Shaw junr, to supply the ship Oliver
Cromwell and the brig Defence with suitable stores of every kind for a
cruise of two months each. Orders given Odor 23d, 1776.
1. Hoadly, ed., Connecticut State Records , I, 54.
Benjamin Huntington to the Connecticut Committee of the
Pay Table1
New Haven Octor 23d 1776
Draw on the Treasurer of this State for the Sum of two Hundred Pounds in
Favr of Capt Uriah Hayden of Say Brook towards Payment for his Build-
ing the Ship Oliver Cromwell and to be in Account
By Order the Govr & Council of Safety
Benj Huntington Clerk P. T.2
1382
AMERICAN THEATRE
To the Committee
of Pay Table J *
£200-
1. Conn. Arch., 1st Series, IX, 122a.
2. Ibid., 121a. An order was also issued this date to pay £75 to “Capt. Benj Williams of Say
Brook for Iron Work Done by him for the Ship Oliver Cromwell . . ”
Connecticut Journal, Wednesday, October 23, 1776
New Haven, October 23.
We hear, that near 200 sail of the enemy’s fleet, are this side of Hell-
Gate, the chief of them lying near Hart-Island.
The Post who arrived from the Northward yesterday informs, That
General Waterbury, with one hundred of our people who were taken prison-
ers, in our unsuccessful engagements on the Lake, the 11th and 12th in-
stant, are released, on giving their paroles, and are now on their way to
their homes.
Capt. Ephraim Goldsmith, of this town, is said to be slain in the above
engagement.
Vice Admiral Richard Lord Howe to Philip Stephens1
Number 10. Eagle Off New York
Sir, October the 23d 1776.
I take the Opportunity of writing by a Victualling Transport returning
to Cork in the Service of the Army, to give their Lordships the earliest In-
telligence of the Arrival of the second Division of the Hessian Troops with
the Diamond , Ambuscade, and Unicorn, the 18th Instant: Captain [Charles]
Fielding having conducted the Transports under his Convoy with so much
Prudence and Success as not to have lost a single Ship on the Passage.
The Commanders of the Daphne and Perseus have not been equally
happy in their Endeavors. The first arrived on the 3d and the latter on the
16th of this Month. Of the Transports which sailed with the Daphne , the
Henry and Ann is still missing; As are also the four Victuallers, the Hay-
field, St George, Friendship and George, that came out under the care of the
Perseus .2 The Dinah Victualler, another of the same Convoy, hath been
taken as represented in the Relation of the Master enclosed. But no Account
has yet been received of the other Victuallers since their Separation.3 A
Copy of the Report has been sent to Captain Elphinstone for his Observa-
tions thereon. These I shall have to transmit for their Lordships Informa-
tion, when he returns from the Cruising Service on which he is now em-
ployed.
The different Corps of Troops from the Transports beforementioned,
have been landed; The last of the Hessian Reinforcement to-day; at Myers
Neck, a Peninsula near New Rochelle, that is deemed the best situated Post
for preserving an open Communication with the Fleet, since the last Land-
OCTOBER 1776
1383
ing and Movement of the Army to the Eastward of the Rebel Forces assem-
bled on the Side of Kingsbridge, on the 18th Instant.
As from the Nature of the Conveyance it is un [certain] when this Let-
ter may be received, I have confined [my] present Report to the Arrival of
the Convoys. I am Sir [&c.]
Howe
1. PRO, Admiralty 1/487.
2. Transport Daphne and the four provision ships mentioned by Howe were taken as prizes
and carried into American ports. Independent Chronicle , Boston, October 10, 17, and
24, 1776.
3. See Alexander Brown to Lord Howe, October 21, 1776.
Diary of Frederick Mackenzie 1
[New York] 23rd Octr - Some of the Captains of The Navy who at-
tended for the Regulating of the boats and vessels when they went through
Hellgate with the Army the Morning of the 12th Instant, have since de-
clared that it was a most hazardous enterprize to go through a Channel of
that dangerous nature with such a fleet, and before it was daylight. What
made it still more dangerous was, that an unexpected fog came on early in
the morning, which prevented them in a great degree, from seeing the boat
and buoys which had been previously fixed to mark the proper channel. It
was too late when the fog came on to postpone the movement; the troops
and everything necessary were embarked and the wind and tide answered
exactly; therefore notwithstanding the hazard it could not be delayed. I
dare say at the moment the Army began to move the General and Admiral
would have compounded for the loss of one or two hundred men. Fortune
however favored the bold: — only one boat, having on board an officer and
25 Artillery men and 3 6 prs was sunk. All but 4 men and the guns were
saved, which was more than could have been expected. Everything else got
safe through that dangerous passage, where at all times, except at high 8c
low water, the tide runs with the utmost rapidity, forming dreadful whirl-
pools, and at half tide roaring over the masses of Rocks which project into,
or rear up their broken heads in the middle of the Channel. In one place if
the Stream catches a boat or vessel, it is drawn into a kind of whirlpool or
Eddy, where it is carried round several times with great violence, and then
if not sucked in, is thrown on the adjacent rocks, and dashed to pieces. One
boat with a Detachment of Grenadiers was caught into this place, and after
some turns round was thrown upon the shore, but fortunately the men got
out safe, and soon after got into another boat and followed the Army. This
passage is thought extremely dangerous by those who are best acquainted
with it, and who take every advantage of winds, tides, and other circum-
stances. When I was formerly quartered at New York, I frequently went
out as far as Hellgate to see vessels go through, especially when there were
any which carried topsails, and the Pilots were generally under much ap-
prehension when they had such vessels under their charge. Those men were
1384
AMERICAN THEATRE
in the utmost astonishment to see Ships of War of 44 Guns, Frigates,
Transports full of troops, Horses & Waggons, and flat boats with troops
and artillery, attempting and accomplishing so difficult an undertaking,
with such a trifling loss. To any other nation the obstacles would have
seemed insurmountable.
Since the Army went through, I have frequently seen large transports
go through Stern foremost, with all sails set and filled, the strength of the
tide overcoming the power of the wind upon the sails. Some officers of the
Navy say this is the safest way, as the ship has better and more certain
Steerage.
1 . Mackenzie’s Diary, I, 84-86.
Continental Marine Committee to Commodore Esek Hopkins1
Sir Philadelphia October 23d 1776
Since our last to you we are informed that the Galatea a New 20 Gun
Ship with the Nautilus of 16 Guns are gone to Cruize of [f] the Capes of
Virginia These ships you will endeavour to fall in with and take or de-
stroy in your way to Cape Fear. We are also informed that the Raven of 20
Guns & the Sphynx of 16 - have quitted Georgia and South Carolina but
where gone we know not. You may take with you to the Southward both the
Rhode Island Frigates as well as the Cabbot if they are ready, and we write
to North Carolina to have two fine Brigantines belonging to that State in
readiness to join you, they have 16 Guns each and near 100 men. You had
best send one of your Fleet into Occracock Inlet for them as they are in
there - We understand the sloop Providence Capt Jones has put into Rhode
Island, you may add him to your Fleet and then you’l be very Strong, As
this Service to the Southward is of much publick importance, we expect
from Your Zeal and Attachment to the Interest of the United States, that
you proceed on and execute this Service with all possible vigor and des-
patch. Wishing you health and success we are Sir [8cc.]
P. S. We are informed that two British ships of War passed the other day
along the Jersey Shore, Steering Southward. We know not whether to
Cruize off the mouth of Delaware or to join the Southern Ships. But we
deem it highly proper that you provide yourself with a very quick Sailing
tender commanded by a Spirited sensible and Skilful man to precede your
Fleet and bring you intelligence of the number force and situation of the
Enemy’s Ships. It might not be amiss for you to remain a short time
within the Capes of Virginia until the Tender should reconnoitre & inform
you of the State of things at Cape Fear.2
1. Harbeck Collection, HUL.
2. The postscript is not with the letter, but is in the Hopkins Papers, RIHS.
OCTOBER 1776
1385
Continental Marine Committee to Captains John Manley,
Hector McNeill and Thomas Thompson1
Gentlemen [Philadelphia] October 23d 1776
We expect the Continental frigates Hancock , Boston and Raleigh under
your respective commands, are either now ready for the Sea, or shortly will
be so. You are hereby directed to act in concert and Cruize together, for the
following purposes, and on the following Stations. Your first object must be
to inform yourselves in the best manner possible, if any of the British men
of war are Cruizing in the bay of Boston or off the Coast of Massachusets,
and all such you are to endeavour with your utmost force to take, sink, or
destroy. Having effected this service you are to proceed together towards
Rhode Island, and there make prize of or destroy any of the enemies Ships
of war that may be found Cruizing off the Harbour or Coast of Rhode Is-
land.
The Prizes you make are to be sent into the nearest Port. When you ar-
rive at Rhode Island if Commodore Hopkins should not be already sailed on
his Southern expedition, and the two frigates built in that State should not
be ready for the Sea, in that case you are to join Commodore Hopkins, and
proceed with him on the said expedition producing those orders to him to
justify the measure — But if the Rhode Island frigates should be ready for
the sea there will be no occasion for you or either of you to go Southward,
and you will then proceed taking with you any Continental Vessel that may
be at Rhode Island and ready if Commodore Hopkins should be sailed be-
fore you come there, and proceed to Cruize against the enemies Ships &
Vessels that may be found of [f] the Coast between the Harbour of New-
port and the Banks of Newfoundland.
We have no doubt from your zeal and attachment to the cause of Amer-
ica, that you will execute this service with all possible dispatch and vigor,
and so bid you heartily farewell. -
1. Marine Committee Letter Book, 39, NA.
Continental Marine Committee to the Governor and Council of
Safety of North Carolina1
Gentlemen [Philadelphia, October 23, 1776] 2
We have ordered Commodore Hopkins immediately to proceed to Cape
Fear in the state of North Carolina with the following Vessells under his
command viz.
Continental
Frigates
The A If red of 30
Guns
Columbus
28
do
Cabot
16
do
Hampden
16.
do
Providence.
10
do
\Warren
32
do
jProvidence
28
do
if these two last
1386
AMERICAN THEATRE
mentiond can be made ready in season. The Object of this expedition is to
take or destroy the Brittish men of War in the River of Cape fear, or any
others cruizing upon the southern coasts with a view to distress the trade of
your’s and the neighbouring states. Strong as the Commodore may be with
the force which accompanies him from Rhode Island, yet as we wish to put
as little as possible to the hazard but to pursue this measure with the fullest
confidence of success we request that you would upon the earliest intimation
of Commodore Hopkins being off your coast dispatch the two provincial
Armed Vessels and any others which may be under your control to join him
and cooperate in this important expedition in the event of which your state
is particularly and essentially interested. You will therefore hold your Ves-
sels in perfect readiness to comply with this requisition.
We beg leave to hint to you the necessity of providing skilfil pilots for
conducting the Commodore that he may suffer no delay or run any risque
from his Ignorance of the Coast of No Carolina.
As the Success of this Attempt depends much upon the Secrecy with
which it may be conducted we need say nothing to urge you to the strict Ob-
servance of this Injunction — We are Gentlemen [&c.]
John Hancock Fra8 Hopkinson
Rob11 Morris Fra8 Lewis
Richard Henry Lee Will Hooper
Josiah Bartlett
1. USNAM.
2. The date is given in the letter book copy, Marine Committee Letter Book, 39, NA.
Robert Morris to Silas Deane1
S*r Philada October 23d 1776
We lately wrote you very fully by Mr Wm Hodge junr who went pas-
singer in the Sloop Independance to Martinico from whence he wou’d pro-
ceed to France Sc deliver you sundry dispatches from this Committee,
amongst the rest was the plan of a Treaty with the Court of France Sc In-
structions of Congress relative thereto Sc this day we have enclosed you In-
structions relative to Treaties with other Nations Sc sent them under Cover
to Wm Bingham Esqr at Martinico. Enclosed herein are Triplicates of the
whole which we send by the Brigt Lexington Wm Hallock Esqr Commander
under Cover to Mr Stephen Ceronio at Cape Francois to be forwarded from
thence to Messrs Delap at Bourdeaux Sc we hope in due time you will receive
the whole safely. For Sc on behalf of the Committee of Secret Correspond-
ance I am Dr sir [&c.]
Rob1 Morris
L Charles Roberts Autograph Collection, 733, HCL. Copy in Papers CC (Other Reports of
Committees of Congress) , 37, 71, NA.
OCTOBER 1776
1387
Committee of Secret Correspondence to Stephen Ceronio,
Cape Francois 1
Sir, Philada October 23d 1776
The Inclosed letter was wrote and Signed before we had an opporty to
transmit it and having now So good a conveyance as the Brigt Lexington
we transmit the Same to you as an official Letter from the Committee of Se-
cret Correspondence which you’l observe is distinct from the Secret Com-
mittee with whom you also correspond, by this letter you’l find we expect
Some Arms, ammunition money or Cloathing may be Sent out by Our Agent
Mons. Hortalez — to the Governor at Cape Francois, with orders for the de-
livery of them to whoever may be properly empowered by Congress to re-
ceive the Same, that power is granted to you, and you’l please to apply to
the Governor with our respectful Compts., desire to know if he has received
Such Supplys if he has produce the letter to him if he has not, then re-
quest he will inform you when such Supplies do Arrive or any advice re-
specting them — When you receive the Goods in consequence of this ap-
pointment, Ship a quantity of them by the Lexington if they are Ready, if
not you may Charter Suitable French Vessels to bring them here dividing
them into many Bottoms and Sending an Assortment Consisting of part of
every Article you Receive, In short you must transmit the Whole to us in
the Safest and most expeditious manner you can Contrive, Consigning to
this Committee for the Use and on Acct of the United States of
America We are sir [&c.]
B F
R M
1. Papers CC (Other Reports of Committees of Congress) , 37, 79, NA.
Committee of Secret Correspondence to Silas Deane1
Sir Philada Octr 23d 1776
We have already wrote you two letters of this date by different Convey-
ances, the present we send by the Andrew Doria, Isaiah Robinson Esqr
Commander for St Eustatia from whence it will be sent to Wm Bingham
Esqr at Martinico and by him be transmitted to you in a French Bottom.
You will find enclosed Two Resolves of Congress passed yesterday, from one
of them you will learn that Thomas Jefferson Esqr declined going to France
& that Arthur Lee Esqr of London is Elected to serve as a Commissioner in
his stead. You will therefore contrive to give him immediate Notice to re-
pair to you & then deliver him that resolve Sc the enclosed letter. By the
other Resolve you will see that Congress direct you to procure Eight Line of
Battle Ships either by Hire or purchase. We hope you will meet immediate
success in this application and that you may be able to influence the Courts
of France Sc Spain to send a large Fleet at their own Expence to Act in Con-
cert with these Ships, which shou’d be expedited immediately with direc-
1388
AMERICAN THEATRE
tions to the Commander to make the first Port he can with safety in these
States preferring this, if Winds 8c Weather favour him. And he must also
have instructions to Subject himself totally to the orders of Congress, after
he arrives. We are sir [8cc.] Signed by.
B. Franklin Wm Hooper
R1 Morris Dd Witherspoon
Richd Henry Lee
[Endorsed] a true Copy from the original by
Robt Morris
1. Charles Roberts Autograph Collection, 733, HCL.
Committee of Secret Correspondence to Arthur Lee1
Sir: Philadelphia October 23d. 1776
By this conveyance we transmit to Silas Deane, Esq. a resolve of the
Honble the Continental Congress of Delegates from the Thirteen United
States of America; whereby you are appointed one of their Commissioners
for negotiating a treaty of Alliance, Amity, and Commerce with the Court
of France, and also for negotiating Treaties with other nations agreeable to
certain plans and instructions of Congress, which we have transmitted by
various conveyances to Mr. Deane, another of the commissioners. - We flat-
ter ourselves from the assurances of your Friends here, that you will chear-
fully undertake this important business and that our Country will greatly
benefit of those abilities and that attachment you have already manifested
in sundry important Services, which at a proper period, shall be made
known to those you woud wish.
Rob1 Morris B. Franklin
1. Papers CC (Letters from Arthur Lee), 83, 1, 25-26, NA.
Pennsylvania Gazette , Wednesday, October 23, 1776
Philadelphia, October 23.
Intelligence received in Congress, October 21st, from the Middle and
Northern Departments.
That on the 11th instant, at 8 o’clock in the morning, the enemy’s fleet
on Lake Champlain, consisting of one ship mounting 16 guns, one snow
mounting the same number, one schooner of 14 guns, two of twelve, two
sloops, a bomb ketch, and a large vessel, (her force unknown) with fifteen
or twenty flat bottomed boats or gondolas, carrying one 12 or 18 pounder in
their bows, appeared off Cumberland Head: General Arnold with his forces
immediately prepared to receive them — At 11 o’clock the attack began, at
half past 12 the engagement became general and very warm; some of the
enemy’s ships and all their gondolas beat up and rowed within musket shot
of our fleet. They continued a very hot fire with round and grape shot till 5
OCTOBER 1776
1389
o’clock when they thought proper to retire about six or seven hundred yards
distance, and continued there until dark. Gen. Arnold and his troops con-
ducted themselves during this action with great firmness and intrepidity,
and made a better resistance than could have been expected against a force
so greatly superior — the whole of our killed and wounded amounted to
about 60. The Philadelphia gondola and a schooner were lost in the engage-
ment, but all the men were saved. The enemy landed a large number of Indi-
ans on Schuyler’s Island and on each shore, who kept up an incessant fire,
but did little damage. The enemy had to appearance upwards of 1000 men
in batteaus prepared for boarding.
The enemy’s force being so greatly superior, it was determined in
Council to remove to Crown Point, in order to refit and collect our force. At 2
o’clock, P.M. the 12th, our fleet weighed anchor, with a fresh breeze to the
southward: the enemy’s fleet at the same time got under way: Our gondolas
[made] very little way ahead. — In the evening the wind moderated, and
we made such progress, that at six o’clock next morning we were about 28
miles from Crown Point. The enemy’s fleet was very little above Schuyler’s
Island, the wind breezed up to the southward, so that we gained very little
by beating or rowing; at the same time the enemy took a fresh breeze from
the N.E. and, by the time we had reached Split Rock, were along side of us.
The Washington and the Congress were in the rear, the rest of our fleet
were ahead, except two gondolas sunk at Schuyler’s Island. — The Wash-
ington galley was in such a shattered condition, and had so many men killed
and wounded, that she struck to the enemy after receiving a few broadsides.
The Congress was then attacked by a ship mounting 12 eighteen pounders,
a schooner of 14 sixes, and one of 12 sixes; two under her stern and one on
her broadside, within musket shot: The enemy kept up an incessant fire
about five glasses with round and grape shot, which was returned as
briskly. The sails, rigging and hull of the Congress were shattered and torn
in pieces; when, to prevent her falling into the enemy’s hands, Gen. Arnold,
who was on board, ran her ashore in a small creek ten miles from Crown
Point, where after taking out her small arms she was set on fire, with 4
other gondolas; with whose crews the General reached Crown Point that
evening, luckily escaping the savages, who way-laid the road in two hours
after he had passed it. — Of our whole fleet we have saved two gallies, two
schooners, one gondola, and one sloop.
Gen. Arnold behaved with such intrepidity, that he covered the retreat
of the few vessels we saved at the expence of one third of his crew — Our
commanders and men behaved most gallantly; some vessels having lost all
their officers, fought notwithstanding, and refused to yield but with their
lives. The enemy acknowledge our bravery, and confess their loss of men
equal to ours.
Our troops are now busily employed in compleating the lines, redoubts,
&c. at Crown Point, expecting the enemy to attack them with their fleet and
army. But as the season is now far advanced, and our men are daily grow-
//st/cn _ ) *'
7V/V
WouihUmI fJi'r Zf~rj, 7 at die attack of QnoUu-
OCTOBER 1776
1391
ing in health, they have the most flattering expectations of maintaining
their post against any force the enemy can bring.
N.B. Two of the enemy’s gondolas were sunk the first day by our fleet,
and one blown up with 60 men.
A schooner, Captain [Alexander] Wilson, bound from Boston for
Bourdeaux, was taken about five days after she sailed, by the Perseus man
of war, of 20 guns, lately arrived from England; after taking out the mas-
ter and mate, they put two midshipmen and four sailors on board, to navi-
gate her to New-York, but she ran ashore last week near Sandy-Hook, and
was taken possession of by our troops, who saved the cargoe, and it is
thought the vessel may be got off. The midshipmen and sailors were made
prisoners, and arrived here last Monday night.1
1. Schooner Betsey, with dyewood and potash, Howe’s Prize List, March 31, 1777, PRO, Ad-
miralty 1/487.
Lux 8c Bowly to the Maryland Council of Safety1
[Extract] Baltimore 23d Oct 1776
Gentlemen, Capt Kelty [John Kilty] applied to us yesterday for Cordage
to fit out the ninety two but we have met with such difficulty in procuring
Hemp to go on with the engagements we are already under, that we cannot
furnish Him, unless you think proper to take off so much as he may want,
from the quantity we are to furnish for the Gondolas Sec , and then we ap-
prehend it will be impossible to get riging for them til next Summer.
1. Red Book, XI, Md. Arch.
Journal of the Maryland Convention 1
[Annapolis] Wednesday, October 23, 1776.
On motion of Mr. [Thomas] Johnson, Resolved, That the Council of
Safety be empowered to give a bounty of twenty dollars to each able sea-
man, and ten dollars to each landsman, who shall inlist to serve in the ma-
rine service of this state during the war, or until discharged by the supreme
authority of this state; and that the Council of Safety may also order any
vessel now fitting, or which shall be fitted under the resolutions of Conven-
tion, on such cruize as they may think fit; and further the Council of Safety
may retain any men who shall voluntarily offer and subscribe articles for a
cruize only, without any bounty or wages, and any prizes which may be
made, as to those who go on bounty and wages, shall be divisable according
to the resolutions of Congress, two thirds to the public, and one third to the
crew, but as to those who shall enter for the cruize without bounty or
wages, the division shall be one half to the public, and one half amongst the
crew, according to the common practice of privateers.
1. Maryland, Convention, 44.
1392
AMERICAN THEATRE
Journal of the Virginia Navy Board 1
[Williamsburg] Wednesday 23d Octr 1776. —
Present Mr [Champion] Travis -
Ordered that the keeper of the Public Magazine deliver unto Capt. John
Calvert One hundred & fifty pounds of Gunpowder for the use of the Nor-
folk Revenge Galley.
Ordered that the keeper of the Public Store deliver unto Capt John Calvert
five hundred Pump Nails, One hundred four penny Nails, two Lanthorns,
One Speaking Trumpett, thirty Yards of thin Canvas & twenty pr of Shoes
for the use of the Norfolk Revenge Galley. -
James Tenant is recommended to his Excellency the Governor and the hon-
ble the Council as a proper person to be appointed second Lieutenant of the
Norfolk Revenge Galley. -
Ordered that Mr Benjamin Powell deliver unto Capt Bright Thirty Yards
of Bunting for the use of the Brig No Hampton. —
Ordered that the keeper of the Public Store deliver unto Capt John Calvert
Twenty three Sailors Jacketts for the use of the Norfolk Revenge Galley. -
Ordered that a Warrant Issue to Sally Spottswood for One pound twelve
shillings for Nursing two sick Men belonging to the Hero Galley as p Acct -
1. Navy Board Journal, 88-89, VSL.
Virginia Navy Board to Captain Charles Thomas1
Sir, Williamsburg Octr 23d 1776 -
You are desir’d to send down immediately the amount of the C[ables]
furnish’d each Vessel as we are in want of it to lay before Convention - You
are also desir’d to send down as soon as possible to James Town an eight
Inch Cable, twenty five fathoms long, for the use of the Revenge Galley —
Captain Calvert. I am by order of the Naval Board Your h’b’le Servant
Thomas Whiting 1st Comr.
To Captain Charles Thomas mannager of the Ropewalk Warwick -
1. VSL.
Journal of the North Carolina Council of Safety 1
[Halifax] Wednesday October 23d 1776
Whereas by Resolve of this Board of the thirtieth of September last
Joshua Hampstead Esquire commander of the Armed Brig Pennsylvania
Farmer was directed to proceed to Sea and Cruize for the Term of one
Month within eighty Leagues of the American Shore, and whereas the time
and distance prescribed in the aforesaid Resolve may in a measure frus-
trate the Intentions of the said Voyage Resolved That the said Joshua
Hampstead be permitted to Cruize for the Term of Six Weeks between the
Latitudes of thirty and thirty six for the purpose aforesaid.
1. Secretary of State Papers (Council of Safety, 1775-1776) , NCDAH.
OCTOBER 1776
1393
24 Oct.
Sir George Collier to Captain Henry Mow at, R. N.1
In consequence of Information that several vessels are expected to ar-
rive in the different Ports of New England with Supplies for His Majestys
Rebellious Subjects; You are therefore hereby required and directed to pro-
ceed immediately to Sea with His Majesty’s Ship under your Command, and
Cruize between Cape Cod and Monhagen in New England, using your ut-
most Endeavors to prevent their receiving those Supplies by Seizing the
Ships or Vessels charged with them; You are to use every Attention to Pro-
tect the Trade of His Majesty’s faithful Subjects, and to give them all the
Assistance in your Power; to promote which the destruction of the Piratical
Privateers of the Rebels is to be one of your principal Objects.
And As by the Capture of several of these Armed Pirates, your Num-
ber of Prisoners may become so large, as to be very inconvenient, you are at
liberty in that case to send in a Flag of Truce to Marble Head, with a Letter
addressed to Mr Nathl Tracey of Newberry Port (who is the Agent for the
Exchange of Prisoners on the part of the Rebellious Inhabitants of Massa-
chusetts Bay,) by a discreet Officer, and to demand an equal Exchange in
Rank and Number of the Kings faithful Subjects who may at that time be
Prisoners with the Rebels; but if there should not be so many then ready to
Exchange, the Officer is to procure a written Promise from Mr Nathl Tra-
cey to release an equal Number, if so many should ever fall into their
Hands.
And as Lord Viscount Howe has signified a disinclination to distress
the unarmed little Fishing Boats on the American Coast, as the doing so,
has been the means of driving the Fishermen either, to enter for Privateers,
or into the Rebel Army for a Subsistance; I would recommend to you to fur-
ther his Lordships benevolent Intentions in respect of those People, when
you find them, neither from Numbers or Arms, capable of molesting the
Property of the faithful Subjects of the Crown.
You are to continue upon this Station so long as your Provisions may
last, or ’till further Order, and then return to this Port.
Given on board His Majesty’s Ship Rainbow in the
Harbour of Halifax the 24th of October 1776
Geo: Collier
To Captain Henry Mowat
Commander of His Majesty’s Ship Milford .2
1. PRO, Admiralty 1/1611, 2, 13.
2. “Capt. Mowat . . . was appointed by the Senior Officer at Halifax to Command the Milford
Frigate in the absence of her Captain at Sick Quarters and he cruised in her on the
coast of New England from October to the last of December.” “Services of Henry
Mowat, R. N.,” Collections and Proceedings of the Maine Historical Society (Portland,
1891) , 2nd series, II, 345-75.
1394
AMERICAN THEATRE
James Warren to Samuel Adams1
[Extract] Watertown, Octr. 24th, 1776
. . . a few prizes are daily dropping in. it is reported that a ship with
forty light Horse on Board has been taken in the Channel of England by a
Salem Privateer after an Obstinate Engagement, in which the privateer
lost seventeen men. we are about moveing to Boston haveing taken the
Room belonging to the County. . . .
Our Naval Operations are Counteracted and discouraged by many sa-
gacious devises of our Enemies or pretended Friends, but truly the lovers of
Mammon, some of which I think should be Immediately remedied. A Vessel
is sent out with orders to return directly back, or with Letters of that pur-
pose, but designed only to shew upon a certain Occasion. She is on her ar-
rival in the West Indies, Britain, or some such places Registered in the
Name of some Person there, and then is Completely fixed [fitted], the last
is to Guard her against the British Cruisers, and if she is taken by ours, she
is Claimed by the Original Owner, and the other said to be only designed for
a protection against the Men of war, and to support the pretence the Orders
and Letters are advanced, by this means a very profitable Trade is Car-
ried on to Hallifax, Newfoundland, and the W. India Islands, etc., etc., and
when they have been taken many of them have been [torn]
1. Warren- Adams Letters, II, 439-40.
Articles of Agreement by Crew of the Massachusetts Schooner
Run Fast 1
We the Subscribers do Acknoledge to have Shipt ourselves, on Board the
Schooner Run Fast [Nehemiah] Somes Master, to Proceed in Said Schooner
from Boston to Virginia Sc Maryland, Sc back again: to do our duty on
Board Sc on Shore during said Voyage, For such monthly wages Sc Privi-
ledge Sc is sett Against our Names, to have One months pay before sailing
the Remainder to be paid at the Discharge of said Schooner in Boston — as
Witness our hands this Twenty fourth day of Octobr 1776
T 776
Octo 27
1776
Octo 2 1
mark
I Aaron Riggs Am Content as Mate for four Pounds Sixteen
Shills P m Sc Forty Bushells Privelidge
Reed amonths pay Aaron Riggs Juner
his
I Jepter X Loyd - Am Content as Seaman for Four pounds
mark
Ten Shills P mo Sc twenty Bush Privelidge
his
Reed a Months Pay, Jepter X Loyd
OCTOBER 1776
1395
1776
Octo 23. I Phelep MrCouil Am Content as Seaman for Four pounds
Ten Shills P mo 8c Twenty Bushs Privelidge
Reed amonths pay Philip McCouif
1776
Octo 27. I Samuel Whorff Am Content as Seaman four four pounds
Ten Shills P mo 8c forty Bushs Privelidge
Reed a months pay Samuel Whorff
[Endorsed] Capt N. Somes Shiping paper 1 Voyage Oct 1776
1. Andre de Coppet Collection of American Historical Manuscripts, John Cushing and Samuel
White of Boston, Papers relating to the ship Run Fast, PUL.
Cushing 8c White to Captain Nehemiah Somes1
Sir Boston Octo 24. 1776 —
We have Appointed you master of our Schooner Run Fast, 8c having all
things ready our Orders Are —
You Proceed to Yocomoko,2 Where youl find Letters for you from Capt
Sami Leighton to whome you are Consignd youl follow his Orders,
where you are to Proceed from thence, Diliver your Cargoe to him 8c Re-
ceive such a Cargoe as he Inclines to ship on board you 8c make all prudent
dispatch for Boston.
You are well Acquainted with Danger of both Coasts 8c Men of Warr. The
Greatest Prudence, dispatch 8c a Good Look out is Absolutely Necessary,
Wishing you a Good Voyage 8c safe Return are Your [8cc.]
[Endorsed] A True Coppy of my Orders left with my Owners wch I prom-
ise to follow — Nehemiah Somes3
1. Privateers, Cushing & White, PM.
2. Yeocomico, Virginia.
3. Ibid., Somes’ receipt for the cargo including brown sugar, rum and salt.
Independent Chronicle , Thursday, October 24, 1776
Boston, October 24.
Yesterday Capt. Daniel Harthorne arrived at Salem from a Cruize. On
his Passage he met with an armed Packet, which he attacked. In the En-
gagement (which lasted two Hours) he lost three Men killed, and nine or
ten wounded, himself slightly. Since which, he has taken and sent into
Cape-Ann, a Prize Snow, with Oats, Sec.1
The Privateer commanded by Capt. [William] Carleton,2 which sailed
from Salem, on a Cruise, about four Weeks since, was taken near Canceau,
by the Brig Hope, Capt. [George] Dawson, a few Days after leaving Port,
and carried into Halifax. Capt. Carleton, with some of the Crew made their
Escape by swimming ashore.
To be sold by Public Auction, On Thursday the 31st of October, On the
Long Wharf, in Boston, The Cargo of the Prize Ship Caladonia, Consisting
1396
AMERICAN THEATRE
of 209 Hogsheads and 11 Barrels, choice Sugar, and 129 Hogsheads of
Choice Grenada Rum.
The Sale will begin at Ten in the Morning.
W. Greenleaf, Auctioneer.
1. The snow Jenny, William Cummings, master, taken by the Massachusetts privateer schooner
Free American . This issue of the newspaper contains notice of the arrival of several
other prizes.
2. The Massachusetts schooner General Gates.
Libels Filed Against Prizes in the Massachusetts Admiralty
Court for the Middle District 1
To all whom it may concern.
Notice is hereby given, That Libels are filed before me, against the fol-
lowing Vessels, their cargoes and appurtenances; viz. — in behalf of Capt.
Elijah Freeman Payne and his company, of the armed Schooner called the
Eagle, against the Ship Venus, burthen about 160 Tons, George Colas, late
Master; against the Ship Caledonia, burthen about 100 Tons, Alexander
McKinlay, late Master. — In behalf of Capt. Jonathan Greely and his Com-
pany and the Owners of the armed Schooner Speedwell, against the Snow
St. George, burthen about 120 Tons, Benjamin Bidgood late Master. — In
behalf of the Officers, Company and Owners of the armed Schooner Dol-
phin, against the Schooner Prosperity , 40 Tons burthen, Josiah Beal late
Master. In Behalf of Capt. William Carleton and his Company and the
Owners of the Schooner General Gates, against the Schooner Dragon, bur-
then about 60 Tons, Abraham Knowlton, late Master. — In behalf of Capt.
James Godfrey and his Company, and the Owners of the Sloop Lady Wash-
ington, against the Ship Marshall, burthen about 265 Tons, Miles Lowley,
late Master. In Behalf of Capt. Silas Atkins jun and his Company and the
Owners of the armed Schooner Boston, against the Ship George, burthen
about 200 Tons, George Grey, late Master, and against the Brigantine Mon-
tague, burthen about 70 Tons, Alexander Blues, late Master. In Behalf of
Capt. Daniel Waters and his Company in the Continental armed Schooner
Lee, against the Schooner Sally, burthen about 40 Tons, Jesse Noble, late
Master. In Behalf of Capt. Abraham Whipple and his company of the Conti-
nental armed Ship Columbus, against the Brigantine Lord Liffold , of about
80 tons burthen, John Jones, late Master. In Behalf of Capt. William Coas
and company and the owners of the armed Schooner Warren, against the
Ship Sarah and Elizabeth, of about 300 Tons burthen, James Foot, late
Master. In Behalf of Capt. John Gill and his Company and the Owners of
the Schooner Independence, against the Brigantine Catherine, burthened
about 100 Tons, Robert Oram, late Master; and against the Brigantine
Polly, burthened about 100 Tons, Robert Efford, late Master. In Behalf of
Capt. Simon Forrester and his Company and the Owners of the sloop Rover,
against the Brigantine Good Intent , of about 100 Tons burthen, William
OCTOBER 1776
1397
Davis, late Master; and against the Brigantine Sarah Ann , of about 100
tons burthen, Gregory Potbury, late Master. In Behalf of Capt. Eleazer
Giles and his Company and the Owners of the Brigantine Retaliation , and
the Officers, Company and Owners of the Sloop Wolfe, against the Brigan-
tine Hiram, of about 50 Tons burthen, Daniel Thrasher, late Master. In Be-
half of Capt. John Lee and his Company and the Owners of the Letter of
Marque Schooner Hawke, against the Ship Nancy, of about 250 Tons bur-
then, John Cowan, late Master. All which Vessels, their Cargoes and Ap-
purtenances, so libelled, are said to have been taken and brought into the
Middle-District aforesaid. And for the Trial of the Justice of these Cap-
tures, the Martime Court for the Middle-District will be held at Salem, in
the County of Essex, on Tuesday, the Nineteenth day of November, 1776, at
the Hour of Ten in the Forenoon, when and where the Owners of said Cap-
tures, or any Persons concerned, may appear and shew Cause, if any they
have, why the same, or any of them, should not be condemned.
Tim Pickering, jun. Judge of said court.
1. Independent Chronicle , Boston, October 24, 1776.
Libels Filed Against Prizes in the Massachusetts Admiralty
Court for the Southern District 1
State of Massachusetts-Bay,
Southern District, ss.
>
To all whom it may concern.
Notice is hereby given, That the Maritime Court for the Southern Dis-
trict will be held at Plimouth in the county of Plimouth, on Tuesday the
12th day of November, A. D. 1776, at the Hour of Ten in the Forenoon, to
try the justice of the following Captures, viz; - Of the Schooner called the
Lively, of about 40 Tons burthen, lately commanded by John Homer, jun;
Of the schooner called the Roebuck, of about 50 Tons burthen, lately com-
manded by Gideon White. — Of the Schooner called the Deborah, of about
25 tons burthen, lately commanded by Solomon Kendrick. — Of the
Schooner called the Earl Percy, of about 30 Tons burthen, lately com-
manded by Nathaniel Atkins. — Of the Brigantine called the Fanny, of
about 90 Tons burthen, lately commanded by William Tokely. — Of the ship
called the Maria, of about 450 Tons burthen, lately commanded by Elijah
Hall. - Of the Ship called the Capel, of about 320 tons burthen, lately com-
manded by John Auling. Of the Brigantine called the General Wolfe, of
about 140 Tons burthen, lately commanded by John Wilson. - Of the Brig-
antine called the John, of about 100 Tons burthen, lately commanded by
Thomas Wallis. - Of the Brigantine called the Maria, of about 120 Tons
burthen, lately commanded by Richard Nickols. - Of the Brigantine called
the Generous Friends, of about 160 tons burthen, lately commanded by John
Hill. - Of the Ship called the Betsey, of about 250 Tons burthen, lately com-
manded by Thomas Archdeacon. - Of the Ship called the Alexander, of
about 250 Tons burthen, taken by the armed Sloop called the Providence, in
1398
AMERICAN THEATRE
the Service of the United States, commanded by John P. Jones: — Against
which Vessels, their Cargoes and Appurtenances, Libels are filed before me,
they having been brought into the Southern-District aforesaid
A Libel is also filed before me, in Behalf of the Officers, Marines, Mari-
ners and Owners of the armed Sloop called the Independence; against
Part of a Cargo (viz. 51 Bags of Cocoa, One Bale of Cotton, six Quarter-
Casks of Wine, 3 half Johannes, and 3 Guineas) taken on the High Seas, out
of a Brigantine called the Freedom , commanded by Robert Wallis, bound on
a voyage from Grenadoes to London.
All Persons claiming Property, in any of the aforesaid Captures, or
concerned therein, may appear and shew Cause (if any they have) why the
same should not be condemned.
N. Cushing, Judge of said Court
1. Independent Chronicle, Boston, October 24, 1776.
Commodore Esek Hopkins to John Langdon1
Sir Newport October 24th 1776 -
Upon the Tryal of Samuel Erlom and Thomas Donehoe for Mutiny on-
board the Ship Royal Exchange, it appeared that the Mutiny was encour-
aged or put on foot by the former Captn of her; in which he Employ’d his
Steward to promise them twenty Guineas a Man, and half the Ship and
Cargo when they should arrive in England - and on this Intelligence I think
it will be right for you, at least to stop his private Adventure, ’till the mat-
ter is clear’d up — 2 Sir you are hereby Impowered to act as Agent for the Of-
ficers & People belonging to the American Fleet, for all Vessels that may
come within your State - I am in behalf of the Officers and People Sir [8cc.]
E. H
To John Langdon Esqr. Agent for the American
Navy in the State of New Hampshire
1. Hopkins Letter Book, RIHS.
2. Hopkins became convinced that Captain Lawrence Bowden was “innocent of Seducing the
People to Retake the Ship,” and ordered that part “of his Adventure” be released to him.
Hopkins to Abraham Whipple, November 12, 1776, ibid.
Commodore Esek Hopkins to the Continental Marine Committee 1
Gentlemen Newport October 24th. 1776 -
Since I wrote you last, Captn Jones in the Providence has arrived here
with three Prizes, and one Ship is arrived at Bedford - Inclosed is a Copy
of the account of his Cruise that he gave me - The Cabot has sent one Ship
in to Providence and yesterday Lieutt [Thomas] Weaver of the Cabot came
here from Bedford, where he arrived two days ago in another Prize Ship —
he informs me that when he left the Cabot she had taken five Ships and a
Brig all from Jamaica — one of them a three decker with upwards of Six-
hundd hogsheads onboard —
OCTOBER 1776
1399
The Alfred is now mann’d, and under Sailing Orders with the Hamden
- Captn Jones of the Providence has the Command of her - Inclosed you
have a Copy of the Orders I have given him, and hope they are such as will
meet with your approbation - The Reason of my giving Orders to Captn
Jones to attempt to destroy the Ships and their Works at the Coal Mines
was, that I receiv’d certain Intelligence by a Master of a Vessel directly
from there, that there was near twenty Vessels, and one hundred Prisoners
employed in that Service; guarded by twenty six Soldiers, the Savage Sloop
of War and [George] Dawsons Brig— 2 and one of them generally at
Louisburgh - One of the new Ships came down from Providence yesterday,
the other got aground, but I expect her down here the first fair Wind. They
are nearly fitted every way for the Sea, all but Men, which they have about
one hundd and fifty each - Shall now give my whole attention to their Man-
ning-
If you have any particular Service for them, should be glad to receive
it. I think they will be ready to Sail as soon as your Orders can reach here;
and I hope near mann’d
The Columbus is Clean’d, taking her ballast onboard, Rigging and fit-
ting as fast as possible - The Sloop Providence will haul in to the Wharf to
morrow in order to clean Shall get them out as soon as possible, but expect
to meet with great difficulty in getting Men — The Privateers being so
plenty, and having great Success that the Men look on their Shears better
than what they have in the Navy - I am with great Respect Gentlemen [&c.]
E. H-
1. Hopkins Letter Book, RIHS.
2. H. M. Sloop Hope.
Assignment of Prize Money by Daniel Cocarry of the Connecticut
Privateer Sloop American Revenue 1
Stonington The 24 October 1776
For The Consideration of Forty Tow shillings L money sd Money Being Ad-
vancd & Paid I bind And Ablige my Self to goe A Croose in the Sloop
Amarican Revinue Samuel Champ [lin] Commander For John & Peleg
Brown whoe are to have All My Right And Share of Prize Money that Shall
be Taking by sd Sloop Or Any Other Vessel with in The Term of Eight
Month From this Date as Witness My hand
In Presants off his
Elihu Cheesebrough Daniel X Cocarry
Lemuel Peirson Mark
[Endorsed] Capt Jonathan Leeds Sir Please to Take Care of the Above In-
dian as wee have Shipt him Peleg Brown
1. Nathaniel and Thomas Shaw Letters and Papers, NLCHS.
1400
AMERICAN THEATRE
Journal of Lieutenant William Digby 1
[Riviere Sable]
24 [October]. Lieut. Gen. Burgoyne sailed in the Washington prize
for St Johns, from when[c]e he was to go by land for Quebec, where a frigate
was ready to sail with him to England, as it was then determined the army
was to return to winter in Canada, 8c make their appearance early the
following season before Ticonderago, when every thing necessary for the
reduction of that fort would be in greater readiness, 8c the season more
favourable for our operations than so late in the year; during which time
our fleet would be masters of the Lake, 8c the severity of the winter too
great for them to build any vessels that could obstruct our movements
early in the spring; even at that time the cold was very severe, 8c our tents
but a small covering against it.
1. Digby ’s Journal, BM.
Continental Marine Committee to Captain Lambert Wickes 1
In Marine Committee
Sir, Philada Octor 24th 1776
The honble Congress of the United States of America have directed
us to commit the Reprisal, under your command to the management of the
Committee of Secret Correspondance for the present voyage or Cruize, you
are therefore to receive and obey the orders of that Committee.
To us however you are to communicate such occurances as ought to be
known by those who Superintend the American Navy, to us you must in
due time transmit, Copies of your Journal and Log book, and to us you are
accountable for the care of your Ship, her Stores Materials, Provisions Sec.
We recommend particularly that you preserve Strict Discipline amongst
your officers and Men always using them well, but compelling them if need-
full to do their duty, and if you Make prisoners we are Sure it will gratify
your Own feelings to treat them with humanity. We hold you in Much es-
teem and flatter ourselves your Conduct in the Service will always be such
as to merit the Continuance of it from Sir [Sec.]
1. Papers CC (Other Reports of Committees of Congress) , 37, 83, NA.
Committee of Secret Correspondence to Captain Lambert Wickes 1
Sir: Philada October 24th 1776
The Honourable Congress having thought proper to Submit the Ship
Reprisal under your command to our direction for the present voyage or
Cruize. You are to be governed by the following orders.
The Honble Docter Franklin being appointed by Congress one of their
Commissioners for negotiating some publick business at the Court of
France. You are to receive him and his Suite on board the Reprisal as pas-
OCTOBER 1776
1401
sengers whom it is your duty and we dare Say it will be your inclination to
treat with the greatest respect and Attention and your best endeavours will
not be wanting to make their time onboard the Ship perfectly agreeable. -
When they are on board you are to proceed with the utmost dilligence
for the port of Nantes in France where they will land and there you will de-
liver their baggage 8cc. It is of more importance that you get Safe and Soon
to France than any prizes are that you cou’d take, therefore you are not to
delay time on this outward passage for the Sake of Cruizing, but if you are
beset with Contrary Winds or during the passage be So circumstanced that
Docter Franklin may approve of your Speaking any Vessels you see, do
therein as he Shall direct
We understand the Secret Committee have put on board the Reprisal A
quantity of Indigo this you must land at Nantes immediately on your ar-
rival and deliver it to their order and they have directed their Agents to
Supply you immediately with whatever refreshments or necessarys you
may Stand in need of, We deem it Essential to the Success 8c Safety of
your Ship that you Make a very Short Stay in the River of Nantes, it is
equally so that you Keep totally Secret where you are bound from thence or
what your business, these things premised we take it for granted your
Stay will not exceed more than two or three days, and that you will rather
dispose people to think you are returning back here again but you are di-
rectly to proceed on a Cruize against our Enemies, you have the Resolves of
Congress by which you well know who they are, by them you will know
what Ships you are authorized to make prize of and the Resolves of Con-
gress must be the Rule of your Conduct. We think you had best proceed di-
rectly on the Coast of England up the Chann[el] before they can have any
Notice of you, and we judge every day if not every hour you are there will
give you opportunity of making prizes; you will Always have some of the
French ports at hand either to Send in your prizes or to run into yourself if
chased by Superiour force Docter Franklin will make application at the
Court of France for the protection of Their ports to the Reprisal and her
prizes and we hope he will be Successfull therein. However we propose as
follows — Should you take one or two valuable prizes with woolen or Linen
goods on board, or Such Cargoes as you know us to be in immediate want of,
that you dispatch them immediately under the command of trusty officers
and Men for this port. If you Meet other vessels partly loaden with Such
goods that you take as many of them on board your own Ship as you con-
veniently can, and that you Send all the other prizes you take, immediately
into Some of the ports of France with orders to apply at Dunkirk to Messrs.
P. Stival 8c Son Merchants - at Havre-de-Grace to Mr. Andrew Limozin
Mercht - at Bourdeaux to Messrs. Samuel 8c J Hans Delap Merchts - at
Nantes to Messrs. Pliarne Penet 8c Co., at any other port to apply to the
Commander thereof for protection untill he receives orders from his Court
on the Subject, and with these orders will also come instructions from Dr.
Franklin, Silas Deane, Esqr. and Dr. [Arthur] Lee or Some of them which
he must obey, you may direct all the prize Masters to wait in port for your
1402
AMERICAN THEATRE
further orders provided the above Gentlemen write that they will be pro-
tected, but if that protection is not granted They must then apply to our
Agents for Such Supplies as are Necessary, and push away immediately for
this Continent making the first Safe port the[y] Can. We are Convinced
you will treat all prisoners with humanity but we think you had best land
them in France whenever they are too numerous on board your Ship to pre-
vent giving alarms in England, for you may depend they will have Cruizers
out after you Soon as the[y] hear of your being there — we expect there-
fore you will make but a Short Cruize, especially as every day Must inevita-
bly throw plenty of English vessels in your Way, perhaps off Falmouth
you might meet with a Lisbon Packet, and whatever Specie you collect take
it onboard and carry it into France, where you may deliver or pay the Same
to the order of Doctor Franklin Mr Deane 8cc. or to Mr. Thos Morris or his
order as agent for the Secret Committee of Congress and the Congress will
pay here yours and the peoples Shares of Such money, as well as their
Shares of any prizes or parts of Prizes that may be Sold there and the
Money applyed to publick use. when you are about to quit your Cruize it
may be well to Send any prisoners you then have on Shore and make them
believe you are coming direct for America, or going round into St. George’s
channel! to Cruize for Bristol Ships just as you think may be most likely to
gain Credit, clear your Ship of them and then Run into Bourdeaux, Brest or
Nantes, just as may be most convenient, you will find letters from our
Commissioners at Paris with Messrs. Delap at Bourdeaux - Messrs. Pliarne
Penet & Co at Nantes or Some proper person at Brest, advising you [of]
the success of their application and if they tell you the Prizes are to be
protected, you can then write to the Prize Masters and either collect and
bring them home under your Convoy or order them to proceed separately as
you shall then judge best. If protection was not to be given, they will come
away of Course, and in that case we think you Should put your Ship in good
order, advise the Commissioners and Mr. Thomas Morris that you only wait
for their despatches. If you have Room on board the Ship receive any goods
Mr. Morris or they may order and when you have received their despatches
make the best of your way back to this place or any other port of Safety in
these States, bringing with you any prizes you can take by the way. Should
the Court of France grant free protection for our Cruizers and prizes in
their ports, we think you may do better in Europe than here, respecting
which consult with and be governed by the advice of our Said Commission-
ers at the Court of Paris and if prizes are allowed to be sold there consign
all you take to the order of Mr. Thomas Morris, who has correspondants in
every port of France and will take care that Justice is done in the Manage-
ment of them. Your Stay in Europe must depend on the advice of the Com-
missioners and your Cruizes Should always be quick as you can be soon in
and out Keep your ship well Manned fitted and provided, and let Old Eng-
land See how they like to have an active Enemy at their own Door, they
have Sent Fire and Sword to ours. You Know we want Seamen here there-
fore encourage all you Meet with both at Sea and on Shore to enter our
OCTOBER 1776
1403
Service and Send or bring as many of them to these States as possible. You
must by all opportunitys inform us of your proceedings, and communicate
all the usefull or important intelligence that comes to your Knowledge. A
Spirited active conduct in this enterprize will recommend you to all Amer-
ica, and you have our best wishes for your Success and honor, being very
Sincerely, Sir, [8cc.]
1. Papers CC (Other Reports of Committees of Congress) , 37, 95-98, NA.
Committee of Secret Correspondence to Silas Deane1
Dear Sir Philada October 24th 1776
We embrace this opportunity of Your Worthy Colleague Sc our mutual
good Friend Doctr Franklin to transmit you Copies of our letters of the
[illegible] Octr by the Sloop Independence Capt [John] Young to Martinico
from whence they wou’d be carried to you by Mr Wm Hodge junr sent in
said Sloop for that purpose, those letters Contained a Commission from
the Congress appointing Doctr Franklin, Thos Jefferson Esqr Sc yourself,
Commissioners on behalf of the United States of America to Negotiate a
Treaty of Alliance Amity Sc Peace with the Court of France. —
A plan of that Treaty, Instructions from Congress relative thereto,
Form of Passport for the Ships of each Nation Sec we consider these pa-
pers as of the utmost consequence Sc hope they will arrive safe. Yesterday
we wrote you a few lines enclosing additional Instructions from Congress to
their Commissioners authorizing them to Treat with other Nations, also
Two Resolves of Congress by one of which you wou’d see that Thos Jeffer-
son Esqr declined his appointment 8c that Arthur Lee Esqr was appointed
in his stead, to whom we enclosed a letter, Copy whereof goes herewith. By
the other the Commissioners are directed to hire or buy Eight Line of Bat-
tle Ships for the American Service, these papers were sent under Cover to
Wm Bingham Esqr our Resident at Martinico with orders to forward them
immediately. We wrote you another letter yesterday Covering duplicates of
all the papers & letters mentioned herein, and sent it by the armed Brigt
Lexington Wm Hallock Esqr Commander to Mr Stephen Ceronio our Resi-
dent at Cape Francois with directions to forward the same to Messrs Sami
& J. Hans Delap Merchts at Bourdeaux who are requested to send the
Packet from thence by Express to you and Doctor Franklin carrys with him
Triplicates of all these publick papers, we have been thus particular in
mentioning them 8c the Conveyances by which they are Sent that you may
know when the whole are received 8c we desire you to be equally pointed in
advising us thereof, for we shall be anxious to hear of their getting safe Sc
shall be very uneasy if we dont hear this in due time, for they ought not on
any Account to fall into the hands of our Enemies.
Since Mr [John] Dickinson Sc Colo [Benjamin] Harrison were out of
Congress Sc Doctr Franklin appointed one of the Commissioners at the
Court of France, The Congress have filled up the Vacancys in this Commit-
Thomas Jefferson
OCTOBER 1776
1405
tee & the Members now are Mr Jay Mr Johnston [Thomas Johnson, Jr.],
Mr Morris, Colo Richard Henry Lee, Mr Wm Hooper 8c Doctr John Wether-
spoon which we mention for your information, we shall Continue to ad-
dress all our advices 8c dispatches to you only, untill informed that the other
Commissioners have joined you but you will Communicate the letters to
them as if directed to the whole 8c we depend on you to Notify Doctr Lee of
his appointment using the utmost precaution in the method of doing it, or
his person may be endangered, we suppose it may be best to have the let-
ter enclosed by the Minister of France to their Ambassador in England
with proper Cautions respecting the delivery of it Doctr Franklin being the
bearer of this letter, it is totally unnecessary for us to enter into every de-
tail of what is passing here or to convey any Political remarks, he being
possessed of every knowledge necessary for your information will Commu-
nicate very fully every thing you can wish to know, Therefore wishing
you a happy meeting with him 8c a successful Issue to your labours in the
Service of your Country we remain with perfect esteem 8c regard Dear Sir
[&c.]
Rob1 Morris Jn° Witherspoon
Richard Henry Lee Will Hooper
1. Ferdinand Dreer Autograph Collection, Letters and Papers of Robert Morris, HSP.
Committee of Secret Correspondence to the American Commissioners
in France 1
Gentlemen Philadelphia October 24th 1776
The Congress having Committed to our charge and Management their
Ship-of-War Called the Reprisal commanded by Lambert Wickes Esq.
carrying 16 Six Pounders and about one hundred and twenty men — we
have allotted her to carry Doctor Franklin to France and directed Captain
Wickes to proceed to the Port of Nantes where the Doctor will land and
from thence proceed to Paris, and he will either Carry with him or Send
forward this letter by express as to him may then appear best. The Reprisal
is a fast Sailing Ship and Capt Wickes has already done honor in Action to
the American Flagg, we have therefore ordered him to land at Nantes
some Indigo he has onboard, take in refreshments, Stores, provisions, or
other Necessarys he May want and immediately to proceed on a Cruize
against our Enemies, and we think he will not be long before he Meets with
a Sufficient Number of Prizes - we have directed him to Send them into
such of the French ports as are most convenient addressing them at Dun-
kirk to Messrs P Stival 8c Son, at Havre De Grace to Mr. Andrew Lomozin,
at Bourdeaux to Messrs. Samuel 8c J H[ans] Delap, at Nantes to Messrs.
Pliarne Penet 8c Co. and at any other ports in France to Such persons as
you may appoint to receive them, when he finishes his Cruize he will call
in at Nantes, Bourdeaux or Brest for your orders and advices which we beg
you will have ready for him lodged at those places. In consequence of this
1406
AMERICAN THEATRE
plan for the Reprisals Cruize we desire you to make immediate application
to the Court of France to grant the protection of their ports to American
Men of War and their prizes, Shew them that British Men of War under
Sanction of an Act of Parliament are daily capturing American Ships and
Cargoes, Show them the Resolves of Congress for Making Reprisals on Brit-
ish and West India property, and that our Continental Men of War and
Numerous private Ships of War are most successfully employed in execut-
ing those resolutions of the Congress, Shew them the Justice and equity of
this proceeding and Surely they cannot, they will not refuse the protection
of their ports to American Ships of war, Privateers and their Prizes. If
your application on this head is crowned with Success, try an other which it
is their Interest to grant, that is to obtain leave to make Sale of those
prizes and their Cargoes or any part thereof that may be Suitable for that
Country. If you Succeed in this also you must appoint some person to act as
judge of the Admiralty, who Should give the Bond prescribed for those
Judges to determine in all Casses agreeable to the Rules and Regulations of
Congress, and for this purpose we will report to Congress some Resolves
vesting you with Authority to make Such appointment and authorizing
Such judge to condemn without a Jury as required here. If these Resolves
are agreed to by Congress they Shall be immediately transmitted to
you. if they are not that plan must drop and the prizes must all proceed
for America for condemnation You Can in the mean time consult the Min-
istry whether they will permit such Courts in France and in the French
West-India Islands. If protection is granted to our Cruizers and their prizes
you will immediately procure proper orders to be sent to the officers of All
their ports on this Subject, and write yourselves to those Houses we have
named at the Several ports that the prizes are to remain for Capt Wickes
further Orders, also lodge Such orders with proper persons at the other
ports in France. On the Contrary if the Prizes are not to be protected in
their ports then give immediate notice to all these Houses and proper per-
sons at the other ports, to furnish the Prizes that Captain Wickes of the Re-
prisal may send into their port with any necessarys the prize Master may
judge the[y] Stand in Need of, and to order him to make the best of his
way with the Prize to the first Safe port he can make in the United States
of America, lodge advice also for Capt Wickes at Bourdeaux, Brest &
Nantes, whether his prizes are to be protected in port or not, and whether
or not any Sales will be permitted. If they are protected he can take his own
time to Collect and bring them home under his own Convoy. If any Sale is
permitted he can Sell all perishable Commodities and Vessels unfit for So
long a Voyage as to this Coast. If no protection for prizes they will come
away by your Orders and Need not Stay for his, and If they deny protection
to our Cruizers themselves, he will only remain inport for your advices, and
to obtain Such Supplies as may be Necessary. We have recommended Cap-
tain Wickes to take on board his own Ship as many valuable Commodities
as he can if he is Successful, but Should he be unsuccessfull in Cruizing
then Messrs Pliarne Penet & Co. may put Some goods on board when he is
OCTOBER 1776
1407
coming away. You will readily see the tendancy these measures have, and as
their consequences may be very important, So we hope your attention to
them will be immediate and constant whilst necessary. Captain Wickes is a
worthy Man and as such we recommend him Should he have the Misfortune
to be taken or meet with any other misfortune we hope you will adopt meas-
ures for his relief. He will treat prisoners with humanity, and we are con-
vinced his conduct will do honour to his appointment. We have the honour
to be Gentlemen [&c.]
1. Papers CC (Other Reports of Committees of Congress) , 37, 75, NA.
Committee of Secret Correspondence to Charles W. F. Dumas,
The Hague1
[Extract] Philada October 24 [177] 6
Our Worthy Friend Doctor Franklin being indefatigueable in the Serv-
ice of his Country and few Men so qualify’d to be usefull to the Community
of which he is a Member, You will not be surprized that the Unanimous
Voice of the Congress of Delegates from the United States of America has
called upon him to Visit the Court of France in the Character of one of
their Commissioners for Negotiating a Treaty of Alliance Sec with that Na-
tion. He is the bearer of this letter and on his arrival will forward it To
him we refer you for information as to the Political State of this
Country our design in addressing you at this time being only to Continue
that Correspondance which he has opened Sc conducted hitherto with you in
our behalf We request to hear from you frequently, [illegible] make use
of the Cypher, The Doctor has communicated the knowledge of it to one of
our Members. Your letters Via St Eustatia directed to the Committee of Se-
cret Correspondance, then put under a Cover to Mr Robert Morris Mer-
chant in Philadelphia Sc that letter under Cover to Mr Cornelius Stevenson
or Mr Henricus Godet, Merchts at St Eustatia or under Cover to Mr Isaac
Governeur Mercht at Curracoa, will Certainly come safe Sc if you can send
with them regular supplys of the English and other News papers you will
add to the obligation the expence of procuring them shall be reimbursed
together with any other charges and a reasonable allowance for your time &
trouble in this agency
1. Mason-Franklin Collection, YUL.
John Hancock to Thomas Cushing1
Dear Sir, — Philadelphia, 24th Octor., 1776
Our incessant Attention to the Affairs of the Northern Army and Genl.
Washington’s (and my Duty you know) with my present Engagedness to
that Service prevents my writing more, than just to Inclose you the Resolve
of Congress respecting the other Frigate, which you will Exert your self to
Compleat as soon as possible. Pray lay it before the Assembly, and Apolo-
1408
AMERICAN THEATRE
gize to them for my not writing them by this, but will by the Express which
I shall Dispatch in forty-eight hours with [John] Manley’s Instructions
and your Money and the other Commissions. The Warrants you have
Inclos’d, what you do not use you will keep for future purposes. The In-
clos’d Letters please to Seal and Deliver The Inclos’d Commissions please
to forward; the Commissions for the Lieutenants, etc. will go by Express.
I was loth to Detain Capt. Manley. You will set him about getting the Men
and let the Captains of Marines fill their Companies, their Commissions will
go by the Express; I shall send them all in blank for you to fill up, I am al-
most worn out, my Duty is Constant, I have hardly time for necessary Rest.
Manly is second officer on the List; The Numbers determine the Rank. Can
I do any thing agreeable for you, let me know and I will not be wanting. I
must Close, God bless you, I am yours sincerely.
11 o Clock Night
1. Proceedings of the Massachusetts Historical Society (Boston, 1927) , LX, 115.
Minutes of the Pennsylvania Council of Safety 1
In Council of Safety,
[Philadelphia] October 24th, 1776.
An order was drawn on Mr. Nesbitt, in favour of Commodore Sey-
mour, for One Thousand Dollars, for the purpose of recruiting men for the
Fleet, to be charged to his account.
Resolved , That Capt. Joseph Blewer 8c Capt. Francis Gurney be desired
to take such Steps as they may think necessary, to secure the person of
Charles Roberts, Captain of the Schooner Thetis [Sic, Thistle'], at Reedy
Island, with all his papers, 8c lay them before this Board.
Resolved , That Capt. Blewer be appointed to contract with proper per-
son for building Twelve Boats to Guard the Fire Rafts.
1. Pennsylvania Colonial Records , X, 764, 765.
Maryland Council of Safety to Jesse EIollings worth 1
Sir,
We send you inclosed a copy of our agreement with Major [William]
Horsey for the Schooner Friendship ,2 - also an Inventory of the Tackle &c
which we request you will examine into, as Soon as she is fitted agreeable to
contract, she is to be delivered over to you, or your order, and loaded with
all possible dispatch. - Can you recommend a proper Person to take the Com-
mand of her. - Major Horsey tells us the Foretopsail mentioned in the
Inventory is missing - dont let the loss of that, or any other trifling ar-
ticles prevent your Receipt of the vessel, but they should be noted and the
Minutes transmitted to us. - She has 40 Hhds Tobacco on Board, which we
send you a list of inclosed, - 20 of them are to be delivered Mr [Cumber-
OCTOBER 1776
1409
land] Dugan for the Schooner 92. - you will fill up the Friendship , after
stowing away the other 20 Hhds of Tobacco, with two thirds Flour and one
third bread. - We are Sec:
[Annapolis] Octr 24th 1776
1. Council of Safety Letter Book, No. 2, Md. Arch.
2. Ibid.
Maryland Council of Safety to John Rogers1
Sir,
The Brig Georgia taken by the Ship Defence arrived here last Monday
laden with Mahog: and Lig: Vit:, and being very leaky, was immediately
ordered up to Baltimore - Be pleased to Signify to us, when 8c where you
will hold your Court, that a Prosecution against her may be immediately
instituted. We are See:2
[Annapolis] Octr 24th 1776
1. Council of Safety Letter Book, No. 2, Md. Arch.
2. Ibid., the same day the Council notified Rogers of his appointment as judge of the Ad-
miralty Court.
Journal of the Virginia Navy Board1
[Williamsburg] Thursday 24th October 1776. -
Capt Edward Travis received Orders to take Command of the Brig Raleigh
provided Capt James Cocke the present Commander is willing to resign the
Command of the said Brig —
Pursuant to a Resolution of Convention Ordered that Thomas Lilly of the
Brig Liberty Enlist any four of the Seamen that were lately taken Prison-
ers on Board the Ship Oxford provided they are willing to Engage in the
Service —
Capt John Harris received Orders to take the Command of the Brig Mus-
quetto, now lying at Warwick and at present Commanded by Capt Isaac
Younghusband,2 together with her Stores and all other things belonging to
her and proceed with the said Vessel down to James Town as soon as possi-
ble-
Ordered that a Warrant Issue to Doctor William Johnston for Five pounds
seven shillings and three pence for Medicine and Attendance on the Sailors
belonging to the Sloop Defiance. -
Ordered that a Warrant Issue to Capt William Mitchell for Four hundred
and eighty six pounds eleven shillings and ten pence for Pay of his Com-
pany of Marines from the fifteenth day of July last to the fifteenth Instant
as p Account this day settled -
1. Navy Board Journal, 89-91, VSL.
2. Brig Musketo.
1410
AMERICAN THEATRE
Virginia Navy Board to Lieutenant Jacob Valentine, Warwick 1
Sir Williamsburg Oct. 24th 1776 -
The Bearer Captain [John] Harris is order’d to take possession of and
bring down to James Town the Brigg Musquetto, you are to consider
yourself and the Mariners under your command as under his direction and
you are desir’d to give him your best assistance, in procuring Seamen and
getting the Brigg down as soon as possible. I am by order of the Naval
Board Your h’ble Servant
Thomas Whiting 1st Comr
1. Navy Board Letter Book, VSL.
Journal of the South Carolina Navy Board 1
Navy Board [Charleston] Thursday 24th Octobr. 1776 —
One thousand Certificates were Ordered to be struck of[f] Immediately in
the following words vizt.
South Carolina
Know all men that I have entered, and I do hereby Certify,
that I have Voluntarily entered, into the Navy of the state aforesaid, on
board the
And I do hereby engage to be true and faithfull in the said Service, un-
till I shall be discharged by Public authority, and also to be bound by, and to
Obey, all and every Rule, Resolve, Order, and Regulation, made, or to be
made, by the Legislature of the state aforesaid, or by the Commissioners of
the Navy, And I do hereby Acknowledge the Receipt of
Witness my hand this
1. Salley, ed.. South Carolina Navy Board, 12-13.
St. George Tucker to Mann Page, Jr1
[Extract]
I will repeat to you what I wrote — The Sum of which was that I had
anticipated the Scheme of Trade which you mentioned and had actually em-
barked in an Adventure by purchasing a large Sloop before I reced your
Letter. If ever I am in favor with fortune it will be thro’ the Interposition
of Friends - I have been happy enough to find those who were disposed to
serve me in many Instances — In the present, I have been so fortunate as to
find that Disposition to befriend me not baulked by the want of Ability —
By the first Week in December I hope to have the pleasure of offering you
the Refusal of 3000 Bushells of Salt besides some other trifling Articles. I
shall then have some proposals to make with Respect to that Article, Rum,
Sugar & dry Goods, that I hope will not be deemed disadvantageous to you.
My best Wishes attend Mrs Page and the little Rogues — I anticipate
very much the Happiness of seeing them again. Mrs Pollard’s (Bedford)
OCTOBER 1776
1411
Compliments to you all — I have a Letter from her for Mrs Page which I
will deliver with my own Hands if I do not dine on board the British Fleet
before Christmas — But, begging Lord Howe’s pardon, I had rather dine in
any Man’s Kitchen in Virginia on that Day, than on the greatest Delicacies
I might have the honor of tasting at his Lordship’s Table on board the
Eagle.
Ber[mud]a Octr 24th 1776.
P:S: Tell all my Countrymen who are with you that Lord Howe has sent
the Tenders about this Island to the Devil — They need not fear them now,
as they have been all sold -
1. Lloyd W. Smith Collection, MNHP.
25 Oct.
Essex Journal , Friday, October 25, 1776
Newbury-port, October 25.
Yesterday arrived here the ship Nancy , John Cowan Master, burthen
about 200 tons, bound from Cork to Quebec, taken by Capt. John Lee of this
place - 1 Her Cargo consists of the following articles viz. 80 Barrels of
Beef, 320 ditto of Pork, 200 Firkins of Butter, 100 Barrels of Oatmeal,
374 ditto of Flour, 1200 Bushels of Pease, 68000 lb of Bread, 207 Casks of
Nails, 22 Barrels and 2 half ditto Gun-Powder, 1 Arms chest with Balls, &c.
16 Carriage Guns and 10 Swivels mounted.
We learn that a Salem privateer has taken in the chops of the channel
of England, two ships, one from Jamaica inward bound, and the other out-
ward bound.
1. Lee commanded the Massachusetts privateer schooner Hawke.
Acts and Resolves of the Massachusetts General Court1
[Watertown] October 25, 1776
Petition of Jeremiah Obrien, & John Lambert setting forth, That the
Establishment for the Officers, & Seamen of the Arm’d Vessels, under their
Command was by far too low
And praying that their pay may be rais’d equal to the establishment
for the Officers, & Seamen of other Arm’d Vessels in the service of this
State
Resolved that Capt Jerimiah Obrien, Commander of the Sloop Machias
Liberty & Capt John Lambert, Commander of the Schr Diligent , who have
been imploy’d in the service of this State together with the rest of their Of-
ficers, & Sea Coast men, under their respective Commands, be, & hereby are
directed to make up their Rolls, on the Same Establishment, from, and after
1412
AMERICAN THEATRE
the first day of February, 8c 16th Day of March, with the other Officers, 8c
Seamen, in the Service of this State.2
1. Mass. Arch., vol. 36, 71.
2. In Mass. Arch. vol. 137,99, is an undated resolution reading:
Resolved. That the Honbl Council or such part of them as they shall appoint
for that purpose are desired and hereby impowered to give Orders, in case they
shou’d think most for the Interest & Safety of the Colony, that the Armed Ves-
sels at present under the command of Capt Obrian & Capt Lambert be hau[l]ed
up and the Officers 8c Men discharged until the further Order of the General
Court.
Journal of the Massachusetts Council1
[Watertown] Friday — Octr: 25th: 1776
In Council. Resolved that the Committee of Deer Island be, 8c they hereby
are authorized, 8c impowered (if they think proper) to Libel in the Mari-
time Court for the eastern District the Sloop Sally belonging to Nathan
Jones taken by said Committee on the 30th Day of Augt 1775 for the
Breach of continental 8c other Resolutions and the said Court is hereby au-
thorized, 8c impowered to hear and determine the Justice of the said Cap-
ture to all Intents, 8c purposes as fully as if the said Sloop had been libell’d
within the Time limited by Law for that purpose.2
And Whereas the said Committee have represented that the said Na-
than Jones hath in many Instances both by Words, 8c otherwise discovered
himself to be inimical to the Interest of the united States of America the
said Committee are hereby directed to take Testimonies properly authenti-
cated respecting the same, and that the said Committee transmit the same
(as soon as may be) to the General Court of this State.
In Council. Read, 8c Accepted.
In the House of Representatives. Read, 8c Concurred.
1. Mass. Arch., vol. 36, 75.
2. See earlier Volumes in this series.
Journal of the Committee Appointed to Build Two Continental
Frigates in Rhode Island 1
[Providence] October 25. 1776.
from the last Date this Committee have taken no Authority on themselves
to Transact any New business respecting the two Frigates built
hear, having finished all that they thot belonged to them to do. They have
accordingly delivered them to the Honble Stephen Hopkins Esqr the person
who commisionated them to Build the Ships, in the Opinion of this Com-
mittee they are fitt and might proceed immediately to Sea, was they fully
Manned. This is a Matter that we have more than once mentioned to the
Marine Board at Philadelphia but have had no particular directions how the
Men weir to be obtained so that we leave them in their Care.
1. Journal R. 1. Frigates, RIHS.
Pay Roll of the New York State Schooner General Putnam 1
OCTOBER 1776
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1414
AMERICAN THEATRE
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OCTOBER 1776
1415
Vice Admiral Richard Lord Howe to Commodore William Hotham 1
Or Sir Eagle [New York] Oct: 25: 10 ’Clock
The General being in want of assistance of Men for the Artillery, on a
pressing service; I have appointed Cap. [Charles] Phip[p]s to take with
him about 60 seamen in 3 Flat-Boats now sent up; With directions to detain
those he may find returning from you.
And I desire you will order any further aid of seamen from the Frig-
ates in the sound that may be wanted, for the same service I am Dr Sir
[Sec.]
Howe
1. Collection of Lord Hotham, Yorkshire (East Riding) County Record Office, England.
Journal of H. M. S. Tartar, Captain Cornthwaite Ommanney1
Octobr 1776 At Single Anchor in the North River
Fryday 25 at Sun Rise the Enemy opend a Battery near Dobbs Ferry
and began firing on us, which we return’d and continued till
i/2 pt 7 when we weighed and dropt farther to the
Northwd one of the Enemys Shot splinter’d the Head of
the Capston and some of the runing Riging was Cut at i/2
pt 8 came too in 7 fm with the small Br abreast of Terry
Town it bearing Et & Sweetlings Ferry SBW Slaughters
land Ni^E veered to 1/3 a Cable
1. PRO, Admiralty 51 /972.
Journal of the Continental Congress1
[Philadelphia] Friday, October 25, 1776
The Committee of Treasury reported, that there is due,
To Robert Chase, late commander of the Gaspe ship of war, for his al-
lowance from 1 March to 24 October, 1776, inclusive, 34 weeks, at 2 dollars
per week, 68 dollars.
1. Ford, ed., JCC, VI, 902, 903.
Continental Marine Committee to Governor Jonathan Trumbull1
Sir Philadelphia 25th Octor 1776
The Marine Committee being desirous to get the Continental Frigates
to Sea, quickly as possible, request the favor of you, to provide Sixty four
Cannon for the use of the Frigate building in New Hampshire, and one of
those in the Massachusetts Bay — Fifty two of these Cannon to carry 12
pounds Shot, and 12 of them to carry four pounds Shot — The proof that
Congress has already contracted for the Public Cannon to undergo, is, for
the first proof, a weight of powder equal to the weight of one shot; on which
1416
AMERICAN THEATRE
charge, two shot and three wads — The second proof is, powder equal to
two thirds of the weight of one shot, with the same shot and wads as in the
first — We wish Sir, that the above mentioned Cannon may undergo similar
proof —
Should the Ship building in Connecticut, not be in equal forwardness
with the New Hampshire Frigate, we should be well pleased, if the latter
were immediately furnished with the Guns that are already provided for
the former; adding thereto as many as will make the number of twenty six
12, and six 4 pounders — The Connecticut Frigate may be furnished, we
hope, in due time; from the Guns above desired to be provided for the New
Hampshire Frigate —
Your well known zeal in the Common Cause gives us perfect confidence
that you will do herein what will most contribute to promote and expedite
the public service — We are with great esteem Sir [8cc.]
John Hancock Francs Lewis
Francs Hopkinson George Walton
Arthur Middleton Wm. Whipple
Richard Henry Lee
1. Trumbull Papers, XXIX, Letter Book IV, 82,83, ConnSL. Draft, without signatures, is in
Paullin, ed., Out-Letters of the Continental Marine Committee, I, 45-46.
“Extract of a Letter from the Secret Committee to
Thomas Morris, dated October 25, 1776.”1
Sir: [Philadelphia, October 25, 1776]
You will receive herewith a copy of our letter of the 16th instant,
whereby you are appointed our agent to superintend all our business in Eu-
rope. This goes by the Continental ship-of-war called the Reprisal , Lambert
Weeks [Wickes] , commander.
The value of this indigo is particularly intended to be lodged with your
banker in Paris, for the use and subject to the order of Dr. Franklin, Silas
Deane, and Arthur Lee, &c.
The Reprisal , Captain Weeks, will make but a short stay at Nantes, as
she will immediately proceed on a cruise, and if fortunate, some of the
prizes may probably be sent into some of the ports of France. The Commis-
sioners will apply at Court for the liberty and protection of their ports. If
this should be granted, it’s probable that they may also permit the sale of
prizes there, and in such case, the prizes, or such parts of their cargoes as
are to be sold in France, will be put under your direction. You must take
care that every thing is disposed of to the best advantage, apply the pro-
ceeds to the payments we have ordered you to make on account of the pub-
lick, and render us very exact accounts of what you credit us in this way, and
a particular account of sales of each prize. Should Captain Weeks take any
specie, he will pay it to you or the Commissioner, or to their or your order
for the same purpose, and you must grant him receipts for the same, ex-
OCTOBER 1776
1417
pressing that you receive it for the use of the United States of America,
and that he is to be repaid by Congress.
1. Force, comp,, American Archives, 5th, II, 1237.
Journal of the Maryland Council of Safety 1
[Annapolis] Friday. October 25th 1776
Commission and Letter of Marque issued to Francis Speake, Com-
mander of Sloop Potomack, mounting twelve carriage Guns.
Vernon Hebb and Timothy Bowes appointed to take the Depositions of
any Witnesses relative to a Sloop sunk by Dunmore’s Fleet near St George’s
Island, and the sails, and other Things taken from and out of her, by Wm
Richardson, and transmit the same, when taken, to the Council of Safety. - 2
Permit was granted to Wm Thomas Master of Schooner Edward to go
to Martinique, he having given Bond, 8c lodged manifest, agreeable to the
Resolves of Convention. -
1. Council of Safety Journal, 29 August 1775 to 20 March 1777, Md. Arch.
2. In the Naval and Maritime Papers, Md. Arch., is an undated memorandum: “A List of
People, employed in Saving the Wrecks, from the Fleet, from 13 to the 24 July 1776—”
It lists “William Richardson 3 Negroes belonging to Do., Thomas Richardson, James
Richardson, Peter Smith, James Smith, Jesse Tennison, John Standfast, Nicholas Byrn,
George Rymer.”
Virginia Navy Board to Lieutenant Benjamin Pollard, Hampton 1
Sir, Williamsburg Oct. 25th 1776 -
Your Letter of the 23d Inst, we have receiv’d and in consequence of
your information have wrote to Lieut. Henry Stratton and order’d him
down to answer for his Conduct,2 we shall provide the Clothing for the Ma-
rines and Seamen as early as possible and shall be oblig’d to you to purchase
such Liquor as you may want upon the best terms you can. I am by order of
the Naval Board. Your hble Servant
Thomas Whiting 1st Comr
1. Navy Board Letter Book, VSL.
2. Ibid., Stratton, a member of Lieutenant Pollard’s company, had not returned from an
eight day leave, and did not “intend to return untill four or five Weeks time.” He
appeared before the Navy Board on October 31 and claimed that sickness had prevented
him from reporting back for duty on board the Hero. However, he did return to the
galley after conferring with the Board.
Virginia Navy Board to Captain Charles Thomas, Warwick1
Sir, Williamsburg Oct. 25th 1776 -
You are desir’d to have ready as early as possible the following Cord-
age f[or] use of the Galley Caswell , Capt Willis Wilson commander build-
ing at South Quay, and when ready immediately acquaint this Board.
1418
AMERICAN THEATRE
1
1
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Cable 120 Fathom 12 Inches
do do 11 do
do do 9 do
175
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45 .
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4 do inch Sc half Cordage
3 do worming —
I am by order of the Naval Board.
Your humble Servant
Thomas Whiting 1st Commr
1 . Navy Board Letter Book, VSL.
Journal of the South Carolina Navy Board 1
Navy Board [Charleston] Friday 25th October, 1776
A Letter was wrote to Capt Edwd Allen.
Capt. Edward Allen
Sir/ The Commissioners of the Navy desire you will take out of
the Brigt Comet, Four of the Carriage Guns, as they think the
Number now on Board rather Hurtfull than of Service —
By Order of the Board
Edward Blake first Commissioner
Octor. 25th 1776 —
Resolved that the following Sparrs be provided for the use of the Navy
of this state, Sc that Mr First Commissioner do give directions for the same -
20 Sparrs from 50 to 70
feet Long Sc from 16 to 30 Inches
Diamiter
10 Sparrs from 30 to 40
Do.
8c from 16 to 22 Inches
Do-
50 Sparrs from 30 to 40
Do.
Sc from 10 to 16 Inches
Do
40 Sparrs from 36 to 46
Do.
Sc from 10 to 15 Inches
Do
in the Middle
100 Sparrs from 24 to 38
Do
& from 6. to 10 Inches
Do-
in the Middle
100 Sparrs from 20 to 35
Do
Sc from 5 to 9 Inches
Do-
The following Letter was received from His Excellency the President,
in consequence of an application having been made to him by the first Com-
missioner, for his Opinion; whether the Commissioners of the Navy, have
not full power to Order the Vessels belonging to this State upon a Cruize,
when they shall think proper?
OCTOBER 1776
1419
His Excellency [missing]
I proposed to the Council your Query; whether the Commis-
sioners of the Navy have Authority to order the armed Vessells, in
the service of this State, to Sea, or on a Cruize? And the Board
was unanimously of Opinion that they have not. —
I shall be glad, that the Vessels may, as soon as possible be in
Readiness to proceed to Sea, on the shortest notice, and, from time
to time, to have the earliest Intimation, whenever they are so, 8c of
what Destinations, the Commissioners think proper, to Recom-
mend, as, much Attention will be had to their Recommendations -
I am Sir [8cc.]
October 25th. 1776 - J Rutledge
Resolved That this Board are unanimously of Opinion That by the Act
establishing the Board of Commissioners, Full powers are vested in them to
superintend 8c direct all Matters relative to the Navy, except Contracting
for Building Ships 8c Materials for the same, Erecting Public Rope Walks,
8c ship Yards, altering or making void any Contracts heretofore made, by
the President and Privy Council, Or the appointement of Officers of the
Navy —
1. Salley, ed., South Carolina Navy Board, 13-14.
26 Oct.
Acts and Resolves of the Massachusetts General Court 1
Watertown, Oct 26 1776
Resolved, That nine persons be appointed by joint Ballot of both
Houses of Assembly as a Committee under the Title of a Board of War;
who shall keep in Boston, or such other Place, or Places as the General
Court may Order, or the said Board shall find necessary a public Office for
the purposes hereafter mentioned; and continue as a Committee for those
purposes until the twentieth day of June next, 8c until others shall be ap-
pointed; subject, nevertheless, to a discharge at any time, by the General
Assembly of this State: whose business it shall be, 8c they or the major part
of them, are hereby impowered, to order, 8c direct the operations of the
Forces in the pay of this State, both by Sea, and Land; by giving the Com-
manders of the Troops, Garrisons, and Vessels of War such Orders for their
Conduct, & Cruises from time, to time, as they shall think proper such or-
ders to be signed in their Name by the President of said Board, or in his ab-
sence by the member thereof officiating as President pro tempre - such
Land Forces nevertheless shall not be sent out of this State without the ex-
press consent of the General Assembly thereof; and shall order the Com-
missary to furnish them, and also the Militia upon extraordinary occasions
with all Warlike, 8c other Stores, Provisions, & Cloathing, that shall appear
to them proper 8c necessary. And for the more effectually enabling them to
do this business it is also
1420
AMERICAN THEATRE
Resolved, That the said Committee, or Board of War or the major part
of them, shall procure, or cause to be procured, Provisions, Cannon, Arms,
Ammunition, Cloathing, & all other Articles necessary for carrying on the
War by Sea, Sc Land; for which purpose they shall take up or may purchase,
Load, Sc fit out with suitable Cargoes such vessels as shall appear to them
proper for Importing said Articles from other States; they not amounting
in the whole to a greater Sum than shall from time to time be granted by
the General Assembly appropriated for these purposes; which Articles
when procured shall be lodged with the Commissary of this State, who shall
Store them in such safe and convenient places for the defence of this State,
as said Committee, or Board of War shall order; Sc them with such Articles,
belonging to this State, now in his hands from time to time deliver out ac-
cording to the Orders of said Committee and also procure any such Articles
as said Committee shall direct - And it is further -
Resolved, That the Secretary, Sc Commisary of this State, make such
Returns to said Committee, without delay, as they shall from time to time
require. And all Officers in the Service, Sc pay of this State by Sea, or Land,
are hereby required to be obedient, & subject to such Orders as they shall
from time to time receive from the said Committee, or Board of War, with
the limitations aforesaid: which Committee shall keep, in Books for that
purpose provided, fair, Sc clear Entries of all orders issued, Sc Returns
made, and also of all their proceedings; Sc of all the Military, Sc Warlike
Stores, Sc Provisions belonging to this State, and the places where deposited.
1. Mass. Arch., vol. 36, 80.
Petition of Edward Brickwood to the Rhode Island Assembly 1
To the Honourable the General Assembly of the State of Rhode Island
and Providence plantations to be holden at South Kingston on Monday the
28th Instant October 1776 —
The Humble Memorial and Petition of Edward Brickwood late a Resi-
dent at Bermuda Sheweth
That your Memorialist was passenger in the Brigantine the Fanny of
Bermuda bound from thence to Antigua and London and taken by the pri-
vate Sloop of War the Independence of Providence Jabez Whipple Com-
mander
That your Memorialist was bound to England to transact some perticu-
lar business and intended returning immediately to Bermuda or Antigua
where he hath an Interest
That your Memorialist is essentially suffering in his concerns by the
misfortune of being prevented attending thereto as well as prosecuting his
intended Voyage to Great Britain
Your Memorialist and petitioner therefore Most Humbly Implores
Your Honours will be graciously pleased to Grant your Memorialist Licence
and permission to return to his business and to prosecute his intended Voy-
OCTOBER 1776
1421
age to Great Britain by way of France, Holland, Bermuda or the West In-
dies, with his Apparel &c
And your Memorialist and petitioner as in Duty bound will ever pray
Sec
Edwd Brickwood
Providence 26th October 1776
[Endorsed] Novemr 1st 1776 To the House of Magsts Gent Resolvd
that this Petition be granted Voted and past p Ordr J Lyndon Cl er [il-
legible]
Novr 2d 1776. In the Upper House the same day Read Sc Concurred p
Order R J Helme Secy p temp
1. Petitions to the General Assembly, 1775-1777, R. I. Arch.
Providence Gazette , Saturday, October 26, 1776
Providence, October 26.
The Brig Cabot , Elisha Hinman, Esq; Commander, in the Service of
the United States, has taken two Ships from Jamaica, bound to London,
laden with Sugar, Rum, Some Indico, &c.
Captain Thomas Stacey, in the Privateer Diamond , has taken a Ship
bound from Quebec to England, laden with Coal, Copper Kettles, &c.
Captain Christopher Whipple, in the Privateer Brig Putnam has taken
a Ship bound from Antigua to England, laden with Sugar.
Captain [Job] Pearce, in a Privateer belonging to East Greenwich1
has taken a Ship bound from Nova-Scotia to Jamaica, laden with Fish,
Boards, Spars, &c.
Captain [Joseph] Jauncey, in the Privateer Washington, belonging to
the State of New-York, has taken a large Snow, laden with Provisions, Sec.
bound from London to New York.
All the above Prizes have arrived in safe Ports; as also two others,
lately mentioned to have been taken by the Providence Sloop of War, in the
Service of the United States, John P. Jones, Esq; Commander.2
It is reported that the Enemy have taken and destroyed some of our
Vessels on the Lakes; but no Particulars are yet received.
1. The privateer Greenwich.
2. This issue of the newspaper contains notice of libels filed against most of these prizes and
others.
Journal of the Connecticut Council of Safety 1
At a Meeting of the Governor and Council of Safety [New Haven] Octor
26th, 1776.
Voted, To desire his Honor the Governor to grant permit to Capt. Eli-
zur Goodrich of Weathersfield, to export in the sloop Betsey , said Goodrich
master, to Marygallant [Marie-Galante] the following articles, (viz:) 80
1422
AMERICAN THEATRE
barrels of beef, 25 barrels of flour, 15 barrels of pork, six oxen, and sixty
dozen of poultry, and to make returns in salt.2
1. Hoadly, ed., Connecticut State Records, I, 54.
2. See Journal of Council October 2, 1776.
Colonel George Weedon to John Page 1
[Extract] Camp at White plains Octobr 26th 1776 —
. . . should have wrote you before this had the Enemy continued in
our Front at Hearlam, but a sudden manoeuver of theirs, has Occationd us a
deal of Trouble, Fateigue, & expence, — The 12th several ships, sloops 8cc,
pass’d Hellsgate and proceeded up the sound to Frogs point where they
landed, we had Armies at that time a bove Kings Bridge sufficient to re-
pell the Force then sent, but on the 14th a second Devision follow’d still
larger when a reinforcement from our lines at Hearlam became Necessary.
Genl Lee arrived just in time to have his hands full, after staying about
half an hour at Head Quarters he went up to take the Commd of the Troops
on that Quarter, — A few days after a Third Devision passed, and from
that time, more or less every day, for several days together till it plainly ap-
peared their intentions was to establish posts in our rear, and cut of[f] a
retreat, They previous to this had sent ships up north river, which I at
first thought was only intended to cut of[f] our Supplies by water from the
back Country, but am now Convinced it was to Facilitate a junction a cross
the Neck which at this place is a bout 16 Miles from North River to the
sound, we have for these teri days been Constantly in Motion in order to
keep the Flank and have now got so situated that they must come to our
own ground to do any thing Desicive. . . .
[Endorsement by Page] There are some sentences in this Letter which I
think are so much to the credit of G. Lee, Majr Green & Captn Thorfnton]
that I think they ought to be published J : P -
To M. Page Junr Esqr of Mannsfield
1. Weedon Papers, ChHS.
Captain James Reid, R.N., to Vice Admiral Richard Lord Howe 1
Copy
My Lord, I am extreamly sorry my exceeding Illness will not permit me
the Honor of paying my personal Respects to Your Lordship, I am therefore
obliged to send the Lieutenant to wait on You. I beg Leave to acquaint your
Lordship I left the Port of Georgia on the 1st Octr last, being reduced to
two Weeks short Allowance, & that consisting only of Pork and Flour, &
having no Prospect of a Supply; I purposed proceeding to St:
Augustine, the same Day I left Georgia I spoke the Lively Capt [Thomas]
Bishop and informed him of my having left the Port that Morning
for Want of Provisions, he ordered me to follow him to St. Augustine,
OCTOBER 1776
1423
Three Days after he supplied me with Three Weeks Provisions at whole Al-
lowance, and ordered me back to my Station, and if I could not get into
the Port again I was to cruize 8c make Tibie [Tybee] Lighthouse once
in Twenty four Hours, until I was joined by him; and if any Accident
prevented that, in the Course of about Fourteen Days, I was immediately to
proceed to the Northward to join your Lordship, for You wanted every
Ship on the Coast, and intended taking me to the Northward on his Return
from St: Augustine: I got off Georgia Bar, the 11th instant at Six in the
Evening, and came to an Anchor, it being too dark to see the Marks to go
in; We heard two Guns at Tibie Lighthouse as an Alarm to the Town, a
Place where We never saw a Rebel; At Day-Break I intended going in, but
at two in the Morning a heavy Gale of Wind came on at NNE, and obliged
me to put to Sea, it lasted violently for four Days; on the 15th I fell in
with the Lively that had slipt from St. Augustine in the same Gale of Wind,
and left Captain Bishop and his Boat’s Crew behind; the Lieutenant in-
formed me the Sphynx, Raven 8c Cherokee were to join your Lordship, and
the Otter, Hinchinhrook and St. John Schooner were to remain at St: Au-
gustine and St. Marys; Having but little Provisions 8c Water on board, that
should I attempt to go into St. Augustine and drove to Leeward of the Port,
I might be a great While beating up, as the Ship goes so ill, and perhaps
obliged to bear up for the West Indies, which would be taking a Ship off the
Coast; therefore I thought it best for His Majesty’s Service [to] join your
Lordship as soon as possible; I herewith inclose the State and Condition of
the said Ship. I have the Honor to be My Lord [8cc.]
J Reid
Sphynx, New York River,
this 26th October 1776.
1. PRO, Admiralty 1 /487.
Diary of Frederick Mackenzie 1
[New York] 26th Octr - The Lark, Frigate arrived yesterday with 25
sail of Victuallers from Cork, but last from Halifax. These ships have
brought out a great many officers, 8c between 4 and 500 Recruits for the
British Regiments.
I. Mackenzie’s Diary , I, 87.
New-York Gazette , Saturday, October 26, 1776
Newark, October 26.
A List of British Ships on the American Station.
Guns
Eagle, Adm. Howe,
64
Asia, Capt. Vandeput,
64
Jersey hospital ship,
60
Guns
Chatham, Ad. Shuldham, 50
Bristol, Commodore Sir Peter
Parker,
50
1424
AMERICAN THEATRE
Guns
Preston , Commodore Hotham, 50
Renown, Captain Banks, 50
Isis, Capt. Douglass, 50
Experiment, Scott, 50
Centurion, Braithwait, 50
Phoenix, Parker, 44
Roebuck, Hammond 44
Rainbow, Sir G. Collier, 44
Amazon, Jacobs, 32
Prune , [Fergusson] 32
Diamond, Fielding, 32
Emerald, Caldwell, 32
Flora, Brisbane, 32
Juno, Dalyrymple, 32
Lark, Smith, 32
Niger, Talbot, 32
Orpheus, Hudson, 32
Pearl, O’Hara [sic Thomas
Wilkinson], 32
Repulse, Davis 32
Thetis, , 32
Acte on, Atkins, (burnt) 32
Active, Williams [sic Hunt], 28
Blond, Thompson, 28
Carrysfort, Fanshaw, 28
Cerberus, Symonds, 28
Daphne, Henry, 28
Fox, F[o]theringham, 28
Lizard, Inglis, 28
Liverpool, Bellew, 28
Milford, Burr, 28
Solebay, [Symonds] 28
Surprise, [Linzee] 28
Syren, Fumeaux, 28
Tartar, Ommanie, 28
Triton, Lutwidge 28
Unicorn Ford, 28
Deal Castle, Worth,
Guns
24
Fowey, George Montague,
24
Greyhound, Dickson
24
Garland Pearson,
24
Lively, Bishop,
24
Mercury, Montague,
24
Sphinx, Hunt,
24
Glasgow, Howe,
20
Rose, Wallace,
20
Scarborough, Barclay
20
Seaford, Colpoy,
20
Falcon, Lindzey,
18
Merlin, Bernaby
18
Nautilus, Collins,
18
Kingfisher, Graham,
16
Raven Stanhope,
16
Scorpion, Tollemache
16
T amer, Thomborough [sic
Christopher Mason]
16
Albany, Mowatt,
14
Hope, D[a]wson,
14
Martin, Parker,
14
Swan, Ayscough,
14
Senegal, Duddingston,
14
Hawke, Cooper,
10
Otter, Squire,
10
Viper, Price [sic Samuel
Graves] ,
10
Carcass, Dring,
8
Cruiser, Parry,
8
Savage Bromedge,
8
Carcass and Thunder, bomb vessels.
Strombolo, fire ship.
Canceaux, Cherokee, Diligence, and
a number of other armed vessels.
Thomas Savadge to a Committee of the Pennsylvania
Council of Safety1
J Extract] Pennsylvania Salt Works, Tom’s River,
Oct’r 26th, 1776.
P. S. On Sunday last, the 20 Inst., at day Break, appeared at the
mouth of our inlet, four large Frigates, endeavouring to get as close in as
OCTOBER 1776
1425
possible, which is not more than four miles from me, the [y] drew up in a
line right abreast of me, hauled up their courses 8c laid their Topsails back,
in which position the[y] continued till near twelve o’clock; I expected a
viset from them, and believe nothing prevented it but its being a very low
tide, the flats being very bare, and seeing upwards of thirty of us on the
shore, made them afraid to send their boats in, otherwise I think they fully
intended it, which had they done, we must have left it to their mercy for
want of arms Sec., to defend it.
Directed, To Messrs. George Clymer, Samuell Howell,
8c Owen Biddle, Esqr’s, in Philadelphia.
1. Pennsylvania Archives, 1st series, V, 55-56.
Penet 8c Pliarne to the President of the Virginia Council 1
Sir. Philadelphia 8bre [October] 26. 1776
We have established in France a house the firme of Pliarne Penet 8c Co
at Nantes destinated only for the Correspondence with the united
states, the honorable Continental Congress have been supplied there al-
ready 8c they will take for the future all the Articles they shall want for the
Army Sc other purposes.
We believe Necessary to inform you that it is upon the encouragement
8c the assurances we have Receiv’d from the Congress we have Got in Maga-
zines in france a Very Large Quantity of Goods 8c Every other Articles suit-
able to the present Circumstances the States are in.
in Consequence of that, Sir, we flater ourselves the Commitees will ad-
dress their Vessels to that house 8c you May depend upon this, you will Find
there immediately Every thing you will want.
But there is an other very important adventage you Must be ac-
quainted with, the Commitees 8c the Merchants Meeting with Great difficul-
ties to send Money to Europe, our house has taken that in Consideration 8c
you May Now have Bills upon our house, We will take here the Continental
Money.
Our house is at Nantes in Britanny 8c we have Chosen that port, be-
cause it is the best situated for the Business of this Continent. if you send
your Cargoes from America to the other Ports, Nantz is in the Center 8c out
of the Channel 8c after your Capts will have sold their Cargoes in the other
ports they May Go immediately to Nantz to be Loaded, 8c that speculation
you will find it adventageous, because from Bordeaux, La Rochelle L’orient
8c the other ports, in 1, 2 3 days you Get to Nantz, 8c you will find the Arti-
cles Cheaper there, Because our Great Business with the Continent will de-
termine our house to Give the Greatest Satisfaction to the honorable Conti-
nental Congress, the Committees 8c the Merchants.
Added to these Reasons the Market of Nantz is Extremely Good, there
is a Very Large River which passing through different Cities Makes the Con-
sumption very great.
1426
AMERICAN THEATRE
We will be, Sir, Much oblig’d to you for your Early advices to us there
or here & we will furnish you with the bills you wou’d wish to have on them
as we are Determin’d to Reside here under the same ferme as at Nantes
of Sir [8cc.]
Pliarne Penet & Co
We Must add our house will procure, if you Choose it, to your Capts
french papers Sc they will be safe till they will Get to your Coasts.
1. Papers of Pliarne, Penet, Dacosta Freres & Co., 1776-1783, State Agents, VSL. Penet and
Pliarne sent similar letters to other state committees.
William Whipple to John Langdon1
My Dear Sir, Philadelphia 26th Oct 1776
I arrived here the 24th: the [Marine] Committee have not met since
my arrival but have mentioned your demand to some of the members, there
is no doubt but I shall be in cash to honor your drafts whenever they
appear, there is no prospect of cannon from this place, however, I have
some hopes from another quarter viz: Connecticut — the circumstances are
these — the cannon are made for the Trumbell [ Trumbull ] in that State and
there is no prospect of her being provided with other necessaries — the
Committee have wrote to Govr Trumbell [Jonathan Trumbull] to procure
cannon for two ships and in the mean time to send those made for the
Trumbell to you from the known disposition of that gentlemen to promote
the public good I have great hopes you will be supplied from that
quarter, orders are gone to Providence to supply you with canvass for a
second suit of sails. I don’t know but you’ll have a wrangle on your hands
with the Providence gentry however my boy I’ll stand by you as long as I
can — the ships here are not so forward as I expected to find them only
three of them are launched. The rank of the Captains in the naval service
was established before I arrived; I find [Thomas] Thompson is the 6th on
the list — had I been here, I certainly would have had him higher — how-
ever considering the train after him, I think it pretty well — for want of
time must refer you to Col [Josiah] Bartlett for news &c In haste as you
see Your affectionate friend [&c.]
Wm Whipple
1. William Whipple Papers, Force Transcripts, LC.
Journal of the Virginia Navy Board 1
[Williamsburg] Saturday 26th October 1776. -
Capt John Calvert of the Norfolk Revenge Galley received Orders to go im-
mediately with his Vessel to Hampton, there apply to Mr George Hope for a
new fore Yard which he is to have fitted as soon as Possible and then Pro-
ceed on a Cruize in the Bay using his utmost Endeavours to Annoy the
Enemy and protect any Friendly Vessels that may be coming in by Con-
OCTOBER 1776
1427
voying them to some place of Safety within the Capes, observing to take
proper care of his own Vessel, and when his Vessel may get fowl or any
other Occurrence renders it Necessary for his returning It is Ordered that
he return to his former Station at Hampton and give the Board Notice
thereof together with an Account of his Proceedings during the Cruize. -
Adjourned till monday next. -
Signed, Thomas Whiting 1st Comsr
1. Navy Board Journal, 91-92, VSL.
Governor Peter Chester to Lord George Germain 1
[Extract]
(No 20) Pensacola 26th October 1776
. . . We also hear from the same authority2 that the Rebels have fitted
out two Vessels at Charles Town of 18 Guns each which are both put to Sea
the one commanded by Clement Lampriere and the other by [Simon]
Tufts. They are also fitting out a Vessel at Beaufort in South Carolina Sc
one at Savannah in Georgia of the like force, & it is given out that they are
ordered to cruize off Cape St Antonio to intercept any Vessels bound into
the Gulph of Mexico and particularly those intended for this place or the
River Mississippi laden with Goods Sc Provisions. I should not be surprized
if the Rebels who must be in great distress for Blankets & Clothing should
make an effort of this kind especially as their trading Vessels among the
French Islands may learn the disposition of Admiral Gayton’s Squadron at
Jamaica Sc probably discover that there will be little danger to apprehend
from them at Cape Antonio as those ships all cruize to Windward of Ja-
maica Sc they will have little to fear from the Ships on the Pensacola Station
as We have only the Diligence Sloop of 14 Guns and an Armed Vessel in
Lake Port Chartrain [Pontchartrain] for the protection of this Province.
The Diligence has been chiefly out cruizing for some time past Sc is shortly
to be relieved by an Armed Brig of ten Guns called the Badger which will be
the only Vessel to protect the trade in the Gulph of Mexico.
Should the Rebels succeed in taking any of the Ships bound here, We
shall be in a very disagreeable situation on account of Salt provisions for
the Troops and will not be able to furnish the Indians with those supplies of
Goods and Ammunition that We have promised them, and I am very appre-
hensive that a Misfortune of this kind might greatly tend to endanger the
loss of their Affections.
We have an Account here written by a British Merchant residing at
New Orleans to a Gentleman of this place acquainting him that there has a
Boat arrived at Orleans which came down the River Mississippi with about
20 Men, that a Pennsylvanian of the Name of Gibson appears to have the
Command of them Sc that they have been very civilly treated by the Gover-
nor of Louisiana I since hear from the Mississippi that in passing the
Natchez they hoisted the Rebel Colours Sc that the Boat is returned up the
1428
AMERICAN THEATRE
River with a load of Ammunition bound it is imagined up the Ohio but the
supposed Leader remains at New Orleans. I hourly expect a Vessel from
thence with some People belonging to this Province and if the Report be
true and the Spanish Governor has given them any Countenance I shall en-
deavor to gain the fullest information in my power relating thereto and
shall forward the same to your Lordship by the first opportunity.
I have already mentioned to your Lordship that I think it my duty in
this critical state of Affairs to communicate every Account relating to the
proceedings of the Rebels that has the least Colour of truth, and I fre-
quently lament that it is not in my power to forward more full and authen-
tic Information; however whether this Account be true or not there is great
Reason to apprehend if the Rebellion should continue another year that the
River Mississippi will be the Channel through which the Rebels will receive
very considerable supplies of Ammunition, unless We obtain strict Orders
from the Court of Spain to prevent their Subjects from furnishing these
Supplies and also keep a sufficient Military force upon the Mississippi to
search all Boats whatever carrying Ammunition up the River.
[Endorsed] Rd 5th March 1777.
1. PRO, Colonial Office, 5/621, 365-70, LC Photocopy.
2. A merchant in the Creek Indian trade.
Journal of H.M. Sloop Nautilus , Captain John Collins 1
October [1776] Lattde in 37. .00 No
Saturday 26 First and Middle part little Wind and hazy
Latter Fresh breezes and Clear PM Saw a Sail on the
Lee Beam at 2 Bore away and gave Chace Sett the
Studing Sails Sc Driver at 8 hauld the Wind In
Chace at 10 Fired 5 Guns at the Chace Sc Brought her
too A Sloop from Philadelphia bound to St Croix with
Flour & Bread2 sent a Midn and 5 Men on bd her
1. PRO, Admiralty 51/630.
2. Sloop New York Packet, E. Pringle, master and owner, Howe’s Prize List, March 31, 1777,
ibid., 1 /487.
27 Oct. (Sunday)
“Extract of a letter from Fort- Lee, October 27, 1776.” 1
This morning about 7 o’clock two frigates moved up the North River,2
and came to an anchor near Burdett’s Ferry, apparently with an intention to
stop the ferry-way, and cut off the communication between this place and
Fort Washington. The enemy at the same time appeared on Harlem Plain,
and Col. [Robert] Magaw, who commands on York Island, ordered the
lines to be manned. The ships endeavoured to dislodge them by firing on
their flanks, but they fired to very little purpose. The Barbette Battery on
the high hill on the left of the Ferry opened on the frigates and fired a con-
OCTOBER 1776
1429
siderable time, without doing them any or but very little damage. Upon our
ceasing to fire, a gun from Fort No. 1 on York Island began to play on them
with great advantage and hulled the one highest up about 20 times. At this
time two 18 pounders, which were ordered down this side the river opposite
the ships, gave them so warm a salute that they hoisted all sail; the fore-
most cut her cables and appeared to be in the greatest confusion; she could
make no way altho’ towed by two boats, till the lower one perceiving her
distress, sent two more barges to her assistance, who at length dragged her
out of the reach of our fire. It is very probable that many of her men were
killed, and she herself extremely damaged; but the weather was so hazy
that it was impossible to see any thing distinctly at a distance. The enemy
by this time had begun a smart fire on the island with field pieces and mor-
tars; our men returned the compliment. They were out of their lines great
part of the day. There were but few discharges of small arms. Our men
killed about a dozen Hessians and brought them off. We had one man killed
with a shell. This was the account at five o’clock, it is now seven, and firing
has just ceased; but nothing extraordinary I believe has happened. We take
this day’s movement to be only a feint, or at any rate it is little honorable to
the red-coats.
1. Pennsylvania Journal, November 6, 1776.
2. H. M. S. Pearl and H. M. S. Repulse.
Journal of H.M.S. Pearl, Captain Thomas Wilkinson 1
October 1776- At single Anchor in the No River [New York]
Sunday 27 A M. at 6 Weighed and Work’d up the River in Company
with the Repulse at i/2 past 7 Anchor’d with the Bt Br
off the Rebel breast works, they firing [at] us from both
sides they Cut our Rigging 8c Sails, at 11 Weigh’d 8c
run down to our old birth, heard a number of Great
Guns 8c small Arms from our Army.
Modte 8c Hazey
P M Employ’d repairing the rigging 8c Sails.
1. PRO, Admiralty 51/674.
Journal of Captain Henry Duncan, R.N.1
[On board H.M.S. Eagle, off New York]
27th [October]. - Early in the morning heard a cannonade up the
North River. I went up to see what it was; found the Repulse and Pearl ad-
vanced, the former above and the latter in a line with the rebel lines. The
rebels brought down one 18-pounder on the York, and three other guns on
the Jersey shore. The ships could not fire with any execution at these guns;
and as they had answered the intent of their moving up, that of flanking the
enemy’s lines and scouring the woods, and it now being high water, Captain
[Henry] Davis thought it proper to drop the ships down to their former
1430
AMERICAN THEATRE
station. Many shots were thrown into the Repulse , and some into the Pearl ;
no men killed in either, and only one man’s leg broke on board the Repulse.
1. Duncan’s Journals, XX, 133.
Diary of Frederick Mackenzie 1
[NewYork] 27th Octr — The Repulse and Pearl Frigates went up the
North River with the tide when the troops advanced, in order to flank the
Enemy, but the fire from Forts Washington and Constitution obliged them
to return to their former stations. Indeed as the Rebels did not abandon
their works on their right, their going higher up would have answered no
good purpose. The Rebels struck the Ships several times, but they did them
no other damage than wounding one man on board the Repulse.
1. Mackenzie’s Diary, I, 89, 90.
Diary of Christopher Marshall1
[Philadelphia] Octr 27th 1776
. . . about one this morning alarm’d by the Cry of Fire which prov’d to be
the Prize Ship Sent in here by the Privater [Continental schooner] Wasp,
which entirely Consumed the Same withe her Valuble Cargoe of Sugar, rum
&c Sec Sec 2
1. Diary of Christopher Marshall, HSP.
2. The prize Ship Leghorn Galley.
Journal of H.M. Armed Schooner Hinchinbrook,
Lieutenant Alexander Ellis1
Octr 1777 Cumberland Isld NbE Amelia SbE St Marys entrance
[sic 1776] WNW.2
Sundy 27 at 8 AM Weighd Se run over to Cumberld Point
Do [Moderate and Cloudy] Wr at 3 P M Slipt and went after
a Rebell Schooner Chas’d her till it was dark fired Several
Shot to bring her too at 6 Anchord with the Small Br in 4 f.
Veerd to i/s a Cable at 8 Weighd Se Run down the River at
10 Came too off Cumberland Island with the Bt Bour Veer’d to
Vs a Cable
1. PRO, Admiralty 51 /4219.
2. Ibid., the Hinchinbrook had sailed from St. Augustine October 11, to patrol the coast
northward to the St. Mary’s River, and returned to St. Augustine on November 1, 1776.
Intelligence Received by Vice Admiral James Young 1
(Copy) St Croix, Oct. 27. 1776
Sir, (Private)
Tho I have not the honor of being known to you I trust that this letter
will not be considered either officious or intrusive To give an account of
OCTOBER 1776
1431
oneself is certainly awkward; nor would I attempt it on any except the pres-
ent occasion, I must therefore beg leave to inform you that I left London
the place of my residence last June 8c there had the honour of being known
to several high in Office — Before I left England I took leave to mention to
Lord George Germaine, that I was confident the Americans carried on
Trade with the Danish Islands, 8c that I should endeavour to find out when
here what Vessells had 8c were trading to those Islands, 8c that I would
transmit any intelligence I might collect to such a quarter as I thought
might produce good effects His Lordship did me the favor to approve of
what I mentioned — I have brought an introduction (thro Lord Suffolk) to
the Governor of the Danish Islands, and shall reside some Months in them
to dispose of, or to put two Plantations I have at St Thomas on a better
footing — These Circumstances I could wish to avoid mentioning, but I
think every person is bound when he gives any intelligence to convey some
Acct of himself — I must confess however that whatever intelligence I may
give arises in some degree from interested motives, for I have property
both real 8c personal on the continent, which I am persuaded cannot be ben-
eficial to me unless Great Britain reduces the American insurgents to a
proper obedience to its Legislative Authority — I hope that this will be pre-
sented to you by my Brother who belongs to the Regiment at Antigua; if
not there he must be on duty in America —
It has given me pleasure to hear of the number of Captures made by
His Majesty’s Ships under your Command, but notwithstanding their vigi-
lance several Vessells (generally small) have got in here. I have been but
16 days here, 8c six Schooners have arrived from the Provinces of North
Carolina, Maryland, 8c Pennsylvania — As to what they bring it is of no
consequence, but they all return with a few Articles (8c those much wanted
by the deluded people on the continent [) ] such as Oznabrigs a little pow-
der, Sugar 8c Rum — As to Powder it is fortunately very scarce, or they
would not have met with so scanty a supply — Two days since one of the
above Schooners (Packer Master) sailed for America, 8c amongst other Ar-
ticles, did with some difficulty procure ten small Casks of Powder; but my
astonishment was great to find such a Commerce countenanced by Govern-
ment here — The Vessell went out under American Colours, saluted the
Fort, 8c had the Complement returned the same as if She had been an Eng-
lish or a Danish Ship — I take it for granted that a similar conduct is ob-
served in the Islands of St Thomas 8c St John belonging to the Crown of
Denmark — This Island is now unquestionably well supplied with Provi-
sions, so that the favourable reception of American Vessells cannot arise
from necessity — Two of the six Vessels I have mentioned, are at West-end
harbour, the other three at [East] -end, 8c will all sail in the course of a
fortnight. — It is most probable that you have already received similar Ac-
counts; if so, I have troubled you unnecessarily; I think however that I
have discharged part of the duty a subject owes to Government; I shall
therefore take leave to subscribe myself [ (] without making any farther
apology) with Respect, Sir [8cc.]
[Unsigned]
1432
AMERICAN THEATRE
I go over to St Thomas tomorrow where if I learn any thing shall take leave
to trouble you again.
[Endorsed] No 3 Copy of a Letter of Intelligence (Private)
1. PRO, Admiralty 1/309.
28 Oct.
Petition of George Child, Master of the Prize Ship St. Lucia ,
to the Massachusetts Council1
The Petition of George Child Humbly Sheweth, That your Petitioner
being bound from Jamaica to Bristol, in the Ship St Lucea Loaded with
Sugar Sc Rum, was taken by Capt Eleazer Giles of Beverly Commander of
the Brigantine Retaliation and was Sent with his sd Ship into Said Beverly
where it is probable his Sd Ship Sc Cargo will Soon be condemned,2 the Cap-
tors having Generously Given him his adventure, which is Sufficient to pur-
chase a Small Schooner, with which he is desireous of Returning to his
family Therefore your petitioner Humbly prays yours Honors, to permit
him to proceed from Beverly to Bristol, in a Schooner about fifty tons with
Ballast Sc Stores Sufficient for Such a Voyage, with Ten men besides him-
self, Sd Schooner to be fitted out &c under the Inspection of the Committee
of Corrispondence Inspection Sc Safety of Said Beverly, or other wise Re-
leave your Petitioner as you in your Great wisdom Shall See fit. and your
Petitioner as in Duty bound Shall Ever pray.
Beverly Octr 28th 1776 —
Geo Child
[Endorsed] State of Massa Bay in Council [Watertown] Octo 30. 1776 —
On the Petition of George Child late Master of the Ship St Lucia
Ordered That the Prayer of the said Petition be so far granted as that the
said Capt Child be permitted to depart from this State by taking passage in
any Vessell that may be going hence for Europe or the West India’s Sc that
he be permitted to take with him necessary Stores for his Passage under the
Direction of the Committee of Corrs Inspection Sc Safety of the Town of
Beverly
1. Mass. Arch., vol. 165, 397.
2. The St. Lucia ’s trial was scheduled for November 18 at Salem, Independent Chronicle,
Boston, October 31, 1776.
Acts and Resolves of the Massachusetts General Court 1
[Watertown] Monday October 28th 1776.
Petition of Job Trip of Dartmouth, setting forth That he was employ’d
by the State in the month of April last, to take charge of a Vessel, Sc proceed
to Philadelphia, in order to transport from thence a Cargo of Flour but he
was so unfortunate as to be taken by one of the ministerial Tenders, the
OCTOBER 1776
1433
people on board of which were so inhuman, Sc cruel as to fire a broadside
upon the vessel of the petr after he had Submitted, by which he was badly
wounded in the thigh, the bone broken, Sc very much shatter’d, so that he
has become a Cripple, unable to do any sort of business, Sc but a very small
prospect of being any better; a Series of Misfortunes having attended the
unhappy petr before this, that he was in low circumstances as to Interest Sc
is now thrown entirely upon the benefaction of his friends Sc relations. This
being his unhappy situation ... he is encouraged from the known human-
ity, Sc benevolence of this, Sc former Assemblies of the great, Sc general
Court of this State, to hope, Sc trust the present Hon: Court will take the
deplorable situation of their unhappy Petr under their wise consideration,
Sc grant him such relief, as they in their great Wisdom shall think proper.
Order thereon In the House of Representatives. Resolved that thirteen
pounds be paid out of the publick Treasury of this State to Walter Spooner
Esqr for the use of Job Tripp, &c
1. Mass. Arch., vol. 36, 87-88.
Boston Gazette, Monday, October 28, 1776
Watertown, October 28.
Wednesday last Capt. Daniel Harthorne arrived at Salem from a
Cruize. On his Passage he met with an armed Packet, which he attacked. In
the Engagement (which lasted two Hours) he lost three Men killed and had
9 or 10 wounded, himself slightly.1 Since which he has taken and sent into
Cape Ann, a Prize Snow, laden with Oats, Sec.
A Privateer commanded by Capt. [William] Carleton, which sailed
from Salem on a Cruize about a Month ago, was taken near Canso, by the
Brig Hope, Capt. Dawson, a few Days after leaving Port, and carried into
Halifax. Capt. Carleton, with some of the Crew, made their Escape, by
swimming ashore.2
1. The engagement was with the Harriot packet. See Journal of Ambrose Serle, October 21,
1776.
2. See journals of H. M. Sloop Hope and H. M. Brig Diligent, September 27, 28, 1776.
“A Journiel Kept By Ephraim Briggs Obourd of the Good Sloop
Warren A bold Privateer A Second Cruize”1
Munday October the 28. Day A D 1776
Latter Part after Twleve stearing SE by E A Quick Brease At S by W
saw A ship upon the Weather Bow Put About stood for Her Lost sight of
her Put About stood to SE Again Munday Morning A fine Brease at
SSW. Ten A Clock saw A schooner ENE stood for Her Cal’d hands to
Quarters Came Up With Her Boarded her she was a schoner from Mar-
tinaci [Martinique] Bond to Salem got some fine limes Sc some orringes Sc
some Loaf Sugar Came Aboard
Lattd in 40:25
1434
AMERICAN THEATRE
First Part this 24 hours Foggy the Wind Starts to the westward Stearing SE,
Rainey & Foggy the wind starts to the Nothard Five A Clock Jibed ship
stearing SE. sent Down the Topsail Yard Judg our selves in the Current2
1. RIHS.
2. The Gulf Stream.
Commodore Esek Hopkins to Captain John Paul Jones1
Sr Providence Octor 28: 1776
I Reed your Disegrable Letter and you are hereby Derected to goe
Emedetly to Newport with the Alfred and if you think the Hamden will Not
Do for the Cruse Capt [Hoysteed] Hacker and the Hole of the Hamdon
Crue are to take the providence in [illegible] and folow the formor
Directions if I Can will be at Newport to morrow I am your friend
Esek Hopkins Cmr Chief
1. Papers CC (Letters of John Hancock, and Miscellaneous Papers) , 58, 177, NA.
Lieutenant Colonel Henry Beekman Livingston to
George Washington1
[Extract]
Sr/ New Haven. Octr 28th 1776.
After having with the greatest Impatience waited the Arrival of the
Whale Boats and Vessels that were to have been employed in the Long Is-
land Expedition I find myself at Length disappointed, Colonel [William]
Me: Intosh having Marched two of the Regiments that were allotted for the
Purpose to Head Quarters so that the Original Plan must of Necessity fall
through as the Force we have left is Inadequate to the under [ta]keing.
Colonel [William] Richmond’s Regiment has only Three Hundred Men,
and my Detachment together with Part of Colonel Smith’s Regiment that
have joined me amount to about two Hundred — The Term of Inlistment
for Colonel Richmond’s Regiment will be elapsed in ten Days. However we
will not be Quite Disappointed but will make an attempt to Disperse the Re-
cruits inlisting for General How on Long Island If our Orders extended to
burning the Hay Grain and whatsoever we conceived might be of advantage
to the Enemy, I immagine we might Distress them a little But this Gover-
nour Trumbull will not Authorise Colonel Richmond (to whome he has
given the Command) to Execute. ... If the weather permits I fancy we
shall be to morrow Night on Long Island tho I don’t think under the Re-
strictions laid on us anything of Great Consequence Can be Atchieved. I
should have waited Your Excellencies Orders at this Place had I not re-
ceived Express ones from Governour Trumbull to repair to Long
Island . . .
1. Washington Papers, LC.
OCTOBER 1776
1435
Memorial of Adam Babcock to the Governor and
Council of Safety of Connecticut1
The Memorial of Adam Babcock of New Haven in sd State humbly
sheweth, — That Your Honrs Memo[riali]st hath suffered great and heavy
losses by having a Brigt of upwards of 140 Tons and a Sloop of upwards of
100 Tons burthen, both fine Vessels, together with their Cargoes of Oyi cap-
tured by two British Men of War, in the West Indies the Summer passt, as
they were returning home from the Coast of Brazill, being solely the Prop-
erty of Your Memost whereby he is much injured in his Fortune, and being
obstructed from carrying on Trade Sc Business as heretofore, for Reasons
well known to Your Honours, and no way left of retrieving those losses but
by Reprisals on the Trade of those People, who have thus Despoil’d him of a
great part of his property — He therefore humbly prays Your Honours, to
giant him leave to purchase at Your Honrs Furnace in Salisbury — Four-
teen Cannon — (Vizt) Eight Six pounders and Six Four pounders, and also
Twelve Swivel Guns for the purpose of arming and equiping a private Ves-
sel of War, to cruise against the Enemies of the United States of America
— And Your Memost as in duty bound shall ever pray —
Adam Babcock
New Haven 28th Octo 1776 —
1. Trumbull Papers, V, 211a-b, ConnSL.
Augustin Lawrence and Samuel Tuder to the New York
Provincial Convention 1
Poughkeepsie, October 31 [ sic 28], 17762
Gentlemen -
Enclosed we send you an extract from a letter we have just received
from the marine committee at Philadelphia. You will see by it we are re-
ferred to your Honourable House for directions and advice respecting the
launching and securing of the frigates and their stores, which we desire to
have as soon as possible. As unless you direct to the contrary, we shall
launch the ship Montgomery on Monday [November 4], and the other as
soon as possible afterwards. The custom of giving the carpenters a treat at
launching, we suppose you would not mean to break through. The master
carpenters judge 100 dollars for each ship on that occasion will be reasona-
ble to allow. As we are directed to advise with you, beg your opinion in that
matter. We are, gentlemen [Sec.]
Augustin Lawrence, Samuel Tuder.
To the Hon. Pierre Van Cortlandt,
President of the Convention at Fishkill.
1. New York Provincial Congress, II, 337-38.
2. The Convention was not in session, and this letter was received by the Committee of Safety.
The Committee minutes note: “A Letter from Messrs. Tudor & Lawrence, at Pough-
keepsie, dated October 28th, informing when the Ships will be launched.” Force, comp.,
1436
AMERICAN THEATRE
American Archives, V, 3, 275. The Journal of the Committee of Safety, October 29, as
printed in New York Provincial Congress, I, 692, dates the Tuder-Lawrence letter
"Octor. 24th.” This is believed to be a typographical error because of the short dis-
tance between Poughkeepsie and Fishkill. October 28, the date given by Force, would
seem more realistic, and has been used.
Memoirs of William Smith 1
[Manor of Livingston] Monday 28 Octr 1776
I returned Yesterday from a Visit to Mrs [Margaret] Livingston ... In
this Journey I learnt that the British Fleet on the Lake consisted of
1 Ship of 18 - 12 lb
1 Schooner 14-6 lb
1 Do. - 12 -6 lb
2 Gondolas 3-12 lb
1 Rideaux 6 - 24 lb
1 Do. - 12 -12 lb
Double
fortified
Brass
Brass
Several double fortified 6 lb 4 - 8 Inch
Hawitzers
28 Row Boats from 18 to 12 lb
Several 8 Inch Hawitzers
The American Fleet consisted of
1 Schooner of 12 - 6 lb 8 Gondolas 3 - 12 - to 4 lb
1 Do - 6 - 4 lb 1 Small Hospital Schooner
3 Row Galleys -10 18 to 4 lb 1 Sloop - 10 to 4 lb
This List was given to me the 24t. on the Road by a Doctor Thompson
of our Neighbourhood just come from Albany who had it from Mr. Walter
Livingston, to whom it was furnished by General Waterbury a Prisoner in
one of the Vessels lately vanquished and discharged by Govr. Carleton, who
after very kind Usages dismissed all the Prisoners upon their Parole not to
serve in the American Army till others were restored in their Places — The
Prisoners report it as a Speech by Mr. Carlton’s that he pitied them as de-
luded Subjects, but that if he took General Washington, Hancock, Adams
and such Characters, he would send them to England to be executed as
Traitors. — Whether the Tenderness is to wipe off the Odium of the Affair
of the Cedars or in Consequence of Advice or Orders from General Howe is
uncertain — Perhaps the Design is to win a Party in the Colonies to desert
the Congress upon a Confidence that no others will be Sufferers on the Res-
toration of the old Governmt; and yet the last Accounts from below are that
the Regulars have ravaged the Sea Coast from Frogs Neck to New Rochelle
burn’t many Houses & plundered the Effects of the Inhabitants —
1. Sabine, ed.. Memoirs of William Smith, II, 27.
New-York Gazette , Monday, October 28, 1776
New-York, October 28.
The Unicorn Frigate, which parted Company with the Fleet off Nan-
tucket Shoals (as mentioned in our last paper) arrived here on Tuesday. —
The Privateer, which the Unicorn chased, escaped by the Badness of the
Weather.
t
1438
AMERICAN THEATRE
On Monday Afternoon the Harriot Packet came into Harbour, after a
Passage of six Weeks and five Days from Falmouth. She fell in with a Rebel
Privateer in Long. 20, and maintained a very smart Engagement for a con-
siderable Time, when the Captain of the Privateer thought proper to sheer
off. The Harriot lost her Master and five Men, and had several others
wounded. The Mate brought in the Packet without any further Molestation.
The Mail on Board left London on the 27th of August.1
The Orpheus and Daphne Frigates are gone to sea.
The Ships of War and other Vessels, make near 500 Sail within the
Harbour.
Friday being the Anniversary of his Majesty’s Accession to the
Throne, the Day was celebrated here with every Demonstration of Joy. The
Flag Ships hoisted the Royal Standard; and all the Ships in the Harbour
gave a Salute of twenty-one Guns each. So noble an Appearance, and so
grand a Salute, was never known in this Port before. The two Admirals
gave Entertainments, and many loyal Toasts were drank upon the Occasion.
In the Evening the Lark, of 32 Guns, Captain [Richard] Smith, with
about twenty Sail of Ships under Convoy, arrived safe in the Harbour from
England. Many Recruits were on board.
1. The engagement was with the Massachusetts privateer schooner True American, Daniel
Hathorne, commander, of ten guns and eighty men, Mass. Arch., vol. 7, 243. See also
Independent Chronicle, October 24, 1776, and Journal of Ambrose Serle, October 21,
1776.
Vice Admiral Richard Lord Howe to Commodore
William Hotham 1
Dr Sir Eagle [New York] Oct. 28: 1776
The tenor of your letter of yesterday concerning the restraint upon the
Landing of more provision & necessaries for the Army, is what I daily ex-
pected; And, in that apprehension, was obliged to postpone my request for
your return to us, until it was determined by the movements of the Army,
what further need there might be for your direction of the arrangements
that would be requisite in consequence
It is to be suitably provided in the Naval Department that I must in-
treat your continuance in the troublesome Service you have hitherto di-
rected, Hoping that your Release will now very soon take place. And I
reckon you may daily Expect the Generals request for moving with your
suite of Transports nearer to us, preparatory to their Return to this An-
chorage.
The Fire in the North River was a[s] our Frigates moved up to co-op-
erate in an advance of the Trops under Lord Percy towards the Enemy’s
Lines on York Island; But no material Injury was done by it.
When any of the Batteaux can be spared from the Army Services, the
attendance of the Transports Men will be useful at their ships.
OCTOBER 1776
1439
The ships of War you will of Course direct to attend you Westward as
you approach near us, providing only for a stationed Convoy for the Coast-
ing Traders supplying New York with Fuel Sec; As far as to the ships off
Huntingdon Bay. I am Dr Sir [ Sec .]
Howe
The Enclosed I trouble you with, that it may get to Capt [Roger] Cur-
tis by the earliest opportunity —
1. Collection of Lord Hotham, Yorkshire (East Riding) County Record Office, England.
Captain Charles Fielding, R.N., to Philip Stephens 1
Sir/ Diamond off New York Oct. 28th 1776
You will be pleas’d to inform their Lordships of my arrival at this
place with the Convoy under my orders on the 19th instt and that on the
23d of Sepr the Unicorn chaced Sc brought to the Fleet the Bost-wick Brig,
Alexr Anderson master, loaded with provisions! she had parted company
from her Convoy the Perseus , had been taken by a Rebel Privateer, Sc re-
leas’d they not having men sufficient to Navigate her, Sc another Vessel
they had likewise taken. Also that the Unicorn chaced Sc took on the 30th
of Septr the Wolfe Sloop Jams Freeman master, a Privateer belonging to
Boston, with 10 Carriage, Sc 10 Swivel Guns, and ninety men; 2 * both of
whom I also brought in. Further you will represent to their Lordships the
very bad conduct of John Coghlan Master of the Ship Lovely Mary belong-
ing to Bristol, loaded with ordnance stores; he attempted to leave the Con-
voy on the night of the 20th of Augst but was fortunately cross’d upon, Sc
brought back by the Unicorn in the morning, who had chaced ahead the
day before, Sc was rejoining the Fleet; he had also broke the seal of his ren-
dezvous; I put a careful midshipman with five men directly onboard him,
and took two of his men out.
I cannot well express the trouble I had from the dullness Sc obstinacy of
the Masters of the Dutch Transports, Sc the great delay from that, Sc the
very heavy sailing of most of their ships; Sc I must conclude from the bad
management of them in general, that the superintendants either had not
power to exercise their Authority, or that they were extremely neglectful
and inattentive; I must except Mr Blackstone in the Eiken Boom , who for
the latter part of the Voyage particularly, kept his Ship in a very good sta-
tion. I am Sir [&c.]
Ch8 Feilding
1. PRO, Admiralty 1/1790, 4, 11.
2. The Massachusetts privateer sloop Wolfe, Captain Nathaniel Freeman, was commissioned
September 4, 1776, Mass. Arch., vol, 7, 327.
1440
AMERICAN THEATRE
Journal of the Continental Congress1
[Philadelphia] Monday, October 28, 1776
The Marine Committee brought in a report, which was read; Where-
upon, Resolved , That the Marine Committee be empowered to employ such
persons as they shall think proper, to execute the business entrusted to
them and report their names to Congress:
1. Ford, ed., JCC, VI, 905, 906.
James Clarke to Daniel of St. Thomas Jenifer1
Hon Sir Baltimore Octor 28th 1776
When I was last at Annapolis, Melcher Keener and myself made the
Honble Councill of Safety; an offer to serve them, in the purchase of Pro-
duce here, but since that, we have not had the pleasure of hearing from the
Honble Council, do suppose they are otherways engaged. I have a Schooner
on hand, which by a resolve of our committee sometime ago, I am not al-
lowed to load on my own Acct - have resolved to sell her, and should you
still be in want of vessells, may have her if you please. - she will carry 700
Barrells or Upwards, she will want some repairs the price as she lies is 450
£2 I remain respectfully See
James Clarke
1. Red Book, XI, Md. Arch.
2. Ibid., Clarke wrote again on October 31 urging the Council of Safety to act, and upping the
capacity of the schooner to 800 barrels.
Bill of William Patterson, Commander of the
Maryland Boat Dolphin 1
Octo28thl776 Dr the State of Mary land To
William Paddison of the Armed Boat Dolphin For three Months and Seven
Days at £ 12 P Month from the 2 1st July to 28th £ s d
Octor 1776 inclusive 38..16..0
To wages Due five hands f[or] 86 Days
work at 5/s P to the 2d Octor 1776 - 21 . . 10. .0
£ 60. . 6. .0
28th October 1776 The above Accot proved before
Tho8 B Hodgkin
Board of Accounts 28 Octor 1776 This Account examined Sc passed by this
Board.
Tho8 B Hodgkin
Willm Wilkins
1. Revolutionary Papers, Accounts 1777, Box 2, Folder 1, Md. Arch. This account is endorsed:
“included in An Account rendered & passd the 21st February 1777.”
OCTOBER 1776
1441
Journal of the Virginia Council of Safety1
[Williamsburg] Monday October 28th 1776
Ordered that the Keeper of the Public Magazine receive for the use of
this State all the Powder lately imported by Joshua Storrs and Company in
the Schooner Betsey.
Ordered that the Commissary of Publick Stores receive for the use of
this State all the Medicines and Blankets imported by Joshua Storrs and
Company in the Schooner Betsey.
1. Mcllwaine, ed.. Journals of the Virginia Council, I, 217.
Journal of H.M.S. Solebay , Captain Thomas Symonds1
Octr 1776 Cape Hatteras N4:59 Wt 45 Lgs
Monday 28 at 6 AM a Sail to Leewd Made SI after her fird 11 Nine Pd
shot to bring her too, found her to be a Sloop from No Caro-
lina bd to St Eustatia laden with Tobacco, Tar &c.2 sent
some Men on board her
Light breezes & Cloudy 1st part, Mid: Squally lattr fresh
breezs at 2 PM fired 2 Guns for the Convoy to come under
our stern at 5 repd the Sigl with 1 Gun, in 1st Rf F: & Mn
Topsls
1. PRO, Admiralty 51/909.
2. Sloop Peggy , Howe’s Prize List, March 31, 1777, ibid., 1/487.
Journal of the South Carolina Navy Board 1
Navy Board [Charleston] Monday 28th October
The following Message was agreed to be sent to his Excy the Prest vizt
Navy Board Charles Town 28th October 1776
Sir. The Commissioners of the Navy on enquiry, find, that no Con-
tract has yet been made, for any of the Gallies, and agreable to the
Act; appointing that Board, the Commissioners have no authority
to Enter into any Contract, for Building, without the Concurrence
of the President and Privy Council, The Commissioners There-
fore, desire your Excellency will (if it is judged necessary) give
directions to Enter into Contract with such persons, as are willing
to undertake the Building of Gallies, and to provide Necessaries
for the same —
By Order of the Board Edward Blake first Commissioner
The first Commissioner was desired to wait upon the President, & Ac-
quaint him, That the Board were of opinion it would be for the service of
this State, that the Armed Vessels Comet & Defence , should proceed di-
rectly, to One of the French Islands in the West Indies in order to procure
Seamen where (by information they have received) there are good Grounds
1442
AMERICAN THEATRE
to believe may be readily obtained, 8c that they Could carry Indico to the
value of £ 500. Sterling each, to defray their Expenses 8c purchase such
necessaries as may be wanting.
1. Salley, ed., South Carolina Navy Board, 15.
29 Oct.
The Freeman's Journal , Tuesday, October 29, 1776
Portsmouth [October 29] .
Arrived here last Sunday a prize ship called the success, Eleazer Ball
late master, taken by the Retaliation privateer from Salem, in lat. 42. long.
47. she sailed from Jamaica the 9th of August, was taken the 6th of Octo-
ber. Her cargo consists of 244 hogsheads 8c 12 tierces of sugar, 156 pun-
cheons of rum, 4 bags of cotton, mahogany fustic 8cc. The said privateer had
also taken a brig and ship, and saw her engage another ship.1
1. Captain Eleazer Giles commanded the brig Retaliation. The Success was subsequently
brought around to Boston and libeled against November 7, 1776, along with the ship
Alfred, Thomas Callender, master, also taken by Giles. Independent Chronicle, Boston,
November 7, 1776.
Petition of Joseph Howgate, Passenger in the Prize Ship
Sarah and Elizabeth, to the Massachusetts Council 1
To the Honle Council of the State of Massachusetts Bay — the Petition of
Joseph Howgate humbly sheweth, that your Petitioner had taken Passage
on Board the Ship Sarah [elr] Elisabeth, bound from Jamica to London,
which Ship was taken by the Privateer Warren, Capt [William] Coas Com-
mander and carried in to Cape Ann — By which your Petitioner, is not only
a great Loser, but in his present Condition is so reduc’d that he must now
become an Expence to this State, except your Honrs afford him that Relief
which your Honrs have humanely granted to others — he begs leave also to
inform your honrs that, to add to his present unhappy State, he has with
him a little Daughter, born and bred up in the west India Climate, who can-
not indure the severity of this Northern Clime, without enduring great
hardship; - therefore your Petitioner prays your Honrs to permit him with
his Child and a Negro Servant, a Lad, to depart this State, for Lisbon in the
Brigg Dolfin ownd by Mr Silvanus Huzzy of Lynn, Commanded by Capt
Johnson, and your Petitioner as in Duty bound will Ever pray,
Joseph Howgate.
Cape Ann Oct. 29th 1776
[Endorsed] Council Chamber [Watertown] Oct. 31. 1776 On the Petition
of Joseph Howgate, Orderd that the said Joseph, with his Daughter and his
Negro Servant be, and they hereby are permitted to depart this State, in the
OCTOBER 1776
1443
Brigg Dolphin, bound to Lisbon, ownd by Sylvanus Huzzy of Lynn; it hav-
ing been made to appear to Council that the said Howgate was a Passenger,
bound from Jamaica to London, as set forth in the Petition. —
1. Mass. Arch., vol. 165, 394, 395.
Assignment of Prize Shares by William Morris, a Seaman on
Board the Connecticut Privateer Sloop American Revenue1
Reed of Obadiah Pease of Edgartown In the County of Dukes County Mari-
ner The Sum of Three Pound Eighteen Shillings It Being In full Satisfac-
tion for one forth Part of my Share of All Prize money Goods Wares &
marchandise That May Be Captued 8c Sent Into Port by The Armed Sloop
Colled The American Revenue Samuel Champlain Commander During The
Present Intended Cruize Hereby Reliqueshine my Claim Right And Tittle
To The One forth Part of my Share As Afor[e]sd to The Said Obadiah
Pease his heirs 8c Assignes As Witness my hand And Seal at Edgartown
And Seal at Edgartown his
This 29 Day October 1776 William X Morris
Witness mark
Jonathan Bunker
Anthoney Pent This Being A True Cope
1. Nathaniel and Thomas Shaw Letters and Papers, NLCHS.
Journal of Lieutenant William Digby 1
[Riviere Sable]
29 [October]. During the months of October and november there are
frequent squalls of wind on the Lake [Champlain], which come momentary
off the land, 8c do great damage, particularly to small-craft; a few days before,
the Carlton being under way 8c cruising on the lake, one of these sudden
squalls was very near laying her on her beam ends.
1. Digby’s Journal, BM.
New York Committee of Safety to the Superintendents
of Frigates at Poughkeepsie1
Gents: [Fishkill, October 29, 1776] 2
Yours of Yesterday with copy of that to you from the marine committe
at Philadelphia inclosed, came to hand. We advise you to proceed by all
means to lanch the Frigates as soon as you can 8c then to proceed with the
Vessels to the place most safe in Roundout Kill near Esopus Landing. We
are sensible of the custom to give a treat to the workmen after lanching nor
do we know that the sum of 100 Dollars for each is too much. We would rec-
ommend to you to have it properly considered, that you may not be blamed
1444
AMERICAN THEATRE
of Extravagance 8c we of giving a sanction thereto. We are obliged to you
for your invitation to see the Lancing but whether any of the Members will
be able to attend we know not. There are so few members present that few
if any can be spared.
1. New York Historical Manuscripts, I, 578.
2. See footnote 2 under Lawrence and Tuder to New York Provincial Convention, October 28,
1776.
Tench Tilghman to William Duer1
[Extract] Head Quarters White plains 29 Octr. 1776
Dear Sir:
Your Express did not call Yesterday or I overlooked him in the Hurry
of the Day. If I had seen him I should have informed you that the Cannon-
ade you heard was at Mount Washington and not at this Place — Two Frig-
ates came up and anchored alittle below the Forts to stop the Passage at
Bourdet’s Ferry, but one of them soon got such a Dose from a Battery of 2
18 Pounders that she was obliged to cut and run having received 26 Shot
thro’ her Hull. She was towed off by her own Boats and those of her Con-
sort with Pumps constantly going2 They at the same Time attacked our
Lines at Harlem Heights but were repulsed. . . .
Wm Duer Esqr of the [New York] Committee
[of] Correspondence Fishkills
1. Sabine, ed., Memoirs of William Smith, II, 33-34. In transcribing this letter into his
memoirs, Smith called the writer “James Tilghman” in error.
2. H. M. S. Pearl and H. M. S. Repulse.
General Orders of Vice Admiral Richard Lord Howe1
Memo/ [New York] October 29th 1776
When returns are made to the Admiral of the State 8c Condition of the
Ships of the Squadron, the Captains of such ships as bear supernumeraries
are to specify on the back of their respective Returns, the Name of the
Ships to which such Supernumeraries belong, 8c the Number belonging to
each; But if their Supernumeraries should not belong to any particular
Ship, the Number borne as Pilots, Prisoners, Invalids or in any other Quality
are to be particulary distinguished —
1. Order book of Captain William Cornwallis, R. N., NYHS.
Vice Admiral Molyneux Shuldham to Philip Stephens1
Sir, Bristol off New York 29th Octor 177 [6]
I am to acknowledge the Receipt of your Letter of the 25th July signi-
fying to me that their Lordships had directed Vice Admiral Lord Howe to
Order me to return to England in His Majesty’s Ship Chatham towards the
OCTOBER 1776
1445
fall of this Year, unless His Lordship shall judge it expedient for His Maj-
esty’s Service that I should continue with the said Ship in North America. I
am Sir [&c.]
Shuldham
[Endorsed] Reed 29 Deer Sc Read
1. PRO, Admiralty 1/484.
Journal of Ambrose Serle1
[On board H. M. S. Eagle , New York]
Tuesday 29th. October.
We had the Pleasure to hear this Morning, through the Channel of the Reb-
els themselves, that Genl Carleton had defeated their armed Vessels upon
the Lakes, and taken many of them Prisoners; that he was landed at Crown
Point, and was advancing towards Ticonderago. It appears likewise that
many Indians were with him. There is no doubt, considering the Channel,
but this is the Truth, though perhaps not the whole Truth.
In the Evening, Advice was received from Capt. [James] Ferguson of
the Brune, that a large armed Flat Boat of the Rebels, full of men, had at-
tempted to make an Incursion within our Lines last Night, that the Brune
had fired upon them with great Guns Sc small Arms, and that this Morning
the Brune's People took the Boat, which was greatly shattered, and its Bot-
tom covered 2 full Inches with Blood. Above 60 Shot had passed through its
Sides, and ’tis supposed they killed above 50 men. The Cries, Shrieks Sc
Groans of the Rebels, some dying in the Boat, others drowning in the
Water, were very shocking and dismal.
1. Tatum, ed., Serle’s Journal, 133.
Journal of the Continental Congress1
[Philadelphia] Tuesday, October 29, 1776
Congress resumed the consideration of the report of the Marine Com-
mittee: Whereupon,
Resolved, That all private-ships of war, merchant ships, and -other ■ ves-
sels belonging- to the subjects of these states, do pay -respect to the continen
tal ships of war> of any -kind and denomination? by- hauling- down the-i-r -pen-
dants when in company with any of them? and also by lowering-th^- sails
usually lowered by British traders to British- ships of war when the-y--Bae#k
That no private ships or vessels of war, merchant ships, and other ves-
sels belonging to the subjects of these states, be permitted to wear pendants
when in company with continental ships or vessels of war, without leave
from the commanding officer thereof.
That, if any merchant ship or vessel shall wear pendants in company
with continental ships or vessels of war, without leave first obtained from
388-825 0-73-93
1446
AMERICAN THEATRE
the commander thereof, such commander be authorized to take away the
pendants from the offenders.
That, if private ships or vessels of war refuse to pay the respect due to
the continental ships or vessels of war, the captain or commander, so refus-
ing, shall lose his commission.
Resolved , That the further consideration of the report be postponed till
to Morrow.
1. Ford, ed., JCC, VI, 907, 908-09.
Captain John Paul Jones’ Certificate1
I do hereby certify that John Paul Jones was duly commissioned and ap-
pointed to command the armed Sloop called the Providence and that the sd
Sloop is now employed in the Service of the thirteen United States of
North America Witness my Hand
[Philadelphia] October 29th T , TT , „
John Hancock Presid
1. Naval History Society Collection, NYHS. This is not a commission but a certificate issued in
connection with the trial of prizes brought in by the Continental Navy.
Captain Hugh Montgomery to the Pennsylvania Council of
Safety1
Gentlemen The night of the 28 Inst it being may [ sic my] Guard in the
Estern Channell about 7 Oclok Dawson the pilot Cam through the Channel
verry abruplay and wold not bring too I sent may boat after him and was
almost at Chester befor the boat Could overhal him and without a Permit
from the board Gentlemen we hav had several inst [a] nces of this kind and
wold be glad this Honourable Board will see into it Your Verry Humble
serven to Command
Hugh Montgomery
P: S before the smal boat Could return their was several veshels past
without Over haling for want of her
[Galley] Effingham Octr 29
1. Gunther Collection, ChHS.
Trial in Pennsylvania Admiralty Court of the Prize
Brigantine Richmond 1
[Admiralty Court, Philadelphia]
And now to wit the twenty ninth Day of October aforesaid at a Court
held at the State house aforesaid Before his Honor the Judge Come as well
the Libellant and the Claimants aforesaid as the Jurors aforesaid — And
the said Jurors being asked upon Oath and Affirmation aforesaid respec-
tively do say That they find the Facts set forth in the Bill are not true And
that the Brigantine Richmond with her Tackle Apparel Furniture and
OCTOBER 1776
1447
Cargo and the Monies found on [board] at the Time of her Capture are the
Property of the Claimants in this Cause —
Whereupon his Honor the Judge proceeded to the publication of his
definitive Sentence or Decree in this Cause in the words following to wit —
It appearing to me from the Verdict of the Jury empannelled sworn
and affirmed in this Cause upon the Evdence produced to them That the
Facts set forth in the Bill are not true and that the said Brigantine or Ves-
sel called the Richmond in the said Bill mentioned with her Tackle Apparel
Furniture and Cargo and the Monies found on board her at the Time of the
Capture are the property of the Claimants in this Cause, I do thereupon ad-
judge and decree that the Bill of the said John Criag be dismissed And that
the said Brigantine or Vessel called the Richmond with her Tackle Apparel
and Furniture, and all and singular the Goods Wares Merchandize and
Monies found on board her at the Time of her Capture as mentioned in the
Bill be restored and redelivered unto the said George Folger and Seth Jen-
kins in the Claim aforesaid named to and for the Use of themselves and
others the Owners and proprietors thereof in the said Claim named and
mentioned And I do further adjudge and decree that there was probable
Cause of Seizure of the said Brig by the said Libellant And that therefore
the said Libellant pay and satisfy only that part of the Costs and Charges
of this Tryal and Condemnation which have accrued on his said Bill into the
Hands of the Marshall of this Court And I do further adjudge and decree
that the said Claimants pay and satisfy unto the said Marshall all the Rest
and Residue of the Costs and Charges aforesaid And I do order the said
Marshall to pay the whole of the said Costs and Charges into the Hands of
Michael Hillegas Esquire Treasurer of the State according to the Resolves
of the honorable Continental Congress and of the honorable House of Rep-
resentatives of this State -
Geo: Ross
October 29th 1776 -
1. Revolutionary War Prize Cases, No. 7, Court of Appeals, 1776-1787, NA. Richmond had
been captured by the Pennsylvania privateer sloop Congress, Captain John Craig. Her
owners protested the capture, and their claim to being “friends of America” was backed
by Benjamin Franklin and Richard Henry Lee. Captain Craig appealed to the Conti-
nental Congress.
William Hooper to the President of the North Carolina
Convention 1
Honoured Sir Philadelphia Oct 29 1776
By my worthy Colleague Mr [John] Penn, I do myself the honour to
transmit a resolution of the continental Congress which bears immediate
relation to the State of North Carolina.2 The Congress having been informed
that the Armed vessels belonging to the Enemy have lately quitted the
River of Cape fear, and have proceeded to the Northward, have bestowed
their thoughts upon the practicability of fortifying that entrance into your
state, and excluding the British Men of War. The importance of such a
1448
AMERICAN THEATRE
measure must weigh as powerfully with you as with them, 8c I am well as-
sured that nothing will be wanting on your part to carry it into Execution
with all possible dispatch. As this is the only Port in the State of North
Carolina, into which the Enemies can introduce ships of any considerable
force, should they be prevented here, we shall have nothing to fear from
any forces which they may send against us in the ensuing Winter. The Har-
bour of Cape fear will furnish a secure receptacle for our own trading Ves-
sels, and those of foreigners who from this Advantage may be induced to
prefer ours to the ports of other states. The Privateers of the several states,
as well as the Continental armed Vessels will carry any prizes which they
make to the Southward into No Carolina when they are apprized of the pro-
tection which they and their Captures will receive, and by these means we
shall be supplied with the many articles of which we now feel the most
pressing necessity.
We are aware of the scarcity of heavy Cannon in your state 8c have
therefore procured a recommendation to you to apply to South Carolina to
aid you in that respect. We flatter ourselves that it may produce the effect
we wish, as it will be nothing but a reciprocal Civility and what North Car-
olina is well entitled to for the ready and ample succour afforded to South
Carolina when in imminent danger from its Enemies. Our own Guns small
as they are may be made useful and I know not how more essentially. The
Continental Troops will be employed in this service, 8c the Expence arising
from the hire of negroes to perform the most laborious part of the opera-
tion will be considerable, but must appear contemptible when weighed
against the publick emolument which will result from it.
You will observe that this is to be executed at the Expence of your own
particular state, a recommendation of a similar kind went to South Caro-
lina, in consequence of which they have erected great 8c very expensive for-
tifications at their own cost. It becomes Oeconomy in you to bear this Ex-
pence yourself, rather than by making it Continental, expose yourself to pay
your proportion of the large fortifications which have been or may hereaf-
ter be erected in the Eastern States. Your proportion only of the Connecti-
cut forts would amount to as much as the whole of these proposed for your
colonial security — In this case therefore It will be political (at least for
us) to suffer each state to bear its own burdens.
Should the Convention think it proper to apply to the Continent [al]
Congress for the Assistance of an Engineer to execute this proposal, I shall
upon being informed thereof immediately take the proper steps to procure
one and send him on I am Sir With great Respect to yourself 8c the Con-
vention [8cc.]
Will Hooper
1. Secretary of State Papers, Provincial Conventions and Congresses, 1774-1776, NCDAH.
2. An extract from minutes of the Continental Congress, Ford, ed., JCC, VI, 908.
OCTOBER 1776
1449
Journal of the Maryland Council of Safety 1
[Annapolis] Tuesday. October 29th 1776
Commission issued to Wm Patterson appointed Commander of the
Schooner Dolphin , mounting eight Swivels, belonging to this state.
Ordered That Captain Patterson be furnished with twenty two mus-
quets out of Captains Brooke & Smith’s Company. -
Commission issued to Edward Markland, app[ointe]d Lieutenant, and
Richard Coward Master of the Schooner Dolphin. -
1. Council of Safety Journal, 29 August 1775 to 20 March 1777, Md. Arch.
Stephen Steward to the Maryland Council of Safety 1
Gentell Men/ [Wood Yard] octob[er] the 29 1776
Mr Gide[o]n odair [Adair] Waits on you for a Comition as Captain
of Morreens onboard of the Largest Provence Schooner Which I hope to
have Riged and fit for sea In 10 or 12 day as sailers are verey Hard to be
got I Shuld think it Would be well for you to Put from 20 to 30 Lands Men
on board after being aCruse thay will becom half Sailers Which will be of
great use to this State Mr odaier as I have said to you before is as fiting a
man for the Servis as any of My aquantance he has the offer of going out
In that Station In a Small Privetear In this Nabour Hud but now Corns to
you to give you the prefernce If you Shuld think of given him a Commition
itis high time he was Recruting as thar is Several Recruting Parti [e]s
about this Place and Petoxen I am Gentell Men [8cc.]
Stephen Steward
If you shuld give Mr odair a Comition it will be well to tell him to git as
Many Young Cuntrey Born Lads as he Can
1. Red Book, XI, Md. Arch.
Journal of the Virginia Navy Board1
[Williamsburg] Tuesday 29th October 1776.
Ordered that the keeper of the Public Magazine deliver unto Capt Edward
Travis two hundred and fifty pounds of Gunpowder, One hundred and fifty
pounds of Lead Twenty five four Pound Shot and Ten Barr Ditto for the
use of the Brig Liberty —
Ordered that Mr Thomas Archer deliver unto Capt Edward Travis six
Blunderbus[s]es Twenty Barrells of Pork one Coil twelve thread Ratlin
One Coil of Nine thread Ratlin and twenty Water Casks for the use of the
Brig Liberty. -
Ordered that the keeper of the Public Store deliver unto Capt Edward
Travis one two hour Glass, two one Hour Glass’s, two half hour Glass’s, two
half Minute Glass’s, two Quarter Minute Glass’s for the use of the Brig Ra-
leigh. -
1450
AMERICAN THEATRE
Ordered that Lieut William Green of the Sloop Defiance suffer such Men as
he may have to spare to Enlist with Capt Edward Travis of the Brig Ra-
leigh and that he give the said Travis every Assistance in his power in En-
listing Men -
Ordered that the Commanding Officer of the Sloop Defiance deliver unto
Capt Edward Travis of the Brig Raleigh the six Oar’d Boat which belongs
to the Defiance , and receive from the said Travis a four Oar’d Boat in Lieu
thereof. —
1. Navy Board Journal, 93-94, VSL.
Journal of H.M.S. Antelope, Captain William Judd 1
October 1776 The Middle part of Tortuda 5 or 6 Leags
Tuesday 29th AM Tack’d Ship at 5 got up the MnT Gallt Yard at 6
saw a Sail to the SW 2d Reef Top Sails and gave Chace 8
Fired a Shot and Brot her too Hoisted out the Boat and
sent an Officer on Board found her to be a Brigg with French
Colours from Cape Francois said to be bound to St Pierre
Miquelon with powder on Board took possession of her on
Suspicion.2
1. PRO, Admiralty 51/39.
2. Brig St. Mary, Gayton’s Prize List, ibid., 1 /240.
Vice Admiral James Young to Philip Stephens1
Sir, Antigua 29th October 1776.
Please to acquaint my Lords Commissioners of the Admiralty; that
pursuant to their Directions of the 20th February last: I have this day Or-
dered Captain John Chapman, to proceed to the Island of St Christophers,
with His Majesty’s Sloop Shark, under his Command, to Convoy the Home-
ward bound Trade from these Islands; from whence he is to Sail the 4th
November, with such Merchant Ships and Vessels as are then ready; And
as it is said the American Armed Vessels Cruize between the Latitudes of
30° and 35° North, I have thought fit to Direct Captain Chapman to Convoy
the Trade as far as the Latitude 38° North, lest they should be intercepted
by the Rebels, which I flatter myself will meet with their Lordship’s appro-
bation.
The 30th September last, I informed their Lordships, by a Letter ad-
dressed to you, (Duplicate of which accompanys this;) that on the 6th and
7th of that month, a Violent Gale of Wind did considerable Damage among
the Islands, particularly to the Shipping; and that I was apprehensive His
Majesty’s Sloop Pomona had met with some Disaster, as She was to have
returned to English-harbour the 5th September. Since which, have not had
any certain Intelligence concerning her;2 I am therefore to desire you will
be pleased to move their Lordships to send me some other Ship in her stead,
as I am much afraid, if She is not gone away to Jamaica some sad Cata-
OCTOBER 1776
1451
strophe has happened to her. — And the Governors and Inhabitants of
some of the Islands, having Signified to me They were apprehensive, that
from their Defenceless State they may be Visited and Insulted by the Amer-
ican Rebel’s Armed Vessels, which these Seas are now much pestered with:
I must again Request their Lordships will be pleased to Order a Considera-
ble Re-inforcement to the Squadron on this Station, and thereby better ena-
ble me to protect His Majesty’s Islands from any such Insult; for which
purpose I am of opinion it is extreemly necessary that one Ship, at least,
should be Stationed to Cruize off each of the British Islands, besides those
employed to prevent the Rebels being Supplyed with Warlike Stores from
the Foreign Islands: — A Service in which I greatly miss the Pomona ,
being the only fast Sailing Vessel of the Squadron.
The 19th Instant the Packet from England, that sailed in the month of
August arrived at this Island; but contrary to my expectations, brought me
no Public Dispatches; which I presume proceeds from some mistake.
Inclosed is the State and Condition of the Squadron under my Com-
mand, which you will be pleased to communicate to their Lordships. - I am
sir [8cc.]
Jam8 Young
[Endorsed] Reed 21 Deer Read Sc Ansd 1 Jan
1. PRO, Admiralty 1/309.
2. “Letters from France . . . likewise bring the melancholy News that the Pomona Sloop of
War of eighteen Guns (which had been so remarkably successful against the American
Privateers,) is totally wreck’d, and all the Crew perished.” Public Advertiser, London,
February 24, 1777.
Vice Admiral James Young to Captain John Chapman,
H.M. Sloop Shark1
By James Young Esqr Vice Admiral of the Red,
and Commander in chief of all his Majestys Ships
Secret Order and Vessels, employed Sc to be employ’d at Bar-
badoes, the Leeward Islands and in the Seas
Adjacent. —
Whereas I have directed you by my Order of this date, to take charge
of the homeward bound Trade from these Islands, and convey them from St
Christophers on their way to Europe; 120 leags clear of the Island of An-
guilla, and then have recourse to these Secret Orders, for your further pro-
ceedings.
You are hereby farther required & directed, to proceed with said Con-
voy, as far to the Northward as the Latitude of 38° North and then leave
them to proceed on their Voyage transmitting a List of all Vessels which go
under your Convoy to the Secretary of the Admiralty; and deliver me a
Copy of the same when you return, after performing the above Service, You
are to proceed forthwith to English Harbour Antigua, Speaking all Vessels
1452
AMERICAN THEATRE
you may fall in with, on your Passage, And are to make Capture of all
American Vessels agreeable to former Orders; For which this shall be your
Order.
Given under by hand at English Harbour
Antigua the 19th [sic 29] October 1776.
Jam8 Young
By Command of the Admiral Geo: Lawford A Copy
1. PRO, Admiralty 1/1611, 10, 13.
30 Oct.
Narrative of Colonel Ethan Allen1
[On board H.M.S. Lark , October 12 to October 30, 1776] 2
In a few days after this, the prisoners were ordered to go on board of a
man of war, which was bound for New-York; but two of them were not able
to go on board, and were left at Halifax; one died, and the other recovered.
This was about the 12th of October, and soon after we had got on board, the
captain sent for me in particular to come on the quarter deck. I went, not
knowing that it was capt. [Richard] Smith, or his ship at that time, and
expected to meet the same rigorous usage I had commonly met with, and
prepared my mind accordingly; but when I came on deck, the captain met
me with his hand, welcomed me to his ship, invited me to dine with him that
day, and assured me that I should be treated as a gentleman, and that he
had given orders, that I should be treated with respect by the ship’s crew.
This was so unexpected and sudden a transition, that it drew tears from my
eyes, which all the ill usages I had before met with, was not able to produce,
nor could I at first hardly speak, but soon recovered myself and expressed
my gratitude for so unexpected a favor; and let him know that I felt anxi-
ety of mind in reflecting that his situation and mine was such, that it was not
probable that it would ever be in my power to return the favor. Capt Smith
replied that he had no reward in view, but only treated me as a gentleman
ought to be treated; he said this is a mutable world, and one gentleman
never knows but it may be in his power to help another. Soon after I found
this to be the same capt. Smith who took my part against gen. [Eyre] Mas-
sey; but he never mentioned any thing of it to me, and I thought it impolite
in me to interrogate him, as to any disputes which might have arisen be-
tween him and the gen. on my account, as I was a prisoner, and that it was
at his option to make free with me on that subject, if he pleased; and, if he
did not, I might take it for granted that it would be unpleasing for me to
query about it, though I had a strong propensity to converse with him on
that subject.
I dined with the captain agreeable to his invitation, and oftentimes
with the lieutenant, in the gun room, but in general ate and drank with my
OCTOBER 1776
1453
friend Lovel [James Lovell] and the other gentlemen, who were prisoners
with me, where I also slept.
We had a little birth enclosed with canvas, between decks, where we
enjoyed ourselves very well, in hopes of an exchange; besides, our friends at
Halifax had a little notice of our departure, and supplied us with spirituous
liquor, and many articles of provision for the coast. Capt. Burk [William
Burke] having been taken prisoner, was added to our company, (he had
commanded an American armed vessel) 3 and was generously treated by the
captain and all the officers of the ship, as well as myself. We now had in all
near thirty prisoners on board, and as we were sailing along the coast, if I
recollect right, off Rhode-Island, capt. Burk, with an under officer of the
ship, whose name I do not recollect, came to our little birth, proposed to kill
capt. Smith and the principal officers of the frigate and take it; adding that
there were thirty five thousand pounds sterling in the same, capt. Burk
likewise averred that a strong party out of the ship’s crew was in conspir-
acy, and urged me, and the gentleman that was with me, to use our inffu-
ence with the private prisoners, to execute the design, and take the ship
with the cash into one of our own ports.
Upon which I replied, that we had been too well used on board to mur-
der the officers; that I could by no means reconcile it to my conscience, and
that in fact it should not be done; and, while I was yet speaking, my friend
Lovel confirmed what I had said, and farther pointed out the ungratefulness
of such an act; that it did not fall short of murder, and in fine all the gentle-
men in the birth opposed capt. Burk and his colleague: But they strenously
urged that the conspiracy would be found out, and that it would cost them
their lives, provided they did not execute their design. I then interposed
spiritedly, and put an end to farther argument on the subject, and told them
that they might depend upon it, upon my honor, that I would faithfully
guard capt. Smith’s life: If they should attempt the assault, I would assist
him, for they desired me to remain neuter, and that the same honor that
guarded capt. Smith’s life, would also guard theirs; and it was agreed by
those present not to reveal the conspiracy, to the intent that no man should
be put to death, in consequence of what had been projected; and capt. Burk
and his colleague went to stifle the matter among their associates. I could
not help calling to mind what capt. Smith said to me, when I first came on
board; “This is a mutable world, and one gentleman never knows but that it
may be in his power to help another.” Captain Smith and his officers still
behaved with their usual courtesy, and I never heard any more of the con-
spiracy.
We arrived before New York, and cast anchor the latter part of
October4 where we remained several days, and where capt. Smith informed
me, that he had recommended me to adm. Howe and gen. sir Wm. Howe, as
a gentleman of honor and veracity, and desired that I might be treated as
such. Capt. Burk was then ordered on board a prison-ship in the harbor.
1. Ethan Allen, 73-77.
1454
AMERICAN THEATRE
2. H. M. Frigate Lark, convoying twenty-four victualers bound for the army at New York, had
put into Halifax toward the end of September, 1776.
3. William Burke commanded Washington’s schooner Warren which was taken by H. M. S.
Liverpool on August 26, 1776.
4. See Diary of Frederick Mackenzie, October 26.
Salem Committee to the Massachusetts Council1
The Committee of Correspondence, Inspection 8c Safety of the town of
Salem, humbly shew —
That divers of the subjects of the king of Great Britain taken in vessels
in his immediate service, & on board merchant vessels, are now resident in
this town 8c in other maritime towns, that their numbers are daily increas-
ing, as prizes are brought in, that the resolves of Congress respecting pris-
oners of war were passed before the declaration of independence, 8c deter-
mined such only to be prisoners as are taken in arms; that the crews of
merchant vessels do now frequently oppose in arms their captors; — that
hence arise doubts on the question — Who are prisoners of war? — that
this town has not been assigned for the residence of such prisoners, 8c so
this comtee have no authority to controul them; that in the maritime towns
they have the earliest intelligence of the transactions of the Americans, —
have opportunities of mixing in all companies and in some such towns of
daily communicating with many persons, who tho’ observant of the laws
and the resolves of Congress, are yet justly liable to suspicion as being not
well-wishers to America. For these reasons we pray your Honours that
some steps may be immediately taken relative to the captives afore men-
tioned, that shall insure the public safety, 8c the safety 8c property of the
maritime towns; for we beg leave to add, that we do not think it expedient
that captives not disposed to enter on board our vessels of war or merchant
vessels should be permitted to reside in such towns, since being compact
they are exposed to destruction by fire, and their vessels Sc boats may easily
be cut out of their harbours 8c run away with; some such instances have al-
ready happened; we wonder no more have occurred.
We find by an order of the honble Board, that capt. Leche of the light
dragoons, 8c the chaplain, Mr Lewes, were to have been sent to Boxford,
after the Sheriff had taken their parole; and the common dragoons were to
have been delivered to the comtees in this county to be set to work:2 but
that order remains unexecuted in every part, and for that reason many peo-
ple here are uneasy. They are also uneasy because John Consett Peers, lieut
of the tender taken by capt. [John] Fisk, still remains in this town, altho’
it is some time since he recovered of his wounds.3 There is the greater rea-
son for this uneasiness with regard to Leche, Lewes and Peers, because nei-
ther of them has given the parole ordered by Congress. We therefore pray
your honours to give immediate orders relative to these prisoners as well as
the former.
In behalf 8c by order of the Committee
Tim Pickering junr Chairman
OCTOBER 1776
1455
Salem Octr 30. 1776.
[Endorsed] In Council [Watertown] Novr 1, 1776. Read 8c thereupon Or-
dered that Danl Hopkins Esqr be a Comittee to take the above Letter
under Consideration and report what is necessary to be done thereon —
John Avery Depy Secy
1. Mass. Arch., vol. 166, 4.
2. Council Order of October 3, 1776, respecting the Officers and Men of the 16th regiment
of dragoons, taken in the British transport brig Henry and Ann, by the Massachusetts
state brig Massachusetts, ibid., vol. 165, 309.
3. H. M. Schooner Dispatch taken by Captain Fisk in the Massachusetts state brigantine Tyran-
nicide, and brought into Salem on July 19, 1776. In the engagement the commander of
the Dispatch, Lieutenant John Goodridge, R. N. was killed, and Piers, the master, lost
his arm.
Report of Committee of the Massachusetts General Court
Upon a Letter from John Peck 1
The Committe Appointed to take under Consideration A letter from Mr
John Peck Addressed to the Speaker of the house of Representatives dated
Sept 2d have Attended that Service Viewed his new proposed moddle and
heard his Observations on the Subject respecting the Advantages ariseing
from a Vessel being built on Said plan and beg leave to report As their
Opinion That A Committe be appointed to Contract and agree with some
Suitable man under the direction of the said John Peck to build A Vessel of
about the same burthen of that belonging to this State Commanded by Capt
Danl Souter2 On the best terms she Can be built and that the Appurti-
nances of the State Sloop Commd by Capt John Cluston3 which the Honor
Court have ordered to be Changed into a Briganteen be Employd In fixing
the said Vessel to be built on the plan proposed by the said John Peck and
that he the said Peck have the Over sight and direction of the building said
Vessel and your Committee further Observe they were Informd by Mr John
Peck that he would Undertake the said Service at Eight pounds pr month
and found all which is humbly Submitted -
Azor Orne P Order
[Endorsed] In the House of Representatives Octor 30th 1776
Read 8c Acceptd and Resolved That Deacon Caleb Davis be and he here-
by is appointed A Committee to agree with some Suitable person to build a
Vessel on the best terms and uppon the plan above proposed under the
Inspection 8c direction of Mr John Peck
Sent up for Concurrence J Warren Spkr
[Second endorsement] In Council Deer 11. 1776
Consented to —
J Bowdoin J Holten
Jer: Powell E: Thayer Jr
Caleb Cushing
Read 8c Concurr’d John Avery Dpy Secy
1. Mass. Arch., vol. 137, 129.
2. Brig Massachusetts, Captain Daniel Souther.
3. Sloop Freedom, Captain John Clouston.
1456
AMERICAN THEATRE
Interrogation of Joseph Mountanye, Mate of the Prize
Brigantine Pasley 1
Interogatories answered by Joseph Mountanye late Mate of the Brigan-
tine Pasley.
Interog. When where and by whom was the said Brig, taken who was
Master of her when taken, what is her Tonage from whence
and to what Port is She bound, what are the Contents of her
Cargo, and who are the Owners of the said Brig, and her Cargo?
Answer. The said Brig, her Appurtenances and Cargo upon the Seventh
Day of October AD: 1776 being upon the High Seas, in Lat. 36i/£
North was Captured and taken by Job Pearce Commander of and
by his Officers and men belonging to the private Sloop of War
called the Greenwich , Tunis Mountanye was then Master, said
Brig, is of the Burthen of about 100 Tons She was bound from
the Island of Tortola in the West Indias to the Port of Liverpool
in England, her Cargo consists of about 28 Casks of Sugar 15
hhd of Rum 5 Bales of Cotton and about 50 Tons of Fustick, the
said Brig, belongs to Two Merchants Thos 8c John Buchanan in
Scotland, the Sugar belongs to Thos 8c Walter Buchanan in New
York the other part of the Cargo I cannot tell who they belong
to —
Joseph Mountanye
Sworn to in Providence Octor 30: 1776
before me John Foster Judge in Prize Causes
1. Admiralty Papers, vol. 9, R. I. Arch.
Master’s Bond for the Rhode Island Ship Reynolds on a
Voyage to Curasao 1
Know all Men by these Presents, That We Gideon Manchester of Prov-
idence in the State of Rhode Island & Providence Plantations Mariner as
Principal, and Willm T illinghast of Providence aforesaid Merchant as Sur-
ety, are held and firmly bound unto the Governor and Company, of the said
State in the Sum of Fifteen Hundred pounds Lawful Money, to be paid to
the said Governor and Company, for the Use of said State: To which Pay-
ment well and truly to be made, we bind ourselves, our Heirs, Executors
and Administrators, and each of us and them, for and in the whole, jointly
and severally, firmly by these Presents. Sealed with our Seals. Dated the
Thirtieth Day of October in the Year of our Lord 111 6
Now the Condition of this Obligation is such, That if the said Gideon
Manchester who is Master of the Ship called the Reynolds and now bound
on a Voyage, with said Ship and her Cargo to Curacoa shall in all Things,
during and respecting said Voyage, truly observe the Regulations made by
the Most Honorable the Continental Congress, and this General Assembly,
OCTOBER 1776
1457
concerning Trade, and for securing the Observance of such Parts of the As-
sociation as are not inconsistent therewith, and shall, within Eighteen
Months after the Departure of the said Ship produce to Henry Ward,
Esq; Intendant of 1 rade at Providence, in said State, or to his Successor in
said Office, a Certificate from the proper Officers at the Port or Place where
the Cargo of the said Ship shall be delivered (provided it be within the
United States, and proper Officers are appointed) or otherwise under the
Hands and Seals of three or more reputable Merchants residing there, that
the same was there unladed, then this Obligation shall be void, or else in full
Force.
Sealed and delivered Gideon Manchester
in the Presence of Wm Tillinghast
Henry Ward Henry Ward junr
1. Maritime Papers, Bonds, Masters of Vessels, R. I. Arch. Printed form with entries in ink
shown in italics. The Reynolds was the former British merchant ship of the same
name which had been captured by the Pennsylvania privateer sloops Congress and
Chance and tried at Plymouth. New-England Chronicle, July 18, 1776.
Captain John Paul Jones to the Continental Marine Committee 1
Rhode Island
Gentlemen Alfred , 30th Octr 1776 -
Since my Arrival here in the Providence the 7th Current I have from a
Variety of events been altogether Unable to give you any Satisfactory ac-
count and for that reason have defered Writing. I now inclose you copies of
my letters down ’till the 30th Ulto & You have also inclosed a Short ac-
count of my whole Cruise and I have now to Inform you that on the 22d
Currt I was directed by the Commr in Chief to take Command of an expidi-
tion with the Alfred and Hamden against the Cape Briton Coal-Fleet &
Newfoundland Fishery. — had this expidition been begun a Month Sooner
great things might have been done — my greatest hope now is that of re-
lieving a number of our fellow Citizens who, being prisoners are compelled
to Work in the Coal pits of Cape Briton — If I can Succeed in this I Shall
think my pains well bestowed. — You may however rest assured that I will
leave no part of any duty Unattempted that may at this Advanced Season
and with my small Force appear practicable.
I have left with the Commr in Chief a Complete Muster Roll Compre-
hending every thing from the day I took Command of the Providence till
the Day I left her. — I was ready to sail the 27th but Unfortunately the
Hamden ran aground on a Sunken Ledge in the Harbour which knock’d off
her False keel and She hath been so Leaky Since that we have concluded her
unfit for Sea and have got the Providence ready to proceed in her room. —
I hope to Sail to Morrow morning and am with great Esteem [8cc.]
j p j
1458
AMERICAN THEATRE
[Enclosure]
The American Sloop of War the Providence of Twelve Guns and Sev-
enty Men Sailed from the Delaware the 21st of August 1776 She Cruized
between the Latd of 39° and 33° No and went to the Eastward as far as the
Longd of 50° West. - having taken three prizes, a whaler and two West In-
diamen - and having had a Very narrow Escape from an English Frigate
after a Chace of Six hours, part of the time within pistol Shot - on the
14th Septr she bent her Course for Nova-Scotia - and on the 20th had An-
other Affair with an English Frigate, and, in the course of an Eight hours
Chace, Rediculed the Enemy and Answered his Broadside with only a Single
Musquit. - altho’ the Savage and Dawson’s Brig2 were within a few
Leagues Distance, She, next day, went into Canso and took three English
Schooners with a Scotch Tories Flag — and, the day following she took
Five Sail of Jerseymen in Narrowshock and Four more in Peter de great —
And it is remarkable, that tho’ they were Ten in number to one of the Prov-
idence’s Men, they were so Panic-struck that they not only gave up their
Ships but even Assisted to Rig and carry them out of their Harbours. — the
Providence then proceeded to the Westward — took another Whaler on St
George’s Bank, and on the 7th of October arrived safe at Rhode Island —
having Manned and Sent in Eight Prizes Vizt Six Brigantines, one Ship,
and one Sloop, - And Sunk, burnt and destroyed Eight more Vizt Six
Schooners, one Ship, and one Brigantine — and finished her Cruize in Six
Weeks and five Days.3
1. Papers CC (Letters of John Hancock, and Miscellaneous Papers) , 58, 93, 95, NA.
2. H. M. Sloop Hope.
3. This enclosure was released for publication in the Pennsylvania Evening Post, November 7,
1776.
Captain John Paul Jones to Robert Morris1
Alfred [Newport] 30th Octr 1776 —
I Did not conclude my letter ’till I was enabled to give you a Satisfac-
tory Account of the Present Expedition. — I took command here the 22d
and finding that we could not Man the Ship and two Vessels without Wasting
too much time — I concluded to leave the Providence and Proceed with the
Alfred and Hamden — I took the men out of the Providence and her Prizes
which Made up my Muster Roll here to 140 or upwards
but When I was ready to proceed on the 27th the Hamden was run
upon a Sunken ledge which Knocked off her false Keel and she hath Since
continued to make so much Water that we concluded her unfit for Sea and
therefore have Shifted the men into the Providence. — I am once more in
readiness and hope to take my leave of Rhode Island to Morrow Morning.
— I am however duely sensible that the Expidition cannot but fall greatly
Short of what I might have effected had I been inabled to Proceed a fort-
night Sooner. — I hope the A. Doria will be included in the next expidition
wherein I am concerned. - If Mr [Joseph] Hewes is in Philadelphia — I
OCTOBER 1776
1459
must beg you to make my apology for not writing and, if you Please, Shew
him this and my former letter — I have the Honor to be with great Esteem
and Respect Sir [&c.]
J.P.J.
Honble R. M.
1. Papers of John Paul Jones, 6496, LC.
Commodore Esek Hopkins to Captain Hoysteed Hacker 1
Sir Newport October 30th. 1776 -
You are to take your Officers and Men, and go onboard the Providence
and so much of her Stores as are absolutely necessary, and follow the Or-
ders which you receiv’d to go in the Hamden — And leave the Hamden
under Care of Captn Joseph Olney in order to be Repaired, and deliver him
an accot of the Stores that you leave in her, and also an Account of what
you take out of her for the Providence Yours &c
E. H. Cr in Chief
To Hoysteed Hacker Esqr
now Commander of the Sloop Providence
1. Hopkins Letter Book, RIHS.
John Henderson to Governor Nicholas Cooke1
Sir
I sailed from Philadelphia in February last in a Brig bound to Charles
Town South Carolina with a Compy of Artillery to reinforce that place,
which Company I belonged to, on the 15th March last we was taken at Sea
by the Syren Frigate2 where I have been kept ever since my situation on
board is really distressing my Cloathing entirely gone, and no hopes of get-
ting a Supply the reason of my Application to you, is that I understand,
Captn [Tobias] Furneaux has wrote to your Excellency for to Exchange
Prisoners. Mr Thomas G[ur]n Master of the Brig that I was in, Mr Abm
Coffin Master of a Brig lately taken, and myself would be glad to be Ex-
changed for any Prisoners in your Possession. I hope you’ll be pleased to
Consider our Situation we all have familys who must Certainly Suffer in
our Absence. - I am with respect Your Excellency’s [8cc.]
Jn° Henderson
Syren Off Block Island October 30: 1776
1. Letters to the Governor, vol. 8, R. I. Arch.
2. Captain Francis Proctor’s company of artillery. See Volume 4.
1460
AMERICAN THEATRE
Journal of the Connecticut Council of Safety 1
At a Meeting of the Governor and Council of Safety [New Haven] Octor
30th, 1776.
Voted, That Capt. John McCleave and his crew lately belonging to the
galley Whiting be dismissed as on Saturday; and they are accordingly dis-
missed as at that time.
1. Hoadly, ed., Connecticut State Records, I, 55.
Agent Appointed by Three Crew Members of the Connecticut
Privateer Sloop American Revenue 1
We The Subscribers bound on a Cruise a Privateering in The Armed Sloop
Called The American Revenue now riding at Anchor in The Port of Edgar-
town Samuel Champlain Commander to Constitute 8c Appoint Thomas
Pease Junr of Edgartown in The County of Dukes County 8c State of the
Massachusetts Bay 8c Mercht Our True and Lawfull Agent 8c Attorney for us
8c Each of us in Our Names to ask Demand Prosecute Receive 8c Recover
The whole of what our Shares of all Prize money goods Wares 8c Merchan-
dize may Amount to which Shall or may be Captured by the Above Said
Sloop American Revenue 8c Brot into Any of The United States of America
8c Lawfully Condemned by The Judg of the Admiralty — Hereby giving 8c
granting to our Said Agent & Attorney Our whole Strength 8c Power in 8c
about the Premisses, 8c on Receiving The Same to Execute 8c give due Dis-
charge Therefor with full Power of Substitution hereby holding Valid
Whatever our Said Agent or his Substitute Shall Lawfully do or Cause to be
done About The Premisses, given Under my hand 8c Seal this 30th day of
Octr 1776 -
attest 1 Joseph Warnsley
Benja Smith J Powers Warnsley
Eben Codu[ce]y
Jethro Saurnog
Solomon Winer
1. Nathaniel and Thomas Shaw Letters and Papers, NLCHS.
Seal
Edward Fry to Commanders of Western Posts1
[No.] 218
(Circular) Crown Point 30th October 1776
Lt Colol Caldwell or Offr Comg at Niagara
Lt Govr Hamilton or Offr Commg at Detroit >-
Capt Forster or Offr Comg at Oswegatchie
It being necessary for His Majesty’s service during the present Rebel-
lion that all possible attention be paid to the navigation of the Lakes, I am
commanded to acquaint you that it is the Commander in chiefs directions
that you on no account suffer boats, those of Indians excepted, or vessels, to
pass upon the Lakes without proper passports, under the hand of the Com-
OCTOBER 1776
1461
manding Officer, at some one of His Majesty’s Posts thereupon, or the Gov-
ernor and Commander in chief of the province; nor that you permit any
Vessel, of greater dementions than a common boat, to be built, except such
as may be thought requisite for the Kings Service: And His Excellency fur-
ther commands that you do your utmost to seize all suspected persons pass-
ing upon or near the Lakes, and all persons attempting to sow sedition, or
to stir up insurrections, among the people in that part of the country, and
that you send the same with the proper proofs, by the first safe opportunity,
to the prison in Montreal, making at the same time a report thereof. I am
Sec
1. Guy Carleton Letter Book, Haldimand Papers, Additional Ms. 21699, BM. Fry was Deputy
Adjutant General of the British Army in Canada.
Dr. Ezra Green to Nathaniel Cooper, Dover, New Hampshire 1
Dear Sir: Ticonderoga, Oct. 30, 1776.
I must beg your pardon for troubling you with so many of my letters,
but I am a good deal at leisure, and so lucky an opportunity of conveyance
offers, that I can’t let it pass without sending you one line or two. Since my
last, our Fleet is destroyed, of which I suppose you have heard, but 5 vessels
remaining to us out of 16 sail. The engagement began on Friday morning,
October 11th. and held out all day. They surrounded our Fleet, but in the
night succeeding the engagement they very narrowly and fortunately made
their escape and came up towards Crown Point, but were overtaken and at-
tacked again Sunday morning, within about 25 miles of this place. Our men
fought bravely, but the enemy were of so much greater force than we had
any suspicion of that our little fleet stood no chance; most of the vessels lost
were blown up, sunk, or burnt by our own people, they escaping by land. We
lost, killed, about 50; taken prisoners, about 100, which are dismissed on pa-
role. The Indians have done us no damage till very lately they waylaid three
men, kill’d one, took the other two prisoners, who are sent back on parole.
They were treated very kindly by the Indians as well as by the King’s
troops who were at the time at Crown Point within 15 miles of this place,
where they have been ever since the destruction of our Fleet. We have lately
been alarm’d several times. On Monday morning last, there was a proper
alarm, occasioned by a number of the enemies boats which hove in sight,
and a report from a scouting party that the Enemy were moving on; where
the Fleet is now, I can’t learn, or what is the reason they don’t come on I
can’t conceive. ’Tis thought they are 10 or 12 thousand strong, including Ca-
nadians and Indians. We are in a much better situation now then we were
fourteen days ago, and the militia are continually coming in. Our sick are
recovering, and it is thought we are as ready for them now as ever we shall
be. There has been a vast deal of work done since the fight, and we think
ourselves in so good a position that we shall be disappointed if they don’t at-
tack us. However, I believe they wait for nothing but a fair wind. In my
OCTOBER 1776
1463
next, I’ll tell you more about it. In the meantime I am yours to command. My
respects to your Lady and love to your children.
Ezra Green
P. S. I have some thought of leaving the army and joining the navy, pro-
vided I can get a berth as surgeon of a good continental ship or a privateer.
Should be glad if you would enquire, if you don’t know, and send me word
what Incouragment is given; and let me know if any ships are fitting out
from Portsmouth, and you’ll oblige your friend. E. G.
1. Ezra Green, Diary of Ezra Green, M. D. (Boston, 1875) , 5-6.
Memoirs of William Smith 1
[Manor of Livingston] Wednesday 30t [October]
A Visit Yesterday from Mr. Walter Livingston, late Commissary for the
Northern Army, 8c succeeded on his Resignation by one [Elisha] Avery the
Son of a New England Innkeeper.
He represents Arnold as having Courage without Conduct, says the
American Fleet was destroyed but 36 Miles to the Northward of Crown
Point where Carleton now lays with the British Vessels. - That 3 Weeks
ago the Provincial Army at Tcononderoge according to his Supplies con-
sisted of 13,000 Men, of whom 2,000 may be Non Effectives. That Arnold’s
Fleet lay behind an Island, 8c were passed by Carlton’s, 8c by this Negligence
might have been cut off 8c starved. The British Army are momently ex-
pected and the Militia halt at Fort Edward till they are called up. They
count 1200 Tents now at Crown point and conjecture that the Land Force
there may be about 6,000 Men.
1. Sabine, ed.. Memoirs of William Smith, II, 28.
Diary of Dr. Thomas Moffat1
[On board H.M. Sloop Swan at Sandy Hook]
Wednesday Octr 30th Therm: morning 47. came down the Resolution
Armd Transport commanded by Lieut Hawker with 11 Transports for
Engd and Ireland.
1. Thomas Moffat’s Diary, LC.
Journal of the Continental Congress 1
[Philadelphia] Wednesday, October 30, 1776
Congress resumed the consideration of the report of the Marine Com-
mittee: Whereupon,
Resolved , That the rank of officers of marines be the same as officers of
similar commissions in the land service:
That the commanders, officers, seamen, and marines in the continental
navy, be entitled to one half of merchantmen, transports, and store ships by
1464
AMERICAN THEATRE
them taken, from and after the first day of November, 1776, to be divided
amongst them in the shares and proportions fixed by former resolutons of
Congress:
That the commanders, officers, seamen and marines, in the continental
navy, be entitled to the whole value of all ships and vessels of war belonging
to the crown of Great Britain, by them made prize of, and all privateers au-
thorized by his Britannic Majesty to war against these states, to be divided
as aforesaid.
Resolved, That the part of the report relative to the rank and pay of
naval officers, be referred to a special committee of three.
The members, Mr. [Robert] Morris, Mr. [William] Whipple, and Mr.
R[ichard] H[enry] Lee.
Resolved, That the remainder of the report be re-committed.
1. Ford, ed., JCC , VI, 909, 913-14.
Continental Marine Committee to Daniel Tillinghast1
Sir [Philadelphia] October 30th 1776. -
As heavy duck is wanted for the New Hampshire frigate which cannot
be procured in that State, we desire you will without delay send forward to
John Langdon Esq. Eighty Bolts of heavy duck if that quantity belonging to
the Continent is in your possession or in the possession of any other person
in your State. You will also supply Mr Langdon and Messrs Silas Sc Barna-
bus Deane with any Continental Stores that they may apply to you for the
use of the Frigates Raleigh and Trumbull.
Lieutenant [John] McDougal of the Brig Andrea Doria has accounted
for the expenditure of £45 you advanced him to defray his travelling ex-
pences together with seven of the people belonging to said Brigt from your
State to this place, therefore we think proper to direct that you deduct that
Sum from the Sales of the prize which they brought in and put under your
care.2 We are Sir [8cc.]
1. Marine Committee Letter Book, 41, NA.
2. McDougall had arrived at Providence as prize master of the brigantine Elizabeth, and the
money advanced him was to take him from there to Philadelphia to rejoin Captain
Nicholas Biddle. Clark, Captain Dauntless, 147.
Continental Marine Committee to Commodore Esek Hopkins 1
Sir [Philadelphia] October 30th 1776.
We have received such intelligence as satisfies us that the enemies Ships
and Vessels have all quitted Georgia and the Carolinas, which renders it un-
necessary for you to pursue the expeditions formerly directed to these States.
But as we have still reason to suppose that the Galatea and Nautilus are
Cruizing of [f] the Capes of Virginia, we desire you will proceed thither with
all possible dispatch and endeavour to fall in with these Ships and take sink
or destroy them. If when you are on that station you shall be informed that
OCTOBER 1776
1465
any of the enemies ships of war have returned to the Carolinas or Georgia,
you are in that case to go in search of them and effectually remove them. Hav-
ing finished this business you are to return and Cruize for and endeavour to
intercept the store and provision Vessels coming from Europe to the ene-
mies army at New York. We expect you will give this committee informa-
tion by every opportunity of your proceedings, and what success you may
meet with in the above enterprizes. We wish you success and are Sir [Sec.]
1. Marine Committee Letter Book, 41, NA.
Pennsylvania Gazette, Wednesday, October 30, 1776
Philadelphia, October 30.
Yesterday arrived here the prize brig [Polly], Captain Jenkins,
late commander.1 She sailed from Barbados the first of this month, bound
for Liverpool, and was taken on the 12th by the Hancock privateer, Captain
Newman, of this port.
Last Sunday morning, about one o’clock, a fire was discovered on board
the prize ship lying in this harbour, (lately taken by the Continental
schooner Wasp ) which entirely consumed the same, together with her valu-
able cargo of sugar, rum Sec.2
1. The libel against the Polly names as her master Plats Denny and states that she was the
Hancock’s ninth prize taken on the cruise. Pennsylvania Evening Post, October 31, 1776.
2. The ship Leghorn Galley.
Journal of H.M.S. Orpheus, Captain Charles Hudson1
October 1776
Monday 28th
Tuesday 29
Wednesday 30th
Cape [Henlopen] No 56. Wt 13Leags
at 7 AM made Sail, and the Daphne's Signal to go
ahead. Exercised Small Arms
First part mode & Varble middle and latter fresh gales
with Squalls, and Cloudy with Rain. . . at i/2 past 4PM
saw a Sail to the NW. out Reefs and gave Chace with
the Daphne at 8 lost Sight of the Chace, and Shorten’d
Sail.
at 6 AM saw a sail to the Wt ward, made sail 8c made the
Daphne's Signal to Chace. at 9 the Daphne brought her
to prov’d a Schooner from Philadelphia for St Eustatia2
brought too, unbent the Main Topsail the Sailmakers
Empd mending it at noon beat Do Se Close reef’d Top
Sails
First part fresh breezes and Cloudy middle and latter
Mode 8e fair, made and shorten’d sail occasionally for the
Prize
at 6 AM up To Gt yards and made sail to the No wd at
Noon shorten’d sail Exercis’d Small Arms 8cca
First and middle pts little Winds and fair latter fresh
breezes and Cloudy excered Small arms unbent the F
1466
AMERICAN THEATRE
Topsail, and got it into the Top to Mend, at 4 bent it
again 6 bore down to the Daphne who had the Prize
alongside, and taken out pt of her Cargo, got her along-
side of us & Cleared her of the Remr Viz 56 Barrs of
flour and One of Bread then towed her off, and set her on
fire
1. PRO, Admiralty 51/650.
2. Schooner Two Brothers , J. Gilbert, master, Mayne & Co., owners, with bread, flour and
candles, Howe’s Prize List, March 31, 1777, ibid., 1/487.
Journal of the Maryland Convention 1
[Annapolis] Wednesday, October 30, 1776.
The Council of Safety having laid before the Convention a letter from
John Rogers, Esquire, inclosing a resignation of his commission as judge of
the court of admiralty, the Convention proceeded to appoint another in his
stead, and Benjamin Nicholson, Esquire, was appointed.2
1. Maryland Convention, 48.
2. The Council of Safety issued Nicholson’s commission on the same day, Council of Safety
Journal, 29 August 1775 to 20 March 1777, Md. Arch.
Journal of the Virginia Navy Board1
[Williamsburg] Wednesday 30th Octr 1776. —
Pursuant to an Order of the honble the House of Delegates the Board this
day laid before them a State of the Armed Vessel [s] now in the service of
the Commonwealth of Virginia —
James Blankhead is recommended to his Excellency the Governor and the
honble the Council as a Proper Person to be appointed second Lieutenant in
Capt Dicks Company of Marines in the room of Charles Thornton who hath
resigned. -
Edmund Waller is recommended to his Excellency the Governor and the
honble the Council as a proper Person to be appointed third Lieutenant of
Capt Dicks Company of Marines —
Ordered that the keeper of the Public Store deliver unto Capt Edward
Travis thirty Coats for the use of the Brig Raleigh —
Ordered that Colo William Finnie deliver unto Capt Edward Travis forty
pr Stockings and thirty pr of Shoes for the use of the Brig Raleigh. -
1. Navy Board Journal, 94-95, VSL.
Captain George Cook to the Maryland Council of Safety 1
Honle Gent: / At Sea Ship Defence 30th October 1776.
On the 4th of this Instant I wrote you by Capt Brown & Walker who I
sent in with a Snow and Sloop taken off St Augustine which I hope have got
Safe in. I flatterd myself at that time that you would have heard from me
OCTOBER 1776
1467
sooner. I this day have taken a small Schooner with 40 hhds Rum, three
hhds Sugar 1 Cwt Coffee a few Barrells, Limes Sec from Dominica by her
Clearance bound to Newfound Land but have reason to believe the Capt of
her intended to New York to Supply the Minesterial Armey he gives me
Information of two Briggs and three Schooners to sail from Dominica in a
day or two, with Rum, Sugar Sc Coffee for New York or Hallifax I shall
Endeavour to be in their way and hope you’l be no way uneasy should I stay
rather longer out than you might expect. I have Spoke a Schooner from
Charles Town for Cape Nichola, and yesterday Spoke a French Ship from
Cape Nichola bound for France we have Spoke every thing that we have
seen but one Schooner which we did not attempt being in Chase of the
French Ship which gives me great reason to think our Ship sails fast.
Our Ships Company keeps their health Extremely well and have the
Pleasure to inform you we are all well satisfyd, and that the greatest Har-
mony Subsists between us -
I hope you’l pardon the freedom I hear [.sic] use, being a young Officer
in this Service, in pointing out to you those Officers under my Command
that is deserving of Appointments, but I should in every degree think my-
self blameable to my Country should I not mention such to you; Mr [Henry]
Auchenlick and Mr. [John] Burnell my two Lieutts from every Cir-
cumstance since with me I find them to be experienced and brave Officers,
have been a Considerable time in the British Navy and from every thing I can
Observe both entered in our Service entirely from Principle I have like-
wise Occasion to mention Mr Joseph Smith Second Lieutt Marines on board
who has behaved extremely well from those circumstances they hope for
your favour at the time of appointments in the Country Service, I am Hond
Gent [&c.]
Geo. Cook
P. S. I have inclosd you a list of all the Officers and Men belonging to the
Ship I woud have Transmitted Sooner, but it was not in my power 2
G. C.
1. Red Book, XI, Md. Arch.
2. See list under September 19.
Governor Patrick Tonyn to Lord George Germain1
[Extract]
No 27.
By means of the Sloop Rebecca whom I commissioned and stationed on
St John River, the inland water passage from Georgia is secured: the Plan-
tations on that River who were greatly alarmed, do now unmolested and
free from the apprehensions of danger employ their Negros in providing
lumber and naval stores for the West Indies, having raised sufficient provi-
sions for the ensuing Year, a proof of which is, their purchasing new Ne-
gros. The state of provisions to the southward is not less favourable: and
1468
AMERICAN THEATRE
this town my Lord has it’s coast at last well defended, Lord Howe having
sent the Lively twenty Gun Ship to order a disposition of Ships so as to pro-
tect this Province; and by their means my Lord and by employing trans-
ports to be got in this Province, I expect to be able under the orders of Gen-
eral Howe, to make an advantageous diversion of Indians, and Regular
Troops into Georgia, should an attack upon the Southern Colonies, in the
Course of the Winter be projected.
There has been my Lord a considerable emigration from the rebel
Provinces to this Place.
Several have left their Negros, and part of their Property behind,
many more would have fled, had it not been for the inconveniences, and dan-
ger of loseing their Property, not only by the rebels, but by the Officer [s]
of the Navy, who have seized and libeled Vessels in the Court of Admiralty
employed in bringing the friends of Government and provisions to this
Province, when they had my licence according to the form transmitted me
by your Lordship, and it has been with difficulty, that I have been able to se-
cure rice, through that Channel, with which we have been hitherto well sup-
plied, notwithstanding the numbers of Indians and Emigrants black and
white to be fed.
In my letter No 16 of 20 June, I had the honour of enclosing to your
Lordship a memorial presented by the Emigrant Inhabitants of Georgia re-
specting relief on that head.2 I had applied for a naval force for this Province
to all the naval Commanders. Lord Howe alone gave it a serious thought, and
at a time when his Lordship was deeply engaged in the most important
business, he did not overlook business of lesser concern, we are the more
obliged to his Lordship for the mark of his attention.
St Augustine 30. Octr 1776
Pat. Tonyn
1. PRO, Colonial Office, 5/557, 21-25.
2. See Volume 5, 654-56.
31 Oct.
Acts and Resolves of the Massachusetts General Court 1
[Watertown, October 31]
Petition of Thomas Ludlow Junr setting forth -
That being with his Wife, two Children, & two negro’s bound from the
Island of Jamaica in the West Indies to Halifax in the Sloop Eliz[abe~\th ,
himself Master, they were taken by an Armed Brigt belonging to this State
commanded by Capt Sampson, and brought into Chatham about the 30th
August, where they were detained more than 20 days, under very pressing
circumstances, by wch means chiefly, he lost the opportunity of claiming
said Sloop & Cargo. - That he then applied to the Honble Wm Sever Esqr &
deliver’d an Inventory of his Cloathing, & Furniture, praying to have them
OCTOBER 1776
1469
return’d, as is customary in such Cases - Mr Sever gave him an Order for
some Articles, part of which, with great Difficulty, he obtained, by these
Events he is brought into the most distressed Situation, without any
means of support, and is obliged to make this application to the Hon: Court
for the restoration of his Household Furniture, his own, his Wife’s, Child-
ren, 8c Maid Servant’s Wearing Apparel 8cc as mention’d in the Schedule
most of which are absolutely necessary to guard his Family against the se-
verity of the approaching Season, which Effects may be deducted from the
whole, or such part of said Sloop her Cargo 8cc as may belong to this State,
or order, 8c grant him such other Relief Sec. 8cc. -
Resolved, That the Agent for the Southern District of this State be and
hereby is directed to deliver Thomas Ludlow Jr out of the goods taken on
board the Sloop Elizabeth the following Articles in addition to those already
delivered him - Viz -
1 Suit of Bed, & 3 Window Curtains
2 pr of Sheets, 8c 3 pillow Cases
1 doz Napkins, 8c 4 Table Cloths
1 Dressing Glass, 2 bed Quilts
3 pr of Childrens Shoes, 4 pr of Womans Shoes
4 doz Childrens Clouts, 1 Hadley’s Quadrant
1 Quarter Waggoner
1 small basket of Medicines,
together with the Whole of his Wearing Apparel belonging to himself 8c
Family -
And it is further Resolved, that Said Ludlow upon receiving the above
Articles shall not be Intitled to any further allowance for Wages, and Ad-
venture as Master of Said Sloop.
Resolved, That the Treasurer of this State be, and he hereby is directed
to Stop out of the monies due to Capt Jeremiah Obrien on his Muster Roll
the sum of Twenty One pounds for Cash supplied the said Capt Orbien by
Messrs Jackson, Tracey, 8c Tracey of Newbury port for the purpose of
supplying Capt Orbrien’s Men, and pay the said Co of Jackson, Tracey 8c
Tracey the said Sum of Twenty One pounds takeing their receipt for the
same
1. Mass. Arch., vol. 36, 97-98.
John Bradford to John Daniel Schweighauser 1
Sir Boston Octor 31st 1776
This will be handed you by Capt William Tokely of the Brig Fanny and
Covers Invo[ice] and Bill of Loading for a Cargo Tobacco Ship’d on Said
Brig at York River in Virginia last Spring by order And on Acco of the
united States of America, After being many months detaind in the river by
Ld Dunmores fleet, she at length saild for Dunkirk where she was then des-
tined, But unfortunately she was pick’d up by a privateer who brought her
1470
AMERICAN THEATRE
into this State, under pretext that she was bound for London2 when the
news reached the Congress of her being brought in they sent me orders to
Cancell the former papers and to take fresh bills Loading to deliver the
Cargo to you, the Committee of Congress who Negotiates this matter or-
der’d me to desire you to Sell the Cargo to the best Advantage and Apply
the Nt proceeds to the use of Messrs Pliarne Penet 8c Corny agreeable to
the Advice you have or may receive from the Secret Committee of
Congress, that Committee desires You to Load the Brig with Salt with all
Convenient Speed and send her to Edenton North Carolina Consign her to
Messrs Hewes 8c Smith the Owners - I am sir [8cc.]
1. John Bradford Letter Book, LC. Schweighauser was a Swiss merchant established at Nantes,
France.
2. See Bradford to Robert Morris, October 22, 1776.
Independent Chronicle , Thursday, October 31, 1776
Boston, October 31.
Yesterday arrived here from Newbury-Port, where she was lately
built, the Massachusetts Frigate Boston , mounting 28 Guns, commanded by
Hector M’Neil, Esq:1
Last Friday the prize-ship Hay field, lately taken and sent into Heyhan-
ness by Capt. [Silas] Atkins, was conveyed round to this Harbour. Soon
after she came to Anchor, one of the Ship’s Crew fell from the Fore-Yard to
the Deck, and fractured his Skull in such a Manner, that he died the next
Morning.
To be Sold by Public Auction, On Thursday, the 7th of November, on
Col. [John] Hancock’s wharf, the cargo of the Prize Brig Lord Lifford ,
Consisting of 250 Hogsheads of choice Monserrat Rum. The sale will begin
at Ten o’Clock in the Morning.
W. Greenleaf, Sheriff
To be Sold by Public Auction, The Sloop Betsey , with her Appurte-
nances, lying at Capt. Bennetts Wharf, on Monday the 4th of November, at
Ten o’Clock before Noon. Said sloop was taken by the Milford Man of War,
and retaken by the Continental Schooner Lee, Daniel Waters master.
On Thursday next the 7th of November, At Eleven in the Morning,
Will be sold by Public Vendue, at Bedford, in Dartmouth, Four Hundred
and sixty five Hogsheads, 31 Tierces and 35 Barrels, choice Sugars, 25 Tons
Fustick — Also the Brigantine Dove, with her Appurtenances and Cargo,
consisting of about 600 Barrels of Oyl.
J. Russell, Auctioneer.
On Thurday, 21st November at Ten in the Morning Will be Sold by
Public Vendue, On Tileston’s Wharf, The Ship Marshall and her Cargo,
Consisting of 16 Hogsheads Muscavado Sugar, 76 First Whites, 60 Second
ditto, 236 clayed ditto, 64 Hogsheads Barbadoes Rum, 37 Bags Ginger, 12
Bags Cotton, 2 Tierces and 84 Goards Aloes, 1 Hogshead Barbados Tar.
J. Russell, Auctioneer
OCTOBER 1776
1471
The Ship is about 280 Tons burthen, a fast sailing Vessel, well found,
and above two Years old; and will be put up at XII o’Clock, on the above
Day of Sale.
On Tuesday the 5th of November, At Eleven o’Clock will be Sold by
Public Auction, at the Long Wharf, The Schooner Diligent , burthen about
100 Tons, fitted for a Privateer. A List of her Appurtenances to be seen at
the Time and Place of Sale.
Also, Four 3-Pound cannon, double-fortified. A Number of Swivels —
and a Number of iron-bound Water-Casks.
Proctor and Lowell, Auctioneers.
On Wednesday the 13th November — will be sold by Public Auction On
Hon. John Hancock s Wharf the Prize Brigantine Montague’ s Cargo, con-
sisting of 1350 Quintals of choice Merchantable Fish, which will be put up
in small lots, at the same Time and place will be sold the Remainder of the
Prize George’s Cargo consisting of 40 Casks Peas, — 40 Firkins Butter, 6
Casks Flour — 27 Barrels Pork and Beef, A Quantity of Cordage and
Oacum, A few Chaldrons New-Castle Coal, A Suit Man’s Scarlet cloathes,
Laced, A Quantity of Sailor’s Apparel, Jackets, Frocks, Trowsers, Shirts,
Shoes, Stockings, and 34 Holland Shirts, &c.
Proctor and Lowell, Auctioneers
1. The Continental frigate Boston, Captain Hector McNeill.
Libels Filed Against Prizes in the Massachusetts Admiralty Court
for the Middle District 1
State of Massachusetts-Bay
Middle District, ss.
To all whom it may concern.
Notice is hereby given, That Libels are filed before me against the fol-
lowing vessels, their cargoes and appurtenances, viz. in behalf of Capt. Ebe-
nezer Peirce and his Company, and the Owners of the armed Schooner Lib-
erty, against the Schooner Swan , burthened about 40 Tons, commanded by
one Prebble: — In behalf of Capt. Christopher Whipple and his Com-
pany, and the Owners of the private armed Brig Putnam , against the ship
Cambden, burthened about 300 Tons, commanded by Joseph Richardson: —
In behalf of Capt. Silas Atkins jun. and his Company, and the Owners of
the private armed Schooner Boston, against the Ship Hay field, burthened
about 200 tons, John Clark, late Master; and against the Brigantine Betsey,
of about 90 Tons burthen, James Webber, late Master: In behalf of Capt.
Wingate Newman and his Company, and the Owners of the private armed
Brig Hancock, against the Brigantine Lovely Nelly, burthened about 100
Tons, William Sheridan, late Master. — In behalf of Capt. Eleazer Giles
and his Company, and the Owners of the Brig Retaliation, against the Ship
St. Lucia, of about 300 Tons burthen, George Child, late Master. — In be-
half of Capt. Simon Forrester and his Company, and the Owners of the pri-
vate armed Sloop Rover, against the Brig Mary and James, of about 120
1472
AMERICAN THEATRE
tons burthen, Thomas Moore, late Master. — In behalf of Capt. Daniel
Souther and his Company of the armd Brig Massachusetts of this State,
against the Brig Henry and Ann , of about 300 tons burthen, John Farrah,
late Master: - And in behalf of Capt. Daniel Hathorne and his Company,
and the Owners of the private armed Schooner Free American, against the
Snow Jenny, of about 130 tons burthen, William Cummings, late Master.
All which Vessels, their Cargoes and Appurtenances, so libelled, are said to
have been taken and brought into the Middle District aforesaid. And for
the Trial of these Captures, the Maritime Court for the said Middle Dis-
trict, will be held at Salem, in the County of Essex, on Tuesday, the Nine-
teenth day of November, 1776, at the Hour of Ten in the Forenoon; when
and where the Owners of said Captures, and any Persons concerned, may ap-
pear and shew Cause, (if any they have) why the same, or any of them, should
not be condemned.
Tim. Pickering, jun. Judge of said Court.
1. Independent Chronicle , Boston, October 31, 1776.
Libels Filed Against Prizes in the Massachusetts Admiralty Court
for the Southern District 1
State of Massachusetts-Bay,
Southern District, ss.
To all whom it may concern.
Notice is hereby given, That the Maritime Court for the Southern Dis-
trict will be held at Plymouth, in the County of Plymouth, on Friday, the
15th Day of November, 1776, at the Hour of Ten in the Forenoon; to try the
Justice of the following captures, viz. Of the Ship called the Esther and her
cargo and Appurtenances, of about 350 Tons burthen, lately commanded by
John Harvey, — Of the Schooner called the Polley, of about 90 Tons bur-
then, lately commanded by Christopher Bosset, and her Cargo and Appurte-
nances, against which Vessels, their Cargoes and Appurtenances, Libels are
filed before me, they having been brought into the Southern-District afore-
said. — And the Owners of said Captures, or any Persons concerned, may
appear and shew Cause (if any they have) why the same, or either of them,
should not be condemned.
Nathan Cushing, Judge of said Court.
1. Independent Chronicle, Boston, October 31, 1776.
Application for Commission for the F.hode Island Privateer Sloop
Charming Sally 1
Sir, Providence October [blank] 1776.
We the Subscribers all of New-Haven in the State of Connecticut Mer-
chants request your Honor to grant a Commission or Letters of Marque and
Reprisal to Francis Brown Commander of the Sloop Charming Sally2 of
which we are Owners. She is burthened about One Hundred and Sixteen
OCTOBER 1776
1473
Tons carries Six Carriage Guns Four Pounders and manned with Fifty Men
and fitted with a suitable Quantity of Muskets Blunderbusses Cutlasses,
Pistols, Powder, Ball and other Military Stores. She hath on board Forty
Barrels Beef and Pork, Four Thousand Pounds Weight of Bread and Six
barrels Flour. Shoemaker is First Lieutenant, William Keayes Sec-
ond Lieutenant and Smith Master. We are with great Respect Sir
[Sec.]
To the Honble Nicholas Cooke Esquire.
Isaac Sears James Jarvis
1. Miscellaneous Manuscripts, CL.
2. “Newport October 1776. I acknowledge the foregoing to be a true Copy of the Instructions
delivered me this Day by his Honor the Governor with my Commission or Letter of
Marque and Reprisal as Commander of the Private Sloop of War Charming Sally.
Francis Brown.” Maritime Papers, Letters of Marque, Petitions and Instructions, 1776—
1780, R. I. Arch.
Captain John Paul Jones to Joseph Hewes1
Honored Sir Alfred — Rhode Island 31st Octr 1776 —
I should have sailed from hence this Morning had I not been prevented
by a Gale of Wind at S. E. with thick Weather — this is the first leasure
time I have had Since my Arrival here in the Providence the 7th Current —
And I with pleasure embrace it to acknowledge the Singular Obligations
which I lay under to Mr Hewes. - Inclosed you have a short Account of my
late Cruise. — When I put in here with the Providence as She had been four
Months off the Ground my intention was to Scrub her bottom, repair her
Sails and Rigging and proceed to Cruise off Sandy Hook and from thence
return to Philada I was prevented from this by the Commodore’s propos-
ing to me to take Command of the present Expidition against the Coal
Fleet of Cape Briton and Fishery of Newfoundland with the Alfred Ham-
den and Providence — I was at first induced to belive that this Small
Squadron would be got ready in a Week — I got the Providence and Ham-
den ready within that time — but as I found the Alfred with only thirty
Men after Much Application and loss of time to Enlist her Compliment I
was Obliged to take all the Men out of the Providence and her prizes which
made up my number to about an hundred and Forty — with this Small
Force and the Hamden I was ready to proceed the 27th when the Hamden
ran upon a Sunken Rock, and was so much damaged as to render her unfit
for Immediate Service — this Misfortune obliged me to Shift Captn Hacker
and all his Men into the Providence — and is, by a Second loss of time, a
material drawback on my prospect of Success. — our Infant Navy is by no
means well established nor under proper regulations every thing is to look
for and provide when it is Immediatly Wanted — So that the most advan-
tagious Expedition may be lost thro’ detention — besides while Self Intrest
prevails unless the private Emolument of individuals in our Navy is made
equal if not Superiour to that of our Enemies, in these Iron times, we can-
not hope to repell their Force —
1474
AMERICAN THEATRE
I am informed, and have reason to beleive it to be too True, that even
some of the Gentlemen Appointed to fit out the New Frigates are concerned
in Privateers and not only Wink at, but encourage, and Employ deserters
from the Navy — What punishment is equal to such Baseness? — and Yet
these men pretend to love their Country! — When I address my Sentiments
to you with this Freedom I consider you not as a Member of the grand state
Counsel of a rising Empire — but as a private Gentleman of disintrested
Candour and Penetration a Free Citizen of the World governed by the Nob-
lest of principles the good of Mankind. — and Since Liberty hath chosen
America as her last assylum every Effort to protect and Cherish her is
Noble and will be rewarded with the thanks of Future Ages — I am encour-
aged therefore to proceed as I know that you will not missconstrue my
meaning —
I have long waited and that Impatiently for the production of Some
abler pen — but my expectation is as Wide of the Goal now as at the begin-
ning. — I return to my Subject, the Navy requires to be Newmodeled. —
but this cannot be properly done by Gentlemen who are Unconversant in
Marine Affairs — their is no Genius Universal — And as the Congress
hath such a complication of Business to attend, they will at a period not far
distant find it necessary to Appoint Commissionars for each Department. —
the Soul of a Navy depends on Such an Appointment. — an Impartial
Board of Admiralty compitant to determin the Merits and Abilities of
every Officer and to Superintend regulate and direct every outfit and Opera-
tion of the Marine Force would Soon give firmness and Stability to our
Fleet and make it Formidable even to Great Britain. — in the English Fleet
tho’ they Impress the Seamen — the Crown gives up to the Captors all they
take and even allows them a bounty for Several things with many other Ad-
vantages over and above, and can America expect to raise from nothing a
Navy able to Repell this powerful Enemy while She holds out scarce a third
of the Encouragement? - the Supposition is Absurd. —
The term of Enlistment is now almost expired — and as a new one
must follow — the entry ought in my Opinion to be made “during Pleasure”
— Give them all they Take and they will agree to the Condition. — thus the
Navy will be brought under proper Subordination and will Always be well
Manned with Volunteers Under good D[i]ciplin — but this is not likely to
be the Case if the Ensueing Enlistment is Made for a limited time. — Both
the Army and Fleet have experienced the Evil effects of Such enlistments
Already — and will experience worse Consequences if the Mode is not Al-
tered. — Inclosed I send you a Copy of a Comparative State of Wages in
our Navy and in English Fifth Rates2 — It was made out in New Hamshire
and sent here by Captn [Joseph] Olney — it is a Matter However that doth
not in any Wise concern me. — as I have no Family or dependents and
probably never will have any — I am easily provided for and am not in the
least uneasy on my own Account, tho’ to be sure as a Captn in the Navy
Ranks with a Colonel his Appointment ought to enable him to Support that
OCTOBER 1776
1475
Rank. — As you will see my letters to Mr Morris I will add nothing more at
present.
the Southern expidition Spoke of in my last to Mr Morris I mentioned
to Govr [Stephen] Hopkins and he hath promised me his Intrest for that
Command — it was unsolicited and therefore the greater favor — If I am
thought worthy of that Honor I wish the A. Doria could be made one of the
Squadron. — I was so far to the Eastward dureing the whole of my late
Cruise that I hope an Apology is Unnessary for not Sending Prizes to Your
State — I will not neglect it If I am fortunate hereafter — I hope to reach
the Continent agen before the Middle of Deer — I have the Honor to be
with Perfect Esteem — Sir [8cc.]
J. P. J.
[Endorsed] No 5. Alfred Rhode Island 31st Octr 1776. Copy of a Letter
to the Honorable Jos. Hewes Esqr Philada -
1. USNAM.
2. See next entry.
Advertisement for Deserters from the Continental Frigate
Providence 1
Ran away from the ship Providence , Abraham Whipple, Esq; Com-
mander, Ephraim Dawley, of Exeter, in this State, 47 years of age, 5 feet 6
inches high, dark hair, eyes, and complexion: Also Thomas Mitchell, of
North Kingstown, 26 years of age, 5 feet 6 inches high, darkish hair and
eyes, both formerly belonging to Capt. [Samuel] Phillips’s company, in
Col. [William] Richmond’s regiment: — Whoever will take up said runa-
ways and convey them on board said ship Providence , shall receive Five
Dollars for each, and all necessary charges, paid by
John Channing, 2d Lieut.
Newport, Oct. 31, 1776.
1. Newport Mercury , November 4, 1776.
Advertisement for Escaped British Naval Prisoners1
In the night following the 30th of instant October, five of the continen-
tal prisoners broke out of the goal at Windham, and made their escape, viz.
David Wardrop, surgeon, a Scotchman, speaks broad, about 5 feet 10 inches
high, between 20 and 30 years old, of a sandy complection, wears his own
hair, and walks with his knees wide asunder, had blue cloathes and a new
beaver hat cock’d up with hooks 8c eyes; Richard Tillage, a midshipman be-
tween 20 and 30 years old, wears his own hair of a light brown colour and
long, wears blue cloth, is an Englishman, he is a well-set man, not tall, has
white cloth jacket and breeches; also Samuel Gorge, a marine, a lusty well-
set man had a red jacket and metal buttons with ah anchor on each button,
about 30 years old; also James Busset, has a bushy head of hair, long fore-
top, small legs and thighs, and is a worsted comber; also one Joseph Reed, a
[continued on p. 1478]
1476
AMERICAN THEATRE
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1478
AMERICAN THEATRE
short thick-set fellow about 22 years old, walks quick and nimble, wears his
own hair of a light brown colour, has a red cloth jacket, pewter buttons,
with an anchor on each, he has tow cloth cloths, a wire drawer by trade.
Whoever shall take up said prisoners, any one or more of them, and safely
commit them to goal in Windham county goal in the State of Connecticut,
and give me notice thereof, shall be paid all his necessary expence and Trou-
ble, by me
Nathaniel Hebard, Goal-keeper.
Windham, October 31, 1776.
1. Connecticut Gazette, November 8, 1776.
Lieutenant William B. Alger to New York Provincial Convention 1
Gentlemen - Fort Montgomery, October [31], 1776
Captain [Patrick] Dennis was speaking to me concerning raising a
company of marines to enter on board the ship Montgomery, for her safety
this winter. I make no doubt but he has acquainted the Convention of the
same. I had some encouragement that I should have the birth, as our regi-
ment will soon be disbanded, and our men will be idle. But what small en-
couragement I have had from Captain Dennis, I have engaged a company of
very fine young men, a great part of them sailors and artillery men, who
will go through all hardships with me. If you see cause to appoint me in
that station, and send me the rate that they must engage under, I shall en-
gage them instantly, as they wait for nothing else. Gentlemen, your compli-
ance to this petition will very much oblige Your humble servant,
William B. Alger, Lieut.2
To Capt. Platt, or either member of Congress at Fishkill.
1. New York Provincial Congress, II, 337.
2. New York militia.
Minutes of the Pennsylvania Council of Safety1
In Council of Safety,
[Philadelphia] October 31st, 1776.
By order of the Council, two Blank Commissions for Privateers or
Letters of Marque, were delivered to Messrs. James Mease & Robert Mease,
for a ship & Brig, to be fitted out by them in a foreign Port.
1. Pennsylvania Colonial Records, X, 773.
Journal of the Virginia Navy Board 1
[Williamsburg] Thursday 31st October 1776. -
Ordered that the keeper of the Public Store deliver unto Capt Edward
Travis six Ounces of Rhubarb, two pounds of Bark, four pounds Glauber
Salts 8c a half pound of Manna for the use of the Brig Raleigh
OCTOBER 1776
1479
Capt Isaac Younghusband of the Brig Musquetto having been suspended
from the Command of the Brig Musquetto for failing to apply [ sic comply]
with the Orders of this Board and being summoned to attend the Board to
answer the same appeared accordingly who being examined touching his
Conduct; proved to the Satisfaction of the Board by sundry Witnesses that
he had as far as lay in his power Endeavoured to comply with their Orders
and discharge the Duties of his Office — But had been prevented from doing
the same in a proper manner Owing to his 111 state of Health for sometime
past, for which reason he desires to resign his Commission which Resigna-
tion was accordingly received by the Board. -
Ordered that Mr John Harris be recommended to his excellency the Gover-
nor and the honble the Council as a proper Person to be appointed to the
Command of the Brig Raleigh in the Room of Capt Isaac Younghusband
who hath resigned his Commission. -
Ordered that a Warrant Issue to Capt James Barron for the use of Capt Rich-
ard Barron for One hundred and Ninety one pounds sixteen shillings for
Pay of his Company on Board the Boat Patriot to the twenty fifth day of
September last as p Pay-roll this day settled. -
Ordered that a Warrant Issue to Capt James Barron for Eighty nine
pounds twelve shillings for Rum furnished for the use of the Boat Liberty -
Ordered that a Warrant Issue to Capt James Barron for the use of George
Hope for One Hundred Pounds, upon Account, to Purchase Necessaries for
the flat Bottom Boats Building at Hampton. -
1. Navy Board Journal, 95-96, VSL.
Virginia Navy Board to Lieutenant Benjamin Pollard1
[Williamsburg, October 31]
If you have any Complaint against Mr [Henry] Stratton it may be inquir’d
into hereafter, the Board hitherto approve your Conduct and will have no
objection to promote you to the command of your Company of Marines in
the room of Captain Conway —
G. W.
To Lieut. Ben. Pollard 1
of the Hero Galley —
1. Navy Board Letter Book, VSL.
Parole of British Prisoners Taken by a South Carolina Naval Vessel 1
We the Subscribers, being made Prisoners of War by the Navy of this
State, do promise and engage on our word & honour & on the faith of Gen-
tlemen, to depart from hence to the town of Salisbury in the State of North
Carolina and there or within ten miles thereof to remain during the present
War between Great Brittain 8c the united States of America, or untill the
Congress of the Said States or the Supreme executive Authority of North
1480
AMERICAN THEATRE
Carolina shall order otherwise, and that we will not directly or indirectly
give any intelligence whatsoever to the Enemies of the Said States or do or
say anything in opposition to or in prejudice of the measures & proceedings
of any Congress or Assembly of the Said States, during the present trou-
bles, or untill we are duly exchanged or discharged Given under our hands
at Charlestown in So Carolina this thirty first day of October Anno Domini
1776
Dun M’Nicol Cap: R: H: E
Hugh Fraser Lieut R: H: E
Dun Macdougall
Lauchlin McDonald
Walter Cunningham
Hector McQuary
Angus Cameron
Alexr Chrisholm
We also undertake for Neal M’Nicol, James Fraser, Alexr McDonald, &
David Donaldson, that they shall be on the same footing with ourselves
1. Secretary of State Papers (Council of Safety, 1775-1776) , NCDAH.
APPENDICES
V
PHARMACOPOEIA
jpW
SIMPLICIORUM
E T
EFFICA C IORUM,
IN U S U M
NOSOCOMII MI LI TAR IS,
c A $, EX't'R C i T E H
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HoDIERNJS NOSTRAS INOPIAE RERUMQJ7E
AUGUSTUS,
Feroci hoftium fsevitiae, belloque crudeli ex inopinato
patrise noftrse illato debitis,
Maxime ACCOM m’odata.
PHILADELPHIA:
ExOfficina STYNER & CIST, m dcc lxxviii.
Courtesy of the College of Physicians, Philadelphia, Pa.
APPENDIX A
Naval and Maritime Medicine During the Revolution
Maurice Bear Gordon, M.D.
The Chirurgion is exempted from all duty but to attend the sicke ,
and cure the wounded , and good care Would be had , he have a
certificate from the Barbersurgions Hall of his sufficiency, and also
that his Chest bee well furnished both for Physicke and Chyrurgery,
and so neer as may bee proper for that clime you goe for , which
neglect hath beene the losse of many a mans life.
John Smith. An Accidence
or The Path-way to Experience.
London, 1626.
The naval surgeon practiced in an entirely different environment from
his colleagues ashore. For months on end he lived and worked with his
patients as an integral member of a confining and self-contained community
—the ship’s company. Deep below the waterline of a wind and storm tossed
vessel of war he performed his duties with the limited means at hand, and
fought the grim battle of life and death. Besides the skills of his art and
science, the naval surgeon had to possess an extra measure of zeal and courage.
At the outset of the Revolution and the beginnings of the war at sea,
physicians to care for sick and wounded sailors, as well as surgical instru-
ments and medicines, were in acutely short supply.
Readying for combat on Lake Champlain in August 1776, General
Benedict Arnold in a letter to General Gates, expressed his concern about
the scarcity of medical services:
I arriv’d here [Crown Point] at 10 oClock last night much as I left
Tyconderoga a little feverish but no ague Yet, a dose Phisick this
afternoon I hope will set matters in order. I have applied to Doctr
Sparham who (I believe) Cannot be persuaded to go with the Fleet
—I don’t think it prudent to go without a Surgeon, Lieut [Isaac
Budd] Dunn acquaints me, that the Surgeons Mate of Coin. St
Clair’s Regt has a good Box Medicines & will Incline to go with
the Fleet, I wish he could be sent here ... I Can procure a Case of
Capital Instruments for him here,— nothing but the Surgeon 8c some
few articles I have sent a Boat for, prevents our proceeding . . .
Gates responded on 23 August:
This will be deliver’d to you by Doctor [Stephen] McCrea, whom
at the Recommendation of Doctor [Jonathan] Potts, I have ap-
1483
1484
APPENDICES
pointed First Surgeon to the Fleet under your Command, he has
Instruments & Medicines, two things much in request with you.
Mr Francis Hagan accompanys Mr M’Crea as his Assistant Surgeon.
I cannot procure any Instruments for him here, but wish you could
hire Doctor Speram’s for the Voyage. You are I am told acquainted
with Doctor M’Crea. I am assured his Abillities are their Own Rec-
ommendation. . . 4
Physicians in America in 1775 did not exceed thirty five hundred and of
that number not more than four hundred actually had Doctor of Medicine
degrees, primarily from European universities. Approximately fifty of the
degree holding physicians were graduates of either of two American medical
schools— the College of Philadelphia founded in 1765 (now the University
of Pennsylvania Medical School) or King’s College established two years
later (now Columbia University Medical School) . The course of military
events compelled both institutions to stop instruction during the Revolution.
Most American physicians acquired the art of healing through an ap-
prenticeship or preceptorial training. Many were well educated in areas
other than medicine, and some were self-styled doctors who lacked formal
training.
A Continental Congress resolve, 30 September 1776, showed official
concern about the professional qualifications of military surgeons:
That it be recommended to the legislatures of the United States,
to appoint gentlemen in their respective states, skilful in physic
and surgery, to examine those who offer to serve as surgeons or
surgeons’ mates in the army and navy; and that no surgeon or mate
shall hereafter receive a commission or warrant to act as such, in the
army or navy, who shall not produce a certificate from some or one
of the examiners so to be appointed, to prove that he is qualified to
execute the office:
American surgeons were influenced by European medical scholarship
particularly from Scotland and England. Professional books and journals were
received from abroad. Diagnosis and treatment must have been profoundly
affected by the system of Hermann Boerhaave (1668-1738) and William
Cullen’s (1710-1790) studies in pathology and nosology. The work of Wil-
liam Cheselden (1688-1752) , Albrecht von Haller (1708-1777) , Richard
Mead (1673-1754) , Percivall Pott (1714-1788) , William Smellie (1697-
1763) , Gerhard van Swieten (1700-1772) and Thomas Sydenham (1624—
1689) was not unknown to the patriot physicians of the Revolutionary gen-
eration.
The naval medical officer ministered to his shipmates whether in the
heat of battle or in days of smooth sailing. Routinely, for example, he ex-
tracted abscessed teeth or removed growths from the surface of the body.
A few hardy surgeons might operate for stones or cataracts, or attempt to
patch a damaged skull.
1. See pages 205 and 283.
APPENDICES
1485
Theoretically and technically, surgery was not greatly advanced over
the sixteenth century. The only major operations performed were amputa-
tions. Opening the abdominal cavity or thoracic cage was unknown. The
discovery of effective anesthesia remained far in the distance, and the hemo-
static forceps was not yet invented. Laudable pus, a whitish inodorous ex-
cretion thought to be essential to healing, was expected from every wound,
and the physician was scarcely ever disappointed.
Seamen were not required to undergo a physical examination prior to
enlistment. However, some attempt was made to sign on the physically fit
as illustrated by this instruction promulgated in Maryland:
The Men enlisted must be able bodied and perfect in all thir
Limbs and Sight of Sound Health without Ruptures or other visible
Infirmities, above five Feet four Inches and above sixteen and under
fifty years of age: and if above forty they must be of robust Consti-
tution.
The reference to “Ruptures” [hernias] is quite understandable when
the extreme physical labors demanded of the crew by a ship under sail is
envisioned.
“Rules for the Regulation of the Navy of the United Colonies,” pre-
pared by John Adams and adopted by Congress on 28 November 1775,
provided that in each ship:
A convenient place shall be set apart for sick or hurt men, to be
removed with their hammocks and bedding when the surgeon shall
advise the same to be necessary: and some of the crew shall be ap-
pointed to attend and serve them and to keep the place clean. The
cooper shall make buckets with covers and cradles if necessary for
their use.
All ships furnished with fishing tackle, being in such places where
fish is to be had, the Captain is to employ some of the company in
fishing, the fish to be distributed daily to such persons as are sick,
or upon recovery, if the surgeons recommend it . . .
The same regulations ranked the surgeon’s assistant, that is, the Sur-
geon’s Mate, with other “inferior Officers”— second master, cook, armourer,
gunsmith, master at arms, and sail maker. A surgeon’s pay was set at 21 l/g
dollars per month, and Surgeon’s Mate 1Si/3 dollars.
Space provided on board ship as an operating room and battle dressing
station was called the cockpit. Falconer’s 1771 Marine Dictionary described
the cockpit as “the apartments of the surgeon and his mates, being the place
where the wounded men are dressed in time of battle, or otherwise. It is
situated under the lower-deck.” Dark, dismal and a malodorous area below
the waterline for protection against battle damage, the cockpit, when not
otherwise needed, served as quarters for the surgeon’s mates, other mates,
some midshipmen and civilian clerks. Their mess table became the operat-
ing table during battle.
1486
APPENDICES
Most shipboard diseases were caused by confined, often unsanitary,
living conditions, and decayed or nonexistent basic foods. These combined
made illness and death all too common. A prolonged voyage without a sur-
geon on board could well have ended in disaster.
British physician James Lind reported on 5,743 seamen received at
Haslar Hospital between 1758 and 1760. Of this number, 2,174 were suffer-
ing from fevers, 1,146 with scurvy, 360 with consumption, 350 with rheuma-
tism, and 245 with fluxes. These were, according to Lind, the most frequent
and fatal diseases in the Royal Navy.
It was James Lind who in his work A Treatise of the Scurvy (1753)
gave a lucid description of the disease and established scientifically the
value of lemon juice. He undertook a crusade for the general use of lemon
or lime juice on board all British men-of-war. However, almost another half
century was to pass before his goal was realized.
Sir Gilbert Blane, a surgeon with the British fleet in the West Indies
and on the North American station during the Revolution, compiled some
illuminating statistics on illness and morbidity.
Year
Seamen
Became Sick
Morbidity Rate
1778
60,000
15,978
27%
1779
70,000
24,226
34%
1780
85,000
32,121
38%
1781
90,000
23,812
26%
1782
100,000
22,909
23%
1783
110,000
13,577
12%
His study on health in the Royal Navy, and that of other English physicians,
likely mirrored the conditions which existed in the Continental Navy.
Blane found the principal causes of shipboard illness and death, in all
climates, were scurvy and fevers. To these he added dysentery which pre-
vailed primarily, but not exclusively, in tropical latitudes. Likewise, he
pointed out that although a very high incidence of scurvy existed among
sailors, the disease was not confined to the sea. A victim of scurvy suffered
from soft and bleeding gums, his teeth loosened, his breath was foul, and he
developed swelling of the arms and legs.
Today we know that typhus fever is an acute specific infectious disease,
occurring usually in epidemics, which is transmitted through the bite of
an infected body louse or other insect. Blane wrote from on board H.M.S.
Sandwich off Antigua in August 1780: “The means of preventing this sort
of infection in a ship are chiefly fresh air and cleanliness, shelter from cold
and wet, and keeping the ship from being too much crowded.” Typhus is
characterized by a sudden onset, a high fever of about two weeks duration
and a termination by crisis; sudden improvement or decline.
The most adequate coverage of “ship fever” (typhus on shipboard)
during the Revolution is presented by Doctor Robert Robertson of the
Royal Hospital, Greenwich, England, in his book, Observations on Jail ,
Hospital or Ship Fever, From the 4th April, 1776, until the 30th April 1789,
made in various parts of Europe and America and on the Intermediate Seas.
APPENDICES
1487
Robertson concluded that ship fever is “an evil confined to no par-
ticular country or climate, but extending its fatal effects as far as we have
either society or commerce.” He was fully convinced that the jail, the
hospital and the ship fever “are essentially one and the same fever; and
that they are to be cured by one and the same remedy, bark.” The “bark”
to which Robertson made reference was Peruvian or Cinchona bark and
was excised from a genus of rubiaceous trees, the species of which are native
to South America. This bark has the same tonic, antiseptic and fever-reduc-
ing properties as the alkaloid quinine which it contains.
Serving in H.M.S. Juno , mostly in American waters, Doctor Robertson
employed the following therapy:
It was not a general rule with me to let blood;— that depending
soley on circumstances. A vomit was most commonly given at first;
and if the patient was bled, the vomit was given a few hours after,
and from xxv. to xi. drops of Essent. Antimon. with refrigerating
and diluting drink at night. Next morning an ounce of salts was
given, and the essence of antimony repeated in the evening. After
those moderate evacuations (which were seldom repeated) I pre-
scribed Cort. Peruv. 3i. or 3iss. every hour, until the patient was
out of danger; and afterwards it was given less frequent, and at this
time Elix. Vitr. was often joined with it. After I began to give the
bark, I did not omit it for any exacerbation of the symptoms.
As he gained experience, Robertson came to rely more on the bark in larger
frequent doses, and less on other forms of treatment. His general antipathy
to routine bleeding as a therapeutic measure was years in advance of his
time.
Bleeding was a standard therapy on land and at sea. James Lind in his
Essay on the most effectual means of preserving the health of seamen in the
Royal Navy ... (1779) recommended dilating the external opening of
wounds and bleeding the patient profusely and frequently. Then one was
to employ “emollient clysters, cooling nitrous drinks, anodynes, most rigid
diet consisting solely of thin, diluting drinks, perfect quiet and a proper
posture.” Lind, however, suggested that bleeding was not suitable in tropical
climates and warned against it.
Of the few medical writings produced in America, the most important
to the naval surgeon was John Jones’ Plain , Concise, Practical Remarks on
the Treatment of Wounds and Fractures (New York, 1775) . Some of his
salient principles may be summarized as follows:
Slight puncture wounds require no therapy; deep and tortuous ones
should be incised and enlarged; inflammation is best counteracted by gentle
laxatives, soft cataplasms, sudorific anodynes, bleeding and warm baths;
opium is an essential adjunct of treatment; gangrene signifies the need of a
more nourishing diet, spiritous fomentations and a more intensive use of
the bark; abscesses need immediate incision and drainage; all transverse
wounds are in need of interrupted suturing with a needle dipped in oil and
following this a plaster is applied over the area for two or three days; in
1488
APPENDICES
gunshot wounds, one should first remove the bullet and secondly control
hemorrhage, and a light dressing should then be applied with a retention
dressing on top; and all major compound fractures require immediate
amputation.
Jones considered cardiac, aortic, cerebellar, medullary and receptaculum
chyli wounds as fatal. Chest, abdominal, hepatic, pulmonary, intestinal and
renal wounds were categorized as very serious.
The navel surgeon had a practical knowledge of current drug therapy
which, as noted previously, favored cathartics, emetics, bark, opium blisters
and blood letting. If fortunate, he owned a European pharmacopoeia or a
copy of William Brown’s Pharmacopoeia Simpliciorum et Efficaciorum
[Formulary of Simple and yet Efficacious Remedies]— the first American
pharmacopoeia— published in Philadelphia in 1778. Sometimes referred to
as the “Lititz Pharmacopoeia,” this work was compiled by Doctor Brown,
Physician General of the Middle Department of the Continental Army,
when stationed at the Army hospital, Lititz, Pennsylvania. Only readily
available drugs were included, for the immediate military need would not
permit seeking out rare medications.
An inventory taken on board the Continental frigate Raleigh in Jan-
uary 1778 lists the following surgeon’s instruments and supplies:
1 Case of Amputating Instruments
2 Spare Silk Tourniquet Ligatures
1 Green Nourse Skin Case
containing 4 Lancets
1 other Case containing 6 new Lancets
5 Teeth Instruments
1 Case Pocket Instruments
2 Iron Spatulas
1 Bolus Knife
1 marble morter & pestle
1 Iron Ditto
1 pair small Scales 8c weights
1 Iron Plaister Ladle
2 Pewter Porringers
2 Copper Sauce pans
1 Tin Kittle
12 Pannakins
4 Tin Sauce Pans
2 Tin Funnels
1 Pair Scizzers
1 Rheam wrapping paper
6 n Pins
6 Ells White Flannel
12 yards red Baize
30# [lbs.] Lint
80# lbs." Old Linnen
1 Box Combed Tow
6 Fracture Boxes
1 Large Chest containing
Medicines, 1 large pewter
Sirenge, pins tape thread,
1 Set bandages, 3 small
Sirenges, 12 Wooden
Tournaquets, Cork 8cc
1 Smaller Chest Medicines
The same inventory accounts for these “Refreshments for the Sick:”
200 Barrels 400 pounds Oatmeal
2 Casks 200 pounds Raisins
1 Jarr 12 Gallons sweet Oyl
1 Barrell 250 pounds sugar
1 half Barrel 15 Gallons Claret Wine
1 Keg 30 pounds Tamarinds
APPENDICES
1489
Rum was another therapeutic “refreshment.” Cinchona bark— with
quinine as its active ingredient— was in such demand that this medication
quadrupled in price between June 1776 and September 1777.
Cathartics and purgatives were the drugs most often prescribed. These
included botanical preparations such as ipecac, rhubarb, and jalap as well
as chemical preparations. Antimony and potassium tartrate were combined
to form “tartar emetic” which was favored for effecting a rapid vomiting.
When the naval surgeon felt that a narcotic pain reliever was indicated,
he favored gum opium. When he desired the counter-irritation effect of
blistering plasters, he favored those prepared from cantharides [Spanish
flies]. For a variety of medicinal purposes surgeons prescribed mercury in
metallic form as well as in certain salt compounds and nitre [saltpeter or
potassium nitrate]. Gum camphor was also widely used. A favorite dressing
consisted of lint which was absorbent material obtained by picking apart
old woven fabrics, but this was in critically scarce supply.
The ledger of the Greenleaf Apothecary in Boston, an interesting docu-
ment in the holdings of the American Antiquarian Society,2 reveals the
shop was a major supplier of medicines to the Continental Navy, Wash-
ington’s Fleet, and privateers. This ledger also documents how severe short-
ages were eased by medicines captured in the cargoes of British prize ships.
“The forming of a seaman,” wrote Sir Gilbert Blane, “depends upon a
long habit of life, so that if our stock of mariners were exhausted, or dimin-
ished, neither treasure nor any other means would repair the loss. In this
view, as well as from the peculiar dependence of Britain upon her navy,
this order of men is truly inestimable.” And, still other words of Sir Gilbert
could have reflected the dedication of American and British sea-going
surgeons of the Revolution: “I should not repent my labour, could I enjoy
the conscious certainty of its having saved the life of one brave and good
man.”
2. See Naval Documents of the American Revolution, Volume 5, 496.
fW? G,°n1i-e5 PracticaI Remarks on the Treatment of Wounds and Fractures.
of the College of Physicians, PhiLllph^Pa™ ^ W'*0" '** Courtesy
Joshua Fisher , eminent
Massachusetts patriot and privateer surgeon. Courtesy of Beverly Historical
Society.
Courtesy of Massachusetts State Archives.
Surgical instruments of the type used by maritime surgeons. Top to bottom: three amputation knives, ball
extractor, forceps, surgical hook, surgical retractor. Courtesy of Armed Forces Institute of Pathology,
Washington, D.C.
Glass jar apparently used for storing
powdered bark.
Pill tile used for measuring and dividing pills.
Wooden mortar and pestle.
Pill cutter.
Surgeon’s quarters near bread room on lower deck of Continental Frigate Virginia. Courtesy of the
National Maritime Museum, London.
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It is abfclutdy fait that the Dodori of the diabolic ,1
tiniftemf Butchers, when they catenated Bofton, h
left Weight of Arftidt with the \!e*
their left in the A?mft»Hoofe the re.
■>«* oCfoc
I ' Me v# i) g *
iiigtoo* tti Commemorate* of the ho -
Courtesy of the U.S. Naval Academy Museum.
'Jggl
APPENDIX B
David Bushnell and the Submarine Turtle
[New York harbor in September 1776 was the scene of an unsuccessful
but historic attempt to sink a large British warship ( Eagle or Asia) by sub-
marine attack. The ingenious submarine was the invention of David Bush-
nell, and the operator was Sergeant Ezra Lee; both of Connecticut.
Thomas Jefferson, displaying keen interest in BushnelFs submarine,
wrote to Washington from Paris on 17 July 1785 asking the General’s recol-
lections on the subject. Washington replied on 26 September of the same
year.
In October 1787 Bushnell sent Jefferson a detailed description of the
Turtle and his underwater experiments. At the same time, Bushnell sent
Ezra Stiles a copy of all material he had prepared for Jefferson.
Sergeant Lee recounted his experience on the night of the submerged
attack in a letter to David Humphreys dated 20 February 1815.
These letters have been brought together to form this appendix.]
Thomas Jefferson to George Washington 1
Sir Paris July 17. 1785.
Permit me to add, what I forgot in my former letter, a request to you to
be so kind as to communicate to me what you can recollect of Bushnel’s
experiments in submarine navigation during the late war, and whether
you think his method capable of being used succesfully for the destruction
of vessels of war, it’s not having been actually used for this purpose by us,
who were so peculiarly in want of such an agent seems to prove it did not
promise success. I am with the highest esteem Sir
your most obedt & most humble sert
Th: Jefferson
I. Papers of Thomas Jefferson, vol. 13, LC. Printed in Boyd, ed., Jefferson Papers, 8, 301.
George Washington to Thomas Jefferson 1
[Extract]
Mount Vernon 26th Septr. 1785
I am sorry I cannot give you full information respecting Captn. Bush-
nals projects for the destruction of shipping.-No interesting experiment
having been made/and my memory being treacherous, I may, in some
measure, be mistaken in what I am about to relate.
1499
1500
APPENDICES
Bushnel is a man of great Mechanical powers— fertile of invention—
and a master in execution— He came to me in 1776 recommended by Gov-
ernor Trumbull (now dead) and other respectable characters who were
proselites to his plan.— Although I wanted faith myself, I furnished him
with money, and other aids to carry it into execution.— He laboured for
sometime ineffectually, 8c though the advocates for his scheme continued
sanguine he never did succeed— One accident or another was always in-
tervening.—I then thought, and still think, that it was an effort of genius;
but that a combination of too many things were requisite, to expect much
success from the enterprise against an enemy, who are always upon guard.
—That he had a machine which was so contrived as to carry a man under
water at any depth he chose, and for a considerable time 8c distance, with
an apparatus charged with Powder which he could fasten to a ships bottom
or side 8c give fire to in any given time (sufft. for him to retire) by means
whereof a ship could be blown up, or sunk, are facts which I believe admit
of little doubt— but then, where it was to operate against an enemy, it is
no easy matter to get a person hardy enough to encounter the variety of
dangers to which he must be exposed. 1 from the novelty 2 from the diffi-
culty of conducting the machine, and governing it under water on acct. of
the Currents 8cca. 3 the consequent uncertainty of hitting the object of
destination, without rising frequently above water for fresh observation,
wch., when near the Vessel, would expose the adventurer to a discovery, 8c
almost to certain death— To these causes I always ascribed the non-perform-
ance of his plan, as he wanted nothing that I could furnish to secure the
success of it.— This to the best of my recollection is a true state of the case—
But Humphreys, if I mistake not, being one of the proselites, will be able to
give you a more perfect acct. of it than I have done. . . .
1. Papers of Thomas Jefferson, vol. 15, LC. Printed in Boyd, ed., Jefferson Papers, 8, 555-57,
and in Fitzpatrick, ed., Writings of Washington, XXVIII, 278-81.
Sir
David Bushnell to Ezra Stiles 1
Stamford October 16th 1787.
Induced by the desire you intimated in your Letter to me, of seeing
what I should write to his Excellency Governor Jefferson our Ambassador
at Paris, I have together with this, inclosed a Copy of what I have sent to
his Excellency. The Original is forwarded by Colonel Humphrys, a Gentle-
man to whom I am much indebted, who wrote more than once upon the
affair, and to whose friendship, I have no doubt, I owe the attention of the
Governor to the Subject, and his desire of information, agreeably to what
you and Colonel Humphrys wrote long since.
I beg leave to thank you for your advice, and your kind offer to take
the charge of forwarding my Letter to his Excellency. I could wish that what
I have written should not come to the knowledge of the public, for the same
reason, as I have written to the Governor, that I have ever wished to be
APPENDICES
1501
silent upon the subject. Should what I have written to the Governor mis-
carry, I wish these might be ready to be forwarded to him, if I should be
obliged to make use of them.
If you are desirous of any information which is not contained in this
packet, I shall esteem it a favour, if you will give me the opportunity of
satisfying you. Should you think proper to write to me or receive anything
from His Excellency Governor Jefferson which respects me, I could wish
they might be directed to the care of Major John Davenport in Stamford.
I am Sir See.
David Bushnell
[Enclosures]
Stamford, In Connecticut Octr. 13th. 1787.
Sir
In the latter part of the year 1785, I received a Letter from Colonel
David Humphrys, and soon after, another from Doctor Ezra Stiles, President
of Yale College in Connecticut, informing me, that your Excellency desired
an account of my Submarine Vessel, and the Experiments which I had made.
At the time I received those Letters, I was seized with a severe illness,
which disabled me from writing, 8c though I attempted it several times,
obliged me to desist. Ever since I recovered my health, my situation has
been such, that until this time, it has not been in my power to write to
your Excellency, upon the Subject.
I shall think myself happy if this, arriving thus late, meet with your
Excellency’s acceptance, and give you the information you desired; and
shall only regret, that I had it not in my power to write, as soon as I received
the communications of those Gentlemen.
Doctor Stiles, in his Letter to me, transcribed from yours the following,
“If he thought proper to communicate it, I would engage never to disclose
it, unless I could find an opportunity of doing it for his Benefit.’’ In answer
to this declaration, I shall submit the disclosure of it entirely to your Ex-
cellency, to do as you shall think proper; 8c beg leave to return you my
sincere thanks for your generous intentions.
I have ever carefully concealed my Principles 8c Experiments, as much
as the nature of the subject allowed, from all but my chosen Friends, being
persuaded that it was the most prudent course, whether the event should
prove fortunate or otherwise, although by the concealment I never fostered
any great expectations of profit, or even of a compensation for my time 8c
expences; the loss of which has been exceedingly detrimental to me.
With this your Excellency will receive a sketch of the general principles
and construction of the Submarine Vessel blended together, as they occur
at this time, with many of the Minutiae. I should gladly exhibit everything
with the utmost minuteness, but apprehend I have not been sufficiently
clear in what I have written, and have a doubt whether I could explain the
whole intelligibly, without drawings, which I cannot easily execute or
1502
APPENDICES
obtain. But should this not be sufficient, 8c you should wish to have a more
minute description of the whole, or of any particular part not sufficiently
explained here, I shall be happy to receive your Excellency’s commands,
and shall obey them, as soon as they come to hand, without any reserve.
As I am desirous this should not fall into improper hands, I could
wish, if it were not too great a favour, to hear that this finds a safe conveyance
to your Excellency.
In the mean time, with the most respectful sentiments, I am 8cc.
David Bushnell.
P.S. Should your Excellency think proper to inform me of the safe arrival
of this packet, I could wish such information might be directed to the care
of Doctor Stiles.
His Excellency Thomas Jefferson Esquire.
“General principles 8c construction of a Submarine Vessel.”
No. 2.
The external shape of the Submarine Vessel bore some resemblance to
two upper tortoise shells of equal size, joined together: the place of en-
trance into the Vessel being represented by the opening, made by the swell
of the shells, at the head of the animal. The inside was capable of containing
the Operator, and air, sufficient to supply him, thirty minutes, without
receiving fresh air. At the bottom, opposite to the entrance, was fixed a
quantity of lead for ballast. At one edge, which was directly before the
operator, who sat upright, was an oar, for rowing forward or backward. At
the other edge, was a rudder for steering. An aperture, at the bottom, with
its valve, was designed to admit water for the purpose of descending; 8c two
brass forcing pumps served to eject the water within, when necessary for
ascending. At the top, there was likewise an oar, for ascending or descend-
ing, or continuing at any particular depth. A Watergage or Barometer, de-
termined the depth of descent, a compass directed the course, 8c a ventilator
within, supplied the Vessel with fresh air, when on the surface.
The entrance into the Vessel was elliptical, and so small, as barely
to admit a person. This entrance was surrounded with a broad elliptical
iron band, the lower edge of which was let into the wood of which the body
of the Vessel was made, in such a manner, as to give its utmost support to
the body of the Vessel against the pressure of the water. Above the upper
edge of this iron band, there was a brass Crown or cover, resembling a hat
with its crown and brim, which shut watertight upon the iron band: the
Crown was hung to the iron band with hinges so as to turn over sidewise,
when opened: to make it perfectly secure when shut, it might be screwed
down upon the band by the operator, or by a person without.
There were in the brass Crown, three round doors, one directly in front,
and one on each side, large enough to put the hand through, when open
they admitted the fresh air; their shutters were ground perfectly tight into
their places, with emery, hung with hinges, 8c secured in their places when
shut. There were likewise several small glass windows in the Crown, for
APPENDICES
1503
looking through, and for admitting light in the daytime, with covers to
secure them. There were two airpipes in the Crown. A ventilator within
drew fresh air through one of the airpipes, and discharged it into the lower
part of the Vessel; the fresh air introduced by the ventilator, expelled the
impure light air through the other airpipe. Both airpipes were so con-
structed, that they shut themselves whenever the water rose near their tops,
so that no water could enter through them, and opened themselves imme-
diately after they rose above the water.
The Vessel was chiefly ballasted with lead, fixed to its bottom: when
this was not sufficient, a quantity was placed within, more or less, according
to the weight of the operator: its ballast made it so stiff, that there was no
danger of oversetting. The Vessel with all its appendages, and the operator,
was of sufficient weight to settle it very low in the water. About two hundred
pounds of the lead at the bottom for ballast, could be let down forty or fifty
feet below the Vessel: this enabled the operator to rise instantly to the
surface of the water in case of accident.
When the operator would descend he placed his foot upon the top
of a brass valve, depressing it, by which he opened a large aperture in the
bottom of the Vessel, through which the water entered at his pleasure.
When he had admitted a sufficient quantity, he descended very gradually;
if he admitted too much, he ejected as much as was necessary to obtain an
equilibrium, by the two brass forcing pumps, which were placed at each
hand. Whenever the Vessel leaked or he would ascend to the surface, he also
made use of these forcing pumps. When the skilful operator had obtained
an equilibrium, he could row upward, or downward, or continue at any
particular depth, with an oar, placed near the top of the Vessel, formed
upon the principle of the screw, the axis of the oar entering the Vessel:
by turning the oar one way he raised the Vessel, by turning it the other
way he depressed it.
A glass tube eighteen inches long, and one inch in diameter, standing
upright, its upper end closed, and its lower end, which was open, screwed
into a brass pipe, through which the external water had a passage into the
glass tube, served as a Watergage or Barometer. There was a piece of cork,
with phosphorus on it, put into the Watergage: When the Vessel descended,
the water rose in the watergage, condensing the air within, and bearing the
cork, with its phosphorus, on its surface. By the light of the phosphorus,
the ascent of the water in the gage was rendered visible, and the depth of
the Vessel under water ascertained by a graduated line.
An oar, formed upon the principle of the screw, was fixed in the fore-
part of the Vessel, whose axis entered the Vessel, which being turned one
way, rowed the Vessel forward, and being turned the other way, rowed it
backward: it was made to be turned by hand or foot.
A rudder, hung to the hinder part of the Vessel, commanded it with
the greatest ease. The rudder was made very elastick, and might be used
for rowing forward. Its tiller was within the Vessel, at the operator’s right
hand, fixed, at a right angle, on an iron rod, which passed through the
side of the Vessel; the rod had a crank on its outside end, which commanded
1504
APPENDICES
the rudder, by means of a rod extending from the end of the crank to a kind
of tiller, fixed upon the left hand of the rudder. Raising & depressing the
first mentioned tiller turned the rudder, as the case required.
A compass marked with phosphorus directed the course, both above
and under the water; & a line and lead founded the depth when necessary.
The internal shape of the Vessel, in every possible section of it, verged
towards an ellipsis, as near as the design would allow, but every horizontal
section, although elliptical, as near a circle, as could be admitted. The body
of the Vessel was made exceedingly strong; and to strengthen it as much
as possible, a firm piece of wood was framed, parallel to the conjugate diam-
eter, to prevent the sides from yielding to the great pressure of the incumbent
water in a deep immersion. This piece of wood was also a seat for the
operator.
Every opening was well secured. The pumps had two sets of valves.
The aperture at the bottom, for admitting water was covered with a plate
perforated full of holes to receive the water, and prevent anything from
choaking the passage, or stopping the valve from shutting. The brass valve
might likewise be forced into its place with a screw, if necessary. The airpipes
had a kind of hollow sphere, fixed round the top of each, to secure the air
pipe-valves from injury; these hollow spheres were perforated full of holes
for the passage of the air through the pipes: within the airpipes were shutters
to secure them, should any accident happen to the pipes, or the valves on
their tops.
Whenever the external apparatus passed through the body of the
Vessel, the joints were round and formed by brass pipes, which were driven
into the wood of the Vessel; the holes through the pipes were very exactly
made, and the iron rods which passed through them were turned in a
lathe to fit them; The joints were also kept full of oil to prevent rust and
leaking. Particular attention was given to bring every part, necessary for
performing the operations, both within and without the Vessel, before the
operator, and as convenient as could be devised: so that every thing could
be found in the dark, except the watergage, and the compass, which were
visible by the light of the phosphorus, and nothing required the operator
to turn to the right hand, or the left, to perform anything necessary.
Description of a Magazine & its appendages, designed to be conveyed
by the submarine Vessel to the bottom of a Ship.
In the forepart of the brim of the Crown of the Submarine Vessel, was
a socket, and an iron tube passing through the socket; the tube stood up-
right, and could slide up and down in the socket, six inches: at the top of
the tube, was a Woodscrew (A) fixed by means of a rod, which passed
through the tube, and screwed the Woodscrew fast upon the top of the
tube: by pushing the Woodscrew up against the bottom of a Ship, and turn-
ing it at the same time, it would enter the planks; driving would answer
the same purpose; when the Woodscrew was firmly fixed, it could be cast
off by unscrewing the rod, which fastened it upon the top of the tube.
Behind the Submarine Vessel, was a place, above the rudder, for carry-
ing a large Powder Magazine; this was made of two pieces of oak timber,
APPENDICES
1505
large enough, when hollowed out, to contain one hundred and fifty pounds
of Powder, with the apparatus used in firing it, and was secured in its place
by a screw, turned by the operator. A strong piece of rope extended from
the magazine to the Woodscrew (A) abovementioned, and was fastened
to both. When the Woodscrew was fixed, and to be cast off from its tube,
the Magazine was to be cast off likewise by unscrewing it, leaving it hanging
to the Woodscrew: it was lighter than the water that it might rise up against
the object, to which the Woodscrew and itself were fastened.
Within the Magazine, was an apparatus, constructed to run any pro-
posed length of time under twelve hours; when it had run out its time, it
unpinioned a strong lock resembling a gun lock, which gave fire to the
powder. This apparatus was so pinioned, that it could not possibly move
till, by casting off the Magazine from the Vessel, it was set in motion.
The skilful operator could swim so low on the surface of the water,
as to approach very near a Ship, in the Night, without fear of being dis-
covered, and might if he chose, approach the stem or stern, above water,
with very little danger. He could sink very quick, keep at any depth he
pleased, and row a great distance, in any direction he desired, without
coming to the surface; 8c when he rose to the surface, he would soon obtain
a fresh supply of air, when, if necessary, he might descend again and pursue
his course.
The above Vessel, Magazine 8cc. were projected in the year 1771, but not
completed until the year 1775.
David Bushnell
“Experiments made to prove the nature and use of a Submarine Vessel.”
No. 3.
The first experiment I made, was with about two ounces of gunpowder,
which I exploded four feet under water, to prove to some of the first Per-
sonages in Connecticut, that powder would take fire under water.
The second experiment was made with two pounds of powder, inclosed
in a wooden bottle, and fixed under a hogshead, with a two inch oak
plank between the hogshead and the powder; the hogshead was loaded
with stones as deep as it could swim; a wooden pipe descending through the
lower head of the hogshead, 8c through the plank into the powder contained
in the bottle, was primed with powder. A match put to the priming exploded
the powder, which produced a very great effect, rending the plank into
pieces, demolishing the hogshead, and casting the stones and ruins of the
hogshead, with a body of water many feet into the air, to the astonishment
of the spectators. This experiment was likewise made for the satisfaction
of the Gentlemen abovementioned.
I afterwards made many experiments of a similar nature; some of them
with large quantities of powder; they all produced very violent explosions,
much more than sufficient for any purpose I had in view.
In the first essays with the submarine Vessel, I took care to prove its
strength to sustain the great pressures of the incumbent water when sunk
deep, before I trusted any person to descend much below the surface: and
1506
APPENDICES
I never suffered any person to go under water without having a strong
piece of rigging made fast to it, until I found him well acquainted with the
operations necessary for his safety. After that I made him descend and
continue at particular depths, without rising or sinking, row by the compass,
approach a Vessel, go under her, and fix the Woodscrew, mentioned in No
2, and marked A, into her Bottom, Sec. until I thought him sufficiently ex-
pert to put my design into execution.
I found agreeably to my expectation, that it required many trials to
make a person of common ingenuity, a skilful operator. The first I employed
was very ingenious and made himself master of the business, but was taken
sick in the campaign of 1776 at N. York, before he had an opportunity to
make use of his skill, and never recovered his health sufficiently afterwards.
Experiments made with a submarine Vessel.
After various attempts to find an operator to my wish, I sent one, who ap-
peared more expert than the rest, from N. York to a fifty gun Ship lying not
far from Governour’s Island. He went under the Ship and attempted to fix
the Woodscrew into her bottom, but struck as he supposes, a bar of iron,
which passes from the rudder hinge and is spiked under the Ship’s quarter.
Had he moved a few inches, which he might have done without rowing, I
have no doubt, but he would have found wood, where he might have fixed
the screw; or if the Ship were sheathed with copper, he might easily have
pierced it: but, not being well skilled in the management of the Vessel, in
attempting to move to another place, he lost the Ship. After seeking her in
vain, for sometime, he rowed some distance, and rose to the surface of the
water, but found daylight had advanced so far, that he durst not renew the
attempt.
He says that he could easily have fastened the Magazine under the
Stern of the Ship, above water, as he rowed up to the stern, and touched it,
before he descended. Had he fastened it there, the explosion of one hundred
and fifty pounds of powder, the quantity contained in the Magazine, must
have been fatal to the Ship. In his return from the Ship to N. York, he
passed near Governor’s Island, and thought he was discovered by the Enemy,
on the Island; being in hast to avoid the danger he feared, he cast off the
magazine, as he imagined it retarded him, in the swell, which was very
considerable. After the Magazine had been cast off, one hour, the time the
internal apparatus was set to run, it blew up with great violence.
Afterwards there were two attempts made in Hudson’s River above
the City, but they effected nothing. One of them was by the aforementioned
person. In going toward the Ship, he lost sight of her, and went a great
distance beyond her, before he found her; when he arrived, the tide ran so
strong, that as he descended under water, for the Ship’s bottom, it swept
him away. Soon after this, the Enemy went up the river, and pursued the
boat, which had the submarine Vessel on board, and sunk it, with their
shot. After I recovered the Vessel, I found it impossible, at that time to
prosecute the design any farther. I had been in a bad state of health from
the beginning of my undertaking, and was now very unwell; the situation
of public affairs was such, that I despaired of obtaining the public attention,
APPENDICES
1507
and the assistance necessary. I was unable to support myself, and the persons
I must have employed, had I proceeded. Beside I found it absolutely neces-
sary, that the operators should acquire more skill in the management of the
Vessel, before I could expect success; which would have taken up sometime,
and made no small additional expence. I therefore gave over the pursuit,
for that time, and waited for a more favourable opportunity, which never
arrived.
Other Experiments made with a design to fire Shipping.
In the year 1777, I made an attempt, from a Whaleboat, against the Cerberus
Frigate, then lying at anchor, between Connecticut River 8c New London,
by drawing a Machine against her side, by means of a line. The Machine
was loaded with powder, to be exploded by a gunlock, which was to be
unpinioned by an apparatus, to be turned by being brought along the side
of the Frigate. This Machine fell in with a schooner, at anchor astern of the
Frigate, 8c concealed from my sight. By some means or other it was fired,
and demolished the schooner, and three men, and blew the only one left
alive, overboard, who was taken up very much hurt.
After this, I fixed several Keggs under water, charged with powder, to
explode upon touching anything, as they floated along with the tide: I set
them afloat in the Delaware, above the English shipping at Philadelphia, in
December 1777. I was unacquainted with the River, and obliged to depend
upon a Gentleman, very imperfectly acquainted with that part of it, as I
afterwards found. We went as near the shipping as he durst venture; I
believe the darkness of the night greatly deceived him, as it did me. We
set them adrift, to fall with the ebb upon the Shipping. Had we been within
sixty rods, I believe they must have fallen in with them immediately as I
designed; but, as I afterwards found, they were set adrift much too far
distant, and did not arrive, until after being detained some time by frost,
they advanced in the day time, in a dispersed situation, and under great
disadvantage. One of them blew up a boat, with several persons in it, who
imprudently handled it too freely, and thus gave the British that alarm,
which brought on the battle of the Keggs.
David Bushnell
1. Ezra Stiles Papers, NHCHS. Recipient’s copy of the Bushnell to Jefferson letter, without en-
closures describing the Turtle and underwater experiments, is in Papers of Thomas
Jefferson, vol. 34, LC, and is printed in Boyd, ed., Jefferson Papers, 12, 303-04. Bushnell’s
description of the submarine and “Other Experiments’’ was published in Transactions
of the American Philosophical Society, Philadelphia, 1799.
Ezra Lee to David Humphreys 1
Lyme 20th Feby 1815.
Dr. Sir.
Judge Griswold, 8c Charles Griswold Esq. both informed me that you
wished to have an account of a machine invented by David Bushnell of
Say. Brook, at the commencement of our Revolutionary war. In the summer
1508
APPENDICES
of 1776, he went to New York with it to try the Asia man of war:— his
brother being acquainted with the working of the machine, was to try the
first experiment with it, but having spent untill the middle of August, he
gave out, in consequence of indisposition.— Mr. Bushnell then came to
General Parsons (of Lyme) to get some one to go, and learn the ways 8c
mystery of this new machine, and to make a trial of it.
General Parsons, sent for me, 8c two others, who had given in our
names to go in a fire ship if wanted, to see if we would undertake the
enterprize:— we agreed to it, but first returned with the machine down
Sound, and on our way practised with it in several harbours.— we returned
as far back as Say-Brook with Mr Bushnell, where some little alterations
were made in it— in the course of which time, (it being 8 or 10 days) the
British had got possession of Long Island 8c Governor’s Island— We went
back as far as New Rochelle and had it carted over by land to the North
River.—
Before I proceed further, I will endeavour to give you some idea of the
construction of this machine, turtle or torpedo, as it has since been called.—
(1) Its shape was most like a round clam, but longer, and set up on its
square side— it was high enough to stand in or sit as you had occasion, with
a (2) composition head hanging on hinges.— it had six glasses, inserted in
the head, and made water tight, each the size of a half Dollar piece, to admit
light— in a clear day, a person might see to read in three fathoms of water—
The machine was steered by a rudder having a crooked tiller, which led
in by your side, through a water joint.— (3) then sitting on the seat, the
navigator rows with one hand, 8c steers with the other— it had two oars, of
about 12 inches in leangth, 8c 4 or 5 in width, shaped like the arms of a wind-
mill, which led also inside through water joints, in front of the person steer-
ing, and were worked by means of a wench (or crank) and with hard labour,
the machine might be impelled at the rate of 3 nots an hour for a short time
—Seven hundred pounds of lead were fixed on the bottom for ballast, and
two hundred weight of it was so contrived, as to let it go in case the pumps
choaked, so that you could rise at the surface of the water.— It was sunk by
letting in water by a spring near the bottom, by placing your foot against
which, the water would rush in and when sinking take off your foot 8c it
would cease to come in 8c you would sink no further, but if you had sunk too
far, pump out water untill you got the necessary depth— these pumps
forced the water out at the bottom, one being on each side of you as you
rowed— A pocket compass was fixed in the side, with a piece of light (4) wood
on the north side, thus -{-, and another on the east side thus — , to steer by
while under water— Three round doors were cut in the head, (each 3 inches
diameter) to let in fresh air, untill you wished to sink, and then they were
shut down 8c fastened— There was also a glass tube (5) 12 inches long and 1
inch diamater, with a cork in it, with a peice of light wood, fixed to it, and
another peice at the bottom of the tube, to tell the depth of discent,— one inch
rise of the cork in the tube gave about one fathom water,— It had a screw, that
peirced through the top of the machine, with a water joint, which was so
very sharp that it would enter wood, with very little force, and this was
APPENDICES
1509
turned with a wench, or crank, and when entered fast in the bottom of
the ship, the screw is then left, and the machine is disengaged, by unscrewing
another one inside that held the other. From the screw now fixed on the
bottom of the ship, a line— led to 8c fastened to the mazagine, to prevent
its escape either side of the ship— the magazine was directly behind you on
the outside, and that was faced from you by unscrewing a screw inside-
inside the magazine was a clock machinery, which immediately sets a going
after it is disengaged 8c a gun lock is fixed to strike fire to the powder, at
the set time after the Clock should rundown— The clock might be set to go
longer or shorter— 20 or 30 minutes was the usual time, to let the navigator
escape— This magazine was shaped like an egg, 8c made of oak dug out in
two peices, bound together with bands of iron, corked 8c paid over with tar
so as to be perfectly tight, and the clock was bound so as not to run untill this
magazine was unscrewed—
I will now endeavour to give you a short account of my voyage in this
machine.— The first night after we got down to NewYork with it, that was
favourable, (for the time for a trial, must be, when it is slack water, 8c calm,
as it is unmanagable in a swell or a strong tide) the British Fleet lay a little
above Staten Island We set off from the City— the Whale boats towed me as
nigh the ships, as they dared to go, and then cast me off— I soon found that
it was too early in the tide, as it carried me down by the ships— I however
hove about, and rowed for 5 glasses, by the ships’ bells, before the tide
slacked so that I, could get along side of the man of war, which lay above
the transports— The Moon was about 2 hours high, and the daylight about
one— when I rowed under the stern of the ship, could see the men on deck,
8c hear them talk— I then shut down all the doors, sunk down, and came
under the bottom of the ship, up with the screw against the bottom but
found that it would not enter— (6) I pulled along to try another place, but
deviated a little one side, and immediately rode with great velocity, and
come above the surface 2 or 3 feet between the ship and the daylight— then
sunk again like a porpoise I hove partly about to try again, but on further
thought I gave out, knowing, that as soon as it was light the ships boats
would be rowing in all directions, and I thought the best generalship, was
to retreat, as fast as I could as I had 4 miles to go, before passing Governor’s
Island.— So I jogg’d on as fast as I could, and my compass being then of no
use to me, I was obliged to rise up every few minutes to see that I sailed
in the right direction, and for this purpose keeping the machine on the
surface of the water, and the doors open— I was much afraid of getting
aground on the island as the Tide of the flood set on the north point While
on my passage up to the City, my course owing to the above circumstances,
was very crooked 8c zig zag, and the enemy’s attention was drawn towards
me, from Governors Island— When I was abreast of the fort on the island
3 or 400 men got upon the parapet to observe me,— at leangth a number
came down to the shore, shoved off a 12 oar’d barge, with 5 or 6 sitters, and
pull’d for me— I eyed them, and when they had got within 50 or 60 yards
of me, I let loose the magazine, in hopes, that if they should take me, they
would likewise pick up the magazine, and then we should all be blown up
388-825 0-73-97
1510
APPENDICES
together, but as kind Providence would have it, they took fright, and re-
turned to the island, to my infinite joy.— I then weathered the Island, and our
people seeing me, came off with a whaleboat, and towed me in— The Maga-
zine after getting a little past the Island, went off with a tremendous ex-
plosion, throwing up large bodies of water to an immense height. (7)
Before we had another opportunity to try an experiment our army
evacuated Newyork, and we retreated up the North River as far as fort Lee
—A Frigate came up and anchored off Bloomingdale. I now made another
attempt upon a new plan— my intention was to have gone under the ship’s
stern, and screwed on the magazine close to the water’s edge, but I was dis-
covered by the Watch and was obliged to abondon this scheme, then shutting
my doors, I dove under her, but my cork in the tube, (by which I ascertained
my depth) got obstructed, and deceived me, and I descended too deep 8c
did not track the ship, and I then left her— Soon after the Frigate came up
the river, drove our Crane galley on shore, and sunk our Sloop, from which
we escaped to the shore—
I am 8cc. E. Lee.
For General David Elumphreys—
(1) This machine was built of oak, in the strongest manner possible, corked
and tarred, and though its sides were at least six inches thick, the writer of
the forgoing, told me that the pressure of the water, against it, at the depth
of two fathoms was so great, that it oozed quite through, as mercury will by
means of the air pump. Mr. Bushnell’s machine was no larger than just to
admit one person to navigate:— its extreme leangth was not more than 7.
feet.— When lying in the water, in its ordinary state without ballasts, its
upper works did not rise more than 6 or 7 inches out of water—
(2) This composition head, means of composition of Metals— something
like bell metal, and was fixed on the top of the machine, and which afforded
the only admission to the inside—
(3) The steering of this machine was done on the same principles, with
ordinary vessels, but the rowing her through the water, was on a very
different plan— These oars, were fixed on the end of a shaft like windmill
arms, projected out, forward, and turned at right angles with the course of
the machine, and upon the same principles that windmill arms are turned,
by the wind these oars, when put in motion as the writer describes, draws
the machine slowly after it— this moving power is small, and every at-
tendant circumstance, must cooperate with it, to answer the purpose, calm
waters 8c no current—
(4) This light wood is what we sometimes call fox fire, and is the dry wood
that shines in the dark:— this was necessary as the points of the compass could
not readily be seen without—
(5) The glass tube here mentioned, which was a sort of thermometer, to
ascertain the depth of water the machine descended, is the only part that
is without explanation— the writer of the forgoing, could not reccollect the
principles on which such an effect, was produced, nor the mechanical con-
APPENDICES
1511
trivance of it— He only knows that it was so contrived that the cork & light
wood rose or fell in the tubes, by the ascent or descent of the machine—
(6) The reason why the screw would not enter, was that the ship’s bottom
being coppered it would have been difficult under any circumstances to have
peirced through it— but on attempting to bore with the auger, the force
necessary to be used in pressing against the ships bottom, caused the machine
to rebound off. this difficulty defeated the whole.— the screw could not enter
the bottom, and of course the magazine could not be kept there in the mode
desired—
(7) When the explosion took place, General Putnam was vastly pleased,
and cried out in his piculiar way— “God’s curse ’em, that’ll do it for ’em.’’ 2
1. YUL. A slightly modified version of the letter was published in The Magazine of American
History, XXIX, January-June, 1893.
2. These explanatory notes were apparently added by Humphreys.
APPENDIX C
“The War in America 1776 Original Manuscript Journal by
Admiral Sir George Collier.” 1
[Extract]
[Rather than a journal, Sir George Collier’s experiences in H.M.S.
Rainbow on the American station seem to be a series of letters, but to whom
addressed is not apparent. The opening pages are missing, and then follow
three pages describing cod fishing on the Newfoundland Banks.
The missing pages of the Journal may be paraphrased from a volume
published in New York in 1835 entitled: A Detail of Some Particular
Services Performed in America During the years 1776 , 1777, 1778, and
1779. Compiled from Journals and original Papers , Supposed to be Chiefly
taken from the Journal kept on board the Ship Rainbow, Commanded by
Sir George Collier. The title page further states: “Printed for Ithiel Town
From a manuscript obtained by him, while in London, in the summer of
1830.” As Town, in his introduction, or “Advertisement,” claims that he
was presenting “a true copy,” it is evident that he had purchased “at a
public sale of autographs and manuscripts,” some unknown author’s mono-
graph prepared from the original Journal.]
[From the Town volume]
The rebellion in America was come to so alarming a height, as threat-
ened the entire loss of that continent to Great Britain, unless the most
vigorous and effectual means were used to suppress it. Government, there-
fore, determined upon sending out a force so considerable, as should at once
put an end to the machinations and evil designs of the king’s enemies, and
restore peace to that distracted country.
To carry this measure into execution, and to avoid sending away so
great a number of the national troops, as would be necessary to effect it, a
treaty with the Landgrave of Hesse was entered into, for his supplying Great
Britain with a stipulated number of men, at a certain rate, whose deficiency
by deaths, desertion, or any other cause, was to be supplied occasionally
from Hesse; paying the prince for every soldier who should be killed in bat-
tle, or die by sickness, from the time of their leaving Germany till their re-
turn to it.
In consequence of this agreement, a number of transports, necessary to
receive the first division of the Hessian troops, was sent to Stadt, where they
accordingly embarked, and arrived at Spithead the beginning of May, 1776.
This first division consisted of 7,800 Hessians, and were commanded
by Lieutenant-General De Heister, with some other General officers under
him; together with a numerous and well-appointed train of artillery, wa-
gons, field equipage, and every other necessary preparation for taking the
1513
1514
APPENDICES
field. To these were added 1,000 of the English guards, under Colonel [Ed-
ward] Matthews, who, on the arrival of the Hessian troops at Spithead, im-
mediately embarked in transports prepared for them.
Sir George Collier, in the Rainbow of 44 guns, Commodore Hotham, in
the Preston of 50 guns, and four other men-of-war were appointed to escort
this formidable force to America. The fleet having completed their water
and provisions, and the wind admitting of their sailing, they left Spithead
about the 20th of May, amounting in all to ninety-two sail, eighty-six of
which were transports, and the rest men-of-war.
It was to be lamented that these troops were not ready to sail for Amer-
ica by the beginning of March, as it was the difference to Great Britain of al-
most a campaign. The easterly winds which prevail from February to the
middle of May, would probably have made the passage out a very short one;
and besides arriving in health from that cause, they would have been ready
to take the field almost as soon as they sailed from Spithead. But by the in-
judicious protraction of their departure so late, they were subjected to con-
trary winds and calms, which made the voyage more than double what, in
the other case, it would probably have been, and occasioned so powerful a
reinforcement to be of very little use that year, by their arriving so late in
the campaign.
The incidents of the voyage are little worth mentioning, except that
some of the transports, by thick weather and other causes, separated from
their convoy; the fogs on the banks of Newfoundland making it very diffi-
cult for the fleet to keep together. This disagreeable impediment contin-
ued till they arrived off the coast of Nova Scotia, and it was then found,
upon coming into clear day light, that about seventeen sail of the convoy
were missing.
Collier’s Journal begins]
Before the last War the French Newfoundland Fishery was pretty nearly
equal to ours, but since we have taken away so much Country, & pent em
up in such Narrow bounds, we have encreasd in the same proportion they
have lost; at present from the best Informaiton I can get I apprehend our
Fishery is double to that of the French, & that when this unhappy War with
America broke out we catchd about 650,000 Quintals, three fourths of which
we exported to Spain, Italy, & other Catholic Countries, the produce of
which was not less than 300,000 Pounds, clear Profit every Year to England
—how it may stand at present I know not but I think, the War must have
advantagd rather than have hurt the Fishery of G.B. as the Americans are
utterly excluded for the present, from participating in the Advantages
arising from it.
We have again struck Soundings, & from the depth of Water & the Na-
ture of the Ground, must have been within 5 or 6 Miles of that very danger-
ous Island, Sable whereon so many Mercht Ships are lost— the fogs have been
for some Days so extremely thick, that it has made a continual Night, &
what is more extraordinary have deadend Sounds So much, that the Sound
of a Cannon cou’d not be heard 2 Miles off— it is not only unpleasant &
uncomfortable but really unsafe to grope out the Road in the Dark in the
APPENDICES
1515
manner we are forcd to do, especially as we are drawing near Dangers, 8c a
Coast I am totally unacquainted with
Tho’ I have taken every Precaution] to preserve the Health of my Peo-
ple, I am concernd to find many Cases have answerd so indifferently— I have
now Threescore on the Sick List occasiond by these penetrating Fogs, 8c
there are some of em in great Danger, I hope a few Days more will bring us
to Halifax that we may once more see Day light 8c clear Weather—
I have been seizd with the Fever that has prevaild 8c was confind a fort-
night with a most severe illness; this is the first Time I have venturd out of
my Cabin, 8c am reducd very low; we are at this Moment off the Harbour of
Halifax, but from the Intelligence I reced from a Schooner an Hour ago, 8c
wh[ich] I have sent to the Commodore, I imagine He will not go into Port,
but proceed in Search of Lord Howe 8c the General who are gone with the
Troops to New York. This will be a grievous Disappt to Many, but I am
most sorry on Account of the Sick, who will suffer greatly by being forcd to
continue at Sea perhaps a Month longer; but there is no repining when the
Kings Service makes the Measure necessary; here it is apparently so, as the
going into the Harbor woud occasion a Delay of a Week or 10 Days at least.
The Commodore (as I supposd) has sent me word He means immedi-
ately to proceed for New York, & He has made the Signal for the Masters of
Merchantmen, to give em directions acc[ordingl]y— We are just joind by
the [ Carcass ] Bomb 8c 15 Sail of Transports who parted Company at difft
Times, [dur]ing the Fog— the Hospital Ship is still missing, 8c we are appre-
hensive She is lost upon the Isle of Sable, as she was last seen very near it, 8c
the wind blowing fresh— She will be a considerable Loss to the Fleet, 8c Gov-
ernmt perhaps will wish they had not orderd a considerable Sum of Money
on board Her, which to the universal Surprize of every body was sent down
at Portsmouth, as she has not Men sufficient to work her, 8c must be ill navi-
gated, 8c if attckd by a couple of Privateers not calculated to make any
Defence—
It is now 5 Weeks since we saild from Halifax, for New York, 8c have
not yet atchievd our Passage nor know I when we shall; Storms Calms 8c
Currents have been our Foes, 8c drove us I know not where for by the Reck-
onings we ought to have gained our Port a Fortnight ago— The Troops be-
gin to be Sickly, 8c the Hessian General peevish 8c Discontented, yet how
vain is Mans Anger against the Elements, 8c how little will it avail; for my
Part without pretending to more Philosophy than my Neighbours, I am cer-
tainly tranquil at the unexpected length of the Passage, 8c my Impatience I
feel to get into Port arises from my Concern for the Sick People, 8c for the
Wellfare of my Country who must suffer extremely from this unfortunate
Delay.
Indeed I have another very material Reason for wishing to get into
some Harbor, & that is to recruit our Water of which we have but a very
small Quantity remaining, tho every body has been at a Quart a Man, from
the Day we left Halifax
You will wonder to hear that all the Water I have usd at my Table
since leaving England has been as limpid 8c as pure as what Moses procurd
1516
APPENDICES
the Child [re] n of Israel from the Rock; we have without a Miracle as excel-
lent a Rill of Water every Day, as the Earth can furnish; not to keep You
longer in suspense I have a Still on board by which I procure a certain
Quantity of Fresh Water from Salt Water, every Day, from 10 Galls to
30 it is considerable lighter than any other Water in the World 8c conse-
quently more wholesome, it washes, 8c Shaves, 8c has every superior Property
to other Water, 8c I absolutely esteem it the greatest Discovery of the present
Age
We are at length arrivd at our Place of Destination 8c have joind our
Friends; a bad Pilot run my Ship aground at the entrance of the River lead-
ing to New York, but fortunately the Water was smooth 8c little Wind, so
that we got off without any Damage— I had soon afterwards a Message from
Lord Howe to take the Charge of the Men of War 8c Transports that were
left below the Narrows, as Commodore Hotham was gone up to join the
Vice Admiral off Staten Island Every Thing breathes the Appearance of
War the Number of Transports are incredible I believe there are more
than 500 of different kinds, besides the Kings Ships— a Force so formidable
woud make the first Power in Europe tremble; Genl Howes army with the
Reinforcement we have brot Him, consists of 23 Thousand effective Men,
—besides an Artillery more considerable than were ever brought before
into the Field— We have various Accounts of the Force of the Rebels, some
make em 60 Thousand others not more than half that Number; but let
their Force be what it will, it never can stand against veteran Troops
commanded by the best Officers in Europe 8c supported by a respectable
Fleet of Thirty Men of War of different Sizes.
I have just been viewing some of the Batterys of the Enemy erected to-
wards the Sea, 8c which tis imagind the Men of War are to attack; We are
too far off to form much Judgmt. about ’em, they are said to be no less than
13 with [sentence unfinished]
Poor old Genl (de Heister) the Com[mande]r of the Hessian Troops is
quite Tird 8c dispirited with the length of his Voyage; He has wrote a letter
to the Commodore in wh He says [“]I have been deceivd by false Represen-
tations, for I was assurd that the Voyage woud not be longer than 5 or per-
haps 6 Weeks; I have been embarkd already no less than 13 Weeks, 8c yet
See no end to it, or a Probability of our landing— I am a poor old Man
covered with Wounds 8c Infirmities, 8c shall die if I remain out much longer
8cc 8cc[”] the Commodore begd of me to visit the old Veteran to comfort
Him, which I did, having orderd a side of Mutton 8c some poultry to be
put in the Boat, as I understood his fresh Provisions were exhausted— the
old General receivd me in the Civilest manner He was capable of 8c obligd
me to swallow repeated Potations of very good Hock to the Healths of our
Sovereigns our Friends in Europe 8cc 8cc, this joind to the Musick of his
Band which He called for exhilerated the old Gentlemans Spirits so much
that He entirely forgot his Distresses, 8c Inconveniences 8c seemd perfectly
Happy; I concluded my Visit rather sooner than I perhaps might have done
fearing the Strength of his Hock which He pushed about without intermis-
sion.
APPENDICES
1517
New York 12 Augt [1776]
We are at length arrivd at this Place with most of the Convoy, but in
coming in an unskilful Pilot run my Ship aground upon one of the Sands;
there was luckily a very light Breeze of Wind 8c no Swell so we got off with-
out Damage, & anchord with all the Convoy below the narrows 8c about 15
or 16 Miles from New York; we are in Sight of Lord Howes Flag, 8c Admiral
Shuldhams, but the Numbers of Transports, Victuallers, 8cc are not to be
counted appearing as thick as Trees in a Forest— the Hyde Packet Boat is
just getting under Sail for England, so that I shall close this Letter to for-
ward by Her; the incidents of a Sea Voyage are seldom replete with amusing
Matter, & I fear that mine will afford no great Entertainment to You; it will
however be a proof of my Remembrance, as I woud also have it of the warm
Friendship 8c Respect with which I shall ever remain 8cc 8cc
Letter 7 th
By the Hyde Packet I gave You an Acct of my arrival at New York
which I hope will reach you I now go on with the narrative of our Pro-
ceedings.
Lord Howe having sent me Orders to join Him with the Convoy, I
made the Signal for weighing, 8c in a short Time anchd off Staten Island
near the Eagle, on which Ship his Lordships Flag is Flying. Every Thing
breathes the Appearance of War, the Transports 8c Victuallers 8cc are ex-
tremely numerous I suppose (exclusive of the Kings Ships) there are 400
Sail, wh are protected by 33 Sail of Men of War. Genl Howes Army with
the Reinforcements He has just receivd are not less than 24,000 Men besides
an Artillery more considerable than was ever brought before into the
Field. The Force of the Rebels is variously reported some making them
35 Thousand, 8c others averring they dont exceed 16 Thousand; I presume
we shall know more exactly eer long, as the Genl will doubtless immedi-
ately, attack Washington, 8c as our Troops are veterans, 8c the finest in the
World, Victory must declare for us, 8c if proper measures are pursued the
Rebellion will very soon terminate.
The Troops I escorted here remaind the whole Voyage surprisingly
Healthy; this was the more extraordinary considering we were 14 Weeks on
our Passage— that few of em had ever seen the Sea before, 8c being Foreign-
ers were naturally dirty, 8c unusd to the ways of a Ship; the Guards also ar-
rivd with scarce a Man sick.
The Hessians were immediately landed, 8c formed a small separate
Camp upon Staten Island; their Sick at that Time were not more than
Thirty but wh was very extraor[dinar]y they had not been a Week on Shore
before there was between 7 8c 800 Men very ill, with Fevers, Diarrhea, 8c
Scurvy, wh latter did not shew itself during our long Voyage tho’ it did im-
mediately on coming ashore.
I see with Indignation 8c Concern, the Rebel Colors insolently waving
on the Batterys of New York, (which is about 6 Miles distant) they seem
to have been attentive to their Security from the Number of Works they
have constructed; I have just been up the River to reconnoitre them, 8c I
reckon 13 Batterys 8c redoubts to obstruct our Approach; our People how-
1518
APPENDICES
ever are in high Spirits, the Ships are entirely cleard for Action, 8c we wait
with Impatience for the Admirals Orders to proceed on the Attack.
I must own that the present Situation of this numerous Fleet is ex-
tremely critical as the Rebels have Six Fire Ships now in Sight lying close
under the Cannon of the Town; the first dark night when the Wind blows
strong down the River, they probably will send them in Flames to burn us,
8c I forsee if they attempt it the loss of half our Transports 8c Mercht Ships
—who from Terror will cut their Cables, fall aboard of one another, 8c if
not burnt will be wreckd on the Shore.
The Admiral has favord me with the Post of Honor, of lying advancd
above all the Shipping 8c nearest to the Enemy; I therefore never go to Bed
during the Night, nor do my Officers or Men; as our Safety (as well as the
Fleets) depends on our Vigilance— Lord Howe has also taken the precau-
tion to direct Ten armd Boats belonging to the Men of War to row guard
about a Mile above us; this is certainly all that can be done, but it will
prove very ineffectual (I am convincd) shoud the Rebels send down their
Fire Ships favord by a strong Wind 8c Tide.
19th
The Bristol of 50 Guns is arrivd this Morning with Sir P. Parker who
has his broad Pendant hoisted on board Her; She is returnd from South Car-
olina where She 8c some Frigates engagd a Battery belonging to the Rebels,
which in my Opinion they had better have let alone— having been very
roughly handld, 8c reced something as like a Defeat as possible— the Main
Mast of the Bristol was so much wounded they were obligd to take it out, 8c
she arrivd here, with Jury Main Mast.— a Rebuff at this Time is unlucky,
as it raises the Spirits of the Rebels, renders them more insolent, recruits
their Forces, 8c will cause em [to] defend their Batteries with greater obsti-
nancy from finding Ships are not allways victorious agt them.
21st
I have this Morning rejoind the Comr in Chief, 8c the Phoenix of 44
Guns has taken my advancd Post; his L[ordshi]p communicated to me the
intention of embarking the Army to morrow in Flat Boats 8c landing them
in Gravesend Bay on Long Isld.— abreast of the Narrows, (which they are to
pass,) there is a Stone House, which the Adml believes the Rebels [have]
taken Post in 8c that they have Cannon mounted there, his Lp therefore has
orderd the Rainbow to place herself before it at dawn of Day, in order to si-
lence those Guns before the Army lands; 8c the same Position will also enfi-
lade the Road allong which the Rebel Troops must march if they mean to
oppose the landing.
23d Augt
The Granicus is passd,2 8c 15000 Men are landed on Long Island with-
out a Drop of Blood spilt in opposition; I placd the Rainbow where Lord
Howe directed, 8c the principal Engineer came on board to assist in directing
our Fire, 8c to shew us such Americans as were Friends of Governmt whom
we might otherwise possibly mistake for Rebels, 8c fire upon—
At Ten yesterday Morning the Grenadiers 8c light Infantry consisting of
4000 Men led by Genl Clinton landed, without a Shot being fird at them;
APPENDICES
1519
the Rebels drew in their out posts, Sc went off, setting Fire to every Stack of
Hay Sc Corn they coud meet with in their retreat; Genl Howe embarked
with the second Division marchd to Utrecht a small Village near the place of
Landing & establishd his Head Quarters there; Genl Lord Cornwallis com-
manded an advanced Post about 3 Miles further on.
The Detail of what passes on Shore is out of my Line, Sc I must refer
You to the Gazette for the Movements of the Royal Army, except in those
places where the Rainbow acted with them— Six Regimts of Hessians were
embarkd at Staten Island, Sc joind Genl Howe— Skirmishes happend as the
Troops advancd, who proceeded in 3 Columns allong different Roads led by
Genls Clinton Lord Cornwallis Sc Grant— the latter surprizd a Rebel ad-
vancd Post in the Night, by having learnd their Parole Sc Counter sign; they
were all put to Death by the Bayonet, as I observd the next Morning when
I went to view the Place.
I must mention a very narrow Escape I had of being taken Prisoner by
the Enemy, that very Evening, which being extremely pleasant, tempted me
to walk in a pleasant Road which lay by the River side, imagining that Genl
Grants Division had gone before; I had only one of my Lieutenants with
me, Sc we saunterd on insensibly a considerable way in Conversation till we
came to a large Sloop which being close to the Shore we luckily stoppd to
look at; I suppose this might detain us a quarter of an Hour; when looking
towards the Sun I observd that it was near setting Sc Time for us to return,
which we did in safety; I learned our Danger afterwards for the Sloop we
were looking at was within 50 Yards of an advanced Rebel Post, that was hid
from us by a turn of the Road; this escape was not unuseful for I was after-
wards more on my Guard, when I went on Shore.
The Rainbow moved upwards towards the Town as the Army ad-
vanced.
The Rebels constantly retreat before the Kings Troops, their Numbers
upon Long Island are from 8000 to 10000 Men, all which from our great Su-
periority must be killd or taken Prisoners— many Skirmishes have hap-
pend, Sc the Enemy appear much frightend Sc disheartend; they abandon
all their works as the Royal army advances— if we become Masters of this
Body of Rebels (which I think is inevitable) the War is at an End; we have
made Prisoners 2 of their Genls one calling himself Ld Stirling Sc the other
Sullivan, besides many inferior Officers Sc about 1800 privates.
To my inexpressible astonishment & Concern the Rebel army have all
escapd across the River to New York! how this has happend is surprizing,
for had our Troops followd them close up, they must have thrown down
their arms Sc surrenderd; or had our Ships attackd the Batteries, which we
have been in constant Expectation of being orderd to do, not a Man coud
have escapd from Long Island,— now, I foresee they will give us Trouble
enough, Sc protract the War, Heaven knows how long—
A perfect Panick seizd them from our Landing Sc they never dared make
a stand any where to look our Troops in the Face, even their Batteries Sc dif-
ferent works on Long Island were all abandond with the least Defence we,
Sc some other of the Men of War are now lying just within Random Shot of
1520
APPENDICES
the Guns of New York— the Army are preparing to cross the East River Sc
when they do so, I suppose we shall make an Attack with the Ships upon the
Town—
I know not what Mr Washington Sc his army are doing, but ours have
been totally inactive Since the retreat of the Rebels, which has occasioned
universal Dissatisfaction in the Fleet Sc army— The Enemy have now Time
to breathe Sc to throw up fresh Works to make our approach to the City
more difficult— I understand the Ships will not be able to go close to their
Batteries from their having placd sharp Stakes pointed with Iron (calld Che-
vaux de frise) by way of sinking our Ships if they shoud strike against them
6th Sept 1776
Lord Howe having receivd some Accounts that the Rebels meditate an
Attack upon our very important Settlement of Halifax, has orderd me to
Sail for that place directly, Sc given me the Command of the Squadron now
there; I am therefore preparing to go the first Moment the Winds will per-
mit, for tho we are Lords of the Ocean, we are not so of the Air, Sc we must
patiently wait till Mr Boreas gives us a Passport to proceed.
adieu
Halifax Sept 1776
I found Halifax in perfect Quietness at my Arrival, Sc nothing worth
mentioning occurd in the Passage, except our being very near wreckd on
some sunken Rocks called Breakers in a Thick Fog which prevails constantly,
in these Seas between April Sc November.
Mr Arbuthnot who [is] Lieut Govr here, is also Commissioner of the
Navy, besides wh’ He has a Commission from the Admiralty as Commodore
to command the Kings Ships who might arrive in this Harbor— my arrival
was therefore disagreeable both to Him Sc myself as I (tho a junior Officer)
came to disposses Him of the Command of the Ships which of all His three
Employments he was best pleasd with— Lord Howe had undoubtedly strong
Reasons for superceding Mr Arbuthnot, but it was no very agreeable Service
for me to execute, Sc the more as it seemd rather doubtful whether the
Commodore woud resign his Command, as I had no particular Commission
from his Lordship my Powers being only expressd in my general Orders.
I arrivd before the Town during the Night, Sc next Morning sent one
of my Officers to the Lt Govr Sc to the Genl with their publick Dispatches
I added a private Letter to Mr Arbuthnot letting Him know the disagree-
able errand I was come upon of superceding Him— that it was neither sought
for, nor desird by me; that as matters then stood, I coud only consider Him
as a Captain in the Navy on half pay Sc as such not eligible to give Orders
to those in Commiss[io]n— Sc as Commissr of the Navy, He coud have no
pretensions to it— I added that on future occasions I shoud rejoice to serve
under so old Sc good an Officer as Himself, but to do so in this Case, was
impracticable.
I visited the old Gentn soon after who receivd me with Civility but
wth apparent Concern; I repeated to Him the purport of my Letter, Sc
added that all the difference He shoud find was having the troublesome
APPENDICES
1521
part of the Duty taken off his Hands, for that his Wishes woud ever be
executed by me if I knew them whilst I had the Honor of commanding
at this port, after appearing a short Time like a sulky fro ward Child, He
laid down the Truncheon with as good a Grace as He coud, but seemed
much exasperated agt Lord Howe, paying me at the same Time the Com-
p[limen]t of saying as his Lordship had thot proper to supercede Him no
one was more agreeable to Him to commd here than myself.*
Tho’ Ld H. did not assign publickly his Reasons for displacing Com-
modore A. tho they may be guessd at from his not declaring them It was not
difficult to judge of— when the Army evacuated Boston, they proceeded
under the protection of Vice Adml Shuldham 8c the Men of War to Halifax
where they remaind from March till June 8c then saild to the Southward-
Lord Howe arrivd there the latter end of July, 8c finding the Fleet 8c Army
gone from thence did not enter the Harbor; Comr Arbuthnot went down to
wait on the Admiral, 8c upon his being askd where the Ships 8c Troops were
gone to, averrd He was ignorant of their destination, neither coud He
guess which amazd Ld Howe inconceivably, as no doubt it ought— He askd
if Adml S. had left no Orders where the Ships were to join Him, which Mr
A. assurd his Lordship He did not— Ld Howe lifted up his Hands 8c Eyes
at this Account.
Some Time afterwards I arrivd there with Com Hotham, 8c 90 Sail of
Transports 8c Men of War; we forbore to enter the Harbor for the same
Reason Ld H did not, but sending up to Com. A for the Place of Rendezvous,
He wrote us word He coud neither tell or even form a judg[men]t where
they were— Mr Hfotham] as well as my self were astonishd at such un-
common proceedings of Adml Shuldham, 8c upon Consultation judgd it
most eligible to proceed with the Fleet to New York, wh[ich] we did, tho
still in the Dark whether we shoud meet Friends, or Enemies there
The unriddling this mystery is, that on Ld Howes joining Adml S. at
N.Y. He reproachd Him with the very unofficer like Conduct of leaving
no place of Rendezvous when He came away from Halifax; Mr Shuldham
expressd amazement at the charge, telling his L[ordshi]p, He had left a
large Sheet of Paper close written, with Directions to Mr A[rbuthnot] for
such Ships of War as might arrive 8c particularly ordering they shd follow
the Fleet to N.Y. that the Words N.Y. 8c Sandy Hook were expressd in 5 or
6 difft places in that Paper, which He sent to Com. A. by his Secretary the
Day before he saild from Hfalifax] 8c that at Breakfast He askd Him if He
had receivd them, which the other acknowledgd— it came out in the End that
Mr A[rbuthnot] had put this Letter unopend into his Pocket, 8c never
rememberd it, till a considerable Time afterwards that He accidentally
pulled it out, 8c for the first Time read those Orders the ignorance of which
might have producd the most pernicious Consequences to the Kings Service
As it will probably be my Destination to remain a considerable Time
on this Station, I will give you a slight Description of Halifax, 8c its
Environs—
This place is to the Southward of England being situated in the Latd
[blank] Longd [blank] W, 8c about 2500 Miles from London;— at the
1522
APPENDICES
entrance of the Harbor is a Light House to warn the approaching Marriner
of the Rocks 8c Dangers which are near it; in proceeding up towards the
Town the Harbor narrows to a kind of a River about the breadth of the
Thames at Wesfillegible] which terminates about 12 Leags up in a round
Bason remarkable for its amazing depth of Water having 80 or 90 F[atho]m
in many parts of it, tho that of the Harbor is in general between 6 8c 13.
about 7 Leags from the Light House stands the Town of Halifax laid out in
streight Streets which are intersected by others; the Ground is very irregular,
8c rises gradually to a ridge of high Hills, on the Summit of wh. is a Wooden
block House surrounded by a Battery of 8 Cannon— this Place is calld the
Citadel.
The Houses are all built of Wood except one, belonging to the Secre-
tary of the Province, 8c tho they cut a very indifft appearance from without,
there are few of them but have at least one good Room to entertain their
Company in the Inhabitants are chiefly composd of People who hold
Offices under the Crown; The Officers of the Army composing the Garrison,
some of desperate Fortunes who call themselves Merchts (sevl of whom by
buying 8c selling Prize Goods have amassd handsome Sums) 8c Shopkeepers
who likewise assume the Name of Merchts— 8c Fleece those who deal with
them pretty handsomely, to their great Emolument—
The Governors House tho built likewise of Wood is a handsome 8c
very convenient Structure tis in the Centre of the Town, 8c has a pleasant
view of the Harbor, Shipping, 8c opposite Shores— the lower kind of People
were chiefly born in America, 8c from their Connexions with New England
are not very well inclind to his Majs Govt however the number of Troops
stationd here keep them in awe 8c they dare not publickly declare their
rebellious Sentiments— many of em carry on a private Correspondence with
Boston, 8c by that means supply the Rebels with Things they most stand in
need of: I cant say that I took any great Pains to obstruct their Exporta-
tion of Goods from the Opinion that tho they were sent to the Rebels, it
was ultimately an Advantage to G. Britain; because if they were not supplyd
by us, the Americans woud get the Commoditys they wanted from the
French, in any Quantitys, 8c when a Channel of Trade is once regularly
establishd it is not very easily turnd into another Course; this consideration
joind to knowing the return for those goods must be in Specie, made me as
I observd before take no precaution to prevent their Exporting what they
pleasd—
The Kings careening Yard is placd about half a Mile above the Town;
there are large convenient arsenals 8c Store houses built of Stone, which
contain the various Articles wanted for the Navy; a good House for the
Commis[sione]r Stands in the Center of it.
Provisions are dear tho they are not scarce, meat in the Spring is from
a Shillg to 10 Pence a Pound, at the cheapest Time it is Sixpence; Fish is
very plentiful from May till October, but after that month they retire into
deeper Water. The price of Labor is incredible; Six Shills a Day I have
known frequently given for Laborers 8c for Artificers such as Carpenters or
APPENDICES
1523
Bricklayers Sec they may make what Demand they please Sc look upon their
Employer besides under an obligation to them for working for Him—
Fuel is another Article extremely dear, which considering the uncleard
State of the Country seems at first, surprizing; but the Price of Labor to
cut the Trees down 8c afterwards reduce em to proper sizes for burning,
tog[ethe]r with the expence of Carriage makes it come to a great deal of
Money especially when the length of the Winters is considerd for the cold
Weather begins in October Sc lasts till the end of May; I have myself seen
in that Month a heavy Sc very severe snow Storm attended with piercing
cold—
There is only one Road out of Town which leads to the interior Parts
of the Province it is fit for a Carriage as far as the head of the Lake (or
Bason before mentiond) which is about 12 Miles the rest of the Way is
almost in its rude State Sc fit only to Travel on Horseback
They have cut down the Wood for 2 or 3 Miles round the Town, but
all the rest of the Country is one rude Desart thick crowded as possible with
Trees which principally consist of what they call Hemlock, good for few
uses Sc not fit to burn
The Winters are dreary, long, Sc severely cold but it is not the settld
wholesome Cold of Canada Sc Russia, where when the Frost once sets in
the Weather remains settld Sc clear, Sc the Sun shines chearfully; on the
contrary, at Halifax you seldom have the same Weather for 3 Days together
but deep Snows are succeeded by Rains, Sc those by Frosts so that those who
walk out both Men Sc Women are obligd to have Galoshes over their Shoes,
Sc at the bottom Spikes fix’d on (which they call Creepers) to prevent them
from falling on the slippery Ground—
The Quantity of wild Strawberrys Rasberries Sc Gooseberrys in those
Spaces in the woods where there are no Trees is astonishing You cant
walk without treading upon the Strawberrys; the Gooseberries are thin
rind like our Grapes, Sc like em in Size; they are better than the Garden ones
for Tarts, Sc for preserving.
There is no venomous Creatures nor Beasts of Prey in the Province but
of wild ones there are the Moose, besides the Martin Sc many sorts of Squir-
rels Sc Beaver; Epicures praise highly the Moose’s Nose, Sc the Tail of the
Beaver, I have eaten of both, but admire neither— the Moose is a very large
Creature of the Ox kind; but infinitely bigger.—
You will conclude me now as settled in the command Sc that I gave such
Orders to the Men of War as appeard necessary; I will therefore spare You
the Trouble of reading dull particulars of Ships sailing Sc Prizes bringing
in, wh happend continually tho I reapd no Benefit from it.
But I must relate in as few Words as I can a disagreeable Difference wh
happend between Major Genl [Eyre] Massey who commanded the Kings
Troops in the Province, Sc myself, as it made a good deal of Noise, Sc ended
at last in his Recal to England—
This Man was violent in his Temper brutal in his Manners, ignorant,
Sc consequently overbearing, Sc insolent; He was generally dislikd by the
1524
APPENDICES
Army, Sc when Genl Howe went away from hence He was glad to find a
pretence to leave Massey behind at Halifax.
For about 2 Months after my Arrival He behaved with that fawning
Civility which the low Irish frequently practice Sc wh is so fulsome Sc dis-
agreeable, but it was not the Nature of the Animal to be upon good Terms
with any body long, Sc He did not seem inclind to except me out of his
general Rule.
To relate every particular of the rise, continuance Sc termination of
our Dispute woud take up more of yr Time to read than I woud employ
on so disagreeable a Subject; I will touch upon the Heads, 8c if hereafter
you shd be inclinable to know more I shall present the Sheets to You which
contain the full account of that Business—
The outposts of this Garrison are some of them more than 200 Miles
distant, Sc not possible in the Winter to Supply them wth Provisions by
Land, it was therefore allways usual to compleat them in July or at latest
in August; Genl Masseys Neglect Sc forgetfulness had made Him omit this
most necessary Supply Sc the Posts found themselves almost without Pro-
visions in the beginning of Novr; Massey alarmed at the Consequences made
Application to me for a Man of War to go up the Bay of Fundy upon this
occasion— it was a bad Sc dangerous Service at that advanced Time of Year
from the intense Cold Weather, continual Storms, Sc Tides so rapid that
they rose Sc fell upwards of 70 Feet— I mentiond these difficultys to the
Genl but I notwithstanding sent the Man of War— She was blown back 8c
Massey was raving at the distress his Neglect had reducd the out posts to He
swore, He cursd 8c behavd like a frantick Mad Man, blaming the Capt of
the Man of War for not arriving at the Port He was bound to, tho Massey
knew no more of Sea Matters than a Savage of the Woods— He behavd too
with personal rudeness to the Capt When He went to wait upon Him,
which the other came to complain of to me, 8c I mentiond it afterwards
in a gentle manner to Massey reminding Him that Sea Officers were only
accountable to me for their Conduct—
I took care however his neglect shoud be remedied 8c his Garrisons
supplyd, 8c we rubbd on a little longer with the appearance of being upon
tolerable Terms, however He took occasion to be offended at something or
other (I really have forgot what it was) but He sent his Aid de Camp Capt
Wade to desire me to meet Him the next Morning with Pistols behind the
Citadel Hill— I must with Shame acknowledge his Folly made me so angry
that I consented to meet Him, Sc went at the app[ointe]d Time accom-
panyd by Capt [Andrew] Barkley— the Genl Sc Capt Wade joind us as we
were going to the Ground the 2 Seconds lamented that so slight a mis-
understanding shoud have brot us into the Field, Sc wishd Matters might
proceed no further— I own I saw the Impropriety of it, Sc the fatal Conse-
quences which must follow from the 2 chief Officers of Navy Sc Army going
out to fight at a Time, when we were surrounded by the Enemies of our
Country— I made this Observation to Genl Massey 8c told Him I flatterd
myself from wh[at] He saw That He woud not ascribe the Motive of what
I was going to say since I was still ready to give him Satisfaction if He
APPENDICES
1525
desird it, but that I thought certain Ruin must attend whoever survivd, as
his Majy woud certainly never pass over so great an Injury offerd to his
Service 8c must naturally conclude both Parties undeserving to command
who coud behave so very improperly I added that I was not in the least
Conscious of having given Him Offence, or at least not intended it, 8c advisd
Him to reflect for a few Minutes before He took his Resolution— in saying
which I left Him by himself 8c walkd 20 Yards backward 8c forward with the
2 Seconds. When I rejoind Him he appeard irresolute 8c undetermind; I
repeated what I had said, 8c He replyd that He woud not make any Ansr
till the Lt Governor had given his Opinion upon it—
We all four accordingly walkd to the Lt Govrs 8c I let Massey tell [th]e
Story his own way, the Govr blamd Him 8c was rejoicd to have the Termi-
nation left to his decision, He instantly obligd us to shake Hands, 8c promise
to remain Friends for the future; this Reconciliation on my part was truly
sincere, on Masseys I fear it never was, as the sequel shewd—
It was in about 2 Months after that He took the strange Resolution of
turning all the sick Seamen from off Georges Island (abreast of the Town)
where the Naval Hospital was under Pretence of fortifying it; had I been
as mad as himself I coud by Force have prevented this inhuman Measure
from being executed, but a Civil War of this kind woud have been as
blameable as new; the poor sick Seamen were accordingly turnd off the
Island 8c carried ashore below the Town in a heavy Rain— some of these
unhappy Men were at the point of Death, others with Fevers 8c various
other Disorders; there were amongst them Some whose Wounds were still
open 8c dangerous; Wounds they had receivd in the Service of their Country,
fighting like brave Men; their Treatment however from this frantic Mad-
man was the same with the rest, all were indiscriminately forcd into the
Boats, 8c landed in heavy Rain in wh they remaind 24 Hours before any
Shelter coud be found by the Surgeons for them.
I was not the only Person who was filld with Indignation upon this
occasion the Pity of the whole Town was calld up for the unhappy sufferers,
8c had I blowd the Coals or seemd to encourage it, I am persuaded Massey
woud have been torn Limb from Limb— whatever I felt on this Account I
kept it to myself, 8c endeavord to assuage the Storm that was on the point
of bursting from the People. I was not however so tranquil as to take no
Steps to prevent a Repetition of these Outrages; I orderd a Man of War
to get ready to Sail for New York, in order to lay the Affair before Lord
Howe 8c the General, 8c request that either this absurd Bedlamite or myself
might be recalld— Whilst this Ship was getting ready, an armed Sloop be-
longing to Massey anchd near the Rainbow , 8c hoisted a large Pendant,
which as She had no right to wear a Mark of Distinction designd only for
Men of War, She was sent to, by the Officer who commanded on bd the
Rainbow for I was on Shore, to have it down, wh was peremptorily refusd
by the Sloop, who pleaded Masseys Orders for not striking it—
Upon my return on bd 8c being made acquainted with this Insult, I
sent one of the Lieuts with Orders positively to strike it, 8c directed Him
also to take with Him the King’s Orders in Council to shew the Officer
388-825 0-73-98
1526
APPENDICES
who commanded in the Sloop that what I did was by His Majs Authority;
8c that He had not the smallest right to wear a Pendant.
The Land Officer who was in the Sloop was of the Race of Wrongheads
also, He refusd to read the Kings Order, Sc declard He woud put to Death
any who should attempt to strike the Sloops Pendant— My Orders were per-
emptory, 8c they were executed without this Mans Threats being carried
into Execution the Pendant was struck, 8c brot on Bd the Rainbow.
#I must at the Distance of 3 Years add a Note to mention, that notwith-
standing these Civil professions, my superceding Him ever rankld in this
Mans Heart, 8c He never forgave me for it; I was long a stranger to this, but
Experience at length convinced me of it I must add that the substantial
part He has still retained, tho I commanded I mean the Salary of 500 a
Year for being Commodore; the labor ostensibleness 8c expence of that
Office was sustained by me, without being allowd a Shilling from Govern-
ment for it, tho it insuitably cost me treble Appointmts from the Rainbow
1. NMM.
2. Referring to the battle at the river Granicus (334 B. C.).
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Connecticut Courant (Hartford)
Connecticut Gazette (New London)
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Massachusetts Spy (Boston)
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New-Hampshire Gazette (Portsmouth)
The New-Hampshire State Gazette, or, Exeter Circulating Morning Chronicle
Newport Mercury (Newport, R.I.)
New-York Gazette
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Nova-Scotia Gazette: and the Weekly Chronicle (Halifax)
Pennsylvania Evening Post (Philadelphia)
Pennsylvania Gazette (Philadelphia)
BIBLIOGRAPHY
1537
Pennsylvania Journal (Philadelphia)
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Pennsylvania Packet (Philadelphia)
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Public Advertiser (London)
The Public Ledger (London)
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Salem Gazette (Salem, Mass.)
South Carolina Gazette (Charleston)
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Holt’s Virginia Gazette (Norfolk)
Pinkney’s Virginia Gazette (Williamsburg)
Purdie’s Virginia Gazette (Williamsburg)
The Westminster Journal and London Political Miscellany
.
INDEX
Abaco Island, Bahamas: 196-97
Abbot, William: 1372
Aberdeen, Scotland: 603
Abington, Mass.: 203
Absecon Inlet, N.J.: 42, 43n., 105
Accomack County, Va., Committee of: to: Com-
mittee of Somerset County, Md., 340
Accra, Ghana: 76
Achilles, HMS: 452
Actaeon, HMS: attacked Fort Sullivan, 5, 110,
562-64; ran aground and burned, 560, 562-63,
566, 569, 571; mentioned, 448, 542, 1424
(Christopher Atkins)
Active, HMS: Journal: 379; off Cape Fear, 169,
893, 1028, 1109, 1109n.; attacked Fort Sullivan,
110, 562-64, 566, 569, 571; arrived in New
York, 1318, 1352; mentioned, 448, 542, 664,
1072, 1318, 1424 (William Williams; Anthony
Hunt)
Active, Massachusetts Privateer Schooner: can-
non for, 1213, 1213n. (Andrew Gardner)
Adair, Gideon: 1323, 1449
Adair, William: 906
Adams, ship: 527
Adams, Abigail: capture of Nancy and Perkins,
213, 213n.; privateering, 299, 731; defense of
Hudson River, 731; condition of Boston and
Raleigh, 922, 922n.; to: John Adams, 213, 299
731, 922; from: John Adams, 158, 187n., 300,
683, 726
Adams, Alexander: 693
Adams, Bill: 31
Adams, John: possible invasion of Boston, 326,
683; cannon, 171; prospects of Continental
forces, 300, 682-83; inattention to Navy, 255-
56; prizes taken by Continental Navy, 22-23;
independence, 187, 187n.; censure of Esek
Hopkins, 209n.; proposed meeting with Howe
brothers, 726, 773, 782, 1064; Massachusetts
Navy, 220-21,; attack on New York, 326;
privateering, 158, 220-21; to: Abigail Adams,
158, 187n., 300, 683, 726; Samuel Cooper,
682-83; Richard Cranch, 22-23; Henry Knox,
171; Joseph Palmer, 326; William Tudor,
187; James Warren, 220-21, 255-56; from:
Abigail Adams, 213, 299, 731, 922; Stephen
Hopkins, 1080; John Lowell, 180-81; Samuel
Purviance, Jr., 895-96; Isaac Smith, 77-78,
776; William Tudor, 227; Cotton Tufts, 93;
James Warren, 143; mentioned, 162, 221n.,
255, 735, 1051, 1436, 1486
Adams, John (Seaman, Rhode Island Privateer):
16
Adams, John (Capt.): 58n., 130-31, 131n., 508,
{Chance)
Adams, R. (Capt.): 221n. (Nancy)
Adams, Samuel: incorrectly reported to be
author of Common Sense, 458; Massachusetts
State Navy, 649, 661, 674; from: James War-
ren, 191, 1394; mentioned, 162, 346, 346n.,
896, 1051, 1051n., 1360
Adams, Thomas (Seaman, Continental Navy):
701
Adams, Thomas: 971
Adams, William: 1093
Adcock, William: 1011
Addiscott, William: 922
Admiralty, British: Lords Commissioners: or-
ders: Amazon convoy, 428-29; Boulogne, 521;
Cormorant, 626; Daphne, 414; Diamond con-
voy, 431-33; Discovery, 403-04; Elephant,
604-05; Gayton’s squadron, 402-03; Glasgow,
410; Hazard, 520-21; Hound, 414; Lark, 477;
Mermaid, 497, 579-80; Perseus, 493-96; Race-
horse, 580-81; Raisonable, 624-25; Resolu-
tion, 402-04; Spy, 473; concerning recruit-
ment, 535-36; to: John Amherst, 388-89;
William Bacon, 535-36; Benjamin Bechinoe,
478, 604-05; St. John Chinnery, 414; Com-
missioners for Victualing, 442-43; James
Cook, 403-04, 443; James Douglas, 388-89,
424; George Elphinstone, 493-96; Charles
Fielding, 431-33; Thomas Fitzherbert, 624-25;
Clark Gayton, 402-03, 580-81; George III, 618—
19; George Germain, 408, 454, 497, 506, 541-
43, 544, 574-75, 601; John Gidoin, 575-76;
James Gordon, 521; James Hawker, 497-98,
579-80; Tyringham Howe, 410; Maximilian
Jacobs, 428-29; all Naval Officers, 388-89,
399, 573; James Orrok, 520-21; James Robert-
son, 414; William Shackerly, 473; Richard
Smith, 477; George Young, 626; from: George
Germain, 548-49; Lord Suffolk, 546-47; men-
tioned, 55n., 74-75, 114, 142-43, 159-60, 170,
183-84, 356, 386, 387, 390-91, 399, 402, 405n„
409, 419, 426n., 433-34, 439, 443, 453-54, 468,
478, 492, 496, 501, 512, 516, 522, 532, 534,
536-37, 546, 549n., 550, 559, 562, 565, 571,
580, 587, 588, 590-93, 596, 607n., 611, 615,
618-19, 622, 628, 633, 663, 885-90, 903-04,
1257n., 1343, 1382, 1439 See also Navy, Brit-
ish; Philip Stephens
Admiralty Courts, British: Antigua: Edward
Byam appointed judge, 591; Halifax: tried:
Baltimore, 970; Britania, 176-77; Diana,
298n.; Fanny, 278n.; Halifax, 111 In.; Hester,
1539
1540
INDEX
125Q-51; Neptune, 646n.; Peggy, 1055n.;
Princess Royal, 91-92; Sally, 646; Sandwich,
867-68; Success, I77n.; Swan, 646n.; Warren,
1097-98; letters of agency, 1124-26; North
Carolina: establishment proposed, 100-01
Admiralty Courts, Continental: Connecticut:
tried: Adventure, 1100; Bolton, 1100; Claren-
don, 1101; Glasgow, 1100; Hannah and
Elizabeth, 925, 1101; Hawke, 1100; John,
1100, 1305; Nathaniel and Elizabeth, 723,
1100; Sally, 1101; Maryland: Benjamin
Nicholson appointed judge, 1466, 1466n.;
Massachusetts: tried: Ann, 789n.; Anna
Maria, 27n., 347; Annabella, 58; Argo, 789;
Betsey, 348n.; Carolina Packet, 789n.; Charm-
ing Sally, 789n.; Deborah, 347; Diligent, 262,
1212; Dispatch, 192; Earl of Errol, 192;
Elizabeth, 789, 1252, 1252n.; Frederick, 789;
George, 58, lllOn; Hannibal, 192; Isaac, 347,
676n.; Isabella, 192; John, 789n.; Lady
Juliana, 58; Lord Dartmouth, 347, 776; Lord
Howe, 58; Margaretta, 262; Nancy, 347;
Patty, 192; Peggy, 192, 1053, 1055n.; Perkins,
347; Polly, 27n., 262, 328-30, 347, 1031n.;
Queen of England, 800-01; Reynolds, 192n.;
Spermaceta, 789; Susannah, 262; Talmagush,
262; Two Friends, 347, 358, 817; Unity, 262,
328-30; mentioned, 753-54, 1002-03, 1003n.,
1114-15, 1115n., 1396-97, 1471-72; New
Hampshire: tried: Elizabeth, 177, 240n., 246-
48, 302, 368-69, 369n., 1069; Glasgow, 1172-
73; Nelly Frigate, 302; Neptune, 1172-73;
Prince George, 342-43; New Jersey: estab-
lished, 1139; Pennsylvania: tried: Edward,
1027; Friendship, 668; Lady Susan, 43n.;
Neptune, 783, 783n.; Peter, 807, 895; Rich-
mond, 1446-47, 1447n.; Sea Nymph, 1203-04;
Thetis, 1295n.; William, 1092-93; mentioned,
130-31, 131n., 766; Rhode Island: tried: Bee,
803-04; Belle, 1360-61, 1361n.; Betsy, 804n.;
Blaze Castle, 1032n.; Fanny, 780; Harlequin,
29-30, 241; James, 93-94; Mary, 30n.; Star and
Garter, 153-54, 653, 676-77; Thomas, 1175;
Triton, 804n.; mentioned, 22, 831; Virginia:
tried: Caroline, 1140-41; Vulcan, 258-60,
260n.; appointment of judges, 10-11, 245 See
also Prize Agents
Adventure, HM Storeship: 167, 449, 891 (John
,Hallum)
Adventure, HM Tender: 535 (Haynes)
Adventure, British Navy Victualer: 435, 492,
493-96 (John Mason)
Adventure, Virginia Navy Brig: ordered to
Dunkirk, 728, 1296-97, 1326 (Lawrence San-
ford)
Adventure, Virginia Navy Schooner: sailing
orders, 239; naval stores, 919, 1242-43 (Wil-
liam Saunders)
Adventure, ship: 1100 (Richard Chapman)
Adventure, ship: captured by Providence, 1049,
1302
Adventure, schooner: 276, 276m, 1170
Aeolus, HMS: 450
Aetna, Pennsylvania Navy Fire Sloop: 7, 1333,
1334n. (William Gamble; John Brice)
Africa: 446, 448, 499, 541, 615, 623
African, snow: blown up by Rover, 589, 607,
61 3n., 620, 620n. (Thomas Baker)
Agnes , British Army Victualer: 417, 1215
Agnes, Brig: captured by Sally, 1045, 1045m;
recaptured by Syren, 1045, 1061, 1061m (Wil-
liam Mather)
Aitkins (Aitkinson), Robert: 222, 760
Ajax, HMS: 450
Alarm, HMS: 450 (William Hay)
Alarm, HM Cutter: 392, 520-21 (William Ward-
law)
Albany [formerly Rittenhouse ], HM Sloop:
Journal: 1286; fitting out at Halifax, 169,
787, 893; captured: Baltimore, 970, 1125;
mentioned, 1285-86, 1424 (Henry Mowat;
Michael Hyndman)
Albany, N.Y.: 33, 34n., 35, 36, 98, 139, 217, 223,
265, 318, 321, 567, 858n., 902, 962, 962m, 992,
1023, 1116, 1118, 1183, 1262, 1290, 1306, 1337
Albertson, Thomas (Lt. Continental Navy):
sent to Edenton, N.C. with military stores,
1092, 1119-20; ranked, 1201; from: Marine
Committee, 1092 ( Musquito )
Albion, HMS: 447, 503 (John Allen)
Albion: 570 (Hogg)
Alcide, HMS: 450
Alcott, Samuel (Capt.): from: Nathaniel Shaw,
Jr., 139
Aldborough, HMS: 410, 452 (William Bennett)
Alderney, HM Sloop: 448 (William Webster)
Alexander, HMS: 450
Alexander, ship: captured by Providence, 314n.,
1048-49, 1211, 1302, 1304, 1331m, 1348; libel
filed, 1397
Alexander, ship: 313
Alexander: in company with Pallas, 1071
Alexander, Charles (Capt., Continental Navy):
338, 938, 1201 (Wasp; Delaware)
Alexander, Philip: 692
Alexander, William: See Lord Stirling
Alexandria, Va.: 742, 809, 811
Alfred, Continental Navy Ship: seamen needed,
17-18, 1055, 1219, 1271, 1303-04, 1458, 1473-
74; seamen taken from, 138, 915, 915n.;
officer appointments, 170; at Newport, 255;
engagement with Glasgow, 401, 405; New-
foundland expedition, 271, 273, 474, 639, 662,
770, 949, 1303, 1362, 1399, 1434, 1457, 1458,
1473; muster roll; 692-705; Long Island ex-
pedition, 1134, 1202, 1218; courts-martial
held on board, 1361, 1378-80; Saltonstall
ranked, 1201; John Paul Jones assumed com-
mand, 1362, 1371; captured: Mellish, 576n.;
mentioned, 1061, 1331, 1385-86 (Dudley Sal-
tonstall; John Paul Jones)
Alfred, HMS: 450
Alfred, East Indiaman: 624
Alfred, ship: 1442m (Thomas Callender)
INDEX
1541
Algarve, Portugal: 588, 613
Alger, William (Lt., New York Militia): to:
New York Provincial Convention, 1478
Alicante, Spain: 392, 544
Alice , brig: 1029; recaptured by Galatea, 1166n.
(Roger Hogget)
Allen, Andrew: from: Oliver Pollock, 1210
Allen, Benjamin: 745, 1376
Allen, Benjamin (Capt.): lllOn., 1171 (Sus-
annah)
Allen, Edward (Capt., South Carolina Navy):
assumed command of Comet, 1192, 1209-10,
1243, 1284, 1314-15, 1418 (Comet)
Allen, Ethan (Lt. Col., New Hampshire Militia):
Narrative: 189-90, 1452-54, 1454n.; held pris-
oner in Halifax, 746, 857
Allen, James: 906
Allen, John: deserted from Raleigh, 881
Allen, John (Lt., Continental Navy): 939
Allen, Joseph: 1378-80
Allen, Paul: 1148
Allen, Samuel: 1373
Allenby, James: 1309-10, 1320
Allin, Ebenezer: 652
Ailing, Ebenezer: 986
Almstead, Benjamin: 985
Almy Benjamin (Lt.): 263, 584, 584n.
Almy, John: 292
Amazon, HMS: convoying troops to Quebec,
420, 435, 454, 543, 969; mentioned, 424, 428,
434, 439, 448, 615n., 1424 (Maximilian Jacobs)
Amazon, brigantine: 1124
Amboy, N.J.: 41, 146, 156, 254, 349, 725, 773,
875 See also Perth Amboy
Amboy Channel, N.Y./N.J.: 1024
Ambrose, Israel (Capt.): 1253, 1253n. (Snow-
bird)
Ambuscade, HMS: convoying troops from Eng-
land, 420, 432, 434, 469, 481, 492, 504, 543;
arrived in New York, 1319, 1382; mentioned,
424, 439, 448 (John Macartney)
Amelia, Maryland Navy Tender: 979-80
Amelia Island, Fla.: 73, 89, 90, 108, 109, 134,
314, 376
America, HMS: 450
America, Massachusetts Privateer Schooner:
799-800, 817 (Isaac Snow)
America, Massachusetts Privateer Sloop: cap-
tured: Adventure, 1100, 1215, 1216n., 1217
(Thomas Nicholson)
America, Rhode Island Privateer Sloop: 165n.
(William Dennis)
America, Rhode Island Privateer Sloop: 251-52,
252n., 1058-59 (Nathaniel Packard)
America, ship: captured by Squirrel, 1169
American Congress, Virginia Navy Sloop: John
Boucher appointed, 366n.; trading voyage to
West Indies, 808-11; at New Point Comfort,
727, (John Boucher)
American Revenue, Connecticut Privateer
Sloop: Nathaniel Shaw, Jr.’s account with,
80-84, 1128-30, 1176, 1177n.; Thomas Pease,
Jr. appointed agent for, 1460; assignment of
prize shares by William Morris, 1443; assign-
ment of prize money for Daniel Cocarry,
1399; mentioned, 804 (William Packwood;
Samuel Champlin)
Amherst, Jeffrey (Maj. Gen., British Army):
558, 574, 604
Amherst, John (V. Adm., R.N.): from: Lords
Commissioners, 388-89; Philip Stephens, 386:
mentioned, 389n., 573n., 622
Amiable, sloop: 1171 (Louis Roux)
Amphibious Warfare: British: landings on
Blackwell’s Island, 763; Gravesend Bay, 269*;
Governor’s Island, 656-66; Hewlet’s Island,
709; Kip’s Bay, 847*; Long Island, 254-55,
267-70, 284, 285*, 292, 308, 352, 710, 714;
Manhattan Island, 375*, 839-49, 860, 862,
874, 885-86, 910, 974, 988-89, 1008-09, 1062-
63, 1065-66, 1247*; Montresor Island, 782;
Myers Island, 1382; New York City, 631*;
Paulus Hook, 950, 964-66, 992, 1009, 1066;
Throgs Point, 1221, 1234, 1238, 1245-47, 1307
Amsterdam, Netherlands: 158, 290, 308, 394,
417-18, 476, 536, 565
Anderson, Alexander (Capt.): 492, 493-96, 1352,
1439 (Burstwick)
Anderson, David: 295
Anderson, Edward: 1016
Anderson, James: 188
Anderson, John: on Yankey, 517
Anderson, John: on Andrew Doria, 31
Anderson, Robert: 259
Anderson, William (Midn., R.N.): 1343
Andover, Mass.: 179, 331
Andrew Doria, Continental Navy Brig: payroll,
31-32; supplies, 118; departed Newport, 154,
154n.; engagement with Glasgow, 401; off
Bermuda, 684, 855; seamen transferred to
Providence, 131n., 1371, 1373; seamen re-
ceived from Alfred, 692-705; at Philadelphia,
890, 895; Robinson appointed, 915, 1201,
1320n.; refitted, 936, 936n.; court-martial on
board, 938; accounts, 1060-61, 1309-10; con-
cerning prizes, 1130-31; John Paul Jones
appointment proposed, 1303; ordered to St.
Eustatius, 1308, 1355n., 1387-88; deserters,
1371; captured: Betsey, 296, 978n.; Crawford,
125; Elizabeth, 731, 731n., 770, 788, 820, 855,
856n., 978, 1464; Lawrence, 731, 731n., 770,
788, 855, 856n., 978; Marie, 644-45, 645n.,
788, 855, 856n., 978n.; Molly, 788, 855, 856n.,
977; Nathaniel and Elizabeth, 1057n., 1100;
Oxford, 166, 534, 534n., 539, 540n.; Peggy,
788, 790, 949, 978; recaptured John and
Joseph, 834; mentioned, 33, 104n., 1458, 1475
(Nicholas Biddle; Isaiah Robinson)
Andrews, : 1200
Angier, Oakes: 721
Angouleme, France: 482
Angoumois, France: 491
* Illustration.
1542
INDEX
Anguilla, Leeward Islands: 749
Angus, James: 31
Ann, brigantine: captured by Revenge, 620,
856, 856n., 956, 956n., 1252, 1252n. (Diederich
Wise)
Ann, snow: captured by Broome, 346; tried,
789n.; cargo to be sold, 900 (John Bowes)
Ann, ship: with Pallas, 1071
Ann, ship: 115
Anna, brig: 1028 (James Darrel)
Anna, snow: 263, 263n., 788, 788n., 1002 (Jona-
than Dudfield)
Anna Maria, ship: captured by Revenge, 27,
58, 58n., 303, 347, 850, 881, 1077; libeled,
27n.; to be sold, 1003 (William Pringle)
Anna Teresa, British Packet: 751, 751n., 1167
Annabella, British Army Transport: captured,
539-40, 540n., 600, 626; tried in Massachu-
setts Admiralty Court, 58; sale of, 152-53;
claims against, 800, 800n. (Hugh Walker)
Annapolis, Md.: 172, 198, 312n., 366, 465, 774,
774n., 808, 1076, 1095
Annapolis Gut, Nova Scotia: 288
Annapolis Royal, Nova Scotia: 288-89, 328
Anne, British Transport: captured, 289, 598,
601, 610, 626, 1142 (John Dennison)
Anne: 1071, 107ln., 1110, 1110n., 1123
Anson, HMS: 450
Antelope, HMS: Journal: 1285, 1450; at Ja-
maica, 301, 356, 448, 506n., 671-73; comple-
ment increased, 403; French complaint
against, 599; in Windward Passage, 570, 1168;
captured: Flying Fish, 75, 1169; Hope, 75,
1169; Ranger, 1171; St. Mary, 1171 (William
Judd)
Antelope, British Sloop: 751n.
Antic, d' : 491
Anticosti Island, Que.: 416
Antigua, West Indies: inward bound vessels:
Cleopatra, 481; Countess of Eglington, 602;
Dutchess of Leinster, 592-93, 593n.; Elizabeth,
296-97; Elliot, 481; Fair Haven, 481; Fanny,
780; Hawke, 481; Pallas, 76; William, 481;
outward bound vessels: Agnes, 1045, 1061,
1061n.; Carolina Packet, 346; Creighton, 516-
517, 554n.; Devonshire, 161n.; Fanny, 27,
251, 25 In., 1004; Favorite, 745, 980, 980n.,
1047; James, 608, 749, 749n.; Lord Lifford,
1113, 1 1 14n.; Nancy, 201, 213, 233; Neptune,
570; Rachel, 379; Rover, 506; Shark, 11;
mentioned, 60, 77, 141, 142, 160, 164, 214,
437, 503, 513, 536, 537n., 554, 576, 582, 590n.,
604, 770, 788, 1149, 1339, 1431
Apollo, HMS: 452
Aquia Creek, Va.: 26
Aquidneck, Island, R.I.: 60
Aquilon, HMS: 452
Aranda, Conde de [Pedro Pablo Abarca de
Bolea] (Spanish Ambassador to France): to:
Marquis de Grimaldi, 597; mentioned, 510,
519
Arbuthnot, Marriot (Commo., R.N.): Ethan
Allen’s petition to, 190; concerning prisoners
in Halifax, 1111; concerning defense of Nova
Scotia, 161; to: Andrew Barkley, 161; George
Germain, 1111, 1157; from: George Germain,
480-81; mentioned, 122, 169, 277, 284, 373,
787, 1520-21
Archer, Thomas: 1449
Ardent, HMS: 447, 504, 546-47 (Charles Mid-
dleton)
Ardesoif, John P. (Lt., R.N.): 160, 628 [Pelican)
Arell, Samuel (Lt., Virginia Marines): 1191
Arethusa, HMS: 448 (Digby Dent)
Argo, HMS: returned to England, 605, 605n.,
611, 612, 628; mentioned, 142, 159, 403n.,
448, 533 (William Gamier)
Argo, ship: captured by Warren, 231, 231n.,
262, 262n.; libeled, 789 (William Cochran)
Argo, ship: prisoners on, 1138
Argout, Comte d’ (Gov., Martinique): concern-
ing aid to Americans, 12, 142-43, 912, 1088;
met with William Bingham, 77; John Chap-
man's appeal to, 26; recommended French
officers to Congress, 890; intelligence reports,
388, 388n.; concerning Reprisal, 51-53, 111,
601; to: James Young, 111; from: Gabriel de
Sartine, 391n., 583-84, 621; James Young,
51-52; mentioned, 391, 454
Ariadne, HMS: 450
Armament: See Ordnance
Armistead, John: 783
Armistead, William, Jr.: 11, 245
Armitage, James (Capt.): 1092-93, 1093n.
[Chance)
Armond, Edward: 1373
Armstrong, James: 907
Armstrong (Brig. Gen., Continental Army): 768
Army, British: Boston evacuation, 69, 326, 392,
549; Canadian campaign: troops under Bur-
goyne, 277, 513; Carleton, 428-29, 437, 595,
633, 857, 1366; Howe, 477, 497-98; Quebec
relief, 414-17; mentioned, 61, 135, 595, 633,
1084, 1350; Florida campaign: 89, 90-91, 108,
109, 134, 191, 718; Lake Champlain Cam-
paign: preparations 467, 605, 791, 793, 884,
911, 992; troop strength, 1081-82; mentioned,
567, 1151, 1351; Battle of Valcour Island, 734,
1103, 1244-45, 1261, 1276, 1445; New York
Campaign: landings on Governors Island,
655, 656-66, 714, 805, 988; troops with Gen-
eral Howe, 147, 432, 434-35, 617, 990; Hes-
sians, 415, 454, 457, 469, 492, 710, 1199, 1351,
1382; Lord Howe, 22, 130, 183-84, 891; on
Long Island: preparations, 100-01, 309;
troop landings, 254-55, 267-70, 284, 286, 292,
307-08, 352-53, 373-74, 710, 737, 763, 988,
1046, 1064; battle of, 323, 324-25, 336, 337,
353-54, 372, 372n., 374-76, 378, 656, 679, 711,
838; occupation, 308, 706, 855, 1056, 1063,
1383-84; mentioned, 124, 326, 349, 630-31,
640, 759, 792, 823, 962-64, 1153, 1513-26;
troop landings on Manhattan, 375#, 839-49,
INDEX
1543
860, 861-62, 874, 885-86, 910, 929-31, 974, 988-
90, 1008-09, 1062-63, 1065-66, 1247*, 1429;
troop landings on Paulus Hook, 933n., 950,
964, 965, 966, 1009, 1066; troop landings on
Staten Island, 4, 102, 167, 170, 227, 254, 351,
361-62, 538, 571, 630, 632, 788, 1292, 1382-83;
supplies: 144-45, 377, 579, 1438, 1454n.; land-
ing at Throgs Neck: 1221, 1234, 1238, 1239,
1245-47, 1307, 1422; reinforcements: 22, 124n.,
277, 973, 1263, 1307, 1318-19, 1423; South
Carolina Campaign: preparations, 561; bat-
tle of Sullivans Island, 51, 99, 102, 110, 176,
562-64, 973; mentioned, 5, 15, 60, 70, 155-56,
158, 176, 445, 569, 576, 589, 677, 678, 682-83,
887-88, 911, 925, 975, 1053, 1067, 1069, 1103,
1199, 1200, 1237, 1383-84, 1415 See also
Brunswick, Germany; Hanover, Germany;
Hesse, Germany; Waldeck, Germany; Regi-
ments, British
Army, Continental: Canadian campaign: re-
treat from Quebec, 272, 414-17, 513; on Lake
Champlain: 3-4, 61, 215, 1289, See also
Benedict Arnold; New York [State]: George
Collier’s account: 1514-20; deserters from:
654, 662, 910; evacuation of Long Island,
292, 323, 324, 325n., 349-50, 351, 354, 361,
364, 372, 374-76, 682-83, 706, 711, 723, 763,
792, 874, 973, 1064, 1151, 1220, 1434; evacua-
tion of New York City, 22, 103, 156, 632,
760, 831, 839-49, 860, 874, 911, 988-89, 1062-
63, 1151, 1153, 1187, 1254-55, 1438; retreat
from Paulus Hook, 950, 964-66, 974, 992, 1066;
New York campaign, 227, 254-55, 354, 656,
706, 963-64, 975, 1179, 1185, 1219, 1293n.,
1367, 1422, 1429-30; reinforcements, 204, 255,
264, 308, 783-84, 784n., 799, 799n.; oath of
officers, 1201; South Carolina campaign: 102,
141; supplies for, 62, 368, 808-11, 1045,
1080-81, 1163, 1182-83, 1247; troops at Ticon-
deroga: 19, 36, 217, 734, 1261, 1336; men-
tioned, 199, 309-12, 553, 567, 630, 746, 763,
949, 961, 992, 1276, 1290, 1448 See also Lake
Champlain; Regiments, Continental
Army, French: 488, 508
Arne, James: 905
Arnold, Pennsylvania Navy Floating Battery:
Hennessy resigned as commander, 287n.,
mentioned, 6 (John Hennessy)
Arnold, (of Newport): 1253, 1253n.
Arnold, Benedict (Brig. Gen., Continental
Army): character defended, 61; comments
upon cowardice, 1151-52; concerning pro-
motion to Major General, 654; intelligence
reports to 734-35, 791n, 857-58, 858n., 925-
26; Fleet on Lake Champlain: vessels,
frontis*, 96-98, 224, 1083*, 1150*, 1236*,
1244-45, 1278*, 1291*, 1342*, 1462*; British
attack expected, 747-48, 961; importance of
strengthening fleet, 993, 1117, 1237; ship-
building and fitting out, 3, 33, 35, 36-37, 98,
120, 145, 217, 224, 227, 235, 305, 872, 1062,
1084; supplies needed, 747, 962, 1006-07,
1062; provisions needed, 33-34, 34n., 36-37,
139, 205, 791-92, 837-38, 872-73, 884, 902,
961-62, 1061-62, 1082-84, 1116, 1117-18; of-
ficer appointments, 265, 265n., 708, 791, 902
command dispute, 215-17, 223, 234-35, 317—
22, 348-49, 708; surgeon requested for fleet,
205, 222, 283, 1483; seamen needed, 3-4, 96,
140, 165-66, 203-04, 214-15, 265, 265n., 371,
708, 734-35, 884, 962, 1084; reinforcements,
1006-07; pilot needed, 222, 760; charts
needed, 371; fleet readiness, 33, 61, 253, 317,
348-49, 654, 949; sailing orders, 95-96; arrival
on Lake Champlain, 661, 708, 760, 1032—33;
maps, 97*, 836*, 1035*; mentioned, 724, 981,
993, 1062, 1237, 1289; to: Horatio Gates, 98,
205, 216, 234, 283, 371-72, 654, 734-35, 747,
760, 837-38, 857-58, 884, 925-26, 1032-33,
1151-52, 1235-37; Thomas Potts, 222; Captain
Premiere, 215; Philip Schuyler, 120, 1275-77;
Captain Seaman, 215; Jacobus Wynkoop, 215,
321; from: Horatio Gates, 95-96, 223, 235,
283, 321, 708, 791-92, 902, 962, 1006-07, 1102-
03, 1116-17, 1237; Jacobus Wynkoop, 215,
320; mentioned, 421, 1062, 1390*, 1463 (Con-
gress) See also Lake Champlain; Skenes-
borough, N.Y.; Valcour Island, Battle of
Arnold, David: 781
Arnold, Israel: 165
Arnold, James (Capt., Continental Army): 792
Arnold, Welcome: 66n.
Arnold, William: 29, 923
Arnout, James (Capt.): to: Massachusetts
Council, 1347; mentioned, 14, 222n., 344, 869;
1347n. ( Queen of England)
Arrell, — - (Lt.): 728-29
Arrogant, HMS: 450
Arrowsmith, Edmund (Lt., Continental Ma-
rines): 1374, 1378-80
Artelea, Thomas: 263n.
Artemesa, British Navy Victualer: 595
Artois, Comte d’ : 491
Ash, Caleb: 1310
Ash, Joshua: 1310
Ash, Lawrence: 138, 1301
Ash, Michael: 1217
Ashburn, George (Capt.): 347 (Isaac)
Ashburne, George: 999
Ashburne, : 678
Ashby, George: 304
Ashe, Samuel: to: Willie Jones, 1164
Ashmead, John: 1011
Asia, HMS: Journal: 299-300, 736, 931; at New
York, 156, 167, 184, 426, 736-37, 782, 805, 846,
891; in Battle of Long Island, 268, 324, 362,
374, 378; Turtle’s attempt on, 1499, 1508;
captured: Amazon, 1124; Diligence, 1124,
Hannah, 1124; James, 1124; Lady Gage, 1124;
mentioned, 448 (George Vandeput)
Askins, Samuel: 1373
Askins, William: 906
Aston Hall, British Ordnance Ship: 582
1544
INDEX
Atalanta, HM Sloop: Journal: 751, 751n., 829,
866, 1109-10, lllOn.; Lloyd appointed, 75;
cruising of Cape St. Nicolas Mole, 671-72,
829, 865-66, 1168; captured: Benjamin, 1170;
Susannah, 1171; mentioned, 76, 448 (Thomas
Underwood; Thomas Lloyd)
Atkins, Christopher (Capt., R.N.): 1424 ( Acteon )
Atkins, Nathaniel (Capt.): 900 n. ( Earl Percy)
Atkins, Silas (Capt.): 249, lllOn., 1147, 1147n.,
1196, 1251, 1252n., 1347, 1347n„ 1470-71 ( Bos-
ton)
Atkins, William: 234
Atkinson, John: 691
Atlee, Samuel (Col., Pennsylvania Militia): 156
Atwood, John: 249
Atwood, Joseph: 1329
Aubin, Philip (Capt.): 1019 (Stork)
Auchenlick [Auchenleck], Henry (Lt., Maryland
Navy): 658, 905, 1467
Augusta, HMS: 450, 522
Aurora, British Navy Victualer: 579, 595
Aurora (formerly Oxford), ship: 1153
Aurora, ship: 147, 149n. (Getscheus)
Aurora, ship: captured by Independence, 181,
181n„ 182n., 731, 731n., 770, 770n.; libeled,
820 (Gregor McGregor)
Austin, : 832
Austin, Benjamin: 247, 250, 898, 1112, 1113
Austin, Samuel: 177, 178n., 202, 247, 871
Austin, Thomas: 698
Avery, Daniel: 1305
Avery, Elisha: 791-92, 902, 1463
Avery, Griswold: 1305
Avery, John: Deputy Secretary, Massachusetts
Council, 112, 113, 151, 164, 180, 202, 213, 231,
261, 279, 330, 331, 344, 346, 358, 676, 752, 787,
800, 851, 881, 908, 909, 972, 998, 1078, 1112,
1113, 1213, 1232, 1298, 1316, 1330, 1360, 1455;
to: E. Thompson, 1213; mentioned, 721
Avery, Samuel (Capt.): 524, 617, 1078 (Sally)
Aylett, William: 25, 43, 86, 188, 783, 1190
Ayres, John (Capt., Washington’s Fleet): libel
of Elizabeth, 240, 240n., 247, 1069; encounter
with Daphne, 1113n., 1146n.; recommended
John Roche, 161; mentioned, 234, 638, 1055,
1195, 1196n. (Lynch)
Ayres, John: 234
Ayres, Richard: See Richard Eyres
Ayscough, James (Capt., R.N.): 5, 167, 1424
(Swan)
Azambuja, Conde de [Antonio Rolim de Mou-
ra]: 468
Azores Islands [Western Islands]: 502, 588
Babbidge, James: 477, 1021, 1021n., 1061
Babcock, Adam: 1176, 1363, 1363n., 1435
Babcock, Elihu: 18, 695
Babcock, George: 16, 153-54, 264
Babcock, Henry: 1217
Babcock, Joshua (Maj. General, Rhode Island
Militia): to: Nicholas Cooke, 924
Babcock, Robert: 17, 694
Babcock, William: 1374
Backus, Ebenezer, Jr.: 872
Bacon, Asa (Capt., Connecticut Militia): 36
Bacon, E. (Capt.): 1332n., (Betsey)
Bacon, William (Lt., R. N.): from: Lords Com-
missioners, 535-36
Bacop, Jamie: 745
Badger, HM Sloop: purchased, 581; to Port
Royal, 672; at Pensacola, 1168, 1427
Bagley, Joseph: 955
Bahama Islands, West Indies: 58, 183, 354, 420,
689-90, 1305, 1358 See also Montfort Browne;
New Providence
Bahannon, John (Capt.): 1114 (Molly)
Bailey, : of Massachusetts 331
Bailey, Thomas: 1227, 1282
Bailie, (Capt.): 586 (Reward)
Baine, (Capt.): 1282 (Olive Branch)
Baker, (Capt.): 392 (John and James)
Baker, Benjamin: from: Virginia Navy Board,
775
Baker, John (Capt., Continental Army): 1184
(Independence)
Baker, Thomas [John] (Capt.): 589, 607, 613,
620, 620n. (African)
Baldhead, N. C.: 1202
Baldwin, Cyrus: I77n., 180n., 202, 247
Baldwin, Elias (Lt., Continental Army): to: Sol-
omon Porter, 254-55, 336, 361, 763
Baldwin, John (Lt., Continental Navy): from:
Marine Committee, 286-87; mentioned, 1201,
1295 (Wasp)
Baley, John: 959
Baley, Nathan: 957
Ball, Eleazer (Capt.): 1442, 1442n., (Success)
Ball, George (Lt. R. N.): 967-68, 968n., 1108
Ball, John (Capt.): 5 (Sally)
Baltimore, sloop: condemned 970, 1125 (Wil-
liam Clesby)
Baltimore, ship: 508, 521-22 (Bennett)
Baltimore, Md.: fortification, 586; Virginia
building, 9n., 994; naval stores, 293, 293n.,
741, 995; mentioned, 3, 105, 173, 198-99, 367,
728, 540, 608, 749, 774, 774n., 1015-16, 1122-
23, 1164
Baltimore Comittee of Safety: Minutes: 766-67;
navigational obstructions, 171
Baltimore Hero, sloop: 864 (Thomas Waters)
Bamarein, Recule de: See Basmarin, Recule de
& Raimbeaux
Bamford, Stephen: 113
Bamford, Thomas: 113
Bancker, : 885
Bancroft, Edward: collected political publica-
tions, 510; in France, 442, 484, 489, 490n.,
499; returned to London, 508; to: Silas Deane,
605
Banff, Scotland: 390
Banks, Francis (Capt., R. N.): 128, 167, 548, 611,
780, 842, 861, 886, 891, 1424 (Renown)
Banks, Henry: 698
INDEX
1545
Bant, William: 674
Baptist, John: 697
Barbados, West Indies: convoys organized, 472;
in need of supplies, 605, 623; inward bound
vessels: George, 60; outward bound vessels:
Arina Maria, 303, 881, 1077; Blaze Castle,
1001, 1032, 1053; Eagle, 136, 182; Elinor,
608; Fame, 570; Hannah & Elizabeth, 925;
Hawke, 1076; Henry, 506; Jenny, 1162, 1162n.;
Lawrence, 731-32, 732n., 770, 770n., 978;
Marriot, 297; Mary and Elizabeth, 804;
Modesty, 749; Polly, 1465; Sarah and Eliza-
beth, 1114, 1114n.; Sea Nymph, 684-85, 745,
1047, 1107, 1108n.; mentioned, 105, 284, 314,
394, 481, 503, 685, 751, 751n., 1043-44, 1163
Barber, Jacob: 1094
Barber, John: to: Massachusetts General Court,
752
Barcelona, Spain: 428, 1343
Barclay, David: 242
Barclay, George (Capt.): 1114, 1115n. ( Batch-
elor)
Bardine, William: 901
Barfleur, HMS: prisoners on board, 546n., 622;
mentioned, 447, 504 (Mark Milbanke)
Barker, Thomas: 1159
Barker, Thomas (Capt.): 1002 (James)
Barkley, Andrew (Capt., R.N.): from: Marriot
Arbuthnot, 161; mentioned, 169, 276, 288, 342,
750, 893, 1047, 1098, 1424, 1524 (Scarborough)
Barlow, Wyatt (Capt.): 250n., 291n. (Warren)
Barmore, John: 699
Barnard, J.: 1000
Barne, (of New York) : 349
Barnes, Corban ^Capt.): 23 (Julia)
Barnes, Henry (Capt.): to: owners of Eagle,
182 (Eagle)
Barnes, Richard (Col., Maryland Militia): 1039
Barnes, William: 693
Barnes, William (Lt., Continental Navy): 170—
71, 939
Barnet, John (Capt.): 305
Barney, Joshua (Lt., Continental Navy): from:
Isaiah Robinson, 748; mentioned, 782
Barnicoat, John (Capt.): 136 (Cathrine)
Barns, Charles (Capt.): 476 (Blake)
Barr, John: 905
Barrell, Theodore: 945-46
Barret, William: to: Massachusetts Council,
850-51; mentioned, 999
Barrett, John: 177n., 202, 247
Barrett, Samuel: 177n.
Barrington, Nova Scotia: 1157, 1328-29
Barrington, Lord [William Wildman Barring-
ton] (Secretary of War): 467
Barron, D.: 1097
Barron, James (Capt., Virginia Navy): crew to
be paid, 1297; orders to join Boucher, 728;
paid by Navy Board, 1479; from: Virginia
Navy Board, 784; mentioned, 88, 88n. (Lib-
erty)
Barron, Richard (Capt., Virginia Navy): paid
by Navy Board, 1479; paid prize money,
1206; stores delivered to, 1190; from: Vir-
ginia Navy Board, 784; mentioned, 88, 88n.,
1207 (Patriot)
Barron, William (Lt., Continental Navy): 281,
651, 882
Barry, James: 906
Barry, John (Capt., Continental Navy): 8, 23,
41, 42, 43n., 63, 105, 220, 716, 716n„ 740-41,
741n., 766, 938, 1011, 1012, 1027, 1200, 1295,
1311 (Lexington; Effingham)
Barry, Robert: 693
Barslet, John: 212-13, 999
Bartlett, Abraham: 355
Bartlett, Isaac: 1252
Bartlett, John (Capt.): 143n., 192, 249 (Earl of
Errol)
Bartlett, Josiah: orders to Hopkins, 1202;
French attitude toward Americans in Mar-
tinique, 325; outfitting Continental warships,
807, 934, 976, 1154, 1426; prizes taken, 63-64,
766, 766n.; conduct of Rhode Island Com-
mittee, 1189; British at Staten Island, 147; to:
John Langdon, 63-64, 147, 766n., 1154; Wil-
liam Whipple, 325; from: John Langdon, 56,
161-62, 229, 815-16, 816-17, 1031; William
Whipple, 831, 952; mentioned, 244, 356n.,
915, 1346, 1355, 1386
Bartlett, Walter: 1003
Bartlett, William: to: George Washington,
1194-95; Massachusetts Council, 1077; men-
tioned, 59, 115, 369, 1323
Barton, : 1252
Barton, : on board Pennsylvania Farmer,
1208
Barton, Robert (Lt. R.N.): 439, 842
Barton, William: 92, 194
Bascomb, James: 1376
Basmarin, Recule de & Raimbeaux: 514, 528,
618
Bass, Henry: 248-49
Basseterre, St. Christopher Island: 946, 1075
Bassett, Henry: 682, 1413
Basson, John: 282
Batchelder, Josiah, Jr.: 179, 344, 648-49, 731
Batchelor, Rhode Island Privateer Sloop: 880,
880n. (William Ladd)
Batchelor, brig: 1162, 1162n., 1163, 1239, 1254,
1254n.
Batchelor, ship: 1019, 1019n., 1114, 1115n., 1299
(George Barclay)
Bateman, Charles: 1176
Bateman, Nathaniel (Capt., R.N.): 671, 1171
(Winchelsea)
Bates, Benjamin: 264
Bates, George: 1000
Bates, Henry: 957
Bath, N.C.: 341
Batteaux, Draft of: 319*
Battle of the Kegs: 1507
Battson, Thomas: 517
1546
INDEX
Baxter, Andrew: 1015
Baxter, Richard: 1161
Bay, E.: 814
Bay of Biscay: 627
Bay of Fundy, N.S.: 160-61, 169, 342, 893, 1524
Bay of Honduras: 1162n., 1163
Bayard, Craig & Co.: from: John Langdon, 92-
93, 586n.
Bayard, Deane & Co.: 93n., 1122
Bayard, Henderson & Co.: 1122
Bayard, James: 234
Bayard, John: 863, 1103, 1122
Bayley, John: 5
Bayley, Jonathan: 333
Bayly, William: 403-04
Beach, Edmund: 1140, 1266
Beales, (Capt.): 605n. (Prince of Wales)
Beall, Samuel: 826, 1026
Bean, William: 305
Beatty, William: 695
Beauchamp, William: 905
Beaufort, S.C.: 73, 1165, 1427
Beaujack, Francis: 700
Beaumarchais, Pierre-Augustin Caron de: aid
to America, 383, 475, 476n.; extended credit,
487, 488, 553, 560; negotiations for arms from
France, 1088, 1090, 1106, 1387; war with
Portugal, 602n.; sudden wealth, 612; to:
Committee of Secret Correspondence, 551-53;
Silas Deane, 479, Arthur Lee, 405, 453; Ver-
gennes, 550; from: Silas Deane, 481-82, 498-99,
555; Arthur Lee, 405n., 429; mentioned, 491,
509, 602n.
Beaussier de Chateauvert, (Capt., French
Navy) : 390-91, 395, 1192 (La Tourterelle)
Beaver, HM Sloop: prisoners on board, 546, 622;
mentioned, 434, 449, 588, 1076n. (Joseph
Nunn)
Beaver, British Army Victualer: 417
Beaver, New York Privateer Sloop: captured:
Earl of Errol, 143, 143n., 152, 152n., 192n.,
193, 193n., 212, 213n., 232, 249; mentioned,
1214, 1215n. (Stewart Deane)
Bechinoe, Benjamin (Lt., R.N.): from: Lords
Commissioners, 478, 604-05; mentioned, 579-
80, 580n. (Elephant)
Beckup, James: 1377
Bedell, Gilbert: 16
Bedford, HMS: 440 (Weston Varlo)
Bedford, Gunning: 1201
Bedford, Mass.: prizes carried into, 754, 868;
sale of prize ships and cargo, 899; mentioned,
192, 214, 1331
Bedloe’s Island, N.Y.: ships moored off: Eagle,
362, 373, 724, 782, 805, 845, 859, 988, 1068;
Emerald, 964; Greyhound, 378; Orpheus, 806,
1086n.; Renown, 861; Roebuck, 378; Tartar,
965; mentioned, 229, 736
Bee, brigantine: captured, 611, 1031; libeled,
803-04 (Thomas Davis)
Bee, ship: 634 (Wallace)
Beebe, Barzaleel: 1177
Beebe, Lewis: diary, 1084, 1245, 1260
Begozzat [Begorrat], Pierre: 76, 825, 827, 828n.
Belangee, Edward: 1301
Belcher, Joseph: 306
Belden, Samuel: 82
Bell, (Capt.): 600 (Columbus)
Bell, : 597
Bell, John: 951
Bell, Stephen: 704
Bell, Thomas (Capt.): 326, 387, 725 (Morris)
Bell, Thomas (Capt.): 1175 (Thomas)
Bell, William (Seaman, New York Navy): 681,
682, 1413
Bell, William S.: 783
Bell, William & Co.: 365
Belle, ship: 1369-61 (Thomas Jones)
Belle Isle, HMS: 450, 522 (John Brooks)
Belle Isle Strait, Newfoundland: 252
Bellew, Henry (Capt., R.N.): prize agent for
Liverpool, 1125, 1143; condemnation of:
Hester, 1250^51; Sally, 646; Warren, 1097-98;
mentioned, 2, 27, 169, 303, 590, 646, 649, 673,
769, 892, 948, 1046, 1211, 1424 (Liverpool)
Bellona, HM Tender: 452
Benard, Peter: 304
Benham, James: 985
Benjamin, schooner: captured by Atalanta, 866,
866n., 1170 (Francis Boardman)
Benjamin, : 537, 581, 591
Bennet, Francis: 344
Bennett, (Capt.): 521-22 (Baltimore)
Bennett, William: 18, 695
Benoist, (Capt.): 593, 630 (Robust)
Benson, Henry (Capt.): 208, 1186
Benson, Robert: 318
Bergen, N.J.: 966
Bergen County, N.J.: 156, 1186
Bergen Point, N.J.: 1239
Berkeley, Velters (Lt., R.N.): 433, 894 (Lord
Howe)
Berkshire County, Mass.: Committee of: from:
Philip Schuyler, 1290
Bermuda: ships belonging to exempted from
capture, 689-90; lack of defense, 605; impor-
tance of, 623; intelligence from, 590; need for
supplies, 669-70; warships cruising near:
Andrew Doria, 644-45, 645n.; Camilla, 594;
Galatea, 887, 893, 980, 1029; Nautilus, 169;
Providence, 685; inward bound vessels: Betsey,
295-96; Dolphin, 807n.; Elizabeth, 978; Lady
Susan, 740-41, 741 n.; Molly and Peggy, 978;
Otter, 850; Polly, 878; outward bound vessels:
Anna, 1028; Good Intent, 727; Lady Susan,
105; Lexington, 43n.; mentioned, 22, 56, 58,
60, 91, 95, 160, 204, 235, 251, 252, 276, 277,
287, 297n., 485, 543, 578, 586, 608, 612, 716,
823, 1004, 1004n„ 1011, 1041-42, 1155, 1305,
1358 See also George Bruere
Berry, Abigail: 247
Berry, Richard (Capt., Maryland Navy): 312n.
(Resolution)
Berryman, John: 905
INDEX
1547
Berwick, HMS: 449
Berwick, John: 995-96
Besnard, John (Capt.): 1268 (Polly)
Bessy, James: 1372
Betsey, British Navy Victualer: 492, 495, 579
Betsey, Dunmore’s Fleet Brigantine: 295-96,
978, 978n. (John Bynoe)
Betsey, Dunmore’s Fleet Sloop: 716, 716n.,
1011-15 (Samuel Kerr)
Betsey, brig: captured by Pomona, 853 (Dresser)
Betsey, brig: 11, 107
Betsey, brigantine: 1470-71 (James Webber)
Betsey, brigantine: captured by Enterprize, 749
Betsey, schooner: captured by Cerberus, 1332,
1332n. (E. Bacon)
Betsey, schooner: captured by Winchelsea, 1171
(Will Newman)
Betsey, schooner: captured by Perseus, 1019,
1019n., 1391, 1391n. (Alexander Wilson)
Betsey, schooner: (of Halifax) captured by
Providence, 1302
Betsey, schooner: (of Jersey) captured by Provi-
dence, 1302
Betsey, schooner: Joshua Storrs imported gun-
powder on, 1441
Betsey, schooner: captured by Hope, 1124
Betsey, ship: 1327 (Lofthouse)
Betsey, ship: 976-77, 1354 (William Stephens)
Betsey, sloop: 17, 60 (Benjamin Bigelow)
Betsey, sloop: 11 (James Ferguson)
Betsey, sloop: 1421-22 (Elizur Goodrich)
Betsey, sloop: captured by Lee, 691, 788, 788n.,
1002
Betsy, Dunmore’s Fleet Schooner: 643 (Henry
Carey)
Betsy, schooner: 727 (Hugh Sherwood)
Betsey, sloop: 896 (Josh Hayman)
Betsy, sloop: captured by Revenge, 27
Betty, James: 700
Beulah, Georgia: 1157
Beveridge, David: 1111
Beverly, sloop: 349
Beverly, Mass.: sale of prize ships and cargoes,
730, 899-90; mentioned, 14, 58n., 192n., 331,
648, 731, 1358, 1432
Bic, lie du, Quebec: 45-47, 201
Biddle, Charles: to: Nicholas Biddle, 79n.
Biddle, Nicholas (Capt., Continental Navy): to:
Marine Committee, 102; from: Charles Bid-
dle, 79n.; Nathaniel Shaw, Jr., 32-33; Mar-
garet Tarras, 103-04; mentioned, 3, 79, 79n.,
125, 166, 296, 639, 644-45, 731-32, 770, 788,
820, 834, 890, 895, 938, 949, 1060, 1100, 1200,
1464n. ( Andrew Doria; Randolph )
Biddle, Owen: 658, 1425
Bidgood, Benjamin (Capt.): 496, 1133, 1134n.,
1196, 1196n. (St. George )
Bidwell, William: 695
Bienfaisant, HMS: 452, 522
Bigelow, : 857
Bigelow, Benjamin (Capt.): 17, 60 (Betsey)
Bigelow, John (Major, Connecticut Militia): 222
Bilboa, Sp.: 1358
Bill, Ephraim (Capt.): 1005, 1021
Bill, John: 704
Billangee, Edward: 693
Billangee, Isaac: 698
Billings, Daniel: 699
Billings, Ezekiel: 699
Billings, Henry (Lt., Connecticut Navy): 241
Billingsport, N.J.: cheveaux de frise, 312, 1266;
mentioned, 65
Bingham, John: 703
Bingham, William: commercial agent, 149, 243,
796, 1025, 1087; dispatches sent and received,
912, 1386, 1387-88; voyage in Reprisal, 77,
77n., 356, 356n.; French attitude toward
Americans, 325, 325n.; forwarded letters to
Silas Deane, 1403; to: Silas Deane, 76-77,
356; 1046; from: Committee of Secret Cor-
respondence, 936-38, 1088-89; Secret Com-
mittee, 913-14, 976. 1354-55; Willing, Morris
& Co., 824-28, 977, 1026-27; mentioned, 583-
84; 1046
Bingley, Edward (Capt., Pennsylvania Navy): 7
(Vesuvius)
Binnigall, Alexander: 697
Birch, Thomas: 1377
Bird, Mark: 978
Bishop, Ebenezer: 856
Bishop, Thomas (Capt., R.N.): to: Patrick
Tonyn, 134; from: Patrick Tonyn, 90-91;
mentioned, 109, 169, 314, 314n., 376, 893,
1327; 1422-23, 1424 (Lively)
Bishop, William: 906
Bisset, Robert (Lt. Col., East Florida Militia):
to: Patrick Tonyn, 643-44; mentioned, 260
Bittingham, John: 1372
Black, : 896
Black, James: 1093
Black River, ship: 297, 608, 749 (Currie)
Blackburn, John: 1366
Blackstakes, England: 546
Blackstone, (Capt.): 1439 (Eiken Boom)
Blackwall Dock, England: 467, 473
Blackwell’s Island, N.Y.: British troops landed,
666, 763, 1221; mentioned, 679, 841, 1068-69
Blair, Alexander: 921n., 943-44, 1168
Blair, James (Capt., Pennsylvania Navy): to:
Pennsylvania Council of Safety, 793; men-
tioned, 7 (Burke)
Blake, HM Snow: 476 (Charles Barns)
Blake, Edward: 1097, 1191-92, 1243, 1283, 1313,
1418, 1441
Blakesley, Eben: 1160
Blane, Gilbert: 1487, 1490
Blankhead, James: 1466
Blaze Castle, ship: captured, 956, 956n., 972,
1001, 1001n., 1053; to be sold, 1196 (James
Munro)
Blenheim, HMS: 452
Blewer, Joseph (Capt.): 326, 823, 915, 966, 1131,
1223, 1355, 1408
Bliss, John: 754
1548
INDEX
Block Island, R.I.: British ships cruising near:
Cerberus, 169, 210, 506, 733-34, 734n., 790,
892, 1045; Merlin, 169, 892; Syren, 892, 1061;
prisoner exchange, 1216; mentioned, 122, 129,
261, 650, 949n., 1215, 1215n., 1220
Blonde, HMS: Journal: 27, 150, 1340; at Que-
bec, 135, 1193; in St. Lawrence River, 169,
894, 1350; in Richelieu River, 47; at Cham-
plain, 201, 951; mentioned, 448, 542, 883,
1342-44, 1424 (Philemon Pownoll)
Bloomingdale, N.Y.: 845, 1137, 1185
Blossom, Oliver: 1006
Bluck, (Col., Hessian Troops): 123
Bluefields, Nicaragua: 44, 75, 91, 532
Blues, Alexander (Capt.): 1347, 1347n. ( Mon-
tague)
Blundile, (Capt.): 1079
Blunt, Charles: 906
Blyth, (Capt.): 506 [Henry)
Board of Treasury: See Continental Congress,
Board of Treasury
Board of War: See Continental Congress, Board
of War
Boardman, Benjamin (Chaplain, Continental
Army): Journal: 862, 862n., 875, 911, 933, 950
Boardman, Francis (Capt.): 1170 ( Benjamin )
Boardman, Jacob: to: Massachusetts Council,
1111-12; Massachusetts General Court 1316
Bockwell, Josh: 546n.
Boddington, John: 604, 888
Bodrick, James (Capt.): 1169 [Lovely Lass)
Boerhaave, Hermann: 1485
Bog, Archibald (Capt.): 601, 1000 [George)
Bogart, : 171
Boger, Richard (Lt., R.N.): to: Robert Morris,
967-68, 1108; mentioned, 590, 1027 [Edward)
Bolderson, (Capt.): 1068 [Halifax)
Bolles, John: 120, 1060, 1129
Bolling, John: 1296
Bolton, HM Bomb Brig: captured, 416, 416n.;
libeled, 822, 822n.; condemned, 1100; sold,
80, 144, 639, 640n., 1060, 1081; refitted as
privateer, 790, 790n. (Edward Sneyd)
Bolton, (Capt.): 1132 [Georgia)
Bolton, Robert: 16
Bolton, William: 1129
Bonacourse, Anthony: 1161
Bond, John (Capt.): 1092-93, 1107 [William)
Bonetta, HM Sloop: 452
Bonneau, Anthony: 1313, 1335
Booker, (Capt.): 852 [Regicobus)
Boothby, (Col., British Army): 1292
Bordeaux, France: Admiralty Office, 599; aid to
Americans, 462, 469, 497, 499-500, 514-515,
523-24, 528, 529, 534, 552, 557, 590, 616, 633,
1133, 1158-59; inward bound vessels: Betsey,
1019; Chaise, 291; Charming Polly, 147; Dis-
patch, 793, 796n.; Olive Branch, 186; outward
bound vessels: Marquis of Kildare, 1133, 1144;
Neptune, 497; William, 807n., 1369; men-
tioned, 393, 418, 459, 482, 487, 510, 526*, 550,
560, 572,586.618, 1078, 1088
Bordens, (Capt.): 901
Boreas, HMS: Journal, 276, 659-60, 1029; cap-
tured: Adventure, 276, 1170; Rebecca, 659-60,
1171; joined Howe’s fleet, 5, 122; bound for
Jamaica, 122-23, 123n., 276n., 1168; in West
Indies, 141, 448, 672; complement increased,
403 (Charles Thompson)
Bosset, Christopher (Capt.): 1472 [Polly)
Boston, HMS: 452
Boston, Continental Navy Frigate: men needed,
143, 143n.; cannon required to complete, 190-
91, 203, 232, 232n., 289, 290n., 299, 755, 801-
02, 802n., 818-19, 871, 934, 972, 981, 1113,
1146-47, 1158; ordered to capture HMS
Milford, 933-36, 934n., 935n., 936n., 1385;
gunpowder for, 1126; McNeill ranked, 1200;
clothing for, 1367; arrived at Boston, 1470;
mentioned, 419n., 1159, (Hector McNeill)
Boston, Arnold’s Fleet Gondola: 98, 224, 253,
1258 (Sumner)
Boston, Massachusetts Privateer Schooner: de-
scription of ship, 249; captured: George, 1110,
lllOn., 1147, 1147n., 1251, 1252n.; Haypeld,
1470, 1471; libeled, Hayfield, 1471 (Silas At-
kins, Jr.)
Boston, [formerly Zachariah Bayley ], Massachu-
setts Privateer Ship: 922, 922n., 971-72 (Wil-
liam Brown)
Boston, Mass.: possible British attack, 227,
326; British evacuation, 102, 330, 392, 496,
548, 556, 567, 611, 633; fortification of, 191,
232-33, 256, 326, 683, 981; military stores,
150, 153, 190, 230, 289-90, 786; concerning
prizes, 14, 15, 27n., 58, 161, I77n., I78n.,
180n., 192, 192n., 201, 212, 222n., 231, 240,
249, 262, 281, 346, 347, 348n., 540, 549, 610,
801, 1053, 1055n., 1147, 1147n., 1432n.; trade,
59, 151, 152, 163, 210, 776, 1270; warships
cruising near: Liverpool, 169, 871, 892; Mil-
ford, 169, 871, 892; inward bound vessels: Bri-
tania, 177; Columbus, 1047; Diana, 298; Hope,
467; Jane, 465; Oxford, 534; Royal Exchange,
1047; Yankee Hero, 127, 778; outward bound
vessels: Betsey, 1019; Elizabeth, 113-14;
Three Friends, 284; Viper, 1018-19, !019n.;
mentioned, 13, 22, 99n., 122, 143, 164, 214,
248, 261n., 297, 303, 303n., 308, 328, 343, 344,
373, 400, 415, 418, 474, 476, 481, 516, 548,
549, 554, 583, 593, 630, 647, 649n., 690, 759.
1052, 1077, 1078, 1367, 1439
Boston Committee of Correspondence, Inspec-
tion and Safety: 191, 250 998-99; to: Massa-
chusetts Council, 112-13
Boston Gazette 1776: 5 Aug., 60n.; 12 Aug., 33;
19 Aug., 231; 16 Sept., 852-53; 23 Sept., 952;
30 Sept., 1053; 28 Oct., 1433
Boston New-England Chronicle: See New-Eng-
land Chronicle (Boston)
Botsford, Clemens (Ens., Continental Army):
837-38, 857, 884
Boucher, John (Capt., Virginia Navy): to: Dan-
iel of St. Thomas Jenifer, 366; from: George
INDEX
1549
Cook, 980; Virginia Navy Board, 728; men-
tioned 658, 727, 729, 743, 968 ( American
Congress )
Boulet, Tanays: 462-63
Boulogne , HM Hulk: departing for Halifax,
436, 532, 569; as troop transport, 521; at
Halifax, 594; as prison ship, 304-05, 1211;
complement increased, 438 (James Gordon)
Boulton, William: 81
Bountifull, sloop: 983 (Merry Young)
Bourmaster, John (Lt., R.N.): 374, 496
Boush, Nathaniel: 239
Bowden, Lawrence (Capt.): 610, 1031, 1050,
1346, 1398, 1398n. ( Royal Exchange)
Bowdoin, James: to: John Hancock, 802, 953;
Rhode Island Naval Committee, 802-03;
from: William Sever, 954; mentioned, 250,
898, 898n„ 1455
Bowen, Edward: 693, 1301
Bowen, Elijah (Lt., Continental Navy): 1367
Bowen, Jabez (Col., Rhode Island Militia): to:
Nicholas Cooke, 781; from: John Langdon,
151n.; mentioned, 28-29, 651, 721
Bowen, Obadiah: 28
Bowen, Thomas: 651
Bowen, William: 28
Bowers, David: 1160
Bowers, Jonathmeil: 661
Bowes, John (Capt.): 346 (Ann)
Bowes, Timothy: 919, 1417, 1417n.
Bowland, Thadeus: 995
Bowler, Metcalf: to: Nathaniel Shaw, Jr., 1044;
mentioned, 1134
Bowling, (Lt.): 995
Bowly, Daniel: 1072n.
Bowman, British Army Transport: 600 (Taylor)
Bowman, : 113
Boyce, Nathaniel (Capt., Pennsylvania Navy): 6
(Franklin)
Boyd, John: 284, 682, 1413
Boyle, John (Lt., R.N.): 412, 433 (Hunter)
Boylstone, Thomas: 231, 233, 262
Boyne, HMS: complement, 503; mentioned 447
(Broderick Hartwell)
Boynes, de: 569
Braces Cove, Mass.: 298
Brackett, Joshua: to: New Hampshire Council,
342-43; mentioned, 177, 246, 248, 369n., 1173
Braddick, John: 81, 1129
Brade, James: 31
Bradfield, Francis: 923
Bradford, (Capt.): 1170 (Mary)
Bradford, Alexander: 1217
Bradford, James: 906
Bradford, John (Capt.): appointed Continental
agent, 55, 59, 114, 114n., 115n., 11C .; con-
cerning Continental agents, 953, 953n.; pur-
chased Dispatch, 59n.; intended voyage of
Fanny, 1469-70; fitting out of vessels, 178,
179n., 936, 1158; difficulty with John Paul
Jones, 210; need for money, 114-15; concern-
ing prizes, 58-59, 98-99, 151-52, 222, 233-34,
346, 690-91, 1053-55, 1142, 1146, 1146n., 1194,
1321, 1348, 1348n., 1363; suspicion of William
Tokely, 1360; George Washington’s fleet, 153,
1322-23; misconduct of Daniel Waters, 853;
to: John Hancock, 58-59, 114, 151-52, 222,
346, 853, 1053-55, 1146, 1348; Robert Morris,
114-15, 690-91, 953, 1360; John Schweig-
hauser, 1469-70; George Washington, 153;
from: Esek Hopkins, 1136, 1331, 1363; John
Langdon, 1158; Marine Committee, 934-35,
1248; George Washington, 62; mentioned,
234n., 248, 787n., 921, 921n., 934, 972, 1212
Bradford, William: 922
Bradley, Oliver: 18, 695
Bradley, Philip (Col., Continental Army): 336
Bradstreet, Lionel (Capt.): 301, 817, 999 (Nelly
Frigate)
Bragg, John: 589
Braggs, Edward: 1124-25
Brainsley, Richard: 1376
Braithwaite, T. P. (Capt.): 607 (Hampden)
Brand, James: 694
Brand, Nathan: 17
Branin, John: 282
Brath, James: 677
Brathwaite [Braithwaite], Richard (Capt.,
R.N.): 167, 419, 891, 1424 (Centurion)
Braun, William: 1374
Braxton, Carter: to: Isaac Governeur, 1039-41
Bray, Gabriel (Lt., R.N.): 76
Brazil: 140, 855, 1435
Breadsley, Squire: 985
Bready, Michael: 31, 32
Brebner, William & Co.: 603
Breck, William: 150-51, 177n., 247, 1158
Breck & Hammett: from: John Langdon, 1212
Breed, Joseph: 138
Brent, William: 24, 26, 173, 1324
Brenton, Jahleel (Lt., R.N.): 421, 469 (Pem-
broke)
Brest, France: ships fitting out, 199, 426, 427,
441, 458, 1089; outward bound vessels, 422,
621; mentioned, 440*, 483*, 751
Brett, George: 774-75
Brett, John: 767
Brett, T.: to: William Knox, 537
Brewer, Andrew: 1371
Brewer, Anthony: 1309, 1320
Brewer, John: 856
Brewer, Pon: 70
Brewer, Thomas: 1377
Brewster, Jonathan (Capt., Continental Army):
1118
Brice, Francis: 341
Brice, John (Capt. Pennsylvania Navy): 1334n.
(Aetna)
Brickett, James (Brig. Gen., Massachusetts
Militia): 217, 335
Brick wood, Edward: 1004, 1420-21
Bridgewater, Conn.: 651
Briggs, Asa: 16
1550
INDEX
Briggs, Ephraim: Journal: 291, 305, 332, 367-
68, 661, 830, 850, 850n., 880, 880n., 907, 969,
982, 1433
Briggs, John: 16
Briggs, Mary: 1304, 1304n.
Briggs, Stephen: 923
Briggs, William: 986
Briggs, Williard: 857
Bright, Francis (Capt., Virginia Navy): 174,
659, 920, 1392 (Northampton)
Brightelmstone, England: 476
Brilliant, British Army Transport: 600 (Mc-
Pherson)
Brilliant, ship: 589
Brimstone, Pennsylvania Navy Armed Boat: 7
(William Watkin)
Brisbane, John (Capt., R.N.): 122, 167, 891,
1153, 1 153n., 1424 (Flora)
Bristol, HMS: at Cape Fear, 490; at Sullivans
Island, 42, 110, 124, 560, 562-64, 566, 569,
571; at Staten Island, 169, 183, 184, 225, 226,
353, 736-37, 891, 1518; Battle of Long Island,
324; return to Plymouth, 376-77; officer ap-
pointment, 664-65; mentioned, 448, 725, 1068,
1444 (John Morris; James Reid; Tony Caul-
field) '
Bristol, British Army Transport: 600 (Orr)
Bristol, England: 64, 93, 94n., 136, 214, 222,
286, 297, 411, 474, 481, 502, 503, 508, 578, 589,
589n., 593n., 608, 613, 620, 786, 1432
Bristol, Mass.: 749
Bristol County, Mass.: 721
Bristow, William (Lt., R.N.): 374, 665, 886
Britania, sloop: captured by Milford, 176-77,
1124, 1125
Britannia, HMS: 449
Britannia, HM Storeship: 376
Britannia, brigantine: captured by Providence,
684, 745, 1047, 108 in., 1302
British Queen, British Army Victualer: 417,
429
British Customs, Lords Commissioners: from:
Robert Earl, 566
British Treasury, Lords Commissioners: from:
Wooldridge & Kelly, 540-41
Britman, Samuel: 1329
Britton, William (Capt.): 277 (Fanny)
Broadkill Creek, Del.: 8
Broadway, William: 517, 546
Brocq, du (Capt.): 599
Brokenberry, John (Dr.): 1312
Brokenberry, William: 1312
Bromedge, Hugh (Capt., R.N.): 169, 893, 1424
(Savage)
Bromfield, Henry: to: George Washington, 163
Bromwell, (Capt.): 214 (Portland)
Brooke, Benjamin (Capt., Maryland Battalion):
1449
Brooke, Walter (Capt., Virginia Navy): 980,
980n. (Liberty)
Brookes, George: 1155
Brooklyn, N.Y.: 354, 362, 375*, 656, 711, 806,
839, 989, 1247*
Brooklyn Heights, N.Y.: 361, 372
Brookman, George: 1093
Brooks, Eleazer (Col., Massachusetts Militia):
331
Brooks, John (Lt., Continental Army): 747, 791
Brooks, Jonathan: 33, 959
Brooks, William: 82, 334, 707, 957, 961
Broom, John: 983
Broome, Connecticut Privateer Sloop: captured:
Ann, 346, 789n.; Carolina Packet, 346; Charm-
ing Sally, 346, 789; John, 347, 789; mentioned,
129 (William Nott)
Broome, Rhode Island Privateer Sloop: 1216,
1216n. (Richard Whellen)
Brothers, John: 856
Brothwell, William: 984
Brow, John, Jr.: 1217
Brown, : 828
Brown, (Capt.): 229
Brown, (Lt., British Marines): 434
Brown, : paid by Nathaniel Shaw, Jr., 1060
Brown, : (Capt.): commanded snow cap-
tured by Defence, 1466
Brown, Alexander (Capt.): to: Lord Howe,
1352-53; mentioned, 496, 1352-53, 1383n.
(Dinah)
Brown, Benjamin: 923
Brown, Caleb: 1160
Brown, Colin: 906
Brown, Daniel: 1129
Brown, E.: 185
Brown, Francis (Capt.): recommended for com-
mand in Arnold’s fleet, 4; arrived in Ports-
mouth, 290; applied for commission, 1472-73,
1473n. (Charming Sally)
Brown, Garret: 906
Brown, Gawen, Jr.: 971
Brown, Henry: 1013
Brown, James (Boatswain, Washington’s Fleet):
234
Brown, James (Boy, Maryland Navy): 906
Brown, James: on Andrew Doria, 31
Brown, James: 602
Brown, Jeremiah: 701
Brown, John: provided letter of credit to
Israel Ambrose, 1253; orders to Diamond,
252-53, 264; expenses of Industry, 781n.;
letters of marque requested, 165, 819; Provi-
dence and Warren: construction, 281, 721,
789, 819; cannon for, 1247, 1346; naval and
marine uniforms established, 715-16, ship
movements, 1078-79, 1079n.; to: Moses
Brown, 789; Nicholas Cooke, 165, 819; Secret
Committee, 1078-79; Thomas Stacy, 252-53;
from: Pliarne, Penet & Co., 524-25, 617;
Secret Committee, 1079n.; mentioned, 476n.
Brown, John: sailing to England, 1000
Brown, John: owner of American Revenue, 1399
Brown, John (Capt.): taken prisoner, 337, 338n.
(Phenix)
INDEX
1551
Brown, John (Lt., R.N.): 167, 373-74; 842, 892
( Tryal )
Brown, John (Seaman, Continental Navy): 1377
Brown, Joseph: 820
Brown, Joseph (Seaman, Continental Navy):
699
Brown, Joseph (Master's Mate, Continental
Navy): 1371
Brown, Michael: 881
Brown, Moses: from: John Brown, 789
Brown, Nicholas & Co.: sailing orders for
America, 251-52, 252n.; concerning Provi-
dence and Warren, 721; ordnance, 60, 60n.,
203, 755-56, 1056; fitting out of Raleigh, 203,
360; supplies, 476n., 525, 527, 1247; concern-
ing ship movement, 1078-79, 1079n.; to:
Thomas Cushing, 203; John Langdon, 360;
Nathaniel Packard, 251-52; Secret Committee,
1078-79; from: Thomas Cushing, 1270-71;
John Langdon, 150-51; Pliarne, Penet & Co.,
524-25, 617; Secret Committee, 1079n.; Abra-
ham Whipple, 60
Brown, Peleg; 1399
Brown, Peter: 1223
Brown, Philip: Prize Master, 949n.
Brown, Philip: 1378-80
Brown, Robert: 1155
Brown, Robert: mate on Blonde, 1343
Brown, Robert (Seaman, R.N.): 314n., 1372
Brown, Samuel: 304
Brown, Solomon: 282
Brown, Thomas (Seaman, R.N.): 660
Brown, Thomas: of Portsmouth, Virginia, 1013
Brown, Thomas (Capt.): 886
Brown, William: 1489
Brown, William (Capt.): 922, 922n., 971-72
(Boston)
Brown, William (Capt., Pennsylvania Navy):
916, 916n., 939, 1266 (Putnam)
Brown, William: on board Lady Washington,
856
Brown, William: owner of Polly, 341, 1334,
1356
Browne, Montfort (Gov., Bahamas): prevented
capture of gunpowder, 196; taken prisoner
by Commo. Hopkins, 477; exchanged, 354,
1020, 1199; mentioned, 1061, 1102
Browne, Robert: 1000
Browne, Samuel: 292
Brownell, Nathaniel: 857
Brownell, Samuel: 1371
Bruce, Ronald (Capt.): 804, 925, 1101 (Hannah
& Elizabeth)
Bruere, George (Gov., Bremuda): 295-96, 669-
70
Brune, HMS: Journal: 306, 1262-63; joined
Howe’s fleet, 156n., 542; at Staten Island, 122,
184; in Long Island Sound, 167, 307, 307n.,
316, 322, 323, 323n., 335, 335n., 355, 370,
371, 640, 640n., 679, 709, 771, 892; at New York,
1062, 1130, 1445; deserters to, 654; deserters
from, 962-63; mentioned, 349, 448, 1424
(James Ferguson)
Brunswick, HM Schooner: 883, 1343, 1345 (Ed-
ward Longcroft)
Brunswick, Germany: 412, 415, 420, 435, 542-43
Brunswick, Me.: 799
Brunswick, N.J.: 41
Brush, Crean: 178n., 180, 180n., 202-03, 1264
Bryan, George: to: Pennsylvania Council of
Safety, 158-59
Bryant, Charles: 704
Bryant, James: 1331, 1371, 1378-80
Bryant, William: 1372, 1373
Brymer, Alexander: 1124-25
Bryne, Henry (Capt., R.N.): 513 (Hind)
Byron [Byrn], Thomas: 748, 766, 878
Buchanan, Archibald: to: Maryland Council of
Safety, 717; mentioned, 797
Buchanan, John: merchant of Scotland, 1456
Buchanan, John (Midn., R.N.): 867-68
Buchanan, Thomas: 1456
Buchanan, Walter: 1456
Buchanan’s Island, N.Y.: 782, 792
Buckingham, HMS: 452
Buckingham, Giles (Capt.): 852 (Salley)
Buckley, Thomas: 906
Buckley, Ward: 695
Bucklin, Daniel (Capt.): 29-30, 136, 182, 241n.,
316n., 900-01, (Montgomery)
Bucklin, Joseph (Lt.): 116
Buckmaster, (Capt.): 852 (Fox)
Buckshine, Benjamin: 517
Budd, Levi: 1309
Buell, Abel: 1363
Bulkeley, Richard: to: Justices of the Peace of
Liverpool, Yarmouth, and Barrington, 1285—
86; mentioned, 1172
Bulkey, Ward: 18
Bulkley, Charles: 692, 1301
Bull, William, Jr.: to: John Pringle, 176
Bull Bay, S.C.: 563
Bull Dog, Pennsylvania Navy Row Galley: 7,
1071 (Alexander Henderson)
Buller, John: 429, 496, 521, 536, 576 See also
Admiralty, British
Bullock, Archibald (Pres., Georgia Provincial
Congress): 825, 1156, 1157n.
Bunker, Jonathan: 1443
Bunker, Joshua (Capt.): 482, 807n., 1078. 1144
(William)
Bunkers Hill, N.Y.: 974
Bunkers Hill, Mass.: 571
Bunnell, Jonathan (Capt.): 1368, 1368n. (Sher-
burne)
Burch, Jonathan: 669
Burch, Milner: 945
Burchall, Robert (Capt.): 296-97 (Elizabeth)
Burchell, William (Lt., R.N.): 135
Burdick, Benjamin: 115
Burdon, George (Lt., R.N.): 729-30 (West
Florida)
Bur ford, HMS: 450 (George Bowyer)
1552
INDEX
Burge, Joseph: 905
Burgess, Thomas: 138, 701
Burgoyne, brigantine: 1366 (James Emerton)
Burgoyne, John (Maj. General, British Army):
arrived in Canada, 227, 412, 415, 442, 513,
543; cavalry joined Howe, 543, 1103, 1182,
1199; advanced to Lake Champlain, 605, 633,
792-93, 938, 992, 1154, 1400; Battle of Val-
cour Island, 1228-30; rumored to attack
Ticonderoga, 1081, 1137, 1350; American se-
curity on Lake Champlain, 1106; wintered
over, 1370; to: Charles Douglas, 1228-30;
from: Guy Carleton, 1272-74, 1364; men-
tioned, 1341
Burk, Samuel: 278
Burke, Pennsylvania Navy Row Galley: 7
(James Blair)
Burke, Edmund: 457
Burke, Edward: (Lt., Continental Navy): 1 378—
80
Burke, William (Capt., Washington’s Fleet):
captured, 1211, 1211n., 1453, 1454n.; men-
tioned, 15, 62, 62n., 247, 304, 304n., 638, 853
(Warren)
Burlinham, William, Jr.: 933
Burn, -: 1178
Burnaby, William (Capt., R.N.): 146, 169, 892,
1103, 1424 (Merlin)
Burnell, John (Lt., Maryland Navy): to: Mary-
land Convention, 658; mentioned, 905, 1467
Burnley, John: 1268
Burns, : 681
Burns, Elizabeth: 15
Burns, John: 15
Burns, Thomas: 704, 1301
Burns, William: 698
Burr, Aaron: 1134
Burr, Jessee: 984
Burr, John (Capt., R.N.): 91-92, 128, 160, 169,
176-77, 779, 892, 981-82, 1249-50, 1424 (Mil-
ford)
Burris, Timothy: 1413
Bursel, (Capt.): 772
Burstwick, British Navy Victualer: 492, 493-96,
1352, 1439 (Alexander Anderson)
Burtt, John: 1094
Bush, Daniel: 1139
Bush, John (Ens., Continental Army): 884
Bush, Lewis (Capt., Continental Army): 371
Bushnell, David: inventor of Turtle: descrip-
tion of Turtle, 1185; tested Turtle, 709;
Turtle attacked ship, 736; to: Thomas Jeffer-
son, 1501-07; Ezra Stiles, 1500-01; mentioned,
709n., 1185n. See also Appendix B, 1499-1511
Bush wick, N.Y.: 666
Bushwick Creek, N.Y.: 805-06, 822, 839-41,
848-49, 886, 988-89
Busset, James: 1475
Bustead, : 773
Bute, British Transport: 45-47, 169, 201, 414-
15, 417, 894 (Anthony Parrey)
Bute, Earl of: from: Charles Stuart, 1008-09
Butler (Capt.): 1108 (Wealthy)
Butler, John: 297, 1172
Butler, Peter: 984
Butler, Thomas (Lt.,R.N.): 54, 433, 1343
Butterfield, (Capt): 853
Butter Milk Channel, N.Y.: 838
Button Mold Bay, N.Y.: 654, 760, 1152
Butts, Benjamin: 16
Buzzards Bay, Mass.: 222, 252, 744, 759
Byam, Edward: 591
Bynoe, John (Capt.): 295-96, 978n. (Betsey)
Byrn, James: 1155
Byrn, Nicholas: 1417n.
Byrn, Thomas:
Byrns, Timothy: 682
Byron, George (Lt., R.N.): 532
Cabin Point, Va.: 211, 659n.
Cabinick, Casey: 1376
Cabot, Continental Navy Brig: munitions, 120;
seamen taken from, 138; concerning True
Blue, 266; accounts, 299; engagement with
Glasgow, 401; on cruise, 639; officer appoint-
ments, 1201; ordered to Cape Fear, 1202,
1223, 1384-86; marines taken from, 1373;
captured: unnamed brig, 649, 649n.; un-
named Jamaicaman, 1100; Clarendon, 1101;
Lowther and five unnamed Jamaicamen,
1304, 1317, 1331, 1349, 1398, 1421; Esther,
1363, 1472; mentioned, 271, 474, 1201 (John
B. Hopkins; Elisha Hinman; Joseph Olney)
Cabot, Andrew: 347, 776, 1052
Cabot, John (Capt.): 1172-73 (Glasgow)
Cadiz, Spain: 147, 165, 185-86, 386, 391, 427-28,
476-77, 527-29, 556-57, 604, 613
Cadogan, Thomas (Lt., R.N.): 75
Caicos Islands: 301, 394
Calcutta, India: 530
Calderwood, James (Lt., Continental Army):
371,708, 734-35, 1116
Caldwell, Andrew (Commo., Pennsylvania
Navy): 978
Caldwell, Benjamin (Capt., R.N.): 167, 374, 886,
891, 964, 1424 (Emerald)
Caledonia, ship: captured by Eagle, 1001,
1001n., 1053, 1053n.; sold, 1395; libeled, 1396
(Alexander McKinley)
Caledonia, British Transport: 600 (McLiesh)
California: 503
Calkins, Pember: 1129
Callender, Eleazer (Capt., Virginia Navy): from:
Virginia Navy Board, 238-39, 995; men-
tioned, 25, 200, 799, 995, 1191n. (Defiance)
Callender, Elias: 677
Callender, Thomas (Capt.): 1442n. (Alfred)
Calvert, Christopher (Capt.): from: Virginia
Navy Board, 239
Calvert, John (Capt., Virginia Navy): orders
from Virginia Navy Board, 784n., 1426; men-
tioned, 88, 88n., 236-38, 245, 775, 1391 (Nor-
folk Revenge)
Calvert, John: 1243
INDEX
1553
Calvert, William: 11, 107
Camberwell: 475 (Forbes)
Cambridge , HMS: 452
Cambridge, Mass.: 151, 179, 457
Camden ( Cambden ), ship: 987, 1113, 1114n.,
1348n., 1471 (Joseph Richardson)
Camden , sloop: 1034 (Castle)
Camden, Pennsylvania Navy Row Galley: 7,
211 (Richard Eyres)
Cameron, Angus: paroled as Continental pris-
oner, 1480
Cameron, Angus: deserted from Randolph, 187,
683
Cameron, Charles (Capt., British Army): 600
Camilla, HMS: 449, 543, 594, 596 (Samuel Clay-
ton)
Campbell, (Ens., British Army): 166
Campbell, Andrew: 31
Campbell, Archibald Dr.: of Virginia, 295-96,
644-45
Campbell, Archibald (Lt. Col., British Army):
220, 589, 601
Campbell, Duncan (Capt.): 338, 338n. (Mary)
Campbell, George: 212-13, 249, 999
Campbell, J. (Capt., British Army): 600
Campbell, James (Capt.): to: John Hancock,
749, mentioned, 105, 296-97, 608, 895-96 (En-
terprize)
Campbell, James: on Andrew Doria, 31
Campbell, Laurence (Capt., British Army): 600
Campbell, Peter (Capt., British Army): 600
Campbell, Pollock: 603
Campbell, William: 313
Campbell, Lord William (Royal Gov., S.C.): 90,
184, 750
Campbell & Gelbraith: 1169
Campeche, Mexico: 394
Canada, HMS: 449
Canada: American retreat from, 1336, 1340,
1350; British forces in, 227, 277, 425, 435, 467,
567, 605, 888, 975, 1081-82, 1364; intelligence
reports, 61, 414-17, 1032, 1081-82; militia
from, 160, 793, 925; commerce and supplies,
272, 454, 632; mentioned, 354, 575, 595, 724n.,
838, 1108, 1237, 1244, 1365
Canady, Arthur: 379, 785
Canceaux, HM Armed Vessel: Master’s Log:
55, 229; in St. Lawrence River, 136, 169, 894;
in Richelieu River, 45-47, 201; mentioned,
449, 883, 1343, 1345, 1370, 1424 (Henry
Mowat; John Schank)
Cane, Thomas: 1015
Cannibal, Edward: 337
Cannon Committee: See Continental Congress,
Cannon Committee
Canso, Nova Scotia: 1030, 1149, 1395, 1433,
1458
Canso Harbor, Nova Scotia: 1044, 1048
Cape Ann, Mass.: vessels cruising off: Liver-
pool, 27, 673, 769; Milford, 278; Viper, 347;
Warren, 1090; Yankee Hero, 127; vessels
taken off: Anne, 289; Britania, 177; Picary,
1055; Sara and Elizabeth, 1055; Swallow,
1055; two sloops, 347; mentioned, 315, 358,
418, 539, 554, 661, 752, 754, 1055
Cape Breton Island, Nova Scotia: 1047, 1457
Cape Charles, Va.: Dunmore’s Fleet off, 142,
173-74; vessels cruising off: Fowey, 72n.; Ga-
latea, 1384, 1464; Nautilus, 1384, 1464; Otter,
376; Virginia Navy to cruise off, 239, 246;
mentioned, 23, 70, 88-89, 132, 239, 933
Cape Coast, Ghana: 76
Cape Cod, Mass.: vessels cruising off: Liverpool,
2, 769, 948; Milford, 746-47; mentioned, 77,
284, 315
Cape Fear, N.C.: Hopkins ordered to: 1202,
1385-86, 1464-65; vessels cruising off: Active,
893; Cruizer, 169, 1072; Falcon, 169; Scorpion,
169; mentioned, 490, 561, 562, 569, 596
Cape Fear River, N.C.: British fleet in, 101,
376, 744, 1109n.; British fleet departed,
1447-48; navigational obstructions, 313; men-
tioned, 490, 497
Cape Finisterre, Spain: 616, 625, 1196, 1251
Cape Francois: See Cap-Haitien
Cape Hatteras, N.C.: 1441
Cape Henlopen, Del.: cruising off: Orpheus,
103n., 293, 293n., 796n., 1465; Providence,
1081n., Daphne, 1465; captured off: Dispatch,
103n., 796n.; Britannia, 1081n.; Two Broth-
ers, 1465; mentioned, 42, 105, 186, 209, 677
Cape Henry, Va.: vessels off: Fowey, 72, 72n.,
88-89; Galatea, 1384, 1464; Lively, 376;
Nautilus, 1384, 1464; Roebuck, 70, 106-07;
Dunmore’s fleet off: 142, 173-74; Virginia
Navy to cruise off: 239, 246; mentioned, 23,
132, 739, 933
Cape May, N.J.: cruising off: Orpheus, 103n.,
796n.; Providence, 1081n.; mentioned, 42, 186,
209, 1092, 1163
Cape Nicola Mole: See Cape St. Nicolas Mole
Cape North, Nova Scotia: 54, 201
Cape of Good Hope, South Africa: 468-69,
469n.
Cape Percieux, Nova Scotia: 1047
Cape Race, Newfoundland: 746-47, 747n.
Cape Ray, Newfoundland: 45, 54, 201
Cape St. Antonio, Cuba: 1427
Cape St. Nicolas Mole, Hispaniola: captured
off: Lady Caroline, 830, 879; cruising off:
Atalanta, 866; La Renommee, 394; Porcupine,
829, 980; Squirrel, 830, 899; Tyne, 543; John
Dupuy American agent, 796; mentioned, 48,
199, 384, 559, 750-51, 807n„ 919, 1041-42,
1317, 1330, 1332
Cape St. Vincent, Portugal: 588, 607, 619
Cape Sable, Nova Scotia: 261, 970, 1047, 1157
Cape Sambro, Nova Scotia: 903
Cape Spichel, Portugal: 607
Cape Tiburon (Tiberoon), Hispaniola: 751,
751n.
Cap-Haitien (Cape Francois) , French Santo
Domingo: used as a deposit for American
goods, 148, 794-96, 1025, 1086-87; Stephen
1554
INDEX
Ceronio acted as American agent, 149, 244,
795, 1025; mentioned, 284, 365-66, 405, 411,
456, 471, 722n., 733, 734, 734n., 790., 790n.,
981, 997, 1029
Capron, Benjamin: 923
Captain, HMS: 452
Captain Mowbray: 314
Captin, Isaac: 1377
Captina, ship. 785 (Ceutrich)
Carberry, Henry: 906
Carcass, HM Bomb Brig: joined Howe’s fleet,
156n., 542, 1515; at Staten Island, 167; at
Battle of Long Island, 268-70, 324, 374; at
New York, 782, 891; at Paulus Hook, 950,
965, 992, 1066; mentioned, 449, 1424 (Robert
Dring)
Cardscross, Weeden: 856
Carew, Josiah: 1160
Carey, Henry (Capt., Dunmore’s Fleet): 643
(Betsy)
Carleton, HM Schooner: fitting out, 135,
654, 790; completed, 857-58, 883, 1081;
at Isle aux Noix, 1023; at Riviere La Colle,
1137; Battle of Valcour Island, 1198, 1230,
1234-35, 1244, 1257, 1258, 1272, 1275, 1277,
1307, 1340-41, 1343, 1443 (James Dacres)
Carleton Sir Guy (Maj. Gen., British Army;
Gov., Quebec): concerning preparations on
Lakes Champlain and Ontario, 45^17, 54,
55n., 1178; Canadian operations, 415, 429,
433-34, 437, 506, 513; lack of provisions, 632-
33; communication with the Howes, 724n.,
792; Battle of Valcour Island, 1245, 1256-59,
1261, 1272-74, 1276, 1336, 1341, 1350, 1436,
1445; need for seamen, 1364-65; to: John
Burgoyne, 1272-74, 1364; Hector Cramahe,
1178; Charles Douglas, 1257, 1350, 1364-65;
George Germain, 1257-58; William Howe,
1336; mentioned, 888, 969-70, 993, 1081, 1106,
1108, 1193, 1279, 1350n., 1370, 1462
Carleton, William (Capt.): captured, 1031n.,
1395, 1396n., 1433; mentioned, 112, 1211,
1212n„ 1231, 1231n., 1299, 1299n. ( General
Gates)
Carlies, Thomas: 263
Carlisle, : 1320
Carlisle Bay, Barbados: 751, 1044
Carmichael, William: 550n.
Carnegy, Patrick (Midn., R.N.): 1343
Caroline, ship: 940, 940n., 1028, 1028n., 1140-41,
(Denness)
Carolina Packet, brigantine: captured, 346-47;
tried, 789n.; sold, 900, 1114, 1196 (Mark
Towel)
Carpenter, Richard: 787, 857
Carpenter, Weden: 138
Carpentor, John: 677
Carr, Elias: 693, 1301
Carr, Henry: 907
Carr, James: 1224
Carribean Sea: 396*
Carroll, Charles (Barrister): 657*
Carroll, John: 460
Carron, brig: 1162-63, 1162n., 1215, 1215n., 1239
(J. Montgomery)
Carter, John: 259
Carter, William: 905
Carter, William (Capt.): 588, 619 (Lively)
Carthy, Thomas: 1159
Cartwright, Daniel (Capt.): 1334-35, 1356
Carver, Lemuel: 652
Carvill, Joseph: 304
Carysfort, HMS: Journal, 805, 822-23, 849, 863,
1234; carried troops to Quebec, 442, 542; in
St. Lawrence River, 169; at New York, 724,
724n., 887-88; troop landings at Manhattan
Island, 838-41, 848; in East River, 862, 886,
892, 989, 1065; fired upon in East River, 725,
804-06; 806n.; at Throgs Point, 1279; men-
tioned, 448, 1424 (Robert Fanshaw)
Casco Bay, Me.: 58, 315, 345-46
Casey, (Capt.): 620
Castello, Juan (Capt., Spanish Navy): 920
(Pacifico)
Castle, (Capt.): 1034 (Camden)
Castle, Barnabas: 857
Castle Harbor, Bermuda: 276, 301, 1165
Castle William, Mass.: 290
Caswell, North Carolina Sloop: 1042
Caswell, Virginia Navy Row Galley: officer ap-
pointments, 742, 783; building, 1417-18
(Willis Wilson)
Catavowe, Joshua: 701
Cathalan, Estienne: to: Willing, Morris & Co.,
406-08; mentioned, 827
Catharine [ Catherine ], British Clothing Ship:
537, 579, 594-95
Cathrine, brigantine: 136 (John Barnicoat)
Cathrow, (Capt.): 592 (Dutchess of Lein-
ster)
Caton, Thomas: 697
Caulfield, Toby (Capt., R.N.): 169, 374, 725,
886, 891 (Bristol)
Cayenne, French Guiana: 896
Cedar Creek, Del.: 8
Celtrow, Andrew: 305
Centaur, HMS: 447, 504, 532 (William Brere-
ton)
Centurion, HMS: at Staten Island, 167, 184,
891, 1063; mentioned, 419, 448, 1424 (Richard
Bra th waite)
Cerberus, HMS: Journal, 722, 733-34, 790, 1045,
1045n., 1118, 1162, 1239n., 1332; master’s log,
734n., 1118n.; pursued Hampden, 210; Na-
thaniel & Elizabeth, 33n.; two Continental
ships, 17; captured: Batchelor, 1162; Betsey,
1332; Crawford, 104n., 125, 219; Elizabeth,
1124; Felicite, 722, 733, 734n.; Hawk, 1124;
Joseph, 790n.; Lyon, 1125; Mercury, 506; Suc-
cess, 733, 734n., 1332; William, 1124; two un-
identified vessels, 1215; recaptured: Carron,
1162; Crawford, 650n.; Jenny, 1162; Peggy,
790, 790n., 855, 856n., 949; at Block Island,
169, 892, 1061, 1163, 1219; attack by Turtle
INDEX
1555
in 1777, 1507; mentioned, 235, 448, 496, 650,
1424 (John Symons)
Ceres, HM Sloop: 450
Ceres, ship: 385
Ceronio, Stephen: 149, 244, 796, 1025, 1386,
1403; from: Committee of Secret Correspond-
ence, 1387
Ceutrich, (Capt.): 785 ( Captina )
Chabotes, sloop: 951
Chace, Walter: 700
Chace, William (Capt.): 16, 30, 60, 93, 94n., 129,
136, 138n., 153-54, 214, 252-53, 264, 584, 653,
676; to: Thomas Stacy, 252-53 ( Diamond )
Chads, Henry (Lt., R.N.): 886
Chadwick, John: 138
Chadwick, Nathaniel: 922
Chadwick, Quako: 138
Chaloner, John: 327
Chamberlane, Charles: 905
Chamberlayne, Philip (Lt., Virginia Navy): 238
Chamberlin, Jasper: 31
Chambers, (Capt.): 886
Chambers, William (Lt., R.N.): 664
Chambly, Quebec: 45, 54, 61, 135, 150n., 201,
660, 857
Chambly Rapids, Quebec: 513, 605
Chambre [Chambri, Chambury], British Trans-
port: 432, 435, 492, 493, 1292
Chamier, Daniel: 1366
Champlin, John: 1129
Champlin, Josh: 81
Champlin, Samuel (Capt.): 1128-30, 1399, 1443,
1460 ( American Revenue)
Chance, Pennsylvania Privateer Schooner:
1093n., 1107 (James Armitage)
Chance, Pennsylvania Privateer Sloop: cap-
tured: Juno, 64n., 508, 508n., 529n.; Lady
Juliana, 58n., 508, 508n., 521-22, 529n., 531—
32; Reynolds, 192n., 515n., 529n., 1457; mem-
tioned, 130-31, 1012, 1013, 1155 (James Rob-
ertson; John Adams)
Chance, ship: 1124
Channing, John: 651
Chapel, Frederick (Capt., Arnold’s Fleet): 204,
204n., 985-86 [Gates)
Chapin, Seth (Lt., Continental Marines): 651,
819
Chapman, James (Maj., Continental Army):
1063
Chapman, John (Capt., R.N.): from: James
Young, 1451-52; mentioned, 11-12, 12n., 26,
51, 77, 111, 142-43, 583-84, 601, 1450 (Shark)
Chapman, John (Lt., Connecticut Navy): 316
Chapman, John (Maj.): 845
Chapman, Peleg: 856
Chapman, Richard (Capt.): 1100 (Adventure)
Chapman, Samuel: 1372
Charamel & Co.: at Bordeaux, 462
Charles III, King of Spain: 393-97, 607, 614
Charles, Alexander: 113
Charleston, S.C.: Active cruising near, 379;
British attack, 70, 184, 260, 490, 560, 561-64,
566, 569, 596, 663n., 672; Defence and Prosper
fitted out, 1427; Ranger sailed from, 559-60;
St. James destroyed near, 48 In.; mentioned,
42, 56, 56n„ 105, 124, 185, 196-97, 212, 393,
477, 995-96, 1045-46, 1335n., 1338
Charlestown, Mass.: 752
Charleton, Edward: 259
Charley, : 289
Charloe, Joseph: 304
Charlotta, HM Tender: in Hudson River, 5,
19-20, 22, 37-38, 50, 84, 166-67, 182, 208, 217;
set afire, 206, 208, 218, 226, 227; mentioned,
241-42
Charlotte, Quebec Province Armed Vessel: 1345
Charlotte, sloop: 980, 981n., 1170 (John Wil-
liams)
Charlotte, sloop: 821 (John Cox)
Charming Peggy, brigantine: 1070 (Gustavus
Conyngham)
Charming Polly, brigantine: captured by Or-
pheus, 147, 149n. (William McFadden; Philip
Lacey)
Charming Polly, sloop: 1124
Charming Sally, Rhode Island Privateer Sloop:
1472-73, 1473n. (Francis Brown)
Charming Sally, ship: 346, 789n., 900 (John
Stell)
Chartres, Due de: 456
Chase, John: 1334, 1356
Chase, Mackson: 138
Chase, Robert (Capt.): 1415 ( Gaspe )
Chase, Samuel: 641. 735, 934, 1051
Chatfield, Lewin: 1160
Chatham, HMS: Journal: 725; captured: James,
1124; at New York, 891; at Staten Island,
167, 184, 225-26, 351; as Parker’s flagship,
725; plan of, 168*, Shuldham returned to
England on board, 501, 1444; mentioned,
448, 496, 842, 859 (John Raynor)
Chatham, Pennsylvania Navy Row Galley: 6
(James Montgomery)
Chatham, John (Capt.): 1122 (General Lee)
Chatham, Conn.: 654, 707n., 1021
Chatham, England: 414, 421, 432, 469, 502, 504,
522, 546, 547, 550
Chatham, Mass.: 95
Chaudi£re River, Canada: 1350
Chaumont, Jacques Donatien Le Ray de: 499,
500n., 508, 509, 560
Cheeny, Mrs. : 707
Cheeny, Samuel: 334, 959
Cheesborough, Peleg: 1128
Cheesebrough, Elihu: 1399
Chein, Timothy: 517
Cheles, : 31
Cherokee, HM Armed Vessel: Master’s Log, 189,
300, 1141, 1284; captured, unarmed vessel,
300; joins Howe’s fleet, 1423; at Savannah,
893, 1074-75, 1132; mentioned, 169, 449, 1424
(John Fergusson)
Cherry, George: 665
Cherry Stone Harbor, Va.: 238
1556
INDEX
Chesapeake Bay: 65, 67#, 68, 131-32, 173, 187,
196, 490, 774, 774n., 784, 1009
Cheselden, William: 1485
Cheshire, N.Y.: 34
Chester, John: 18, 18n., 695
Chester, Peter (Gov., West Florida): to: George
Germain, 1427-28; from: Charles Cobb, 660,
729-30; mentioned, 687-89, 689n., 746, 813-14,
943
Chester, England: 588, 619
Chester, Pa.: 1163, 1371
Chetwynd, G.: 430
Chevaux de frise: in Delaware River, 69, 312,
1163, 1249, 1266, 1368; in East River, 1023,
1138, 1520; at Fort Island, 904, 1281, 1311; in
Hudson River, 4, 50, 62, 228, 372, 1023, 1178,
1179, 1180, 1182, 1184-86, 1238, 1336 See also
Navigational Obstructions
Chevers, Ezekiel: 118, 144
Chew, : 782n.
Chew, Benjamin (Capt.): 293 (Two Brothers)
Chew, Samuel (Capt.): from: Esek Hopkins,
757; mentioned, 4, 273
Chichester: 452
Chick, John: 1227
Chiffelle, Philotheos: 943
Child, Thomas (Capt.): 781, 781n., 1115-16,
1137, 1137n., 1149 (Industry)
Childers, Joel: 995
Childs, George (Capt.): to: Massachusetts Coun-
cil, 1432; mentioned, 1358n., 1471 (St. Lucia)
Childs, James (Lt., Washington’s Fleet): 735
Chincoteague, Va.: 65, 105, 238, 292, 993
Chinnery, St. John (Capt., R.N.): from: Lords
Commissioners, 414; mentioned, 1103, 1118,
1152 (Daphne)
Chisholm, (Capt., British Army): 600
Chisnell, John: 32
Choiseul, Etienne Francois Due de: 220, 587
Chrisholm, Alexander: 1480
Christian, Brabazon (Lt., R.N.): 665, 1144
Christian, John: 31
Christian, Niles: 652
Christian, Robert: 591
Christie, Robert, Jr.: to: Daniel of St. Thomas
Jenifer, 171-72; mentioned, 1205-06
Christie, William (Dr.): 43
Church, James: 882
Church, Samuel: 906
Church, Silas: 333, 959
Churchill, John: 998
City Island, N.Y.: 323, 349, 771, 1006, 1239
Clandir, George: 337
Clap, Caleb (Ens., Continental Army): Diary:
130, 182-83, 308
Clarendon, ship: 1101 (John Denniston)
Clark, David: 31
Clark, Joel (Lt. Col., Continental Army): 679
Clark, John (Capt.): 496 (Hay field)
Clark, John: 1301
Clark, Mark: 769
Clark, Peter (Capt., Massachusetts Marines):
908, 1231-32, 1330
Clark, Richard, 665
Clark, Samuel: 344
Clark, Seth (Capt.): 1170 (Unity)
Clark, Thomas: 700
Clark & Milligan: 587
Clarke, (Capt.): 723, 723n.
Clarke, Arthur (Capt.): 74 (Pensacola and Ja-
maica Packet)
Clarke, James: 766-67
Clarke, James: prisoner, 305
Clarke, James: to: Daniel of St. Thomas Jenifer,
1440; mentioned, 1205-06
Clarke, John: 16
Clarke, John (Cook, Continental Navy): 138
Clarke, John J.: 721, 1349
Clarke & Nightingale: concerning prizes, 315,
987, 1196; to: Nathaniel Shaw, Jr., 1056-57;
Abraham Yates, Jr., 854-55; mentioned, 241,
819
Clarkson, Jesse: 1015
Clarkson, John: 245
Clarkson, Livinus: 1322
Clarkson, Matthew: 327, 1011
Clayton, Samuel (Capt.): 594 (Camilla)
Clear, Will: 338
Cleaves, Nathaniel (Lt., Continental Army): to:
George Washington, 1184
Clement, Silas: 1161
Clementina, British Army Transport: 600
(Crawford)
Cleopatra, ship: 481 (James Fitch)
Clerke, Charles (Capt., R.N.): 403-04, 468-69
(Discovery)
Clesby, William (Capt.): 970 (Baltimore)
Cleveland, Breholt (Capt.): 626, 627m, 899, 1002
(Picary)
Cleveland, John: 698
Cleveland, Stephen (Capt.): 125, 178, 179n.,
690, 921, 953, 953n., 970 (Dispatch)
Clifford, Benjamin: 807
Clifton, Thomas: 1320
Clinton, sloop: 987, 1034
Clinton, George (Brig. Gen., Continental
Army): New York Campaign, 20, 1185-86,
1349; to: George Washington, 20
Clinton, Henry (Maj. Gen., British Army): at-
tack on Charleston, S.C., 110, 490, 491n.,
561-64, 973; refused aid to Lord Dunmore,
51; New York Campaign, 99, 100-01, 123-24,
147, 227, 571, 632, 711, 1065, 1518-19; from:
Thomas Symonds, 170; mentioned, 70, 132,
197, 559, 569, 589, 589n.
Clinton, James (Brig. Gen., Continental Army):
873, 1218
Clough, Thomas (Lt.): 78
Clouston, John (Capt., Massachusetts Navy):
seniority established, 345; from: Massachu-
setts Council, 908; mentioned, 78, 231, 661,
674, 898-99, 898n., 997, 997n., 1032, 1078,
1113, 1173, 1269, 1455, 1455n. (Freedom)
INDEX
1557
Clowin, (Capt.) : 1019
Clugny, Jean Etienne Bernard de (Controller
General of Finance): from: Vergennes, 472,
609; mentioned, 441, 519, 533n.
Clyde River, Scotland: 534, 598, 600-01
Clymer, George: 1425
Coak, Robert: 144
Coan, D.: 603
Coas, William (Capt.): 13, 899, 952, 1002, 1114,
1190, 1 190n., 1142-43 ( Warren )
Coates & Reynell: from: Stephen Hooper, 315
Cobb, Charles (Lt., R.N.): to: Peter Chester,
660, 729-30; mentioned, 401, 660, 687, 729-30,
746, 943
Cobb, David: to: Robert Treat Paine, 57-58,
232-33, 754-55
Cobham, Va.: 239
Coburn, John: 904
Cocarry, Daniel: 1399
Cochran, John: 546
Cochran, Robert (Capt., South Carolina Navy):
to: John Langdon, 11; mentioned, 212 (Notre
Dame)
Cochran, Robert: 697
Cochran, William (Capt.): 231, 262, 262n., 789
(Argo)
Cocke, James (Capt., Virginia Navy): resigned,
1409; from: Virginia Navy Board, 379; men-
tioned, 88, 88n., 1312 (Raleigh)
Cocke, John (Capt., Virginia Marines): 44, 742
Cockey, Richard: 906
Cocklin, : 658-59
Cocknel, Richard: 1176
Cockran, John: 517
Cockran, Robert: 31
Cockspur Island, Ga.: 134-35, 314, 749-50, 1132
Codey, James: 906
Coducey, Eben: 1460
Coffin, (Capt.): 1239
Coffin, (Capt.): 2n., 620 (Nevis)
Coffin, Abel: from: John Paul Jones, 1126-27;
mentioned, 1375
Coffin, Abner (Capt.): 819, 1149, 1149n., 1331,
1349, 1459 (Favourite)
Coffin, Alexander (Capt.): 1019
Coffin, Charles (Capt.): 721 (Industry)
Coffin, Elias (Capt.): 790n. (Joseph)
Coffin, Elisha (Capt.): 1002 (Lord Howe)
Coffin, J. (Capt.): 1332n. (Success)
Coffin, Thomas: 1161
Cogen, Isaac: 703
Coggeshalle, Bill: 292
Coghlan, John (Capt.): 1439 (Lovely Mary)
Cohoon, Reuben: 1329
Coilers Hook, N.Y.: 839
Coit, John: 1376
Coit, Samuel: 1129
Coit, Thomas (Dr.): 707
Coit, William (Capt., Washington’s Fleet; Capt.,
Connecticut Navy): to: Connecticut Com-
mittee of the Pay Table, 334-35; mentioned,
281, 721, 721n., 871, 1005-06, 1363, 1381
(Harrison; Oliver Cromwell)
Coit, William: from: Joseph Williams, 771-72,
1062-63, 1307
Colas, George (Capt.): 1396 (Venus)
Cole, Elisha (Capt.): 981-82 (Triton)
Cole, Hoshier: 906
Cole, John: 780, 821-22, 1056, 1288
Cole, John (Capt.): 1171 (Dolphin)
Cole, John (Seaman, Continental Navy): 17,
694
Cole, Patrick: 906
Cole, William (Capt.): 346n. (True Blue)
Colefax, George: 956, 1129
Colefax, Robert: 337
Coleman, Thomas: 1227, 1282
Colerus, Christian de: 890, 890n.
Colfax, George: 693
Colins, Henry (Lt., R.N.): 579, 594-95
College of Philadelphia [Pennsylvania Medical
School]: 1485
Collett, Jacob: 693
Collier, Sir George (Capt., R.N.): prisoner ex-
change, 373, 1268-69, 1286, 1357; Journal ac-
count of New York Campaign, 1513-26; to:
Henry Mowat, 1249-50, 1393; mentioned, 167,
269*, 309, 337, 893, 1286, 1424 (Rainbow)
Collins, (Capt.): 599 (Heart of Oak)
Collins, Daniel: 699
Collins, James: 906
Collins, John (Capt.): 192 (Patty)
Collins, John (Capt., R.N.): 276, 300, 803, 887,
893, 924, 1157, 1165-66, 1357, 1424, 1428
(Nautilus)
Collins, Pickerin: 304
Collins, Thomas: 191
Collit, Daniel: 701
Colnbrooke , ship: 624
Colonel Parry , Pennsylvania Privateer Schooner:
1103, 1108, 1108n. (William Gamble)
Colpoys, John (Capt., R.N.): 239, 380, 645, 1424
(Seaford)
Colston, J. (Capt.): 162n. (Louisa)
Columbus, British Transport: 600 (Bell)
Columbus, Continental Navy Ship: surgeon, 28,
28n.; departed on cruise with Andrew Doria,
154, 154n.; seamen transferred to, 138, 692-
705, 1372-73; ordered to Newfoundland, 271;
engagement with Glasgow, 401, 405; officer
appointments, 639, 1371; Whipple received
command of Providence, 651, 1200; chased by
60-gun ship, 770; returned from cruise, 1055,
1219; ordered to Cape Fear, 1202, 1385-86;
in proposed Long Island expedition, 1218-19;
report on, 1271; pay, 1301; seamen taken
from, 1372-73; refitted, 1399; captured: Royal
Exchange, 610, 610n., 788, 1031, 1047, 1055,
1115, 1136-37, 1137n.; Hester, 611, 611n., 788,
1031, 1115, 1136-37, 1250-51; Bee, 611, 611n.,
788, 1031, 1115, 1136-37; Lord Lifford, 949,
1113, 11 14n., 1115, 1137, 1137n., 1146, 1146n.;
mentioned, 255, 474, 1001, 1303 (Abraham
Whipple)
388-825 O - 73 - 100
1558
INDEX
Colver, Daniel: 956
Colwell, John (Seaman, Continental Navy): 1093
Colwell, John, Jr.: 677
Comet, South Carolina Navy Brigantine: in
Georgia, 941-42; command vacant, 969; James
Dogharty elected captain, 966; Dogharty de-
clined command, 1109; Edward Allen ap-
pointed, 1192, 1209-10; muster roll, 1243;
ordered to West Indies, 1283-84, 1441; pro-
visions, 1314; purser, 1315; cannon needed,
1418; captured: St. James, 481, 481n.; un-
named ship, 749 (Joseph Turpin; Edward
Allen)
Commissioners for Victualing: from: Lords
Commissioners, 442-43
Committee for Obstructing the Navigation of
the Hudson River: See New York Provincial
Convention
Committee of Secret Correspondence: See Con-
tinental Congress, Committee of Secret Cor-
respondence
Compstock, Ethan (Lt., Massachusetts Navy):
777-78
Comstock, William (Midn,, Continental Navy):
652
Conanicut Island, R.I.: 179
Concord, ship: captured Hancock, 1194
Concord, Mass.: 202, 531n.
Condy, Benjamin: 1320
Congress, Continental Navy Frigate: under con-
struction, 35, 208, 264, 365, 458, 459n., 872-73,
902, 928, 1138-39, 1254, 1333, 1365; officer
appointments, 274, 1201; to be launched,
1034, 1185-86, 1353-54, 1435, 1443-44 (Thomas
Grennell)
Congress, Arnold’s Fleet Row Galley: Battle of
Valcour Island, 1235-37, 1258, 1275-76, 1306,
1344, 1380; burned to prevent capture, 1389;
mentioned, 96 (Benedict Arnold)
Congress, Pennsylvania Navy Row Galley: 6n.
(John Hamilton)
Congress, Pennsylvania Privateer Sloop: cap-
tured: Juno, 63, 64n., 508, 508n., 529n.; Lady
Juliana, 529n.; Reynolds, 192n., 508, 508n.,
515n., 521-22, 529n., 1457n.; Richmond, 7, 23,
105, 1447, 1447n.; William Greenway com-
missioned, 1122; mentioned, 130, 1155
(George McAroy; John Craig; William Green-
way)
Congress: See American Congress
Conkling, Joseph (Capt.): 1005n. ( Revenge )
Conna, Anna: 1376
Connecticut, Arnold's Fleet Gondola: 98, 224,
253 (Grant)
Connecticut: aid to Continental Navy, 17-18,
692-705; aid to Lake Champlain Fleet, 3-4,
33, 36, 203; militia, 204, 254-55, 264, 283,
336, 707, 781, 1220, 1290, 1307, 1434; support
of New York Campaign, 264—65, 707, 733,
762, 781; trade, 399; mentioned, 78, 86n., 121,
125, 146, 208n., 210, 788-89, 871-72, 925,
1012, 1057, 1057n., 1102, 1106, 1247, 1261
Connecticut Committee of the Pay Table: from:
William Coit, 334-35; Benjamin Hunting-
ton, 662, 723, 1020, 1381; Richard Law, 1005;
Jonathan Trumbull, 1149; mentioned, 204
Connecticut Council of Safety: Journal: 16-17,
154-55, 204, 214-15, 241, 253, 316, 759-60,
770, 882, 1004-05, 1005n., 1021, 1080, 1099,
1363, 1381, 1421-22, 1460; granted money to
recruit seamen for Arnold’s Fleet, 166n., 204;
ordered purchase of Endeavor, 204; men-
tioned, 334, 662, 723, 733, 1435
Connecticut General Assembly: 1216-17, 1217n.
Connecticut Courant (Hartford): 1776: 12 Aug.,
154; 2 Sep., 654; 16 Sep., 857; 23 Oct., 1306-07
Connecticut Gazette (New London): 1776: 2
Aug., 17; 9 Aug., 129-30; 23 Aug., 281; 30
Aug., 360; 6 Sep., 723; 13 Sep., 804; 4 Oct.,
1006n., 1057n., 1127; 11 Oct., 1217, 18 Oct.,
862, 875, 911, 933, 950, 966, 1305, 1317
Connecticut Journal (New Haven): 1776: 21
Aug., 141; 28 Aug., 335; 4 Sep., 677; 05 Oct.,
1382
Connecticut River: 281, 360
Connel, Jeremiah: 703
Connell, William (Capt.): 1140 ( General
Thompson)
Connelly, Cornelius: 1373
Conner, John: 694
Conner, Thomas: 697
Conningham, : 1252
Conqueror, HMS: 449
Conquestador, HMS: 452 (Samuel Thompson)
Constance, ship: 385 (Foligny)
Constitution: 1268
Constitutional Gazette (Philadelphia): 1776: 27
July, 43n.; 3 Aug., 39; 7 Aug., 43n.; 21 Aug.,
254
Content, sloop: 1040 (Meredith)
Continental Congress
Boards: Treasury, 220, 1201, 1415; War, 63,
104, 310, 748n., 863, 1080, 1103, 1163,
1201
Committees:
Cannon: 171
Marine: concerning Alfred, 18; An-
drew Doria, 936, 1308; Boston, 933—
34, 1126, 1158; Congress, 274, 1353-
54: Esek Hopkins, 22, 156-58,
271-73, 1384; established Continen-
tal Navy ranks, 1200-01; Hampden,
210, 273; Hawke, 273n.; Hopkins,
757n; Hornet, 325-26; Independence,
912; Montgomery, 939, 1353-54;
Musketo, 1092; navigational obstruc-
tions, 1189-90; officer appointments,
170-71; officer recommendations,
270-71; Providence, 85-86, 651, 948-
49; Raleigh, 229, 815-16, 933-35,
1154, 1188, 1248-49, 1308, 1348-49;
Sachem, 1319; Trumbull, 273-74,
707; Washington’s Fleet, 656, 682,
772; Wasp, 286-87; to: Thomas
INDEX
1559
Albertson, 1092; John Baldwin, 286-
87; John Bradford, 934-35, 1248;
Continental Agents, 1321; Thomas
Cushing, 933-34; Nathaniel Falconer,
1188-89; Thomas Godet, 1203; Hoy-
steed Hacker, 273; William Hallock,
209; Esek Hopkins, 271-73, 1202,
1384, 1464-65; John Paul Jones, 85-
86, 209; John Langdon, 935-36, 1189,
1248, 1249, 1308; Augustin Lawrence,
1353-54; Hector McNeill, 1385; John
Manley, 1385; New York Provincial
Convention, 1189-90; North Caro-
lina Council of Safety, 1385-86;
Rhode Island Committee to build
two Continental Frigates, 1188, 1248—
49; Isaiah Robinson, 936, 1308;
James Robinson, 1319; Nathaniel
Shaw, Jr., 273-74; William Stone,
325-26; Thomas Thompson, 935,
1385; Daniel Tillinghast, 656, 1248,
1464; Henry Tucker, 1203; Samuel
Tuder, 1353-54; Lambert Wickes,
1400; John Young, 912; from: Nic-
holas Biddle, 102; Thomas Cushing,
1146-47; Esek Hopkins, 639-40, 770,
948-49, 1055-56, 1398-99; John Paul
Jones, 684-85, 745, 1047-50, 1457-58;
mentioned, 8-9, 22, 63, 103, 115n.,
141, 149, 195, 209, 255, 286, 331, 332,
338, 346, 355, 639, 650, 685-87, 715-
16, 717, 863, 875, 904, 913, 914*, 915,
935-36, 1024, 1050, 1051n., 1087,
1091, 1093n., 1163, 1201, 1202, 1203,
1248, 1254, 1310n., 1321-22, 1333,
1365, 1385, 1386, 1400, 1426, 1435,
1440, 1462-64, 1465
Secret: contract with Willing, Morris
& Co., 185-86, 387n.; Andrew Doria,
1308; Aurora, 1153; Dispatch, 178;
Fanny, 1053n., 1360, 1360n., 1470;
Raleigh, 244; Reprisal, 1401, 1416—
17; Sachem, 1319; Trumbull, 273-74,
707; Virginia, 807, 807n.; to: William
Bingham, 913-14, 976, 1354-55;
Nicholas & John Brown, 1079n.;
Count d’Ennery, 243-44; William
Hodge, 1120-21; Maryland Council
of Safety, 807; Thomas Mifflin, 1247;
Thomas Morris, 1416-17; John Ross,
1024—25; from: Nicholas & John
Brown, 1078-79; Maryland Council
of Safety, 993-94; mentioned, 22, 63,
103, 103n., 115n., 141, 195, 243-44,
271, 365, 398, 476., 583-84, 656, 913-
14, 976, 1009, 1024-25, 1025n., 1102,
1119, 1120-21, 1163, 1247, 1353, 1354-
55
Secret Correspondence: relations with
France, 442, 509, 527-28, 566, 568n.,
618, 1086-87, 1088-89, 1089-91,
1105-06, 1387-88, 1400-03, 1403-05,
1407; to: William Bingham, 936-38,
1088-89; Stephen Ceronio, 1387; Silas
Deane, 102-03, 1089-91, 1105-06,
1387-88, 1403-05, 1405-07; Charles
Dumas, 1407; Benjamin Franklin,
1405-07; Arthur Lee, 1388, 1405-07;
Lambert Wickes, 1400-03; from:
Beaumarchais, 551-53; Silas Deane,
482-90, 508-11, 523-24, 553-54, 622;
mentioned, 76, 102-03, 115n., 255,
491, 491n., 602n., 618
Elizabeth: verdict on, 368-69, 675, 772
Esek Hopkins censured: 63, 196-97, 209,
220, 650, 1023n.
France, treaty with: 102, 406-08, 550, 1086-
87
Howe brothers, delegation to: 352, 726
782, 863-64, 910
Independence: 68, 176, 243, 1237 See also
Independence, Declaration of
Journal: 22, 63, 102, 141, 156-57, 170-71,
195, 209, 220, 242, 255, 270-71, 286, 309-
12, 325, 338, 355, 365, 667, 682, 715, 765,
904, 966, 1024, 1069-70, 1103, 1119, 1153,
1163, 1200, 1353, 1415, 1440, 1463-64
Lake Champlain: 96, 318, 321, 792, 961,
1062, 1117, 1118, 1237
Maryland delegates: supplies lent to by
Congress; 338; from: Maryland Council
of Safety, 24, 105-06, 131-32
Massachusetts delegates: 190
New Jersey delegates: 40-41; from: John
Covenhoven, 39-41
New York delegates: defensive preparations,
284, 667, 762; from: Abraham Yates, Jr.,
760-62
Pennsylvania delegates: 195
Prize agents: 85, 99, 116n., 232, 689-90,
1056
Resolves: 146-47, 260n., 308, 309-12, 1447-
48, 1485
Virginia delegates: 106
West Indies trade: 328, 605, 623, 727
mentioned: 3-4, 6, 10, 17n., 26, 41, 58, 61,
79, 85n., 103, 106, 125, 149, 153, 161, 163,
187, 194-95, 203, 212, 215-16, 219, 221n.,
245, 247, 251, 258-59, 264-65, 277, 290,
294, 302, 303-04, 327, 343, 357, 364, 366,
.37 In., 416, 442, 484, 510, 514, 515, 524-25,
528-29, 536, 551, 553, 557, 586, 590, 599,
612, 618, 620, 640, 645, 648-49, 653-56,
683, 711-12, 736, 755-56, 800, 802, 902,
928, 1023n., 1053, 1057, 1220, 1247, 1261-
62, 1308, 1319, 1365, 1456
Continental Journal (Boston): 1776: 15 Aug,
193; 29 Aug., 347n.; 12 Sept., 788; 26 Sept.,
1001-02; 10 Oct., 1196
Convention, Pennsylvania Navy Row Galley:
John Rice appointed, 327; fitting out, 915,
939, 1266, 1311 (John Rice)
Conway, (Capt., Virginia Marines): 1479
Conway, Michael: 906
1560
INDEX
Conway, Philip (Capt.): 1268 ( Liberty )
Conway, Robert (Capt., Virginia Navy) : from:
Virginia Navy Board, 239n.; mentioned,
1131-32, 1282, 1324 (Protector)
Conway, Thomas (Capt.): 24, 65, 187, 257,
798n., 1339 (Molly)
Conya, Peter: 1376
Conyngham, Gustavus (Capt.): 1070 (Charming
Peggy)
Cook, (Capt.): 1214
Cook, (Capt.): 1298
Cook, (Capt.): 372, 1199
Cook, Benjamin: 985
Cook, George (Capt., Maryland Navy): to: John
Boucher, 980; Maryland Council of Safety,
968, 970-80, 1132, 1466-67; from: Maryland
Council of Safety, 808; mentioned, 904-05,
980n. (Defence)
Cook, Jacob: 32
Cook, James (Capt., R.N.): from: Lords Com-
missioners, 403-04, 443; Philip Stephens, 468-
69; mentioned, 503 (Resolution)
Cook, John: 32
Cook, John (Landsman, Continental Navy): 138
Cook, John: of Newport, 292
Cook, John Newton: 1369
Cook, Thomas: 1 8, 695
Cook, Will (Seaman, Washington’s Fleet): 234
Cook, William (Capt., Dunmore’s Fleet): 790n.,
895, 978 (Peggy)
Cook, William: of Virginia, 9
Cooke, Ephraim: from: Richard Bulkeley, 1285
Cooke, Nicholas (Gov., Rhode Island): com-
mittee for frigate construction, 721; issued
letters of marque, 116, 116n., 292n., 306,
306n.; lack of naval protection, 662; ord-
nance, 196, 1147-48; exchange of prisoners,
955; to: Richard Derby, Jr., 1147-48; Lord
Howe, 146-47; Jonathan Trumbull, 662, 1134;
George Washington, 955; from: Joshua Bab-
cock, 924; Jabez Bowen, 781; John Brown,
165, 819; Richard Derby, Jr., 972; William
Ellery, 1223; Tobias Furneaux, 1216; Na-
thanael Greene, 874-75; John Henderson,
1459; Massachusetts Council, 179; Jonathan
Trumbull, 706, 1380-81; George Washington,
1238; mentioned, 29, 145, 145n., 146-47, 360,
525, 652, 652n., 954, 1004, 1004n., 1135, 1148,
1473
Cooke, Robert (Capt., Virginia Navy). 211,
236, 245, 1326 (Speedwell)
Coole, Isaia (Capt., Marines): 16
Coombs, John: 703
Cooney, Nichs: 31
Cooper, : 1316
Cooper, Joseph: 986
Cooper, Leonard: 703
Cooper, Nathan: 856
Cooper, Nathaniel (Mate, Maryland Navy): 905
Cooper, Nathaniel: of Dover, N.H., from: Ezra
Green, 1461-62
Cooper, Robert (Capt., R.N.): 53-54, 1424
(Hawke)
Cooper, Samuel: to: Benjamin Franklin, 871;
from: John Adams, 682-83; mentioned, 871
Cooper, Spink: 923
Cooper, Wells: from: Virginia Navy Board,
188-89; mentioned, 275
Coppithorn, John (Capt.): 1313
Copps, William: 872
Corbett, Thomas: 943, 1097, 1243, 1283, 1313
Cord, : 29
Cordray, James: 905
Cork, Ireland: 123, 276n., 297-98, 387, 400,
435, 453, 467, 477, 493, 497, 542, 570, 610, 615,
620, 772, 788, 1162n., 1382, 1411, 1423
Corlett, John: 1093
Cormorant , HM Sloop: 449, 626 (George Young)
Cornelia & Molly, brigantine: 186, 913, 976,
1338, 1354 (John Lockhart)
Cornell, Samuel: 443
Cornhill, Mass.: 153
Cornish, Samuel: 745
Cornwall, HMS: 452
Cornwallis, Lord [Charles Cornwallis, 2nd Earl
Cornwallis] (Maj. Gen., British Army): ar-
rived at Sandy Hook, 5; on board Eagle,
184; arrived at Staten Island, 99, 124, 147,
632, 1519; mentioned, 111, 561
Cornwallis, William (Capt., R.N.): to: Philip
Stephens, 76, 867, 1123; mentioned, 75, 91,
1071, 1110 (Pallas)
Corsica: 420, 455
Coruna, Spain: 670-71
Corvo, Azores: 624-25
Cossade, Stephen Pater de la: 1093
Cotes, James (Lt., R.N.): 75, 356, 829, 866, 980,
1029 (Porcupine)
Cotteril, Thomas (Lt.): 856
Cottle, Edmund (Capt.): 789 (Frederick)
Cottle, Shubael: 868-71
Cotton, John: to: Barnabas Deane, 1254; men-
tioned, 1178
Coudere & Loueadon: 462
Coudray, Philip Charles Baptiste Trouson du:
553n.
Coudres, Isle aux, Quebec: 417, 442
Countess of Eglington, brig: 602, 603, 603n.
(Robert Reid)
Count de Marbeuf, ship: 576 (Lochee)
Courageux, HMS: 449
Courtenay, Hercules: 1310
Cove, William: 1161
Covell, Timothy: 1329
Covenhoven, John: to: New Jersey Delegates
in Continental Congress, 39-41
Coventry, HMS: 448 (Benjamin Marlow)
Cow Bay, N.Y.: 771
Cowan, John (Capt.): 1252n., 1411 (Nancy)
Coward, Nicholas: 304
Coward, Richard: 1449
Cowell, George: 31
Cowes, England: 476, 565
INDEX
1561
Cownover, James: 109
Cowper, Miles: 1156
Cowpland, Jonathan (Capt., Pennsylvania
Navy): 1311
Cox, John: 327
Cox, John (Capt.): 821 ( Charlotte )
Cox, Thomas: on board Columbus, 1301
Cox, Thomas: on board Providence, 1372
Cozens, William: 901
Crabtree, Agreen (Capt.): to: Massachusetts
Council, 47-48; mentioned, 57 (Hannah &
Molly)
Crafts, Edward (Capt., Continental Artillery):
1185
Crafts, Thomas, Jr. (Col., Massachusetts Mi-
litia): to: Massachusetts Council, 800; men-
tioned, 230, 344, 801, 1213
Cragg, Robert: 1077-78
Cragg, Thomas: to: Massachusetts Council, 675-
76; mentioned, 608, 999
Craig, (Capt., Pennsylvania Militia): 187,
683
Craig, Isaac (Capt., Continental Marines): 939
Craig, James: 259
Craig, James: 668, 668n., 1012
Craig, James Henry (Capt.): 1261
Craig, John (Capt.): 23, 25, 105, 1446-47, 1447n.
(Congress)
Craig, Joseph: 696
Craig, Michael: 906
Craige, John: 1129
Cramahe, Hector (Lt. Gov., Quebec): from: Guy
Carleton, 1178
Cranberry Inlet, N.J.: 286, 927, 1142
Cranch, Richard: from: John Adams, 22-23
Crandol, Christopher: 138
Crane, Connecticut Navy Row Galley: at New
York City, 4, 22n., 78, 130, 226, 264, 1219;
supplies, 120; engagement with Phoenix and
Rose, 37-39, 49, 61-62, 121, 123, 124, 182, 253,
353, 618, 1085; beached and captured, 1 181—
84, 1186, 1317-18, 1318n., 1510; Tinker court-
martialed, 1317-18 (Jehiel Tinker)
Crane, John (Major, Continental Artillery):
655, 1032
Crapper, John: 906
Cravath, Lemuel: to: Maryland Council of
Safety, 1224-25
Cravath & Dugan: 1266
Crawford, British Army Transport: captured by
Andrew Doria, 539, 540n., 626; recaptured by
Cerberus, 104n., 125, 650n.; James Josiah,
prize master, prisoner, 219; mentioned, 601
(Maclean)
Crawford, (Capt.): 600 (Clementina)
Crawford, Arthur (Capt.): 1149, 1149n., 1175,
1214, 1215n. (Hawke)
Crawford, Gideon (Capt.): 524, 525, 1078, 1115,
1115n., 1247n. (Happy Return)
Crawford, James: 1375
Crawford, Thomas (Capt.): 1079
Crawley, John: from: Richard Bulkeley, 1285
Creely, John: 702
Cregier, Thomas (Capt., New York Navy): crew
complaints against, 680-82, 737-38, 928; to:
New York Committee of Safety, 1007-08;
Thomas Randall, 284-86; mentioned, 286n.,
973, 1152 (General Putnam)
Creighton, ship: captured, 516-18, 539n., 554;
purchased by Ross and Morgan, 303, 303n.,
881, 881n.; renamed William, 998-99, 999n.;
mentioned, 1339 See William (George Ross;
Benjamin Moore)
Creighton, John: 1286n.
Crescent, ship: 452
Crew Lists: See Muster rolls/Pay rolls
Crilly, Edward: 1093
Crockett, John: 864
Croke, James: 901
Cromarty, Thomas: lOOOn.
Cromarty, Scotland: 521
Crombie, David (Capt.): 611, 948., 1250-51
(Hester)
Crooked Island, Bahamas: 543
Crosbie, (Capt.): 540, 540n., 556, 600
(Mayflower)
Crossman, John: 1375
Croton River, N.Y.: 20, 39, 361
Crouder, Will: 234
Crow, Thomas: 907
Crowell, David: 1329
Crowell, Thomas: 1329
Crown Point, N.Y.: Arnold’s fleet fitting out,
145, 217, 223, 224, 317; maps, 836*; military
facilities destroyed, 1245, 1258, 1274-75, 1336;
mentioned, 205, 215, 371, 605, 723, 735, 760,
791, 792, 838, 993, 1033, 1117, 1235, 1257,
1260, 1306, 1368, 1389-90, 1461
Crown inshield, George: 369
Cruff, Samuel: 677
Cruise, : 857
Cruizer, HM Sloop: Journal: 275, 744, 1025;
at Cape Fear, 169, 196-97, 1202; unfit for
service, 376, 893, 1028, 1109, 1315, 1318,
1319n.; stores removed, 376, 1028, 1109, 1318;
mentioned, 449, 744, 1424 (Francis Parry)
Cuba: 394, 529
Cullen, William: 1485
Culley, Christopher: 1016
Culloden, HMS: 449
Culver, Edward: 872
Cumber, John: 234
Cumberland, HMS: 449
Cumberland, frigate: 515n.
Cumberland, packet: 490, 1327
Cumberland, Md.: 809, 811
Cumberland, Nova Scotia: 161, 330, 646
Cumberland, R.I.: 804
Cumberland Bay, N.Y.: 1350
Cumberland Bay, Nova Scotia: 371
Cumberland County, Mass.: 799
Cumberland Head, N.Y.: 734, 925
Cumberland Island, Ga.: 108-09
1562
INDEX
Cummings, (Misses): 691
Cummings, Alexander: 905
Cummings, William (Capt.): 1395, 1396n., 1472
(Jenny)
Cuningham, Richard: 1076
Cunningham, (Lt., R.N.): 390, 535
Cunningham, Joseph (Capt.): 972n. (Phoenix)
Cunningham, Walter: 1480
Curasao, West Indies: 294, 458, 771, 796, 1025,
1456
Curie, William (Col.): from: Virginia Navy
Board, 221
Curling, John: 47, 1343
Currie, (Capt.): 297, 608 (Black River)
Currituck, N.C.: 239
Curry, Nicholas: 1071
Curtin, John: 703
Curtis, Roger (Capt., R.N.): 167, 268-70, 374,
496, 892, 1364, 1439 (Senegal)
Curtis, Thomas: 16
Curtis Hook, N.Y.: 666
Curwen, George (Capt.): 911 (Nancy)
Cushing, Caleb: 1455
Cushing, Joseph: 954, 954n.
Cushing, Nathan: 344, 789, 1472
Cushing, Thomas: concerning Boston and
Hancock , 190-91, 232, 674-75, 755-56, 801-02,
936, 1126, 1146-47, 1158, 1270-71; intelli-
gence from London, 1019-20; prize agent,
1322; to: Nicholas Brown, 1270— 71 ; Massa-
chusetts Council, 1126; Marine Committee,
1146-47; John Hancock, 232, 674-75; Robert
Treat Paine, 232n., 755-56; from: Nicholas
Brown, 203; Marine Committee, 933-34; John
Hancock, 1407-08; John Langdon, 343; men-
tioned, 213, 249-50, 344, 997, 997n., 1173
Cushing & White: to: Nehemiah Somes, 1395
Cutland, Frank: 1129
Cutler, Justice: 691
Cutlett, George: 1242
Cutts, : 817
Cuyler, (Major): 596
Cuzens, George (Capt.): 75n. (Hope)
Cygnet, HM Sloop: 449 (William Finch)
Dacres, James (Lt., R.N.): appointed to com-
mand, 654, 654n.; Lake Champlain service,
883, 1198, 1257, 1275, 1341, 1343; mentioned,
135, 137*, 951 (Carleton)
Dalby, Thomas (Midn., R.N.): 1343
Dale, Richard (Midn., Continental Navy): 43n„,
1011
Dailey, John: 234
Dalrimple, (Col., British Army): 1292
Dalrymple, Hugh (Capt., R.N.): 169, 894 (Juno)
Dalton, John: 1326
Dalton, Tristram: to: Samuel White, 1077; men-
tioned, 1299
Dana, Francis: 756
Daniels, Samuel: 984
Danton, Preston: 857
Danvers, Mass.: 230, 280, 347, 776
Daphne, HMS: captured. Two Brothers, 1465,
1466n.; convoyed transports to America,
453, 457, 475, 492, 1112, 1382, 1383n.; joined
Howes’ fleet at New York, 543, 1103, 1118,
1152, 1182; fired at Lynch, 1145, 1146n.;
Marines on board, 414; mentioned, 414, 449,
1424 (St. John Chinnery)
Darby, John: 259
Darby, William: 1093, 1371
Darien, Georgia: 1157
Darling, (Capt.): 653 (Ludlow -Castle)
Darrel, James (Capt.): 1028 (Anna)
Darrell, Edward: 1268, 1314
Darrell, Samuel (Capt.): 940, 1267 (Fanny)
Darrow, James: 81
Darrow, Peter: 81
Darrow, Peter, Jr.: 81
Dartmouth, Lord [William Legge, 2nd Earl of
Dartmouth]: from: William Knox, 564-65;
Ambrose Serle, 710-14, 988-92
Dartmouth, England: 608
Dartmouth, Mass.: 23, 136, 163, 192-93, 231-33,
250n., 262, 270, 291, 305, 332, 346, 367, 551,
651, 661, 733-34, 734n., 776, 789, 830, 982,
982n., 1270, 1348
Dash wood, Samuel: I77n., 202, 247
Daskell, Leven: 138
Dauge, Dennis (Capt., North Carolina Militia):
239
Davall, William: 1160
Davenport, James: 1160
Davenport, John (Major, Connecticut Militia):
1501
Davenport, William: 693
Davey, Thomas (Capt., R.N.): 660, 67ln., 687-
89, 730, 943, 1167 (Diligence)
David, Job, Jr.: 856
David, John: 1311
Davidson, John: 717
Davis, : 779
Davis, (Capt.): 932, 1103, 1119 (Mentor)
Davis, (Capt., Arnold’s Fleet): 224 (Lee)
Davis, Benjamin: 15, 57, 152, 152n., 164, 290
Davis, Caleb: 1455
Davis, Edward: 856
Davis, George: 91-92
Davis, Henry (Capt., R.N.): to: Philip Stephens,
170; mentioned, 156, 167, 183, 842, 860, 886,
892, 1429 (Repulse)
Davis, Humphrey: 366
Davis, Isaac: 366
Davis, James: to: North Carolina Council of
Safety, 1207-09; mentioned, 199, 366
Davis, John (Capt.): 745, 1157, 1157n., 1165-66
(Favourite)
Davis, John (Seaman, Maryland Navy): 906
Davis, John: 1378-80
Davis, Joshua: from: Joseph Ward, 222
Davis, Josiah: 682, 1413
Davis, Thomas (Capt.): 803 (Bee)
Davis, Thomas (Capt.): 200 (Pluto)
Davis, Thomas: 967, 1223
INDEX
1563
Davis, Thomas: of Scorpion , 274
Davis, William (Capt.): 588 ( Good Intent)
Davis, William (Private, Maryland Marines):
907
Davis, William: of Boston, 163
Davis, William: of Philadelphia, Commissioner
of the Navy, 668, 668n.; mentioned, 104, 1294
Davison, Samuel (Commo., Pennsylvania Navy):
6, 126, 287, 326-27, 766 ( Montgomery )
Daviss, John: 1217
Dawley, Ephraim: 1475
Dawson, George (Lt., R.N.): 169, 620, 893, 1211,
1212n., 1395, 1396n., 1399, 1424, 1458 {Hope)
Dax, Cornelius: 1373
Day, Thomas: 790-91, 791n., 837, 838n., 858
.Day lee, Michael: 1375
Dayly, James: 1377
Dayton, Elias (Col.): from: Philip Schuyler, 1306
Deacon, John: 337
Deal, England: 537, 581, 591
Deal Castle, HMS: 449, 1424 (James Worth)
Dean, Joseph (Capt.): 48, 48n., 193n., 348n.
(Betsy)
Dean, Joseph: 93n., 1122
Deane, (Capt.): 1252
Deane, Barnabas: concerning Trumbull, 273—
74, 707n., 1021, 1164, ll78n.; supplies for:
Warren and Providence, 94-95; Congress and
Montgomery, 1254; to: Jeremiah Wadsworth,
1254; from: Joseph Cotton, 1254; Joseph and
William Russell, 1299-1300; Nathaniel Shaw,
Jr., 707, 1005-06; Jeremiah Wadsworth, 1178;
mentioned, 29, 1102
Deane, Silas: instructions, 481-82, 568n., 1087,
1401; intelligence reports, 482-90; concern-
ing trade, 486-90, 490n., 499, 500-01, 51 In.,
551, 622-24; to: Beaumarchais, 481-82, 498-
99, 555; Comittee of Secret Correspondence,
482-90, 508-11, 523-24, 553-54, 622; French
Ministry, 566-68; Robert Morris, 441-42; 602;
Gerard de Rayneval, 491; from: Edward Ban-
croft, 605; Beaumarchais, 479; William Bing-
ham, 76-77, 356, 1046; John Emerson, 627;
Committee of Secret Correspondence, 102-03,
1089-91, 1105-06, 1387-88, 1403-05, 1405-07;
Arthur Lee, 511; Robert Morris, 147-49,
793-96, 796n., 1386; Piliarne, Penet & Co.,
514-15; Sollicoffre Fr£res & Wilkie, 459, 500-
01; mentioned, 243, 527, 550, 560, 612-13, 618,
828, 937, 1088, 1120, 1144, 1388, 1401, 1416,
1464
Deane, Simeon: 459, 1254
Deane, Stewart (Capt.): 193n., 1214, 1215n.
(Beaver)
Deane, William (Capt., Virginia Navy): 9, 25,
43, 88, 88n., 199, 257, 275, 727-28, 799n.,
1355-56, 1356n. (Revenge)
Deans, Robert (Lt. R.N.): 665
DeBardt, Dennis: 511
De Barres, Joseph Frederick: 1298
Deblois, George; 691
Deborah, schooner: 347 (Samuel Nickerson)
Deborah, John: 1375
DeCoursey, William: 906
DeDenison, John: 1217
Deer Island, Mass.: 1412
Defence, HMS: 450
Defence, Connecticut Navy Brig: captured:
Annabella and George, 58, 59n., 539-40, 540n.;
mentioned, 16, 95n., 204, 789 (Seth Harding)
Defence [formerly sloop Endeavour], Connecti-
cut Navy Brig: fitted out, 16-17, 17n., 95,
95n„ 154-55, 204, 984; stores for, 118-20, 154-
55, 299n., 332-35, 957-61, 1176, 1381; list of
dead and deserted, 282; ordered to cruise,
154-55, 1218-19, 1381; officer appointments,
241, 1005; seamen needed, 1020; captured:
Sally, 1101, 1127, 1217, 1363; John, 1100,
1102, 1127, 1305; mentioned, 152, 804, 850,
850n., 972 (Seth Harding)
Defence , Maryland Navy Ship: ordered to Po-
tomac River, 106, 173, 774, 774n.; refitted,
641, 904, 968, 980, 1039; officer resignations,
366, 366n., 658; pay, 668, 896; Lt. Thomas
Walker promoted, 896; George Cook ap-
pointed, 808; roster of officers and men, 905-
07; accounts requested, 994, 1039; Gideon
Adair recommended, 1323, 1449; captured:
Georgia, 1409; mentioned, 9, 9n. (James
Nicholson; George Cook)
Defence, South Carolina Navy Brigantine:
muster roll, 1243; ordered to West Indies,
1283-84, 1427, 1441 (Simon Tufts; Thomas
Pickering)
Defiance, HMS: 450
Defiance: HM Sloop: 744 (Dickerson)
Defiance, Pennsylvania Navy Sloop: 7 (Alex-
ander Gardner)
Defiance, Virginia Navy Sloop: officer appoint-
ments, 25; sailing orders, 238-39; naval stores,
312-13, 1 191 n.; transporting troops, 799, 995;
trading voyage to West Indies, 808-11; sick-
ness, 1409; recruitment, 1450 (Eleazer Cal-
lender)
Defiance, brigantine: captured by Providence,
1049, 1302
Deforrest, Cornelius: 245
De Foskey Creek, Ga.: 189
De Heister: See Heister
Delaney, Oliver: 983
Delano, George: 303
Delap, James: 234
Delap, John: from: Robert Morris, 1122; men-
tioned, 147-48, 441, 442n., 827, 1026, 1144,
1386, 1401, 1403
Delap, Samuel: from: Robert Morris, 1122;
mentioned, 147-48, 441, 459, 827, 1026, 1144,
1386, 1401, 1403
Delaville Brothers: 528
Delaware, Continental Navy Frigate: officer
appointments, 338, 1201 (Charles Alexander)
Delaware, Pennsylvania Navy Armed Schooner:
1564
INDEX
under construction, 327, 967, 1355 (Henry
Dougherty)
Delaware: 125, 399, 743, 975
Delaware Bay: 549, 1458
Delaware Capes: See Cape Henlopen and Cape
May
Delaware River: Roebuck and Liverpool en-
gaged Pennsylvania Navy, 6, 68-71; river
defense weakened by command dispute, 141;
floating mines in, 1507; navigational obstruc-
tions in, 823, 1355; river defended by Con-
tinental cruisers, 210, 1384; mentioned, 6,
278n., 748, 748n.
Delegate, British Army Transport' 562, 563
Deloray, Bartholomew: 907
Deneman, James: 333
Denmark: 455, 489, 1431
Denness, (Capt.): 940, 940n., ( Caroline )
Denning, William: to: Abraham Yates, Jr., 194—
95
Dennis, Amos (1): 304
Dennis, Amos (2): 305
Dennis, James: 304
Dennis, James: 304
Dennis, John: 1372
Dennis, Joseph: 906
Dennis, Joseph (Capt.): 1289 ( Fair Lady)
Dennis, Patrick (Capt.): 1478
Dennis, Richard: 658
Dennis, William (Capt.): 165n. (America)
Dennison, John (Capt.): 598, 601, 1021n. (Anne)
Denniston, John (Capt.): 1101 (Clarendon)
Denny, Plats (Capt.): 1465n. (Polly)
Denson, Joseph: 1217
Dent, John: 31
DeNusey, : 309
Deptford Navy Yard, England: 478, 522, 537,
569, 592, 1363
Derby, Elias Hasket: Massachusetts Council,
1077; mentioned, 674, 1288
Derby, Richard, Jr.: concerning Continental
Navy, 882, 972; to investigate Loyalist, 113,
178-79; Massachusetts Navy, 191, 229-30,
279-80, 328, 882; Tyrannicide, 13, 163, 801;
to: Nicholas Cooke; 972, Massachusetts Coun-
cil, 1112; Jeremiah Powell, 229-30; from:
Nicholas Cooke, 1147-48; mentioned, 58, 58n.,
191, 344, 756, 776, 800, 1003, 1112-13, 1113n.,
1212, 1288
Derby, Richard (Capt.): 953
Derrick, Edward: 18, 695
Derry, (Capt.): 1019
Derry, Susannah: 1367
De Saussure, Daniel: 1165
Deschambault, Quebec: 55
Deshon, Daniel: 1005
Deshon, John (Capt.): 16, 83, 707, 1060, 1099
Deshon, Richard: 83
Desmazures, P.: 16
Devaraux, Patrick: 1377
Devereux, Robert: 234
Deville, Peter (Lt., Continental Navy): 1378-80
Devol, Silas (Capt., Continental Marines): 651
Devonshire, ship: 624
Devonshire, West Indiaman: captured, 506, 626;
recaptured, 27> 27n., 160, 161n. (Fisher)
Deway, Reuben: 138
Dewolf, Stephen: 872
D’Graaff, Johannas: 308
Diamond, HMS: departed for America, 453,
469, 481; arrived in New York, 1319, 1382;
landsmen in crew, 424, 438; convoyed trans-
ports to America, 420, 429, 431-33, 434, 456,
492, 504, 543, 885, 1352; mentioned, 390, 431,
439, 454, 448, 1424 (Charles Fielding)
Diamond, Rhode Island Privateer Sloop: cap-
tured: Friendship, 214; Jane, 93, 136, 214,
584; Mary, 30, 31n., 60, 214; Portland, 214,
578, 578n., 584; Star and Garter, 129, 153-54,
214, 676-77; sailing orders, 252-53; men-
tioned, 16, 263-64, 1057, 1421 (William
Chace; Thomas Stacey)
Diamond, Rhode Island Privateer Sloop: 652,
652n., 732, 732n. (William Waterman)
Diamond, Peter: 1377
Diana, HMS: 452
Diana, brig: captured, 298n., 610; recaptured,
298, 347, 347n., 358, 359n., 1125 (Maybury)
Dibnal, Theobald (Capt.): 315 (Palm-Tree)
Dick, Alexander (Capt., Virginia Marines):
1242, 1312, 1466
Dick Cole, sloop; 920, 1123 (John Seymour)
Dickenson [Dickson], (Capt., Arnold’s
Fleet): 224 (Enterprise)
Dickerson, (Lt., R.N.): 744 (Defiance)
Dickinson [Dickenson], Pennsylvania Navy Row
Galley: 6 (John Rice)
Dickinson, snow: 502-04, 504n. (William Mes-
ton)
Dickinson, (Capt.): 578 (Portland)
Dickinson, John: 242, 1403
Dicks, Joseph: 702
Dickson, Archibald (Capt., R.N.): 167, 374, 378,
471, 886, 891, 1424 (Greyhound)
Dickson, George: 31
Digby, William (Lt., British Army): Journal:
654, 1023, 1137, 1151, 1400, 1443
Diligence, HM Sloop: complement increased,
403; encountered Patagon, 670-71; at Pensa-
cola, 672, 687-89, 729-30, 943, 1168; in Lake
Pontchartrain, 1427; at New Orleans, 1210;
mentioned, 448, 1424 (Thomas Davey)
Diligence, brigantine: 1124
Diligent, HM Brig: Master’s Log, 1018, 1029-30,
1044; at St. John Island, 169, 894; mentioned,
449, 1030-31, 1211, 1433n. (Edmund Dod)
Diligent, HM Schooner: libeled, 262, 262n.;
John Knight exchanged, 1269 (John Knight)
Diligent, Massachusetts Navy Schooner: sup-
plies, 78; crew unpaid, 327-28, 357, 777-78,
851, 851n., 908, 1231-32, 1330, 1411; on cruise,
357, 777-78; condemned, 1212; cannon from,
1213n.; to be sold, 1471 (John Lambert)
INDEX
1565
Dillon, James: 999
Dinah, British Navy Victualer: 492, 493-96,
1142, 1142n., 1352, 1352n., 1382 (Alexander
Brown)
Dinkinson, William: 113
Discovery, HM Sloop: 403-04, 448, 468-69
(Charles Clerke)
Disney, Ezekiel: 906
Dispatch, HM Schooner: captured by Tyranni-
cide, 122, 123n., 192n., 279n., 289, 290n., 377,
377n.; to be tried in Mass. Admiralty Court,
192; recaptured by Hope and Diligent, 1030;
prisoners from, 1030, 1454, 1455n.; mentioned,
169, 450, 592 (John Goodridge)
Dispatch, Brig: taken into Continental Service,
125; mentioned, 152, 152n., 178-79, l79n., 921,
953, 953n., 970 (Stephen Cleveland)
Dispatch , brig: caputred by Orpheus, 103n.,
793, 796n.; mentioned, 59, 59n., 102 (Peter
Parker)
Diver, Benjamin: 81
Dixon, John: of Virginia, 293, 294, 642
Dixon, John (Gunner, R.N.): 1144
Dixon and Hunter’s Virginia Gazette: See Vir-
ginia Gazette [Dixon and Hunter]
Doan, Hemar (Lt.): 971
Doane, Edward: 1329
Doane, Samuel: 1329
Doane, Thomas: 1329
Dobbie, John: 697
Dobbins, Samuel: 31-32
')obbs Ferry, N.Y.: Phoenix, Roebuck, Tartar,
and Tryal at, 1179, 1184, 1186, 1247; Con-
tinental resistance, 1185, 1415; mentioned,
37-38
Dod, Edmund (Lt., R.N.): 169, 894, 1211 (Dili-
gent)
Dodd, Benjamin (Maj., East Florida Militia):
260
Dodge, : 900
Dodge, Isaac (Lt., Continental Army): 754
Doggett, William: 1128
Dogharty, James (Lt., South Carolina Navy):
966, 1109
Dolby, Daniel: 1011
Dolley No. 10. schooner: 1164
Dolphin, HMS: 448 (John Clerke)
Dolphin, British Cutter: 476 (Miller)
Dolphin, Maryland Navy Schooner: purchased,
797; armed, 1449; ready to sail, 1296; pay,
1440 (William Patterson)
Dolphin, Massachusetts Privateer Schooner: 178,
I79n., 1001, 1001n., 1053, 1114 (Samuel
Waters)
Dolphin, brig: 185-86 (Moore)
Dolphin, brig: 1347n., 1442-43 (Johnson)
Dolphin, schooner: captured by Winchelsea,
1171 (John Cole)
Dolphin, schooner: captured by Galatea, 806,
806n, 1357, 1357n. (John Parker)
Dolphin, schooner: captured by Otter, 868n.,
1125
Dolphin, sloop: captured by Maidstone, 997,
997n., 1170
Dominica, West Indies: 48, 93, 94n., 136, 193,
214, 231, 240, 276, 297, 346, 394, 570, 584, 608,
749, 803, 1123, 1331, 1339
Donald, David: 1480
Donaldson, (Capt.): 987, 1034
Donaldson, Arthur: 340, 890, 939, 1310, 1320
Donaldson, John: 967
Donavin, John: 907
Donkin, — — (Maj., British Army): 1319
Donnelly, Edward: 1372
Donohoe, Thomas: 704, 1361, 1398
Donol, Mack: 682
Donovan, Daniel: 1000
Donovan, Pearce: 1301
Dop, Peter (Capt.): 35, 35n.
Doran, John: 697
Dorman, Edward: 699
Dorsey, Nathan: 906
Dorsius, John: 186, 825, 1322, 1338
Dosom, John: 264
Dougherty, Henry (Capt., Pennsylvania Navy):
7 ( Washington ; Delaware )
Douglas, Billy (Lt., R.N.): 160, 628
Douglas, Charles (Capt., R.N.): appointed Com-
modore, 452; on Lake Champlain, 201, 513,
580, 580n., 660, 888-90, 981, 1340-45; to:
Lord Howe, 45-47, 54-55, 135-46; Philemon
Pownoll, 951-52, 1193-94; Philip Stephens,
201, 1340-45, 1370; from: John Burgoyne,
1228-30; Guy Carleton, 1257, 1257n., 1350,
1364-65; Philip Stephens, 433-34, 588-89;
mentioned, 27, 169, 416-17, 894, 1350n., 1424
(Isis)
Douglas, Sir James (V. Adm., R.N.): from:
Lords Commissioners, 388-89, 424; Philip
Stephens, 480, 619, 622; mentioned, 439, 442,
452, 454, 573n.
Douglas, Stair (Capt., R.N.): dispute with
Francis de Monteil, 865, 879, 1166-67, 1169-
71, 1284; from: Clark Gay ton, 301, 356 (Squir-
rel)
Douglass, Archibald: 905
Douglass, John (Capt.): 830, 1170 (Lady Caro-
line)
Douglass, Jonathan: 334, 957, 959
Douville, Peter (Capt.): 650 (L’ Amiable Marie)
Dove, brigantine: 1470
Dover, England: 432, 508n., 517, 620, 633
Dover Castle, England: 531, 536
Dowdswell, (Royal Marines): 351, 679-80
Dowie, (Lt., R.N.): 656
Dowman, Thomas (Capt.): 185 (King of Prussia)
Downe, John: 138
Downer [Downour], Eliphalet (Dr.): 517, 517n.,
531n„ 546
Dowse, Joseph: 178,999
Doyard, : from: Gabriel de Sartine, 393;
mentioned, 418
Doyle, Dennis (Capt.): 1001-02 (Royal George)
Doyle, Patrick: 697
1566
INDEX
Dragon, HMS: 450
Dragon, schooner: 1211, 1212n., 1231, 1231n.,
1299, 1299n., (Knowlton)
Drake, Francis (Lt., R.N.): 439
Draper, John: 257
Draper, John (Master’s Mate, R.N.): 1144
Draper, Margarett: 691
Dreadnought, HMS: 452
Dresser, (Capt.): 853 ( Betsey )
Drew, Thomas: 304
Drew, William: 1269
Dring, Robert (Lt., R.N.): 167, 891 ( Carcass )
Dring, Thomas: 856
Drinkwater, Daniel: 907
Drisdale, Robert: 1094
Drowne, Thomas: I77n., 247
Drummond, John (Lt., R.N.): 534
Dublin, HMS: 452
Dublin, Ireland: 347, 386, 506, 570, 592, 593n.
Dubourg, Barbeu (Dr.): concerning trade with
America, 397-99, 425, 475-76, 476n., 479, 487-
88, 510, 533, 556-57; intelligence, 454, 560; to:
Vergennes, 397-99, 425, 475-76, 491, 533;
from: Pierre Penet, 556-57; Vergennes, 399-
400; mentioned, 500, 528
Ducaine, James (Capt.): 72 (King Fisher)
Duddingston, William (Capt., R.N.): 496, 1424
(Senegal)
Dudfield, Jonathan (Capt.): 263, 1000n., 1002
(A nna)
Duer, William: from: Tench Tilghman, 1444;
mentioned, 885, 1138, 1214, 1238
Duff, brig: 852 (Anthony Knapp)
Duff, : 147
Duff, Robert (R. Adm., R.N.): 506
Duffen, James: 31
Duffey, Alexander: 905
Duffield, (Dr.): 1223
Duffy, Daniel: 31-32
Dugan, Cumberland: to: Maryland Council of
Safety, 916-17, 1224-25; mentioned, 1408-09
Duke, HMS: 450
Duke of Cumberland, HM Packet: 387, 678, 775
(John Mitchell)
Dumaresq, Thomas (Capt., R.N.): 852 (Port-
land)
Dumas, Charles: from: Committee of Secret
Correspondence, 1407
Dun, (Capt., British Army): 600
Dun, (Capt.): 351 (Pacific)
Dunbar, Daniel: 337
Dunbar, James (Capt.): 1100, 1102n., 1305
(John)
Dunbar, Joseph: 905
Dunbar, Simon: 652
Duncan, Henry (Capt., R.N.): Journal: 123,
228-29, 372, 846, 859, 932, 1221, 1429-30; men-
tioned, 167, 268, 324, 362, 374, 724, 736, 782,
805, 845, 859, 891, 988 (Eagle)
Duncomb, William: 984
Dundee, Scotland: 521
Dunham, Benjamin: 281, 651
Dunham, Cornelius: 334, 961
Dunkirk, France: 185, 284, 297, 508
Dunkirk, HMS: 452
Dunlap, James (Dr.): 766, 1266
Dunlap's Maryland Gazette (Baltimore): 1776:
20 Aug., 155
Dunlop, : 571
Dunlop, (Capt.): 612 (Margaret)
Dunlop, (Capt.): 600 (Minerva)
Dunmore, Dunmore’s Fleet Ship: in Potomac
River, 172, 850; at Staten Island, 174, 183
Dunmore, Lord [John Murray, 4th Earl of
Dunmore] (Royal Gov., Virginia): concerning
William Goodrich, 43n., 716, 738-41; with
Howe’s Fleet, 66-70, 107n., 147, 172-74, 195,
227, 236, 617; withdrew to New York, 130,
183, 678-79, 849-50, 973, 1199; to: George
Germain, 51, 678-79; from: William Knox,
424; mentioned, 51, 132, 238, 260n., 389, 457,
534, 541, 557, 571, 605, 644-45, 645n., 1368
Dunmore’s Army: amphibious operations at
St. George Island, 172—74; condition of, 88;
departed Virginia, 132, 147; in Potomac
River, 23-24, 26; mentioned, 68, 260n.
Dunmore’s Fleet: with Royal Navy, 66-70, 71-
72, 72n.; illness in Fleet, 23—24; took over
ships at Norfolk, 296-97; burned homes on
shore, 26; left Potomac River 23-24, 26, 65,
131-32, 172-74; left Virginia, 133, 147; de-
stroyed part of fleet, 142; Loyalist refugees
join fleet, 340, 658-59; fleet disband, 131-32,
142, 147, 973, 1014; arrived at New York, 183,
678, 973; captured by Americans, Betsey, 643,
978, 1011-15; Elizabeth, 731-32, 770, 770n.;
Molly, 855, 977; Peggy, 895, 978; unidentified
ship, 639; vessels salvaged by Americans, 340,
658, 743, 1016, 1417, 14l7n.; disposition of
salvaged vessels, 1225-26; mentioned, 236,
1208-09, 1469
Dunn, Benjamin (Lt., Continenal Navy): 31-32,
939
Dunn, Isaac (Lt., Pennsylvania Militia): 205,
926, 1032, 1483
Dunn, Samuel (Capt.): 856, 956n., 1057 (Re-
venge)
Dunn, Walter: 81
Dunning, Cornelius: 961
Dunnivan, Richard: 133
Dunscome & Frazer: from: Esek Hopkins, 1253
Dunton, William (Midn., Continental Navy):
652, 1056
Dupuy, John: 796
Durant, — — : 1208
Durant, Joseph: 221
Durfey, Thomas: 1174
Durfy, Daniel: 698
Durkee, John (Lt. Col., Continental Army): 336
Durkee, Phinehas: from: Richard Bulkeley,
1285
Dussault, (Lt., French Navy): from: Ga-
briel de Sartine, 621; mentioned, 394
Dutchess County, N.Y.: 20
INDEX
1567
Dutchess of Gordon , British Transport: 124
Dutchess of Leinster, Irish ship: 593n. (Cath-
row)
Duthie, Archibald (Capt.): 12-13, 92, 620, 633,
777 (. Princess Royal)
Dutton, Titus: 18, 695
Duverse, Isaac: 31
Dwight, Joseph (Capt.) : 193n. ( Enterprize )
Dyer, Eliphalet: from: Samuel Huntington,
365-66
Eagle, HMS: Journal: 268, 324-25, 362, 724,
736-37, 782, 805, 845-46, 859, 988; attacked
by Turtle, 736, 1499; at Battle of Long Island,
267-68, 324, 353, 374; amphibious landings
on Manhattan Island, 886; Lord Howe on
board, 392, 543, 1065; request for additional
officers, 663; officer billet changes, 664-65; at
Staten Island, 167-69, 184, 225-26, 351, 372,
1063, 1517; off Bedloe’s Island, 373; between
Red Hook and Gibbet Island, 950; at Gover-
nors Island, 378, 656; at New York, 891, 894,
988, 988n.; in Hudson River, 1068; in East
River, 724, 805-06; mentioned, 102, 146, 362,
448, 861, 965, 1118, 1143, 1411 (Henry Dun-
can)
Eagle, Pennsylvania Navy Armed Boat: 7 (Jacob
Hance)
Eagle, Rhode Island Privateer Schooner: ac-
count of Daniel Bucklin, 900-01; captured:
Caledonia, 1053, 1396; Fanny, 1001, 1001n.,
1053, 1360; Venus, 1001, 1001n., 1396; roster
of officers on board, 900; Smith given com-
mand, 1286-87 (Elijah Freeman Payne;
Barzilla Smith)
Eagle, Rhode Island Privateer Schooner: 1330,
1331n. (Isaac Field)
Eagle, ship: 136, 138n., 182, 315 (Henry Barnes)
Eagle, schooner: 1115
Eagle, sloop: 126, 1267 (Francis Lennis)
Earl, (Capt.): 781n.
Earl, Robert: to: Lords Commissioners, British
Customs, 566
Earl, Thomas: 292
Earl of Egmont, HM Schooner: 452
Earl of Errol, ship: 143, 143n., 152, 152n., 192,
192n., 193, 193n., 212-13, 232-33, 249 (John
Bartlett)
Earl Percy, schooner: 900, 900n. (Nathaniel
Atkins)
Earle, (Capt.): 919 (Polly)
Earle, John: 692
Earle, William: 1378-80
Eason, (Capt.): 600 (Peggy No. 1)
East Chester, N.Y.: 1238, 1307
East Florida: defensive preparations, 73-74, 90-
91, 176, 314, 376, 717, 718, 996
East India Company: 448, 624
East Indies: 427, 448, 449, 541, 547, 619
East River, N.Y.: American retreat, 376, 1085;
Howe’s Fleet in, 350, 351, 655, 666, 709, 724-
25, 762, 763, 765, 804-06, 823, 838, 840-41,
843-44,, 846, 849, 862, 863, 886, 892, 924, 989,
1032, 1062, 1065, 1068, 1069, 1069n., 1085,
1085n., 1130, 1152, 1279; British troop land-
ings from, 974, 988, 1066; navigational ob-
structions in, 4, 1023; mentioned, 20, 22, 322,
355, 709, 933, 1520
Eastef, Richard (Capt.): 1171 (Will & Henry)
Easthampton, N.Y.: 1332
Eastwood, New Hill (Lt., R.N.): 665
Eastwood, Thomas (Capt., R.N.): from: James
Young, 53; mentioned, 52, 53n., 142, 572, 852
(Pomona)
Ebenezer, schooner: captured by Providence,
1049, 1302
Eddy, Bernard (Capt.): from: Richard Varick,
34-35
Eddy, Jonathan: to: Mass. General Court, 330-
31; mentioned, 646-47
Eden, Robert (Royal Gov., Maryland): 51, 173,
465, 465n., 586
Eden, William: to: John Pownall, 465
Edens Point, N.Y.: 1006
Edenton, N.C.: 11, 107, 341, 1026, 1092, 1335
Edes, Benjamin: 997
Edgar, HMS: 450
Edgar, James: 702
Edinburgh, Scotland: 599
Edmiston, David: 31
Edmondson, Charles: 251, 25 In.
Edmonston, Archibald: 1373
Edward, British Sloop Tender: captured by
Lexington, 1108n.; slaves taken from, libeled,
1027 (Richard Boger)
Edward, British Navy Victualer: 435
Edward, Dunmores’ Fleet Sloop: 571
Edward, Maryland Privateer Schooner: 1417
(William Thomas)
Edwards, (Capt.): 940 (St. James)
Edwards, James: 701
Edwards, John: 943, 996
Edwards, Rolan: 697
Effingham, Continental Navy Frigate: 1200
(John Barry)
Effingham, Pennsylvania Navy Row Galley: 6,
287n., 1446 (Hugh Montgomery)
Egan, Stephen: to: Patrick Tonyn, 72
Egg Harbor: See Little Egg Harbor
Egmont, HMS: 447, 504 (John Elphinston)
Egmont, Lady: 108
Eiken Boom [D’Eken Boem ], British Trans-
port: 1439 (Blackstone)
Elam, Robert (Lt., Virginia Navy): 367
Elden, Charles: 650
Elderkin, Bela (Lt., Connecticut Marines): 253
Elderkin, Joshua (Dr.): 1021
Eldred, James: 923
Eldred, James (Midn., Continental Navy): 651
Eldridge, Benedict: 801
Eldridge, Benjamin (Capt.): 284 (Three Friends)
Elephant [formerly Union], HM Storeship: pur-
chased, 522, 598; Bechinoe appointed to com-
1568
INDEX
mand, 478; convoyed to America 579-80,
580n., 595, 604 (Benjamin Bechinoe)
Elinor, ship: 608 (Graves)
Elisabeth, brig: 459, 500, 501 (John Palmer)
Elizabeth, HMS: 450, 591
Elizabeth, British Transport: 1141 (Figtree)
Elizabeth, brig: 731, 731n., 770, 770n., 820, 855,
856n., 895, 978 (William Ryson Johnson)
Elizabeth, brigantine: captured by Hancock,
113, 180, 180n., 202-03, 203n., 240, 416, 832;
libeled, 177, 177n., 246-48, 302, 368-69, 369n.,
675, 675n.; appealed, 1069, 1263-65; acquitted,
772, 831, 831n. (Peter Ramsey)
Elizabeth, sloop: 789, 897-98, 1252, 1252n.,
1468-69 (Thomas Ludlow, Jr.)
Elizabeth, sloop: 290-97 (Robert Burchall)
Elizabeth, N.J.: 927
Elizabeth and Hannah, schooner: 759
Elizabeth Point, N.Y.: 680
Elizabeth River, Va.: 71
Ellery, William: to: Nicholas Cooke, 1223; men-
tioned, 157, 1202n., 1308
Ellidge, Floris: 700
Elliot, British Transport: 431-32
Elliot, brig: 481 (William Hallock)
Elliot, Andrew: 930
Elliot, Sam: 152
Elliott, Clark: 956, 1129
Elliott, George (Capt., Virginia Navy): 1242,
1282 ( Safeguard )
Ellis, Alexander (Lt., R.N.): 169, 513, 893, 1132
(Hinchinbrook)
Ellis, John: 801
Ellis, Richard: to: Cornelius Hartnett, 107;
from: Peter Knight, 107n.; mentioned, 1097,
1321
Ellis [Gibbet] Island, N.Y.: 950, 950n.
Elmore, Samuel (Col., Continental Army): 264
Elms, Stephen: 1093
Elmslie, John: 1310
Elphinstone, George (Capt., R.N.): to: Richard
Smith, 149-50; from: Lords Commissioners,
493-96; mentioned, 512, 1018, 1262-63, 1382
(Perseus)
Emerald, HMS: Journal: 964; with Hotham’s
fleet, 156n., 542; at Staten Island, 167, 184; in
New York harbor, 378, 724, 736; off New
York, 891; troop landings at Paulus Hook,
950, 964-66, 992; mentioned, 448, 1424 (Ben-
jamin Caldwell)
Emerson, John: to: Silas Deane, 627
Emerton, James (Capt.): 1366 ( Burgoyne )
Ernie, William: lOOOn.
Emmes, John: 1000
Emmes, Richard (Capt.): 342 (Prince George)
Endeavour, HM Schooner: 532 (Francis Tinsley)
Endeavour, sloop: See Defence, Connecticut
Navy Brig
Engell, -: 1259
England: prisoners, 390, 559, 598; Prohibition
Act increased privateers, 416, 431; prohibition
of trade, 406-08, 409, 416, 431, 555, 559, 591,
746; public opinion in England, 444, 571,
592, 603, 974, 990; refugees request return to
England, 675-76, 676n., 786—87, 999-1000;
relations with France, 390, 446-47, 591, 603,
812, 1086; relations with Portugal, 444, 614,
812; relations with Spain, 555, 603, 614; 812;
transports return to, 437, 537; mentioned,
551, 595, 598, 992, 1081-82, 1118, 1152, 1182
See also Intelligence Reports, British; Navy,
British
English, (Capt.): 1299, 1299n. (Nancy)
English, John: 78
English Channel: 8, 75, 183, 290, 492, 615, 633,
807, 1119, 1411
English Harbor, Antigua: 53, 159^-60, 628, 1075,
1451
Ennery, Comte d’ [Victor Therese Charpentier]
(Gov., Santo Domingo): to: Gabriel de Sar-
tine, 384, 1192-93; from: Secret Committee,
243-44; Gabriel de Sartine, 390-91; men-
tioned, 401, 422, 454, 587, 879, 1387
Ensign, David: from: Richard Varick, 962
Enterprise, Arnold Fleet Sloop: on Lake Cham-
plain, 98, 224, 253; escaped to Ticonderoga,
1306, 1344 (Dickenson)
Enterprize, HMS: 391, 448 (Thomas Rich)
Enterprize, Maryland Privateer Schooner: cap*
tured: Betsey, 749; Black River, 297, 608,
749; Elizabeth, 296; James, 276n., 297, 749,
749n.; Lancasthire, 297, 608, 749; Liberty, 749;
Marriot, 297; Modesty, 749; Nautilus, 749,
749n. (James Campbell)
Enterprize, New York Privateer Brigantine:
captured: Earl of Errol, 143, 143n., 152, 152n.,
192n., 193, 193n., 212, 213n., 232, 249 (Joseph
Dwight)
Epthorp, : 1199
Erlom, Samuel: See Samuel Hallam
Erskine, (Capt., British Army): 600
Erskine, Sir William: 184, 539, 600
Erskine, William: owner of Chance, 1012
Ervin, Jared: 282
Essex, HMS: 450
Essex, Va.: 275
Essington, William (Midn., R.N.): 579, 594
Esther, ship: 1363, 1472 (John Harvey)
Etherby, Thomas: 1161
Etna, HM Bomb Brig: 450
Euphrates, British Navy Victualer: 595
Europa, HMS: 452
Evans, Daniel: 967
Evans, Evan: 1011
Evans, George (Capt.): in Newburyport, 111-12,
1173, 1173n. (Necessity)
Everard, Thomas: 10
Everitt, Charles (Lt., R.N.): 75
Evitt, Richard: 700
Ewing, (Capt.): 600 (Ocean)
Ewing, Dixon: 18, 695
Exceen, Alex (Capt.): 194, 781 (Friendship)
Exeter, HMS: 447, 504 (Matthew Moore)
Exeter, England: 588, 619, 634
INDEX
1569
Experiment, HMS: Journal: 932; battle of Sul-
livans Island, 5, 110, 562-64, 566, 569, 571; at
Staten Island, 169, 183, 184; officer from di-
rected transports, 579, 594, 595; at New York,
309, 950; changes in officer personnel, 379n.,
439, 663n., 665; mentioned, 42, 448, 517, 526,
891, 1424 (Alexander Scott; William Wil-
liams; James Wallace)
Experiment, British Army Transport: 600 (Orr)
Experiment, Pennsylvania Navy Row Galley: 7
(Benjamin Thompson)
Eyre, Benjamin (Capt.): 1023
Eyres, Emanuel: 1223
Eyres, Richard (Capt., Pennsylvania Navy): 7,
211 ( Camden )
Fagan, William: 17, 694, 872
Fairfield, Conn.: 154-55, 334, 1045, 1290-92,
1364
Fair Haven, brig: 481 (Nathaniel Delano)
Fair Island, Scotland: 520
Fair Lady, Massachusetts Privateer Schooner:
279, 1114, 1289, 1289n. (Jacob Martin; Joseph
Dennis)
Fairweather, John (Lt., Connecticut Navy): 984
Falcon, HM Sloop: Journal: 743, 1109, 1109n.;
received stores from Cruizer, 1072, 1318; at
Cape Fear, 169, 744, 893, 1202; mentioned,
449, 1352, 1424 (John Linzee)
Falconer, James: 905
Falconer, Nathaniel (Capt., Pennsylvania Navy):
from: Marine Committee, 1188-89; men-
tioned, 668, 668n., 1248
Falconer, William: 1486
Falmouth, England: 387, 410, 537, 540, 543, 588,
597, 607, 613, 806n., 1112
Falmouth, Mass.: 27, 153, 345-46, 1230, 1231,
1270, 1346, 1358
Falmouth, N.S.: 1133
Fame , HMS: 450
Fame, ship: 185 (Hugh Lysle)
Fame: 570 (Moore)
Fanning, John (Lt., Continental Navy): 138, 693
Fanning, Joshua: 1301
Fanning, Thomas (Lt., Continental Army): 679
Fanny, brig: captured by Independence, 250-51,
25 In., 263, 263n.; sailed with Independence,
299, 649, 731, 731n., 770, 770n.; libeled, 780,
820; petitions, 1004, 1004n., 1420 (Samuel
Lightbourn)
Fanny, brig: captured by Eagle, 1001, 1001n.,
1053, 1053n., 1360, 1360n.; mentioned, 185,
1469-70 (William Tokely)
Fanny, brigantine: captured by Revenge, 27, 56,
58, 77
Fanny, schooner: 940, 1267 (Samuel Darrell)
Fanny, sloop: 277, 278n. (William Britton)
Fanny, sloop: 797 (Thomas Ridley)
Fanny, sloop: captured by Pomona, 852 (WTorth)
Fanny, sloop: captured by Niger, 1124
Fanshaw, Robert (Capt., R.N.): 169, 724n., 805-
06, 822-23, 849, 886, 892, 1424 ( Carysfort )
Farley, Michael: 1159
Farley, Nathaniel: 279
Farley, William: 379
Farmer’s General (of France): 425, 441, 499,
509, 524, 550, 552, 618
Farnam, Ebenezer (Capt.): 1114 ( Industry )
Farnham, Jeremiah: 234
Farnham, Thomas (Lt., R.N.): 664
Farnsworth, Jonas: 1212
Farr, Thomas: from: John Hart, 588-89
Farrah, John (Capt.): 1113n., 1472 (Henry and
Ann)
Farrel, John: 338
Farrill, John: 700
Fauntleroy, William: 199
Favorite, HM Sloop: 449, 580 (William Fooks)
Favourite, British Transport: 429 (John Fren-
ham)
Favourite, brigantine: captured by Providence,
745, 1047, 1302; recaptured by Galatea, 980,
980n., 1157, 1157n., 1165 (John Davis)
Favourite, Rhode Island Privateer Sloop: 819,
1149, 1149n., 1331 (Abner Coffin)
Fayal, Azores Islands: 624
Fears, John: 1377
Feattus, James (Lt., R.N.): 576n. ( Vulture )
Felicite, Sloop: 722, 722n., 733-34, 734n.
(Gouace)
Fell, Quebec Province Armed Vessel: 1345
Fellows, John (Brig. Gen., Massachusetts Mi-
litia): 349-50, 874
Fell’s Point, Md.: 9n.
Felton, Samuel: 304
Fenton, Eliza: 999
Ferdinand, Prince: 686
Ferdinando, Taguin: 1161
Ferguson, Charles (Capt.): 327, 1239n. ( General
Putnam )
Ferguson, James (Capt., R.N.): 167, 306, 640,
892, 1262, 1424, 1445 (Burne)
Ferguson, James (Capt.): 11 (Betsey)
Fergusson, John (Lt., R.N.): 169, 893, 1141
(Cherokee)
Feris, : 939
Fernald, Edward: 344
Ferret, HM Sloop: 448 (James Rodney)
Ferrol, Spain: 421, 427, 428
Field, Henry: 259
Field, Isaac (Capt.): 1331n. (Eagle)
Field, John (Capt.): 731, 1029, 1137, (Joseph)
Fielding, Charles (Capt., R.N.): to: Philip
Stephens, 1439; from: Lords Commissioners,
431-33, mentioned, 420, 429, 456, 481, 492,
885, 1382, 1424 (Diamond)
Fifth Regiment, schooner: 294 (Thomas Rob-
erts)
Filyoungs, George: 1226-27
Fincastle, HM Sloop: 379, 571 (John Wright)
Fine, : 678
Fink, : 1060, 1081
Finley, John: 1131-32
Finney, Thomas: 702
1570
INDEX
Finnie, William (Col., Continental Army): con-
cerning supplies, 188, 245, 1190, 1207, 1242,
1267, 1312, 1466; mentioned, 25, 86-88
Fire Island, N.Y.: 155, 194, 337, 723
Fire Island Creek, N.Y.: 337
Firm , HMS: 452
Fish, Jonathan: 1377
Fisher, : 607
Fisher, (Capt.): 600 (Friends)
Fisher, (Capt.): 27n., 506 (. Devonshire )
Fisher, Darius: 985
Fisher, Henry: to: Pennsylvania Council of
Safety, 1295; mentioned, 1266
Fisher, James: 1093
Fisher, Thomas, on Alfred , 697
Fisher, Thomas: on Andrew Doria, 31
Fisher’s Island, N.Y.: 3, 79, 322, 1060, 1118,
1118n.
Fishkill, N.Y.: 1262, 1351, 1354, 1365, 1435
Fisk, John (Capt., Massachusetts Navy): senior-
ity established, 345: from: Massachusetts
Council, 1358-60; mentioned, 13, 48, 57, 116,
123n., 129, 136, 151, 163, 164, 193, 194, 213,
250, 263, 279, 280, 290, 305, 315, 348n. 359,
370, 676, 722, 769, 799, 799n., 801, 1002, 1297,
1347, 1359*, 1454, 1455n. (Tyrannicide)
Fitch, Jabez (Lt., Continental Army): Diary:
351, 655, 666-67, 679-80, 932-33, 950, 1086,
1103, 1118-19, 1130, 1138, 1153; taken pris-
oner, 35 In., 640, 640n.
Fitch, Timothy: 136
Fitzgerald, James: 305
Fitzgerald, Robert: 1011
Fitzherbert, Thomas (Capt., R.N.): from: Lords
Commissioners, 624-25 (Raisonable)
Fitzpatrick, John (Lt., Continental Marines):
702
Fitzpatrick, John: to: John Stephenson, 1109
Fitzpatrick, William (Capt.): 192 (Hannibal)
Fizz, Mathew: 182n.
Flags: British, hoisted at New York City, 990;
Dutch, on board Renown, 846; Fort Moultrie
(Liberty), 108, 109; Grand Union, on board
Reprisal, 12, 12n.; Pine Tree, 516; of Queen
of Hungary, 209n.; Rattlesnake, 477; men-
tioned, 365, 1281
Flatbush, N.Y.: British troops at, 284, 308, 323,
350, 353, 640; mentioned, 361, 375*, 1247*
Fleet, William (Capt.): 1003
Fleming, Henry: 589
Fleming, Thomas (Col., Continental Army): 238
Flemming, William: 906
Flora, HMS: transport convoy of Highland
Regiments, 15, 122, 542, 600, 1153, 1153n.; at
Staten Island, 50, 167; at New York, 891;
officer changes, 665; mentioned, 448, 1424
(John Brisbane)
Florida: See East Florida; West Florida
Flushing, N.Y.: 77ln.
Flushing Bay, N.Y.: British ships in, 350, 355,
370-71, 662, 679
Fly, HM Sloop: 450 (Edward Garner)
Fly, Continental Navy Sloop: muster roll, 138;
New Providence expedition, 196-97; carried
cannon to New York, 210; seamen turned
over to, 693-705; Warner given command,
1201; pay, 1301 (Hoysteed Hacker; Elisha
Warner)
Flying Fish, sloop: 75, 75n., 1169 (Littlefield)
Folger, (Capt.): 1169 (Nightingale)
Folger, George: 1446-47
Foligny, (Capt.): to: Gabriel de Sartine,
385 (Constance)
Follett, William: 305
Folsue, Dennis: 906
Fonest, James: See James Forrest
Foney, James: 1376
Fooks, Paul: 1240
Fooks, William (Lt., R.N.): 433, 442, 580
(Favorite)
Foot, James (Capt.): 1114n. (Sarah and Eliza-
beth)
Forbes, (Capt.): 475 ( Camberwell )
Forbes, George: 669
Forbish, David: 702
Ford, John (Capt., R.N.): 420, 456-57, 1424
(Unicorn)
Formidable, HMS: 450
Forrest, Anthony: 1376
Forrest, Cornelius: 43
Forrest [Fonest], James: 748, 748n., 766, 878
Forrest, Thomas (Lt., R.N.): 496
Forrest, Thomas (Capt., Pennsylvania Marines):
to: Pennsylvania Council of Safety, 916
Forrest, Uriah (Capt., Maryland Militia): 643,
1368
Forrester, Simon (Capt.): 298n., 593, 593n., 607,
613, 630, 1196, 1 196n., 1251, 1252n., 1299, 1347,
1358, 1471 (Rover)
Forster, (Capt.): 1076
Forster, John (Capt.): 1095, 1356 (General
Washington)
Fort Amherst, N.Y.: 775
Fort Constitution, N.J: See Fort Lee
Fort Cumberland, Nova Scotia: 289, 342
Fort Edward, N.Y.: 1463
Fort George, N.C.: 1109
Fort George, N.Y.: 34, 222, 317-22, 743-44,
1082, 1290, 1306
Fort Greene, N.Y.: 361
Fort Independence, N.Y.: 167, 206
Fort Island, Pa.: 326, 904, 1009-10, 1311, 1355
Fort Johnston, N.C.: 197, 275, 744, 1072, 1335
Fort Lee [formerly Fort Constitution], N.J.:
61, 1061, 1138, 1138n., 1180, 1182-85, 1183n.,
1221, 1428, 1430
Fort Mamecock, Conn.: 118
Fort Montgomery, N.Y.: 987, 1365
Fort Moultrie, S.C.: 110, 1335 See also Fort
Sullivan
Fort Pitt, Pa.: 1109
Fort Royal, Martinique: 77, 621-22
Fort St. Johns, Quebec: 1110-11
Fort St. Louis, French Santo Domingo: 395
INDEX
1571
Fort Schuyler, N.Y.: 1306n.
Fort Sullivan, Sullivans Island, S.C.: 5, 42, 562-
64, 596 See also Sullivans Island
Fort Trumbull, Conn.: 120
Fort Washington, Me.: 342
Fort Washington, N.Y.: Continental troops at,
927, 1063, 1064, 1430; Hudson River ob-
structed at, 873, 928, 987, 1365; British ships
near, 1178, 1182, 1183n., 1184-85, 1198; men-
tioned, 37, 121, 183, 226, 913, 1085, 1220,
1137-38, 1138n., 1331, 1365, 1428
Fort York, Labrador: 506
Fortune, HM Sloop: 450
Fosset, Robert: 906
Foster, (Capt., Virginia Navy): 742
Foster, (Capt.): 600 (Peggy No. 2)
Foster, Benjamin: to: Massachusetts General
Court, 357
Foster, Christopher: 1226-27
Foster, Jesse: 1226-27
Foster, Joel: 1267
Foster, John: 30, 94, 154, 241, 316, 653, 780, 803,
821, 822, 1098, 1175, 1288, 1361, 1456
Foster, Josiah [Joshua]: 1016, 1155, 1267
Foster, Theodore: 901
Foster, Thomas: 856
Foster, William: 1159, 1159n.
Fotheringham, Patrick (Capt., R.N.): 1424 (Fox)
Foudroyant, HMS: 447, 503, 570 (John Jarvis)
Fowey, HMS: Journal: 71-72, 860; with Dun-
more’s Fleet, 66, 88-89, 169, 173; pursued
American Congress, 968; Governor Eden takes
refuge on board, 173, 586; illness on board,
174; troop landings at New York, 844, 846;
at New York, 72n., 376, 737, 891; mentioned,
65, 449, 1424 (George Montagu)
Fowle, Jacob: 1052
Fowle [Towle], Richard (Capt.): 727, 1108
(Good Intent )
Fowler, (Capt.): 42, 105
Fowler, Richard (Capt.): 886
Fowler, Stephen: 138
Fox, HMS: 448, 1424 (Patrick Fotheringham)
Fox, schooner: 852 (Buckmaster)
Fox, Isaac: 693
Fox, John (Private, Continental Marines): 704
Fox, John: 345-46
Foyster, Richard: 1043
Frame, John: 700
France: aid to America, 41, 76-77, 102, 397-99,
399n., 425, 429, 457, 484-90, 509-11, 518, 525-
29, 617-18, 622-24, 629, 1086-87, 1247n., 1339,
1366-67; relations with England, 406-08,
454-56; troops sent to West Indies, 7; naval
vessels sent to patrol West Indies, 26, 256,
750-51, 812; Ministry, from: Silas Deane, 566-
68; mentioned, 23, 59n., 366, 390, 515n., 524-
25, 525n., 538, 630, 1338 See also Intelligence
reports, French; Navy, French
Frances, Guineaman: 508, 508n. (Williamson)
Francis, (Maj., Continental Army): 638n.
Francis, Joseph: 701
Frank, Anthony: 696
Franklin, Washington’s Fleet Schooner: cap-
tured: Annabella, 539, 540, 540n.; George,
539, 540, 540n.; Hope, 467n., 472n., 575n.;
Nelly Frigate, 290, 290n., 302, 346n.; Peggy,
15, 58n., 62, 62n., 152n., 164, 164n., 192n.,
1055n., 1348, 1348n.; Perkins, 191n., 222, 231,
231n., 233, 233n., 262, 347, 785; mentioned,
59n., 152, 220, 853, 921-22 (John Skimmer)
Franklin, Pennsylvania Navy Row Galley: 6
(Nathaniel Boyce)
Franklin, : 987
Franklin, (Lt.): 166
Franklin, Benjamin: on trade with France, 398,
529, 629; meeting with the Howes, 726, 773,
782, 1064; concerning supplies for Arnold’s
Fleet, 791; treaty with France, 1087, 1105-06,
1400-03, 1403-05, 1416-17; to: William Tem-
ple Franklin, 773; from: Committee of Secret
Correspondence, 1405-07; Samuel Cooper,
871; Pliarne, Penet 8c Co., 525-29; George
Ross, 228; mentioned, 103, 242, 352, 455, 458,
460, 484, 500, 510-11, 807, 1025, 1104*, 1388,
1447n.
Franklin, William Temple: from: Benjamin
Franklin, 773
Franks, David: 1373
Franks, Moses: 1361
Fraser, Hugh (Lt., British Army): 1480
Fraser, James: 1480
Fraser, Simon (Lt. Col., British Army): 1274
Fraser, Simon (Capt., British Army): 539, 601,
1081
Fraser, Thomas: 15, 164n.
Frazer, Andrew: to: Sir Stanier Porten, 611
Frazer, Henry: 31
Frazer, Nathan: 177n., 247
Frazer, William: 10, lOn.
Frazier, John: 999
Frederick, brigantine: 789 (Edmund Cottle)
Frederick II, King of Prussia: 489, 623
Fredericksburg, Va.: 142
Freeborn, Gideon: 698
Freeborn, Isaac: 264
Freedom, Massachusetts Navy Sloop/Brigantine:
munitions, 78, 231, 661; officer appointments,
674; naval stores, 898, 898n.; completed, 899,
899n.; cruising orders, 908-09, rerigged as
brigantine, 997, 1173, 1269, 1455, 1455n.;
seamen for 1032; ballast for, 1078; advance
wages, 1113; mentioned, 345n. (John Clous-
ton)
Freeman, Elisha: from: Richard Bulkeley, 1285
Freeman, Er: 234
Freeman, Nathaniel (Capt.): 674n., 1439, 1439n.
(Wolfe)
Freeman, Sam: 330, 331, 752
Freeman’s Journal (Portsmouth): 1776: 3 Aug.,
27; 24 Aug., 194n., 290; 14 Sept., 343-44; 21
Sept., 880-81; 28 Sept., 1031; 5 Oct., 1133,
1135*; 12 Oct., 1230-31, 1299n.; 22 Oct., 1358;
29 Oct., 1173, 1442
1572
INDEX
Freemason , sloop: 365 (Epaphros Mygat)
French, Cornelius: 1008, 1413
French, Samuel: 984
French Santo Domingo, Hispaniola: military
preparations, 7, 401; American trade source,
210, 233, 245, 270, 284, 389, 722, 828, 878,
897, 1016, 1029, 1045, 1148, 1332, 1334; Con-
tinental gunpowder and munitions source,
243-44, 301, 405, 409, 411, 41 In., 755; British
warships cruising off, 301, 384-86; French
naval reinforcements, 390, 393-97, 397n., 422,
621, 812; d’Ennery to remain as Governor,
587; HMS Antelope and Pomona stop French
ship, 599; mentioned, 185, 315, 460, 1029 See
also Cape Francois; Cape St. Nicolas Mole
Frenchmans Bay, Me.: 1001-02
Friends, British Army Transport: 600 (Fisher)
Friends Adventure, schooner: 1169 (Ross)
Friendship, HM Armed Ship: 563, 565 (Charles
Hope)
Friendship, British Navy Victualer: 492, 493-
96, 1382, 1383n.
Friendship, ship: captured by Reprisal, 12, 41,
64, 64n.; as prize in port, 104; condemned,
327n.; sold, 327; mentioned, 42, 42n., 43n.,
105, 105n., 142 (Charles MacKay)
Friendship, ship: captured by Diamond, 214;
sold, 360 (Joseph Jones)
Friendship, brig: 65, 200, 1211 (John Martin)
Friendship, brig: 194, 781 (Alex Exceen)
Friendship, brig: captured by Raven, 1284
(Townsend)
Friendship, brigantine: captured by Providence,
1302
Friendship, schooner: .1 122, 1408-09
Frogs Point, N.Y.: See Throgs Point
Frumiture & Eustace: 77ln.
Fry, Edward: to: James Caldwell, 1460-61; Capt.
Forster, 1460-61; John Hamilton, 1460-61;
mentioned, 1461n.
Fry, Richard: 282
Frye, Samuel: 1375
Fuller, Thomas (Capt.): 1172 ( Neptune )
Fulton, James: 1309, 1320
Fulton, James (Capt.): 465, 1020n. (Jane)
Furneaux, Tobias (Capt., R.N.): concerning
prisoner exchange, 1216, 1459; to: Nicholas
Cooke, 1216; mentioned, 169, 892, 1061, 1163,
1332, 1424 (Syren)
Furse, (Capt.): 474
Gabon River, Gabon, Africa: 76
Gabriel, Francis: 701
Gadsden, Christopher (Brig. Gen., Continental
Army): 197, 1297, 1315
Gage, Thomas (Lt. Gen., British Army): 180n.
Gaggen, James: 905
Gaggen, William: 906
Galatea, HMS: Journal: 270, 284, 292-93, 378-
79, 680, 980, 980n., 1029, 1369; captured:
Dolphin, 806, 1357, 1357n.; Molly, 270, 622;
Patsey, 292; Three Friends, 284; Two Broth-
ers, 292; William, 806, 1369; French brig,
284; unnamed schooner, 284; recaptured:
Favourite, 980, 980n., 1157, 1157n., 1165;
Heart of Oak, 806; Hope, 804n.; Rachel, 379;
Sword Fish, 806; to convoy victualers to
America, 435, 453, 543; arrived New York,
805, 823, 862, 885, 992; ordered to Bermuda,
887, 893; cruizing off Virginia Capes, 1384,
1424; mentioned, 439, 449, 456, 1239, 1239n.
(Thomas Jordan)
Gale, John: 11, 107
Gallagher [Galligher, Gallway], Bernard: 745,
1049, 1376
Galleons Reach, England: 478
Galvez, Bernardo de (Gov., Louisiana): 1427
Galvez, Jose de (Minister of the Indies): to:
Marquis de la Torres, 607; from: Marquis
de la Torres, 670-71
Gambell, Archibald: 1074
Gamble, Joseph: 186
Gamble, William (Capt., Pennsylvania Navy):
to: Pennsylvania Council of Safety, 1333-34;
mentioned, 7 (Aetna; Colonel Parry)
Gan, John: 1161
Gansevoort, Peter (Lt. Col., Continental Army):
from: Richard Varick, 19
Garden, Benjamin (Lt. Col., South Carolina
Militia): 1165
Gardiner, David: 82, 333 ,1129
Gardiner, Henry: 971, 1112
Gardiner, William: 1161
Gardner, Alan (Capt., R.N.): 75, 505-06, 506n.,
829, 997, 1169-71 (Maidstone)
Gardner, Alexander (Capt., Pennsylvania Navy):
7 (Defiance)
Gardner, Andrew (Capt.): 1213n. (Active)
Gardner, Coas: 13
Gardner, David: 357, 959
Gardner, Henry: 57, 855, 1195
Gardner, John: 986
Gardner, John, Jr.: 112, 1031n.
Gardner, Nicholas: 651
Gardners Island, N.Y.: 1118
Gardoqui, Joseph & Sons: 627
Garland, HMS: Hessians convoyed to Quebec,
420, 435, 543, 981, 981n.; arrived Quebec, 969;
complement increased by landsmen, 439; men
serving on Lake Champlain, 1343, 1345; to
winter at Quebec, 1370; mentioned, 449,
1424 (Richard Pearson)
Gamier, : to: Vergennes, 389-90, 400-01,
408-10, 414-16, 444-52, 454-56, 467, 470-71,
473-74, 502-04, 504-05, 522-23, 547-48, 549-
50, 569-70, 570n., 591-92, 597-98, 630-33;
from: Vergennes, 420, 430-31, 572, 599-600;
mentioned, 509, 570n., 598n.
Garonne River, France: 529, 576
Garston, Edward (Midn., R.N.): 1343
Garvey, John: 906
Garvin, John: 785
Garzia, John (Capt.): 922-23, 956n. (General
Greene)
INDEX
1573
Gaskil, Thomas: 807
Gaspe Bay, Quebec: 1288
Gaspee, HM Brig: salvaged by British, 417; at
St. Johns, 45-47; in St. Lawrence River, 894;
crew serving on Lake Champlain, 1343, 1345;
prisoners held at Reading, Pennsylvania,
1224; mentioned, 449, 1415 (George Scott)
Gates , Arnold’s Fleet Row Galley: 1344
Gates, Horatio (Maj. Gen., Continental Army):
concerning Lake Champlain, 95-96, 320-21,
348-49, 872, 993, 1261, 1350, 1380-81, 1483; to:
Benedict Arnold, 95-96, 223, 235, 283, 321,
708, 791-92, 902, 962, 1006-07, 1102-03, 1116-
17, 1237; Philip Schuyler, 223, 723-24, 961-62,
1061-62, 1277; Jonathan Trumbull, 145;
George Washington, 335; from: Benedict
Arnold, 98, 205, 216, 234, 283, 371-72, 654,
734-35, 747, 760, 837-38, 857-58, 884, 925-26,
1032-33, 1151-52, 1235-37; David Waterbury,
217; Jacobus Wynkoop, 216-17; mentioned,
19, 223, 224, 858n., 1199, 1367
Gaunt, John: 745
Gavitt, Labeus: 18, 695
Gayle, Robert: 1016
Gaylord, John: 1160
Gayton, Clark (V. Adm., R.N.): squadron at
Jamaica, 301, 418, 542, 550, 581, 1427; to:
Francis de Monteil, 897; Stair Douglas, 301,
356; Philip Stephens, 74-75, 671-72, 673,
1166-68; from: Craister Greathead, 946; Basil
Keith, 44, 341-42; Thomas Lloyd, 865-66;
Lords Commissioners, 402-03, 580-81; Francis
de Monteil, 864-65; Philip Stephens, 402,
537, 587; mentioned, 408, 471, 532, 590, 597,
689, 730, 879-80, 921, 943-44, 944n., 1043
Geddins, John: 693
Geddy, James: 259
Gee, George: 282, 334, 961
Gee, Peter: 1292
Gelston, : 1292
General Gage , HM Sloop: 970 (George Sibels)
General Gates, Massachusetts Privateer
Schooner: commission granted, 112; captured:
Dragon, 1211, 1212n., 1231, 1231n., 1299,
1299n.; mentioned, 1036-31, 1031n., 1395,
1396n. (William Carleton)
General Greene, Rhode Island Privateer Sloop:
captured, St. James, 924, 924n., 955, 956n.;
mentioned, 922-23 (John Garzia)
General Howe, British Victualer: 595
General Lee, Pennsylvania Privateer Brig: 1103,
1122 (John Chatham)
General Mifflin, Continental Navy Sloop: cap-
tured: Temple, 854-55, 987
General Mifflin, Pennsylvania Privateer Brig-
antine: 327 (John Hamilton)
General Montgomery, Pennsylvania Privateer
Brig: commissioned, 366; captured, Thetis,
1190, 1 190n., 1205, 1205n., 1295, 1368 (James
Montgomery)
General Putnam, New York Navy Schooner:
supplies, 284-86, 286n.; mutiny, 680-82, 737—
38, 927-28, 1007-08; in leaky condition, 973,
1007-08; at Cranberry Inlet, 1142; to be sold,
1152; payroll, 1413-14; captured: Halifax,
111 In.; to: New York Provincial Convention,
680-82 (Thomas Cregier)
General Putnam, Massachusetts Privateer
Schooner: 346n. (Stephen Mascoll)
General Putnam, Pennsylvania Privateer Brig:
327, 1239, 1239n. (Charles Ferguson)
General Schuyler, Continental Navy Sloop: ac-
counts against, 707; at New London, 723,
723n.; captured: Temple, 854-55, 987; un-
named brig. 155, 155n.; recaptured Nancy,
1056; mentioned, 821, 909n. (Charles Pond)
General Thompson, schooner: 1140 (William
Connell)
General Washington, North Carolina Navy
Brig: 1356 (John Forster)
General Washington, sloop: 1335n.
Generous Friends, British Navy Victualer; 432,
434, 492, 493-96 (Hill)
Geneva, Switzerland: 612
Genoa, Italy: 244, 515, 588, 612, 618
George, British Army Transport: captured,
539-40, 540n.; tried, 58, 800, 800n.; sold, 152,
153; cannon from, 230, 280; as American
decoy ship, Caleb Hopkins, Capt., 14, 344,
801; mentioned, 601, 626 (Archibald Bog;
Caleb Hopkins)
George, British Navy Victualer: 492, 493-96,
1110, 1110n., 1147, 1147n„ 1196, 1196n., 1251,
1252n., 1382, 1383n. (George Grey)
George and Molly, British Transport: 428
George III, King of Great Britain: expedition
against southern colonies, 490, 491, 561-64;
exportation of gunpowder, 388-89; instruc-
tions on capture of American prizes, 399;
peace proposal, 577; from: Lords Commission-
ers, 618-19; John Robinson, 400; Lord Sand-
wich, 442, 471-72, 589; mentioned, 14, 51-52,
77, 134, 548, 549, 549n., 572, 576, 1343, 1353,
1365
George, John: 698
George’s Bank, Mass.: 1097, 1250
Georgetown, Mass.: 799
Georgia, brig: 1132, 1132n., 1409 (Bolton)
Georgia: British prohibition on trade, 399;
defensive preparations, 73-74, 91, 376, 718;
mentioned, 125, 276, 365, 470, 683, 1012,
1328, 1464
Georgia Council of Safety: Journal: 133-34,
1156, 1327, 1357
Georgia Diana, brig: 899, 952, 952n., 1002 (Peter
Rigan)
Gerard, : 488
Germain, Lord George [1st Viscount Sackville]:
on defense of Jamaica, 401-02; on illegal
trade between Nova Scotia and New England,
480-81; on the capture of British transports,
548-49; on the arming of British ordnance
ships, 576-77; on Lord Dunmore’s defeat,
617; to: Marriot Arbuthnot, 480-81; Basil
388-825 O - 73 - 101
1574
INDEX
Keith, 401-02; Lords Commissioners, 548-49;
George Townshend, 576-77, 617; from: Mar-
riot Arbuthnot, 1111, 1157; Guy Carleton,
1257-58; Peter Chester, 1427-28; Lord Dun-
more, 51, 678-79; Lord Howe, 145-47; 910-
11; William Howe, 910-11; Lords Commis-
sioners, 408, 454, 497, 506, 541-43, 544, 574-75,
601; Josiah Martin, 100-01; Patrick Tonyn,
109, 260, 313-14, 749-50, 767-68, 1327-28,
1467-68; George Townshend, 558; mentioned,
110-11, 424, 424n., 425, 431, 437, 443, 444,
496, 517, 521, 522n., 536, 561, 562, 565, 587,
686, 888, 1257
German troops: See Brunswick, Germany; Han-
over, Germany; Hesse, Germany; Waldeck,
Germany
Germantown, Pa.; 1108
Germany Girardot & Co.: 441, 501
Gerrish, Benjamin: 881
Getscheus Jacob (Capt.): 149n. (Aurora)
Gibaut, Edward: to: Massachusetts Council, 1077
Gibb, : 8
Gibbet Island, N.Y.: See Ellis Island
Gibbons, Edward: 907
Gibbs, Enos: 856
Gibbs, Jonathan: 856
Gibbs, Thomas: 366
Gibraltar: 149n., 588, 611, 619
Gickie, (Capt.): 90 ( Lady William)
Gidoin, John: from: Lords Commissioners, 575—
76; mentioned, 595 ( Richmond )
Gifford, James: 906
Gilbert, Ephraim (Capt.): 878, 1267 (John’s
Relief)
Gilbert, Henry: 906
Gilbert, J. (Capt.): 1466n. (Two Brothers)
Gilbert, Prince: 234
Gilbert, Thomas: 906
Gilchrist, John: 296
Giles, Eleazer (Capt.): 648-49, 1358, 1432, 1442,
1442n., 1471 (Retaliation)
Gill, John (Capt.): 112n., 788 (Independence)
Gill, John (Lt., Washington’s Fleet): 853, 854n.
Gill, Moses: 213, 249-50, 1213, 1270, 1298
Gillam, John: 245
Gilliland, James: 371
Gillon, Alexander: 1223
Girard [Geroure], Antoine: 857-58, 858n.
Girardeau, John: 133
Glacken, John: 704
Glacker, John: 31
Glasgois, : 258
Glasgow , HMS: engagement with Continental
Fleet, 197, 400-01, 401n., 405, 411, 415, 439;
capture of Glasgow tender, 804n., 833, 1100;
arrived in England, 410-11, 415; mentioned,
242, 410, 449, 1424 (Tyringham Howe)
Glasgow, British Army Transport: 600 (Smith)
Glasgow, schooner: 1172-73, 1231 (John Cabot)
Glasgow Packet, British Army Transport: 589,
589n., 1228, 1283, 1297, 1335, 1335n. (Porter-
field)
Glasgow, Scotland: 142, 201, 465, 534, 1163
Glashy, James: 905
Glass House Point, N.J.: 1180
Glencairn, ..British Army Transport: 600
(Hunter)
Globe, British Army Transport: 600 (Harrison)
Glory, HMS: 450
Gloucester, Virginia Navy Row Galley: 199, 366,
1207
Gloucester, Mass.: 13, 354, 1270
Gloucester, R.I.: 804
Gloucester, Va.: 294
Gloucester County, Va.: 1312
Glover, Jonathan: 59, 98-99, 115, 151, 152, 1142,
1323, 1323n.
Goard, Henry: 304
Goat Island, Nova Scotia: 288
Goddard, Ebenezer: 333, 959, 1060, 1129
Godet, Henricus: 1407
Godet, Thomas: from: Marine Committee, 1203
Godfrey, James (Capt.): 291-92, 856, 857n.,
1149 (Lady Washington)
Goldsmith, Ephraim (Lt., Arnold’s Fleet): 985,
1382
Goldsmith, William: 1160
Good Intent, brig: 588, 619, 1299, 1299n. (Wil-
liam Davis)
Good Intent, schooner: 828 (Seabrook)
Good Intent, sloop: 727, 1108 (Richard Fowle)
Goodhue, Benjamin: 12, 57, 112
Goodrich, Bartlett: 257
Goodrich, Bridger (Capt., Dunmore’s Fleet):
895, 977 (Lady Susan; Molly)
Goodrich, Elizur (Capt.): 1421-22 (Betsey)
Goodrich, John, Jr. (Capt., Dunmore’s Fleet):
from: William Goodrich, 716
Goodrich, William (Capt., Dunmore’s Fleet):
to: John Goodrich, Jr., 716; Pennsylvania
Council of Safety, 738-41; mentioned, 43n.,
64n., 105, 766, 877, 1011 (Lady Susan)
Goodrich Family: 42, 64, 340
Good rick, Levy: 984
Goodridge, John (Lt. R.N.): 123n., 169, 289, 377,
1455n. (Dispatch)
Goodson, William: 1206
Goodwin, John (Capt.): 30, 506 (Harlequin)
Goold, Arthur: 1172
Goold, Hugh: 646, 1144, 1250-51
Goosley, George: 767
Gordant, J. (Capt.): 1171 (Pheba)
Gordon, Arthur: from: Andrew Turnbull, 644
Gordon, Daniel: 904
Gordon, Francis (Capt., R.N.): 533 (Argo)
Gordon, James (Lt., R.N.): from: Lords Com-
missioners, 521; mentioned, 569 (Boulogne)
Gordon, John: 1288
Gorge Samuel: 1475
Gorham, — — (Col.): 161
Gorman, William: 1159
Gorretson, Samuel: 234
Gorton, James (Capt.): 245 (Patsey)
Gorton, Will (Capt.): 1171 (Patsey)
INDEX
1575
Goseling, Richard: 901
Gosport, England: 502
Gossling, Herman: 945
Gouace, (Capt.): 722n. ( Felicite )
Gould, Francis: 701
Gouldsborough, Me.: 327, 788
Gourlay, Peter: 1000
Governeur, Isaac: from: Carter Braxton, 1039-
41; mentioned, 796, 1025, 1407
Governors Island, N.Y.: Howe’s Fleet at, 377,
378, 640, 640n., 679, 765, 805-06, 839, 861, 924,
1085n.; British troop landings, 655, 666, 711,
714, 724—25, 988-89, 1063; American retreat
from, 336, 354, 364, 364n., 372, 378, 706;
mentioned, 350, 1154
Gowdy, James: 1161
Gradiz, : 499
Graeme, Alexander (Capt., R.N.): 167, 892,
1424 ( Kingsfisher )
Grafton , HMS: 449
Graham, (Capt., Arnold’s Fleet): See
Grimes
Graham, (Capt., British Army): from:
William Grant, 90, 109n.; mentioned, 72, 73,
108, 109, 600
Graham, George: 1311
Graham, John: 276
Graham, Morris (Col., New York Militia): 323
Grampus, schooner: 23 (Job Springer)
Grand, Ferdinand: 499, 500n.
Grand Duke, British Navy Victualer: 492 , 493-
96, 1018
Grand Isle, N.Y.: 926
Grand Manan Island, New Brunswick: 162, 328
Grannis, John (Capt., Continental Marines):
651, 803, 803n.
Grant, brigantine: 412, 413 (John Waldron)
Grant, (Maj., British Army): 600
Grant, (Capt., Arnold’s Fleet): 224 ( Con-
necticut)
Grant, Charles: 517, 550, 999
Grant, James (Lt. Col., Continental Army): 336
Grant, James (Brig. Gen., British Army): 309,
353, 372, 374, 711, 1519
Grant, John: 212-13, 249, 999
Grant, John: on Defence, 906
Grant, Thomas: 195
Grant, William (Lt., R.N.): to: Captain Graham,
90, 109n.; Patrick Tonyn, 108-09; from: Pat-
rick Tonyn, 717; mentioned, 72-73, 89, 109,
169, 183, 367, 718, 750, 767-68, 893 (St. John)
Grantham, Lord [Thomas Robinson, 2nd Baron
Grantham]: to: Lord Weymouth, 604; men-
tioned, 518, 556n., 614
Grantham, William: 906
Grasse, Comte de [Francois Joseph Paul]: 384
Gravelly Point, R.I.: 154
Graves, (Capt.): 608 (Elinor)
Graves, John (Lt., R.N.): 167, 892 (St. Law-
rence)
Graves, Richard: 917-19
Graves, Samuel (Capt., R.N.): 162, 169, 221, 437,
721, 893, 1424 (Viper)
Gravesend Bay, N.Y.: Howe’s Fleet in, 267-70,
269*, 309, 337, 352, 374, 378, 679, 932, 1518
Gray, George: 1355
Gray, James: 1016
Gray, John (Capt.): 857 (Britania)
Gray, Sylvester (Capt.): 1029n., 1170 (Hannah)
Gray, Thomas: 770
Gray, Winthrop (Capt., Continental Army): to:
New-England Chronicle, 14; mentioned, 15n.
Graybel, : 1108
Grays, Ellis: 152
Great Inagua Island, Bahamas: 385, 394
Great Wicomio River, Va.: 24, 65, 106
Greathead, Craister (Gov., St. Christopher Is-
land): to: Clark Gay ton, 946; mentioned, 1075
Greaton, John (Col., Continental Army): 217
Greely, Jonathan (Capt.): 754, 1133, 1146,
1 146n., 1147, 1147n., 1159, 1196, 1251, 1251n.
(Speedwell)
'Green, Amos (Capt.): 4
Green, Ezra, (Dr.): to: Nathaniel Cooper, 1461—
63
Green, James: 905
Green, John: to: Cornelius Hartnett, 1042
Green, John (Surgeon’s Mate, R.N.): 665
Green, John (Capt.): 1169 (Mary)
Green, Matthew: 704
Green, Thomas: 906
Green, William (Lt., Virginia Navy): 24-25,
1450
Greene, Job (Capt.): 766-67, 797, 864 (Two
Brothers)
Greene, Nathanael (Maj. Gen., Continental
Army): to: Nicholas Cooke, 874-75; men-
tioned, 155, 1292
Greenhill, Thomas (Capt.): 873
Greenleaf, Benjamin: 92, 648, 785
Greenleaf, Joseph: to: Robert Treat Paine, 832;
mentioned, 1 14, 203, 982
Greenleaf, William: 152, 153, 1395-96, 1470
Greenock, Scotland: 540, 542, 556
Greenway, Joseph (Lt., Pennsylvania Navy; Lt.,
Continental Navy): resigned commission, 256,
338
Greenway, William (Capt., Pennsylvania Navy):
7, 1122, 1201 (Vulture; Congress)
Crreenwich, Rhode Island Privateer Sloop: cap-
tured: Belle, 1360-61; Pasley, 1456 (Job
Pearce)
Greenwich, Conn.: 902
Greenwich, N.Y.: 337, 964, 1153
Greenwood, Miles: 14, 57, 58n., 674; to: Massa-
chusetts Council, 1077
Greenwood, William: 1329
Greer, David (Maj., Connecticut Militia): 837
Greer, Moses: 907
Gregg, (Capt.): 536 (Gunticanute)
Gregore, John: 1052
Grenada, West Indies: 42, 64, 105, 152, 193,
1576
INDEX
232, 305, 347, 570, 582, 604, 620, 731, 1001,
1031, 1050
Grenville , Packet: 867
Gresswold, Joseph: 725
Grey, George (Capt.): 496, 1110, lllOn., 1196
(George)
Grey, John: 998
Greyhound, HMS: Journal: 378; convoy to
America, 400; at Staten Island, 102, 167, 184,
1262; Battle of Long Island, 267, 270, 352,
374; in New York Harbor, 737, 805, 859, 891;
mentioned, 337, 448, 472n., 1424 (Archibald
Dickson)
Greyhound, Schooner Pilot Boat: 294 (Richard
Johns)
Greystock, Thomas: 334, 961
Gribeauval, Jean-Baptiste Vaquette de (Direc-
tor General of Artillery): 425, 425n.
Grier, David (Maj., Continental Army): 735
Griffin, Corbin (Dr.): 728, 1334
Griffith, John: 1414
Griffiths, Benjamin (Capt.): 952, 952n., 1002
(Swallow)
Griffiths, Richard: 1374
Griffiths, Thomas: 1159
Griffiths, William: 1373
Grimaldi, Jeronimo, Marquis de: to: Prince
Masserano, 555-56, 622, 633; from: Conde de
Aranda, 597; Prince Masserano, 613-15; men-
tioned, 518, 556., 670-71
Grimes [Graham], (Capt., Arnold’s Fleet):
224 (Jersey)
Grimes, Cornelus: 31
Grimes, John (Capt., Rhode Island Navy]: 49,
121, 370, 822 (Spit-Fire)
Grindall, Jonathan (Capt.): 411, 418 (Norfolk)
Grinnell, Cambridge: 1373
Grinnell, James: 1373
Grinnell, Richard: 701
Grinnell, Thomas (Capt., Continental Navy):
from: Francis Lewis, 274; mentioned, 928,
1201
Grinnell, William (Lt., Continental Navy): 684,
745, 1047, 1371
Griswold, Charles: 1507
Griswold, Matthew: from: Samuel Huntington,
365-66
Groton, Conn.: 118, 244, 12l7n., 1305
Groundwater, Andrew (Capt., South Carolina
Navy): 212n., 1268 (Peggy)
Groves, (Capt.): 543, 544 (Tyne)
Grubb, Curtis (Col., Pennsylvania Militia): 773
Gruel, Jacques: 476n., 514, 525, 525n., 527, 528
Guadeloupe, HMS: 452
Guadeloupe, West Indies: naval reinforce-
ments for, 394, 587, 621, 949, 1046; gun-
powder source, 457, 975; military prepara-
tions, 385, 749, 1075
Guernsey, Channel Islands: 297, 386, 480, 608
Guerton, de: 533
Guest, John: 769
Guiler, Christian: 1293
Guilford, Conn.: 306
Guillot, Francis: 1024
Guinea Coast, Africa: 393, 410, 620
Guines, Matthias: 1375
Gunpowder, British: exportation prohibited,
388-89; in Howe’s Fleet, 184; mentioned, 196,
537
Gunpowder, Continental: Sources: Caicos Is-
lands, 301; Cape Francois, 405, 411, 454, 456;
Capt St. Nicolas Mole, 559, 1041-42;
France, 6, 8, 41, 63, 405, 409, 497, 499, 527,
534, 551, 597, 602, 616, 1079; French Santo
Domingo, 243-44, 301, 405, 409, 411, 41 In.,
755; Guadeloupe, 457, 975; Martinique, 209,
409, 457-58, 499, 506, 732, 738, 796, 937, 975,
1086-87, 1088-89; Netherlands, 393, 418, 520;
Portugal, 475; St. Croix, 1208, 1431; St.
Eustatius, 60, 132, 308, 410, 457, 458, 572, 578,
677-78, 732, 738, 798, 798n., 975, 1086-87;
St. Martin, 412-13, 601; St. Thomas, 1327,
1431, 1432; Spain, 419
Gunlicanute, schooner: 536 (Gregg)
Gurn, Thomas: 1459
Gurney, Francis (Capt.): 823, 966, 1131, 1408
Guthrie, Alexander (Capt., Virgina Navy): 995
(Peace & Plenty)
Gwathin, J.: 1144
Gwinnett, Button: 22
Gwynn Island, Va.: 172, 294, 741, 743, 849, 980,
980n., 1312
Gyles, Nathaniel: 292
Gyon, Lewis: 1223
Hack, George: 259
Hackensack River, N.J.: 39-41, 41n.
Hacker, Hoysteed (Capt., Continental Navy):
to command Hampden, 138; Hampden dam-
aged, 770, 949, 1434, 1473; from: Esek Hop-
kins, 757, 1253, 1289, 1331, 1362-63, 1459;
Marine Committee, 273; mentioned, 118, 120,
145, 210, 355, 639, 757, 956, 1201, 1300, 1362,
1378-80 (Fly; Hampden)
Hacker, John Lance: 138
Hacker, Samuel: 138
Hackett, James (Maj., New Hampshire Militia):
369
Haddam, Conn.: 4
Haddrell’s Point, S.C.: 562
Hadlock, Reuben: 985
Hagan, Edward: 704, 1301
Hagan [Hagen], Francis: 283, 1485
Haldimand, Frederick (Maj. Gen., British
Army): from: Francis Hutcheson, 123-24,
124n.
Halifax, HM Brig: Master’s log: 50, 306-07,
355, 640, 654-55, 709, 883, 1006; prisoners on
board, 304; captured: Sally, 770—71; unnamed
sloops, 306-07, 349; mentioned, 316n., 449,
910; in Long Island Sound, 167, 306-07, 322,
323, 323n., 335, 335n., 371, 679, 892 (William
Quarme)
INDEX
1577
Halifax , brigantine: 1111, lllln. (Richard
Hinckly)
Halifax, packet: 885, 1068 (Bolderson)
Halifax, sloop: 1114 (John McGregor)
Halifax, N.C.: 72, 133, 341
Halifax, Nova Scotia: American prisoners held,
735, 746, 780, 982, 1053, 1080, 1433; British
ships stationed at, 169, 437, 503, 537, 549, 569,
594, 831, 893, 894, 903, 950n.; harbor, 15n.,
496, 577, 787, 1046, 1211, 1286; Inward bound
ships, 7, 27n., 63, 64n., 105, 113, 163, 202,
240, 284, 292, 330, 368, 373, 376, 400, 410-11,
435, 436, 477, 481, 493, 506, 521, 543, 544,
592, 595, 601n., 604, 724, 749, 776, 804, 893,
925, 1002, 1153n.; Outward bound ships, 122,
152n., 162, 290, 337, 417, 556, 598, 691, 772,
1018, 1423; Prizes sent into, 12-13, 15, 27n.,
123-24, 297-98, 298n., 358, 620, 633, 747n.,
756, 1002, 1055n., 1098, 1317, 1330, 1433;
supplies sent to, 477, 498, 522, 548, 576n,
582, 592; mentioned, 48, 128, 132, 190, 210,
252, 277, 392, 415, 478, 497, 540, 567, 596,
691, 788n., 813, 1076, 1328, 1336
Halifax River, Nova Scotia: 481
Hall, (Capt.): 1076
Hall, (Capt.): 476 ( London )
Hall, David: 517, 546, 546n., 550
Hall, Daniel (Lt., Virginia Navy): 236, 245
Hall, George: 1097, 1243, 1268, 1283, 1313
Hall, James (Capt.): 418 ( Happy Return)
Hall, John (Mate, Maryland Navy): 905
Hall, John: to: Matthew Tilghman, 1039; men-
tioned, 1155
Hall, Josias: 856
Hall, Parker: 138
Hall, Philip: 1309, 1320
Hall, Thomas: 693
Hallet, Allen (Capt.): 12, 1114 ( Sturdy Beggar)
Hallam [Halm, Erlom, Einom], Samuel: 1361,
1398, 1372
Haller, Albrecht von: 1485
Hallett, Joseph: 335, 667, 885
Hallet’s Cove, N.Y.: 762
Hallock, William (Capt., Continental Navy):
from: Marine Committee, 209; mentioned,
325, 939, 1163, 1201, 1319n., 1355n., 1368,
1403 ( Hornet ; Lexington)
Hallowed, (Capt.): 530
Hallowell, Robert: 1124
Hallum, John (Lt., R.N.): 167, 891 ( Adventure )
Hally, Joseph: 1161
Halsted, William (Capt., R.N.): to: Philip
Stephens, 903-04; mentioned, 122, 145, 169,
891 ( Jersey )
Hamburg, Conn.: 50
Hamburg, Germany: 107, 599, 646
Hamilton, Frederick: 751
Hamilton, John (Capt., R.N.): 416, 419 ( Lizard ;
Hector)
Hamilton, John (Capt., Pennsylvania Navy): to:
Pennsylvania Council of Safety, 6; mentioned,
327 ( Congress ; General Mifflin)
Hamilton, John (of N.C.): 341n.
Hamilton, John & Co.: 341, 341n.
Hamilton, William (Lt., Continental Marines):
702, 1301, 1378-80
Hamman, Benjamin: 701
Hammett, : 1158
Hammond, (Capt.): 214
Hammond, John (Seaman, Washington’s Fleet):
234
Hammond, Samuel: 961
Hammond, (Capt.): 297 ( Marriot )
Hammott, : 150-51
Hamond, Andrew Snape (Capt., R.N.): Nar-
rative: 172-74, 351-54, 1063-68, 1182-84; to:
George Montagu, 88-89; Hans Stanley, 66-71,
973-75; Richard Whitworth, 89; mentioned,
51, 66-70, 169, 295, 325n., 374-76, 678, 806,
886, 891, 1012-13, 1183n., 1424 ( Roebuck )
Hampden, Continental Navy Brig: purchased
and renamed, 210; John Paul Jones rejected
command, 86n., 210; fitted out, 120, 757,
757n., 770, 949; Hoysteed Hacker given com-
mand 138; proposed raid on Newfoundland,
271, 1253, 1271, 1303, 1362, 1399; officer ap-
pointments, 355, 1201; accounts, 956-57, sea-
men needed, 1055, 1458; proposed Long
Island expedition, 1134, 1218-19; ordered to
Cape Fear, 1202, 1385-86; 1300; seaman
turned over to, 1372; mutiny, 1378-80; dam-
aged, 1434, 1457-59, 1473; mentioned, 1317,
1331 (Hoysteed Hacker)
Hampden, packet boat: 607, 613 (T.P. Braith-
waite)
Hampshire, East India ship: 624
Hampton, Va.: 221, 812, 1028, 1042, 1426-27
Hampton Roads, Va.: 88, 132, 1228
Hamson, Thomas (Capt.): 154 (Star and Garter)
Hanbury, Capel: 413-14
Hanbury, Osgood: 413-14
Hanbury’s and Lloyd: 413-14
Hance [Hanse], Jacob (Capt., Pennsylvania
Navy): 7 (Eagle)
Hancock, Continental Navy Frigate: seamen
needed, 143, 143n.; cannon needed, 289, 299,
675, 755, 801-02, 871, 882, 972; Manley ranked,
1200; ordered to cruise, 1385; mentioned,
419n. (John Manley)
Hancock, Washington’s Fleet Schooner: cap-
tured: Annabella and George, 539, 540 ,540n.;
Elizabeth, 113, 177, 178n., 180, 202, 240, 247,
1069; Jane, 465, 465n.; Nelly Frigate, 290,
290n., 302, 346n.; Peggy, 15, 58n., 62, 62n.,
152n., 164, 164n., 192n., 1055n., 1348, 1348n.;
Perkins, 191n., 222, 231n., 233, 233n., 347,
786; Reward, 290; mentioned, 152, 220, 853
(Samuel Tucker)
Hancock, Pennsylvania Navy Row Galley: 6
(Thomas Moore)
Hancock, Pennsylvania Privateer Brig: captured:
Industry, 201; Lovely Nelly, 1471; Mary, 30n.,
60, 60n.; Nancy, 201, 233, 347; Necessity,
1111-12, 1173, 1173n.; Polly, 1465, 1465n.;
1578
INDEX
Reward, 92, 126, 193, 586, 586n.; Sherburne,
1368, 1368n.; Two Friends, 231n., 347; men-
tioned, 93n., 194n., 527 (Wingate Newman)
Hancock & Adams: 7, 185, 616, 1078 (Samuel
Smith)
Hancock, Andrew: 940
Hancock, Ebenezer: 1322
Hancock, John: concerning British landings in
New York, 61-62, 156, 284, 667, 1185; cannon
for Boston, 232, 934, 1147, 1416; cannon for
Raleigh, 816, 1154, 1158, 1416; commissions
for John Barry, 1012; for Stephen Cleveland,
125; for John Paul Jones, 210, 1446; fitting
out Arnold’s Fleet, 1117-18; fitting out Con-
tinental frigates, 802, 953; case of James
Josiah, 104, 104n., 125, 155; concerning Lake
Champlain, 3-4, 264-65, 348-49, 747-48, 1289-
90; Marine Committee: sailing orders to
Hopkins, 273, 1386; sailing orders to Jones,
86, 209; mentioned, 1308; peace proposal,
715; prize agents, 98-99, 114, 115, 346; prizes,
58-59, 151-52, 153, 749, 749n., 1050-51, 1146;
to: Thomas Cushing, 1407-08; George Wash-
ington, 125, 667; from: James Bowdoin, 802,
953; John Bradford, 58-59, 114, 151-52, 222,
346, 853, 1053-55, 1146, 1348; James Camp-
bell, 749; Thomas Cushing, 232, 674-75;
Esek Hopkins, 220, 1055-56; John Paul Jones,
86n.; John Langdon, 1050-51, 1158-59; Hugh
Mercer, 156; Philip Schuyler, 3-4, 348-49,
747-48, 1117-18, 1289-90; George Taylor,
1333; Jonathan Trumbull, 264-65; George
Washington, 61-62, 98-99, 155, 284, 735-36,
1185; mentioned, 59, 60n., 79, 79n., 126, 193,
751, 914*, 915, 1153, 1333, 1407-08, 1436
Hancock, John (Col.): 1470
Hand, David: 1160
Handle, Philip: 315
Handly, Philip: 907
Handy, James (Capt.): 1224, 1226 (. Harlequin )
Handy, Joseph (Capt.): from: Maryland Council
of Safety, 1226; mentioned, 65 ( Three Sisters)
Haney, James: 188
Hankinson, James: 297
Hannah, schooner: 133 In.
Hannah, sloop: 1029, 1029n., 1170 (Sylvester
Gray)
Hannah, John: 703
Hannah & Elizabeth, schooner: 925, 1099, 1101
(Ronald Bruce)
Hannah and Molly, Massachusetts Privateer
Schooner: captured: Royal George, 1001-02;
mentioned, 48, 57 (Agreen Crabtree)
Hannibal, sloop: 192, 192n., 818 (William Fitz-
patrick)
Hanover, Germany: troops from: 461, 489, 1112,
1293
Hanover, Jamaica: slave insurrection, 44, 74
Hanover, William: 1093
Hanson, Anthony: 905
Hanson, Joshua: 234
Hanson, Samuel (Col.): 1324
Hanson, Thomas (Capt.): 214 (Star and Garter)
Happy Return, brig: 524, 525n., 1078, 1115,
1115n., 1136, 1247n. (Gideon Crawford)
Happy Return: 418 (James Hall)
Harbeson, Benjamin: 327
Harcourt, William (Lt. Col., British Army):
1152
Hardie, Robert (Capt., Pennsylvania Navy): 7
(Terror)
Harding, Seth (Capt., Connecticut Navy): 16-
17, 152, 154-55, 265, 282, 333-34, 804, 837,
850. 850n., 958, 972, 1100-01, 1102, 1127, 1151,
1217, 1305, 1363, 1381 (Defence)
Hardwick, Georgia: 1157
Hardy, : 391
Hardy, Jehiel: 856
Hardy, John (of Sea Nymph): 685
Hardy, John (of General Putnam): 1413
Hardy, Joseph (Midn., Continental Navy): 1371
Hardy, Joseph: clerk on Columbus, 1301
Hardy, Robert: 699
Hardy, William: 337
Harges, Philip: 857
Hargsdon, Thomas: 263n.
Harincourt, Chevalier d’: 294
Harlem, N.Y.: 195, 874, 1009, 1085, 1245, 1422,
1428
Harlem River, N.Y.: 963, 1200, 1247
Harlequin, Maryland Privateer Schooner: cap-
tured: Caroline, 924, 940, 940n., 993, 1028,
1028n., 1140; St. James, 940, 940n., 956, 956n.;
new commission granted, 1224, 1226 (William
Woolsey; James Handy)
Harlequin, Massachusetts Privateer Schooner:
112n. (John Tucker)
Harlequin, New York Privateer Sloop: 20 (Dan-
iel Shaw)
Harlequin, brig: captured by Montgomery and
Revenge, 27, 29-30, 3 In., 56, 56n., 58, 77,
241n., 506; to be sold, 241, 1098 (John Good-
win)
Harlow, Jesse (Capt.): 369, 691
Harman, William: 1144
Harmon, John (Capt.): 1230, 1358 (Putnam)
Harper, Daniel: 31, 693
Harper, James: 1294
Harper, John (Master, Continental Navy): 1294
(Reprisal)
Harper, Reuben: 1294
Harpswell, Mass.: 799
Harraden, Jonathan (Lt., Massachusetts Navy):
1347
Harrington, John (Capt.): 496, 1159 (Polly)
Harriot, British Packet: 776, 1351, 1433n.
(Weymes Orrock)
Harris, David: 118, 144-45
Harris, James (Capt.): 281
Harris, James: 956
Harris, John (Capt., Virginia Navy): 44, 1282,
1409, 1409n., 1410, 1479 (Manley; Musquetto)
Harris, Jonathan: 248
Harris, Joseph: 234
INDEX
1579
Harris, Moses: 13
Harris, Samuel (Lt., Washington’s Fleet): 234
Harris, Thomas: 248
Harris, William: 701
Harrison, Washington’s Fleet Schooner: cap-
tured: Industry, 721n.; Polly, 721n. (William
Coit)
Harrison, (Capt.): 600 (Globe)
Harrison, Benjamin (Col.): 103, 103n., 185, 826,
1282, 1312, 1403
Harrison, Charles (Capt.): 1016
Harrison, John (Capt.): 677 (Nancy)
Harrison, Joseph: 1190
Harrison, Joseph: of Alfred, 692
Harrison, Richard: to: Willing, Morris & Co.,
277-78; mentioned, 132, 149, 278, 911, 1088
See also Van Bebber & Harrison
Harrison, Robert (Lt. Col., Continental Army):
to: Robert R. Livingston, 1238; Thomas
Mifflin, 140; Joshua Wentworth, 772
Harrison, Thomas: 1343
Harrison, William: 16
Harrison, William (Col., Maryland Militia):
1131-32, 1324-26
Hart, Benjamin: 856
Hart, Daniel: 278
Hart, Isaac: 705
Hart Island, N.Y.: 349, 771, 1239, 1382
Hart, Sir John: to: Thomas Farr, 588-89
Hart, Reuben: 856
Hart, Richard: I78n., 247
Hartley, John: 304
Hartford, Conn.: 94-95, 139, 316, 334, 788
Harthorne, David (Capt.): 1433
Hartley, Thomas (Lt. Col., Continental Army):
216, 708, 723, 747, 993, 1033
Hartnett, Cornelius: from: Continental Marine
Committee, 1321; Richard Ellis, 107; John
Green, 1042; mentioned, 341 n.
Hartwell, Broderick (Capt., R.N.): 447, 452, 503
(Boyne)
Harvey, Henry (Capt., R.N.): 417, 513 (Martin)
Harvey, John (Capt., R.N.): 169 (Nautilus)
Harvey, John: 669
Harvey, Sampson (Capt.): 185 (Union)
Harwood, Humphry: 259
Haselip, William: 31
Hastings, Elias: 234
Hastings, Stephen: 234
Hatch, Jabez: 721
Hatch, Paxton: 999
Hatch, Walter (Capt.): 997, 998 (Hope)
Hathaway, Paul: 651
Hathorne, Daniel (Capt.): 14, 57, 1395, 1396n.,
1472 (True American)
Haut Island, Me.: 289
Havana, Cuba: 138, 165, 199, 280, 425, 529, 613,
67ln.
Have, John: 984
Havens, Nathaniel: 1315
Haverstraw, N.Y.: 1262
Havre, Sieur: 593, 629
Hawke, HM Schooner: captured, 804n.; con-
demned, 1100; ordered to be purchased as
Continental cruiser, 273, 273n.; sold, 639,
640n.; to be renamed Hopkins in Continental
service, 273, 757n.; mentioned, 770 (John
Wallace) See also Hopkins
Hawke, HM Sloop: Master’s Log, 53-54, 1193;
captured: Elliott, William, Cleopatra, Fair
Haven, 481; arrived Antigua, 1076; men-
tioned, 449, 1424 (Robert P. Cooper)
Hawke, Massachusetts Privateer Schooner: cap-
tured: Dinah, 1142, 1142n.; Minehead, 785,
785n.; Nancy, 1230, 1231n., 1251, 1252n., 1299,
1299n., 1353n., 1411, 1411n.; mentioned, 162—
63, 627, 628n., 1124 (John Lee)
Hawke, Rhode Island Privateer Sloop: cap-
tured: Thomas, 1149, 1149n., 1175, 1214,
1215n. (Arthur Crawford)
Hawker, (Capt.): 666
Hawker, (Lt., R.N.): at Sandy Hook, 1463
(Resolution)
Hawker, James (Capt., R.N.): from: Lords Com-
missioners, 497-98, 579—80; mentioned, 497
(Mermaid)
Hawkes, Joseph: 700
Hawkings, Henry: 650
Hawkins, (Capt.): 497 (Neptune)
Hawkins, Daniel (Capt.): 29, 150
Hawkins, James: 905
Hawkins, John: 727, 1016
Hawkins, Joseph: 259, 995
Hawley, David (Capt., Arnold’s Fleet): 204, 371,
902, 925, 984-85, 1116 (Royal Savage)
Hawley, Ephriam (Lt., Connecticut Navy): 984
Hawley, Joseph (Maj.): 255
Hawley, Samuel: 984
Hayden, Uriah (Capt.): 662, 1381
Hayes, James: 697
Hayes, John: 1129
Hayfield, British Navy Victualer: departed for
North America, 492, 493-96; lost in Atlantic
crossing, 1382, 1383n.; captured by Boston,
1470; libeled, 1471 (John Clark)
Hayman, Josh (Capt.): 896 (Betsey)
Haynes, : 945
Haynes, (Lt., R.N.): 535 (Adventure)
Hays, Abraham: 986
Hayse, James: 31
Hayter, Thomas (Lt., British Army): 191
Hazard, HM Sloop: to cruise off Orkney and
Shetland Islands, 520-21; in North America,
449 (James Orrok)
Hazard, sloop: 864 (William Thomas)
Hazard, Ebenezer: 62
Hazard, John (Capt., Continental Navy): 686
(Providence)
Hazard, Johnathan: 1134,1381
Hazlewood, John (Capt., Pennsylvania Navy):
building fire rafts, 307, 307n., 338, 658, 927,
967, 1154, 1201
Hazelwood, Thomas: 64, 338
Hazen, Moses (Col., Continental Army): 735
1580
INDEX
Hazen, William (Capt.): 201, 358, 817 (Industry;
T wo Friends)
Heart of Oak, West Indiaman: attacked by
American privateer, 599 (Collins)
Heart of Oak, sloop: captured by Galatea, 806,
807n. (E. Howell)
Heath, James: 31
Heath, Peleg: 306
Heath, William (Maj. Gen., Continental Army):
memoirs, 4, 121, 206-08, 323, 351, 655, 804,
822, 845, 962-64, 1062, 1130, 1184-85, 1220-21;
to: George Washington, 217-19, 226, 241-42;
from: Israel Hutchinson, 372; Samuel Par-
sons, 709; Joseph Reed, 253-54, 1199; Tench
Tilghman, 1185-86; George Washington,
219n.
Heazen, Ezekiel: 682, 1413
Hebard, Nathaniel: 1478
Hebb, Vernon (Capt.): 919, 1417
Hebo, Edward: 305
Hector, HMS: 450, 504 (John Hamilton)
Hedges, William: 496
Heister, Leopold Philipp, Baron von (Lieut.
Gen., Hesse-Cassel Army): 124, 184, 353, 354n.,
374, 1513-17
Hell Gate, N.Y.: danger of passage through,
1069, 1221, 1383-84; British ships near, 354,
762, 886, 924, 1069, 1200, 1219, 1382; British
ships pass through, 1062, 1219, 1220, 1221,
1307, 1319, 1383-84, 1422; British troops at,
763, 764*, 974; Continental troops at, 712,
761*, 763, 874, 1063, 1065, 1085; mentioned,
910
Helle, Primus: 699
Helme, Adam: to: Massachusetts Council, 1 174 —
75
Helme, R. J.: 1421
Hemmings, William (Lt., R.N.): 1144
Hempstead, Joshua (Capt.): 1096, 1208-09, 1392
(Pennsylvania Farmer )
Hempstead [Hemsted, Hempsted], Nathaniel:
80, 956, 1128
Hemsley, Wiliam: 185
Henderson, Alexander (Capt., Pennsylvania
Navy): 7, 1103 (Bull Dog)
Henderson, John: to: Nicholas Cooke, 1459
Henderson, William: 32
Hendricks, Abner: 984
Hendricks, Samuel: 984
Henery, Moses (Capt.): 305 (Rachel)
Henley, Samuel (Lt., Virginia Navy): 24
Henly, Thomas (Maj., Continental Army): 963-
64
Hennessy, John [Joseph] (Lt., Pennsylvania
Navy): to: Pennsylvania Council of Safety,
287; mentioned, 6 (Arnold)
Henrietta, brigantine: 1003n., 1196
Henry, brig: 506, 508n. (Blyth)
Henry, Virginia Navy Row Galley: complaint
against Tompkins, 88; ship’s stores, 366, 1242,
1312; pay, 728; munitions, 742; sent to Gwynn
Island, 743; transporting troops, 784n. (Rob-
ert Tompkins)
Henry, John (Capt., R.N.): 457, 886, 1224
(Daphne)
Henry, Patrick (Gov., Va.): commissioned of-
ficers in Virginia Navy, 24-25, 236, 1016,
1153, 1466
Henry, William: 774
Henry and Ann, British Transport: captured by
Massachusetts, 1112, 1113n.; crew held pris-
oner in Salem, 1455n., 1472 (John Farrah)
Henry and Esther, British Transport: captured
by privateer, 411, 419 (Nellis)
Henry and Joseph, British Army Transport:
600 (Tickell)
Herbert, Caleb: 10, 142, 187-88, 1155
Herbert, John: from: Virginia Navy Board, 71
Herbert, M'ackam: 1014
Herbert, Thomas (Lt., Virginia Navy): 44
Hercules, HMS: 450
Hereford: 1071
Hero, HMS: 450
Hero, Virginia Navy Row Galley: supplies, 86,
245, 1016; marines, 188, 238, 828, 1417, 14l7n.,
1479; gunpowder, 211; ordered to Virginia
Capes, 246, 728; cannon, 742; ship’s stores,
941, 1190; pay, 1164; transporting North
Carolina troops, 1282; sickness, 1392 (George
Muter)
Hero: 610 (Strivens)
Hero, brig: 852 (Jones)
Hero, sloop: 1002 (Jabez Perkins)
Herrick, William: 921
Hervey, John Augustus (Lt., R.N.): 1343
Hessian Army: prepared to leave England, 102,
454, 469, 473, 492, 992; convoy from England:
with Amazon, 543; with Diamond, 420, 431—
32, 434, 504, 1318, 1382; with Repulse, 543;
mentioned, 15, 390, 793, 823; arrived Staten
Island, 39, 123-24, 183; arrived New York,
78, 155, 710, 1318, 1382; late arrival delayed
British offensive, 123-24, 630, 974, 1182, 1199;
operations: at Governor’s Island, 714, 724,
1063; at Long Island, 277, 300, 353, 354, 374,
679, 1266, 1519; at Manhattan, 841, 1009,
1066; in Hell Gate, 1307, 1319; with Carleton,
993, 1274; illness among troops, 183, 712,
1292-93, 1515-17; Regiments: 1st Division,
78, 374, 543, 1513; 2nd Division, 420, 434,
473, 492, 504, 543, 793, 1318, 1382; Artillery,
435, 1274; Grenadiers, 390; mentioned, 415,
875
Hester, brigantine: 852 (John Marshall)
Hester, ship: recaptured by Liverpool, 611, 948,
948n., 1250-51 (David Crombie)
Hethway, Calvar: 337
Hetty, Pennsylvania Navy Sloop: Muster roll,
641; mentioned, 7 (Henry Hoover)
Hewes, Rodwell: 695
Hewes, Joseph: to: Samuel Purviance, Jr., 877;
from: John Paul Jones, 1473-75; Samuel
Purviance, Jr., 8-9; mentioned, 86, 209, 244,
INDEX
1581
273, 685, 877, 904, 976, 1092, 1203, 1458, 1470
Hewes & Smith: 826, 827
Hewlet’s Island, N.Y.: 709
Hicacos Point, Cuba: 670
Hichborn, Thomas, Jr.: 1133
Hicks, John: 1375
Hicks, Philip: 999
Higgens, Reuben: 249
Higgins, Isaac (Capt.): 297, 608 (James)
High, Adam: 1000
Hildreth, Luther: 1160
Hill, : 945
Hill, (Capt.): 496 ( Generous Friends)
Hill, (Capt., Rhode Island Navy): 49, 370
( Washington )
Hill, Benjamin: 1377
Hill, James: 369
Hillsborough, HMS: 730
Hinchinbrook, HM Schooner: destroyed Amer-
ican vessels, 513; at St. Augustine, 169, 893,
1132, 1423 (Alexander Ellis)
Hinchley, R. (Lt., R.N.): 590
Hinckley, John: 1159n.
Hinckly, Aaron: 799
Hinckly, Richard (Capt.): lllln. ( Halifax )
Hinckson, Joseph: 43n.
Hind, HMS: complement increased, 403n.; ran
aground and damaged, English Harbour, 159—
60, 628, 1075-76; mentioned, 449, 513, 578
(Henry Bryne)
Hinman, Elisha (Capt., Continental Navy):
recommended to command Cabot, 171;
cruised on board Cabot, 265, 271, 639, 640n.;
ranked, 1201; mentioned, 33, 1060, 1101,
1317, 1349, 1421 (Cabot; Alfred)
Hinman, Noble: 1177 '
Hinne, Robert: See Robert Hume
Hinson, John: 669
Hislip, Robert: 234
Hispaniola: See French Santo Domingo
Hitchborn, Benjamin: 756, 1052
Hitchcock, Daniel (Col., Continental Army):
874
Hoare, William (Capt.): 1100 ( Nathaniel and
Elizabeth)
Hobart, John Sloss: to: New York Committee
of Safety, 1290; mentioned, 322, 885, 1290,
1292
Hobb’s Hole [Tappahannock], Va. 188, 238, 239
Hoby, Jonathan: to: Massachusetts General
Court, 331
Hodge, James (Capt.): to: Philip Stephens, 516-
17; mentioned, 538, 539, 548 (Zachariah Bay-
ley)
Hodge, John (Capt., Continental Navy): from:
Francis Lewis, 1354; mentioned, 271 (Mont-
gomery)
Hodge, Thomas, Jr.: 1105-06
Hodge, William: delivering dispatches to
France, 1088, 1122, 1386, 1403; from: Secret
Committee, 1120-21
Hodgkin, Thomas: 1440
Hodgkinson, Bethanath: 16
Hodgson, (Lt., R.N.): 535 (Swallow)
Hoffman, George: 16
Hog, Caleb: 347
Hog Neck, N.Y.: 883
Hogan, James: 905
Hogg, (Capt.): 570 (Albion)
Hogg, Ebenezer: 304
Hogg, Richard (Lt., Virginia Marines): 236
Hogg, Walter: 517
Hoggers, London: 901
Hogget, Robert (Capt.): 1166n. (Alice)
Holbeck, N.Y.: 846
Holbrook, Robert: 1292
Holden, John: 699
Holland: trade source, 394, 465, 520, 601, 823,
1086; mentioned, 102, 229, 261, 398, 455, 513,
529, 550, 568, 623
Holland, Samuel: 901
Hollaway, Thomas: 1176
Hollingsworth, Jesse: to: Maryland Council of
Safety, 172, 198-99, 968, 1164; from: Mary-
land Council of Safety, 86, 199n., 1408-09;
mentioned, 292, 911, 1140n.
Hollingsworth, John: 1004
Holloway, Thomas: 1129
Hollowell, Robert: 691
Holmes, B.: 1211
Holmes, Samuel: 986
Holmes’ Hole, Mass.: 305
Holt, James: 17,694
Holt, Peter: 17, 694
Holt, Thomas: 81, 1129
Holt, William: 258-59, 1369
Holten, J.: 1455
Holton, Samuel: 908, 1173
Honduras, Gulf of: 290, 301, 1001, 1053, 1239
Hooe, Robert: 65, 236, 864, 1070
Hooper, Henry (Brig. Gen., Maryland Militia):
from: Maryland Council of Safety, 23
Hooper, Stephen: to: Coates & Reynell, 315
Hooper, William: to: North Carolina Conven-
tion, 1447-48; Samuel Johnston, 1025; men-
tioned, 1087, 1202n., 1308, 1386, 1388, 1405
Hoover, Henry (Capt., Pennsylvania Navy): 7,
641 (Hetty)
Hope, HM Sloop: Master’s Log, 1030; captured:
Betsey, 1124; Lydia, 1125; General Gates,
1395, 1396n., 1433, 1433n.; recaptured: Dragon,
1211, 1212n.; comes to aid of Mayflower
transport, 540, 540n.; prisoners of war, 1029-
30, 1399, 1399n.; at Sable Island, 169, 1049;
at Halifax, 787, 893; mentioned, 449, 549, 620,
1050n., 1424 (George Dawson)
Hope, British Ordnance Storeship: captured by
Franklin, 467, 467n., 471, 472, 472n., 474,
575n. (Alexander Lumsdale)
Hope, schooner: 1328
Hope, schooner: captured by Providence, 1302
Hope, Massachusetts Privateer Schooner: 997-98
(Walter Hatch)
388-825 O - 73 - 102
1582
INDEX
Hope , sloop: captured by Antelope , 75, 75n.,
1169 (George Cuzens)
Hope, sloop: captured by Niger, 140-41, 141 n.
(Moses Lippett)
Hope, ship: captured, 680, 680n., 804, 804n.,
1150, 1218 (Quince)
Hope, Charles (Lt., R.N.): to: Philip Stephens,
565; mentioned, 559-60, 589, 589n., 596, 665
( Friendship )
Hope, George: 1017, 1042, 1426, 1479
Hope, Joseph: 699
Hope, Robert: 906
Hopewell, schooner: 1170 (Elisha Jones)
Hopkins, Caleb (Capt.): 14, 230, 801 ( George )
Hopkins, Daniel: 191, 344, 800, 1316, 1455
Hopkins, schooner [formerly HM Schooner
Hawke]: to be purchased and renamed, 273,
273n., 639, 757, 757n., 770, 883, 1110
Hopkins, Esek (Commo., Continental Navy):
censured by Congress, 22, 63, 63n., 156-57,
157n., 158, 158n., 195-98, 209, 209n., 220,
220n., 255, 273, 1023, 1023n.; engagement
with Glasgow and New Providence Expedi-
tion, 401, 405, 408, 411, 428, 457, 477; pro-
posed Long Island Sound expedition, 706,
763, 948-49, 1020, 1134-36, 1202, 1218-20,
1271; proposed Cape Fear expedition, 1202,
1384-86, 1464-65; to: John Bradford, 1136,
1331, 1363; Samuel Chew, 757; Dunscome &
Frazer, 1253; Hoysteed Hacker, 757, 1253,
1289, 1331, 1362-63, 1459; John Hancock,
220; Samuel Hopkins, 1079; John Paul Jones,
1362, 1434; James Josiah, 650; John Langdon,
1398; Marine Committee, 639-40, 770, 948-49,
1055-56, 1398-99; Nathaniel Shaw, Jr., 757,
972-73; Daniel Tillinghast, 1304; Jonathan
Trumbull, 948, 1134-36, 1271; George Wash-
ington, 650; from: Marine Committee, 271-73,
1202, 1384, 1464-65; Jonathan Trumbull,
1219-20; mentioned, 14, I7n., 22, 60, 93, 1 17—
20, 204n., 209-10, 273n., 465, 474, 662, 687n.,
692, 721, 790n., 820, 833, 854, 1021, 1100
Hopkins, Esek, Jr. (Midn., Continental Navy):
692, 1301
Hopkins, Gerrard: from: Maryland Council of
Safety, 293
Hopkins, John Burroughs (Capt., Continental
Navy): 332, 1136, 1201, 1203n. {Cabot; War-
ren)
Hopkins, Joseph: 923
Hopkins, Josiah: 923
Hopkins, Samuel: from: Esek Hopkins, 1079
Hopkins, Stephen: concerning building Con-
tinental frigates, 331; cannon for Continental
frigates, 56, 360, 721, 815, 1189, 1249; manning
Continental frigates, 948-49, 954-55, 1134,
1412; to: John Adams, 1080; mentioned, 29,
1079, 1079n., 1080, 1303
Hopkins, William (Master, Continental Navy):
131, 687, 745, 1047, 1371
Hopkinson, Francis: 86, 209, 1308, 1386, 1416
Horn, Alexander: 1284, 1314
Horner, Levi: 877
Hornet, HM Sloop: 449, 502 (Robert Haswell)
Horens Hook, N.Y.: 1063
Hornet, Continental Navy Sloop: in New Provi-
dence expedition, 196-97; in Delaware Bay,
209; very leaky condition, 325-26; mentioned,
994, 994n., 1294 (William Hallock)
Hornet, Virginia Navy Schooner [formerly
schooner Liberty ]: renamed, 86, 88n.; naval
stores, 88, 1242, 1267; cannon, 199, 1369; to
transport troops, 799; trading voyage to West
Indies, 808-11; provisions, 878; mentioned,
980, 980n. (Richard Taylor; Walter Brooke)
Hornett, schooner: 294
Horrocks, Richard: 188
Horsenail, Nicholas: 113-14
Horsenail, Samuel (Midn., R.N.): 575, 576n.,
594
Horsey, William (Maj.): 1122-23, 1408-09
Hortalez & Co.: See also Beaumarchais, Pierre
Augustin Caron de
Horton, Jotham (Capt., Continental Army):
1185
Horton, Nathaniel (Capt.): 262 (Polly)
Hosmer, Joseph: 985
Hosmer, Titus: 1363
Hospital Island, Canada: 1084
Hotchkiss, Ephraim: 986
Hotchkiss, Robert: 986
Hotchkys, Charles (Lt., R.N.): 665
Hotham, William (Commo., R.N.): at landing
on Staten Island, 183, 225-26, 351-52, 538,
1516; at landing on Long Island, 353, 374;
at landing on Manhattan Island, 839-40, 886;
from: Lord Howe, 309, 337, 1415, 1438-39;
Philip Stephens, 478-79; mentioned, 102,
102n., 122, 156, 267-68, 479, 542, 862, 891, 903,
1068, 1118
Hound, HM Sloop: increase in marine comple-
ment, 414, 422; mentioned, 449, 456 (James
Robertson)
House, George (Lt., Continental Navy): 639,
692
Houston, Thomas (Capt., Pennsylvania Navy):
7 (Warren)
Houstoun, British Army Transport: 600 (Mc-
Liesh)
Hoveys, Joseph: 945
How, James: 698
How, William: to: Massachusetts General
Court, 330-31; mentioned, 646-47
Howard, Caleb: 1378-80
Howard, Henry: 221
Howard, James: 1159
Howard, Joseph: 881
Howard, Samuel: 677
Howard, Thomas: 906
Howard, William (of Defence ): 905
Howard, William (of General Greene): 923
Howe, British Army Transport: 540, 556
Howe, Lord [Richard Howe, 4th Viscount
INDEX
1583
Howe] (V. Adm., R.N.): New York campaign:
troop landings on Long Island, 267-70, 309,
324, 337, 1518-19; on Manhattan Island, 839,
843-44, 846, 1064; on Staten Island, 102, 156,
225-26, 351-52, 353, 598, 598n., 599, 1063,
1517, mentioned, 656, 737, 860, 861, 862,
885-88, 890, 931-32, 938, 988n., 1066, 1182-
83, 1221, 1307; inquired into loss of trans-
ports, 549, 549n, 611; condition of Fleet,
122-23, 183-84, 339*, 373-77, 433, 437, 542-
43, 570, 576, 576n., 579, 663-65, 671, 673,
891-94, 903, 1028, 1382-83; on board Eagle,
372, 392, 736, 950, 1068; exchange of prison-
ers, 130, 235, 242, 373, 724, 888, 955, 968, 1216,
1269; as peace commissioner, 145-47, 352,
364-65, 667, 715, 726, 773, 782, 863-64, 875-
77, 910-11, 1064-65; general orders, 62, 85,
1444; in Halifax, 277, 503; Loyalist, 1068,
1434; prize lists, 377n., 1369n., 1428n.; de-
fense of Florida, 750, 768; orders Shuldham
to return to England, 501, 1444; list of vessels
under his command, 167-69; portrait, 311*;
to: George Germain, 145-47, 910-11; William
Hotham, 309, 337, 1415, 1438-39; Philip
Stephens, 122-23, 183-84, 373-77, 663, 885-
90, 1382-83; John Sullivan, 364-65; George
Washington, 235; from: Alexander Brown,
1352-53, Guy Carleton, 1336; Nicholas Cooke,
146-47; Charles Douglas, 45-47, 54-55, 135-
36; Anthony Hunt, 1318; James Reid, 1422—
23; Philip Stephens, 434-39, 452-53, 454,
492-93, 580, 590, 593-96; John Sullivan, 364-
65; George Washington, 235n., 219; men-
tioned, 50, 99, 102, 174, 184, 201, 408, 424,
439, 441, 477, 498, 588, 599, 602, 683, 725,
855, 964, 973, 990, 1068, 1151, 1182, 1343,
1383n„ 1453
Howe, Robert (Brig. Gen., Continental Army):
768
Howe, Tyringham (Capt., R.N.): from: Lords
Commissioners, 410; mentioned, 405, 405n.,
411, 1424 ( Glasgow )
Howe, William (Maj. Gen., British Army):
abandons Boston, 392; prisoner exchanges,
325, 682, 1108; negotiations with Continental
Congress, 352, 667, 782, 1064; dispatches to
England, 373, 400, 411, 549, 885; convoys
bringing supplies, 434, 435, 537, 590; at
Staten Island, 22, 102-03, 147, 160, 351, 538,
599; at Long Island, 277, 308, 309, 353, 354,
656, 711, 796; at Manhattan Island, 841, 849,
886, 974, 1064, 1247*; at Newton, 1063, 1065;
George Collier’s account of New York cam-
paign, 1515-26; Lord Dunmore to join, 617,
678-79; defense of Florida, 768, 1468; to:
George Germain, 910-11; from: Guy Carleton,
1336; mentioned, 124, 132, 146, 158, 174, 176,
I78n., 180n., 184, 226, 256, 290, 309, 326, 415,
432, 454, 477, 490, 497-98, 503, 543, 561, 602,
630, 632, 650, 724n., 888, 938, 990, 1068, 1127,
1154, 1183, 1247, 1253, 1293, 1339, 1415, 1436,
1453
Howell, E. (Capt.): 807n. ( Heart of Oak)
Howell, James: 1374
Howell, Joseph (Capt., Continental Army): 679
Howell, Samuel: 1425
Howell, William: 697, 703
Howgate, Joseph: to: Massachusetts Council,
1442-43
Howland, Consider (Capt.): 857 ( Washington )
Howorth, John (Lt., R.N.): 737, 886
Hoxey, Peleg: 93
Hubbard, Aaron: from: Jeremiah Powell, 231-
32
Hubbard, Daniel: 721
Hubbart, Charles Hobby: 214
Huckings, : 199
Huddy, Hunbeck: 857
Hudgins, Houlder: 1016
Hudgins, Joshua: 1226-27
Hudson, Charles (Capt., R.N.): 167, 293, 805,
840, 842, 886, 892, 1424 ( Orpheus )
Hudson, John: 1004
Hudson, Jonathan: 895, 977
Hudson River: American defenses on, 84, 264,
336, 365, 731, 933, 1415; American row galleys
and fireships on, 4, 121, 130, 253, 926-27,
927-28, 1085, 1219, 1317; navigation obstruc-
tions, 20, 37, 50, 140, 140n., 167, 206, 208, 372,
873, 927-28, 1107, 1182, 1262; American com-
munications cut, 1051, 1182-83, 1422, 1428;
Turtle attacked British ships, 709, 736, 1506,
1508, 1510; Americans retreat across river,
1009, 1066; Phoenix and Rose attempt to
force passage, 19-20, 38, 124; attacked by fire-
ships and galleys, 22, 61, 121, 182-83, 217, 227,
228, 352, 373; retreat down river, 226, 267,
710; Renown, Repulse, Pearl attempt to force
passage, 823, 845-46, 859-60, 924, 989, 1331,
1428; attacked by fireships and shore bat-
teries, 859-60, 886-87, 1429-30, 1438; Roe-
buck and Phoenix force passage, 267, 618, 933,
964, 1130, 1178-87, 1179*; mentioned, 121,
216, 241, 683, 928, 1068
Huggard, William: 907
Hughes, Daniel: to: Robert Treat Paine, 236;
mentioned, 106
Hughes, Edward: 799n.
Hughes, Sam: 691
Hughes, Samuel (of Antietam, Md.): to: Robert
Treat Paine, 236; mentioned, 106, 1223
Hughes, Thomas: 995
Hughes, Timothy (Lt., Continental Army):
from: Richard Varick, 35
Hughes, William: 32
Hughs, C.: 642
Hull, Mass.: 14, 15n., 800
Humanitas: See William Lee
Hume, Robert (Lt., Pennsylvania Navy): 7
( Ranger )
Humphreys, David: from: Ezra Lee, 1507-10;
mentioned, 1499, 1500-01
Humphries, Daniel: 1374
Humphries, Lewis: 1375
1584
INDEX
Hunn, John (Capt.): from: Philip Schuyler, 872;
Richard Varick, 986
Hunt, Anthony (Capt., R.N.): to: Lord Howe,
1318; from: Francis Parry,, 1028; mentioned,
169, 376, 379n., 893, 1424 (Active)
Hunt, Ned: 901
Hunt, William: 278
Hunter , HM Sloop: on convoy duty, 576n.,
592, 595; arrived in England, 169, 412, 415,
416, 422, 433, 439; captain held prisoner,
1224; mentioned, 449 (Thomas MacKenzie;
John Boyle)
Hunter, (Capt.): 600 ( Glencairn )
Hunter, Archibald: 517, 546n.
Hunter, James: 142, 188, 275, 729, 729n., 1312
Hunter, John (Capt.): 506 (Rover)
Hunter, John (Capt.): 747n. (John)
Hunter, John: appointed Master Attendant of
Howe’s Fleet, 85, 87*, 665
Hunter, Moses: 995
Hunter, William: 293, 1132
Huntington, Andrew: from: Jedediah Hunting-
ton, 1238; mentioned, 707, 910, 1080
Huntington, Benjamin: to: Connecticut Com-
mittee of the Pay Table, 662, 723, 1020, 1381;
mentioned, 204
Huntington, Jabez: to: Joshua Huntington,
837, 1151; from: Jedediah Huntington, 1085;
Joshua Huntington, 910
Huntington, Jedediah (Col., Continental Army):
to: Andrew Huntington, 1238; Jabez Hunt-
ington, 1085
Huntington, Joshua (Capt.): to: Jabez Hunt-
ington, 910; from: Jabez Huntington, 837,
1151
Huntington, Samuel: to: Eliphalet Dyer, 365-
66; Matthew Griswold, 365-66; William Pit-
kin, 365-66; mentioned, 273, 765, 934, 1070,
1265, 1308
Huntington, N.Y.: 723, 1006, 1220, 1364, 1439
Hunt’s Point, N.Y.: 351, 709, 1337
Hurbly, William: 16
Hurburt, Francis: 905
Hurburt, William: 906
Huse, Bodwell: 18
Hussar , HMS: 450
Hussey [Huzzy], Silvanus; 1442
Hutcheson, Francis (Maj., British Army): to:
Frederick Haldimand, 123-24, 124n„; men-
tioned, 493
Hutchins, John (Capt.): 617, 1144 (Samuel)
Hutchings, John: 9, 26, 7ln., 1190
Hutchinson, Israel (Col., Continental Army):
to: William Heath, 372
Hutchinson, Thomas (Royal Gov., Massachu-
setts): 726
Hutchinson, Thomas: 333, 959
Hyde, British Packet: 373, 1517
Hyndman, Michael (Lt., R.N.): 1286 (Albany)
Illingsworth, Francis (Capt.): 783 (Jupiter)
Imbert, Jean: 890, 890n.
Imlay, John: 1152
Impressment: 63, 438, 503, 591, 592, 598, 633,
1292-93
Independence, Continental Navy Sloop: Wil-
liam Whitpain appointed master, 726n., 1093,
1093n.; sent to Martinique for munitions,
826-27, 912-13, 913-14, 937, 976, 977, 1026,
1087, 1089, 1354, 1386, 1403; muster roll, 1093;
John Young ranked, 1201 (John Young)
Independence, Washington’s Fleet Row Galley:
engagement with Phoenix and Rose, 37-39,
41, 61-62, 121, 123, 124, 182-83, 217-19, 352;
captured by Roebuck, Phoenix, and Tartar,
1178-84, 1186-87 (John Baker; Jeremiah
Putnam)
Independence, Massachusetts Navy Brigantine:
pay, 28; cannon for, 113; ordered to cruise,
776, 776n., 997; repaired, 954, 954n.; naval
stores, 998; agent appointed, 998; captured:
Nabby, 855, 856n., 1002; mentioned, 345,
345n. (Simeon Sampson)
Independence, Maryland Privateer Sloop: 1072,
1072n. (James Tibbett)
Independence, Massachusetts Privateer
Schooner: captured: John, 746-47, 747n.;
mentioned, 112n., 299, 788, 788n. (John Gill)
Independence, New York Privateer Sloop: 1057,
1215, 1216n. (Thomas Truxtun)
Independence, Rhode Island Privateer Sloop:
Journal: 2, 48, 79, 93, 129, 181-82, 194, 250-
51, 263, 280, 291, 299, 332, 638-39, 649, 706;
captured: Aurora, 181, 731, 731n., 770, 820;
Fanny, 250-51, 25 In., 299, 73 In., 770, 780,
1004, 1420; mentioned, 280, 706n. (Jabez
Whipple)
Independence: Declaration of, 79, 79n., 176,
243, 272, 297, 510, 547, 557; French attitude,
485-86, 510, 547, 629; concerning negotiations
with Lord Howe, 782, 792, 838, 1064-65, 1068;
reaction of Loyalists, 68; mentioned, 187,
910, 1237
Independent Chronicle (Boston): 1776: 19 Sept.,
706n., 899, 899n., 900n.; 26 Sept., 1001, 1003n.;
5 Oct., 1113, 1115n; 10 Oct., 1135n., 1136n.,
1195, 1195-96, 1352n., 1383n.; 17 Oct., 1299,
1383n.; 24 Oct., 900n., 1113n., 1134n., 1383n..
1395-96, 1396n.; 31 Oct., 1174n., 1432n„ 1470-
71, 1472n.; 7 Nov., 1442n.
Indian River, East Florida: 644
Indians: British use of: in Canadian Campaign,
160, 632, 858, 1082, 1084; in Florida, 746,
1427, 1428n., 1468; on Lake Champlain, 734,
793, 993, 1198; in New York Campaign, 925,
1235, 1389, 1445, 1461; Continental use of: in
New York, 328, 1006; in Nova Scotia, 189;
mentioned, 11
Industry, Rhode Island Privateer Brigantine:
captured: Minerva, 1115-16, 1137, llS^n.;
mentioned, 781, 781n., 1149 (Thomas Child)
Industry, schooner: captured by Harrison, 721,
721n. (Charles Coffin)
Industry, sloop: 1114 (Ebenezer Famam)
INDEX
1585
Industry, sloop: captured by Hancock, 201 (Wil-
liam Hazen)
Inflexible, HMS: arrived at Riviere la Colie,
1137; taken apart and reassembled, 45-47,
136, 1081; ready to join fleet on Lake Cham-
plain, 883, 1178, 1193, 1224, 1244, 1350; Bat-
tle of Valcour Island, 1235, 1259, 1275, 1277,
1307, 1340-43; mentioned, 46*, 951 (John
Schank)
Ingersoll, Samuel (Capt.): 1287 ( Kingston
Packet )
Ingle, Martin: 1302
Ingleberg, N.Y.: See Murray’s Hill
Inglis, : 1424
Ingraham, Edward: 282, 699
Ingram, James: 258, 260n.
Innis, James (Maj., Continental Army): 246
Intelligence reports, British: Florida campaign,
72, 73-74, 90, 108, 134-35, 513; New York
campaign, 22, 1183, 1318, 1388-91; Nova
Scotia, 161; France, 405, 427-28, 457, 458,
459-61, 560, 612-13; Spain, 604; West Indies,
44—45, 183, 301, 590, 823, 1431; mentioned,
421, 503, 1019
Intelligence reports, Continental: arrival of
Hessians, 62; British fleet movements around
Little Egg Harbor, 1266; British forces in
Nova Scotia, 787-88, 1199; Silas Deane on Dr.
Bancroft, 510; from London, 1019-20;
Parker’s squadron, 42; Lake Champlain, 335,
857-58, 1081-82, 1084; New York campaign,
99, 284, 322, 706, 712, 926, 1238; West Indies,
85, 195-97, 590, 612; mentioned, 61, 219, 1316
Intelligence reports, French: 388, 388n., 389-90,
414-17, 444-53, 474, 502-03, 504-05, 569
Intelligence reports, Spanish: 622
Intrepid, HMS: 452
Invincible, HMS: 450, 591
Ipswich, Mass.: 13, 279, 358, 754, 1159, 1270
Ireland: military stores shipped from, 100, 201,
513, 542; inward bound vessels, 27 , 64, 142,
161n., 297, 1163; outward bound vessels, 136,
513, 542, 772, 776, 788; mentioned, 123, 258,
438, 442, 473, 515, 544, 568, 573n., 669-70
Ireland, John: 202
Irvine, John: 745
Irvine, Scotland: 593, 602
Irving, (Lt. Col.): 386
Irving, Charles: 474, 503, 921n., 943-44, 944n.,
1168
Irving & Blair: 920
Irving, Thomas: 477
Irwin, ship: 1332
Irwin, Matthew: 327, 1103, 1239
Isaac, ship: captured by Warren, 233, 233n.,
298n., 347, 675, 676n.; sold, 900 (George Ash-
burn)
Isabella, sloop: 192, 192n., 506, 730 (Nathaniel
Kirk)
Isis, HMS: arrived at Quebec, 201, 412, 417,
421, 421n., 433, 452, 580, 588, 969; in St.
Lawrence River, 169, 416, 894; in Richelieu
River, 47; crew members to serve on Lake
Champlain, 150n., 660, 1342-44; mentioned,
448, 513, 595, 1370, 1424
Isle la Motte, Vt.: 734, 791, 837, 858, 1032
Isle aux Noix, Quebec: 371, 857-58, 1084, 1340
Isle aux Tetes, Quebec: 95, 734, 735n., 791, 837
Islington, schooner: 1267
Italy: 615, 624
Ives, William: 985
Jackquelin [Jackelen], Francis: 905
Jackson: 501 (Sharp)
Jackson, : of Newburyport, 627
Jackson, Daniel (Capt.): 967 ( Three Friends )
Jackson, George: 534, 573
Jackson, James: I77n., 180n., 247
Jackson, Michael (Lt. Col., Continental Army):
962, 964
Jackson, Samuel: 998
Jackson, Thomas: 922
Jackson, Tracy & Tracy: 162-63, 163n.
Jackson, William (Capt.): 1101, 1127 (Sally)
Jackson, William: 113-14, I77n., 180n., 247, 302,
368
Jackys, Joseph: 138
Jacobs, Maximilian (Capt., R.N.): to: Philip
Stephens, 969-70; from: Lords Commission-
ers, 428-29; mentioned, 420, 435, 613, 615n.,
1424 ( Amazon )
Jacobs, William: 1225
Jacobs, Wilson (Lt.): 819
Jacques, James: 1374
Jaffee, Nicholas: 1177
Jamaica: British warships at, 401, 402, 403, 437,
471, 541, 550, 600n., 1427; inward bound ves-
sels, 276n, 582, 587, 604, 750-51, 1029, 1043,
1411; naval reinforcements, 418, 456, 730;
Negro insurrection quelled, 44, 74-75, 275-76,
341-42, 1107; outward bound vessels: 3, 5,
12, 15, 44, 58, 93, 141, 143n., 152, 160, 192,
194, 213, 213n., 275-76, 347, 411, 481, 503, 508,
512, 516, 524, 529, 543, 554, 570, 578, 608,
632, 633, 684, 749, 1100, 1102, 1113, 1190,
1332, 1368, 1398, 1411, 1432; prizes brought
into, 505-06; 50th Regiment sent to North
America, 5, 122; mentioned, 7, 301, 408, 461,
581, 590, 598, 67ln. See also Clark Gayton;
Basil Keith
James, British Transport: 429
James, ship: captured by Chatham, 1124
James, schooner: captured by Phoenix and Asia,
1124
James, schooner: captured by privateer, 411,
418 (William Littledale)
James, sloop: recaptured by Rover, 1003
(Thomas Barker)
James, snow: captured by Enterprize, 297, 608,
749, 749n.; retaken by crew, 276, 276n., 297n.,
608-09 (Isaac Higgins)
James, Bartholomew (Midn., R.N.): Journal:
293n., 806n., 841-42, 842n., 1068-69, 1085-86
James, Richard: 126
1586
INDEX
James, Thomas (Col., British Army): 374, 563
James River, Va.: 10, 142, 314, 355-56, 676,
809-11, 1028
Jameson, Niel: 571
Jamestown, Va.: 132, 174, 379, 727, 1028, 1191,
1242, 1409-10
Jane , ship: captured by Diamond, 93, 136, 214,
578, 584; libeled, 93-94, 94n., 138n.; sold,
360 (William Room; Thomas Stacy)
Jane [formerly Minerva], brig: 113n., 465
(James Fulton)
Jane & Isabella, British Transport: 431-32
Janseys Point, N.Y.: 771, 883
Jarvis, James: 1473
Jarvis, Leonard: 250n., 1174
Jason, HMS: 452
Jauncey, Joseph (Capt.): 1349, 1421 ( Washing-
ton)
Jay, Sir James: 511
Jay, John: 162, 1214, 1405
Jeany, British Army Transport: 600 (Muir)
Jefferson, Thomas: to: George Washington,
1499-1500; from: David Bushnell, 501-07;
mentioned, 195-98, 242, 255, 709n., 1105-06,
1367, 1387, 1403, 1404*
Jeffery, Charles: 1176
Jeffries, Joseph: 856
Jeffry, Ann: 921
Jeffrys [Jeffries], Aron (Lt., Virginia Navy): 257
Jenckes, John: 732
Jenckes, Rufus: 692
Jenifer, Daniel of St. Thomas: from: John
Boucher, 366; Robert Christie, Jr., 171-72;
James Clarke, 1440; Lux & Bowly, 1095
Jenkins, John, Jr.: 1148
Jenkins, Seth: 1447, 1447n.
Jenkins, William (Capt.): 191, 213n., 222n., 347,
786-87, 787n., 999 (Perkins)
Jenkinson, Charles: 487
Jenks, Caleb: 856
Jenks, John: 652, 955
Jenks, Jonathan: 1374
Jenks, Stephen, Jr.: 955
Jennings, : on Andrew Doria, 32
Jennings, Michael: 984
Jennison, William: 651
Jenny, ship: captured by Hancock, 1194; men-
tioned, 101 (John McNeil)
Jenny, snow: captured by Free American, 1395,
1396n.; libeled, 1472 (William Cummings)
Jenny, snow: recaptured by Cerberus, 1162,
1162n., 1163, 1215, 1215n., 1239 (William
McNeily)
Jepson, Henry: 83
Jersey, HM Hospital Ship: Journal: 145; sta-
tioned off New York, 542, 805, 891, 903-04;
mentioned, 122, 169, 478, 493 (William Hal-
sted)
Jersey, Arnold’s Fleet Gondola: captured dur-
ing Battle of Valcour Island, 1245, 1256-58;
mentioned, 98, 224, 253, 1276 (Grimes)
Jeuneson, Andrew: 1374
Jewell, Robert: 766
Jobbin, Michael: 338
John, British Transport: 432, 434, 435, 492,
493-96, 1018
John, ship: captured by Defence, 1102, 1102n.,
1127; libeled, 1305; mentioned, 1100, 1176
(James Dunbar)
John, ship: captured by Independence, 746-47,
747n.; recaptured by Milford, 1125; men-
tioned, 831 (John Hunter)
John, brigantine: captured by Broome, 347;
tried, 789n.; sold, 900 (Daniel MacKay)
John, schooner: captured by Providence, 1302
John, sloop: captured by Nautilus, 1124
John & Christopher, British Transport: 54
John & Eliza: 959
John and James, ship: 392 (Baker)
John and Joseph, schooner: captured by Scar-
borough, 1005, 1005n.; sold, 834
John Wilkes, sloop: 1044 (Nicholas Webster)
John’s Relief, sloop: 878, 1267 (Ephriam Gil-
bert)
Johns, Aquila (Lt., Maryland Navy): 658
Johns, Richard (Capt.): 294 ( Greyhound )
Johns, William: 693
Johnson, (Capt.): 1442-43 (Dolphin)
Johnson, (Capt.): 356 (Sally & Polly)
Johnson, Benjamin: 856
Johnson, Henry (Capt.): taken prisoner, 529,
531, 538-39, 546; escaped, 581, 611; men-
tioned, 516-18, 676n. (Yankee)
Johnson, John (Capt.): 1019, 1019n. (Millham)
Johnson, John (Cpl., British Marines): died,
106
Johnson, John (Lt.): 306
Johnson, John (Seaman, Washington’s Fleet):
234
Johnson, John (Seaman, Connecticut Navy):
1160
Johnson, Sir John: 1082
Johnson, Peter: 1052
Johnson, Samuel: 31
Johnson, Thomas (Seaman, Continental Navy):
701
Johnson, Thomas, Jr.: to: Maryland Council of
Safety, 911; mentioned, 798, 1391, 1405
Johnson, William: 685
Johnson, William Ryson (Capt.): 820, 895, 978
(Elizabeth)
Johnston, North Carolina Privateer Schooner:
1042 (Edward Tinker)
Johnston, (Capt.): 600 (Metham)
Johnston, John: 264
Johnston, Robert: 1205-06
Johnston, Samuel: from: William Hooper, 1025
Johnston, William: on Andrew Doria, 32
Johnston, William: on Fly, 138
Johnston, William (Dr.): 1409
Johnston & Co.: 276
Johnstone, Mary: See Arthur Lee
Johnstone, William: from: Richard Bulkeley,
1285
INDEX
1587
Joiner, John (Capt.): 996, 1165
Jones, : on Roebuck, 242
Jones, (Capt.): 852 (Hero)
Jones, (Capt.): 297, 608 ( Lancashire )
Jones, Benjamin: 1011
Jones, Brdgers: 877
Jones, Charles: 1094
Jones, Darrill: 923
Jones, Elisha (Capt.): 1170 ( Hopewell )
Jones, Eph: 707
Jones, Gabriel (Capt., Virginia Marines): 774—
75, 1242, 1312
Jones, Ichabod: to: Massachusetts General
Court, 328-30; mentioned, 221n., 262, 262n.,
753-54 (Unity)
Jones, John: 783
Jones, John (Landsman, Continental Navy):
1375
Jones, John Coffin: 1052
Jones, John Paul (Capt., Continental Navy):
refused command of Hampden, 210; on
captures of sloop Providence, 684-87, 745,
1047-50, 1302; engaged British frigate off
Bermuda, 684, 1458; on courts-martial pro-
cedure, 686; concerning his own ranking,
686-87, 1201; engaged British frigate off
Nova Scotia, 1047-50, 1458; commission,
1204*; on disadvantages of privateering, 1303,
1474; on Newfoundland expedition, 1303,
1457-58, 1473; on need for Board of Ad-
miralty, 1303, 1473; concerning proposed
raid on African coast, 1303-04; assumed
command of Alfred, 1362, 1371, 1457; Jour-
nal: 209-10, 210n.; to: Abel Coffin, 1126-27;
John Hancock, 86n.; Joseph Hewes, 1473-75;
Marine Committee, 684-85, 745, 1047-50,
1457- 58; Robert Morris, 685-87, 1302-04,
1458- 59; from: Esek Hopkins, 1362, 1434;
Samuel Lyon, 1361; John McNeal, 314;
Marine Committee, 85-86, 209; Alpheus Rice,
131; mentioned, 63n., 273, 692, 716, 745, 980n.,
1081, 1 148 — 49, 1165, 1211, 1212n., 1203-05,
1214, 1215n., 1287-88, 1331, 1371-77, 1384,
1398-99, 1421, 1446, 1488-89 (Providence;
A If red)
Jones, Joseph: 906
Jones, Joseph (Capt.): 214 (Friendship)
Jones, Lewis (Lt., Virginia Navy): 25
Jones, Nathan: 1412
Jones, Solomon (Capt.): 495 (Maria)
Jones, Thomas: of John, 1176
Jones, Thomas: of Sally, 1176
Jones, Thomas: of Newburyport, Mass, 78
Jones, Thomas: of Virginia, to: Maryland
Council of Safety, 256-57
Jones, Thomas (Capt.): 1360-61 (Belle)
Jones, William (Lt.): 864
Jones, William (Lt., R.N.): 1171 (Racehorse)
Jones, William: 999
Jones, Willie: from: Samuel Ashe, 1164
Jordan, Thomas (Capt., R.N.): 270 284, 292,
378, 435, 680, 806-07, 823, 887, 893, 980, 992,
1029, 1165, 1239, 1239n., 1369 (Galatea)
Joseph, Rhode Island Privateer Sloop: cap-
tured: Mars, 411, 41 In.; Alice, 1029, 1166n.;
unnamed schooner, 731; unnamed snow, 1217
(James Munro; John Field)
Joseph, brig: 790, 790n. (Elias Coffin)
Joseph I, King of Portugal: 466*, 467, 468, 556
Josiah, Emanuel: 104n.
Josiah, James (Capt., Continental Navy): pris-
oner exchange, 102; investigation of treat-
ment as prisoner, 125, 219, 235; from: Esek
Hopkins, 650; mentioned, 103-04, 104n., 155,
1201
Joy, Daniel: to: Robert Treat Paine, 773-74,
978
Joyne, Leven: 258-59
Judd, Reuben: 986
Judd, William (Capt., R.N.): 599-600, 600n.,
1285, 1450 (Antelope)
Judges, William: 906
Julia, schooner: 23 (Corban Barnes)
Juliana: See Lady Juliana
Julien, Claude: to: Vergennes, 469-70
Jumbo Point, Antigua: 160
Juno, HMS: Master’s Log: 1141; recaptured:
Dinah, 1353n.; at Quebec, 47, 169, 201, 448,
542, 894, 1286; mentioned, 1424, 1488 (Hugh
Dalrymple)
Juno, ship: captured by Congress and Chance,
63, 64n., 508, 508n., 671n.; mentioned, 529n.,
551 (Samuel Marsden)
Juno, brigantine: captured by Kingspsher, 1124
Jupiter, Pennsylvania Privateer Sloop: 783
(Francis Illingsworth)
Justitia, British Transport: 533
Kalton, Thomas: 332
Katenkamp, H.: to: Lord Weymouth, 421
Kearns, Robert: 32
Keele, Charlotte: 1004
Keele, Hannah: 1004
Keeler, Robert (Capt., R.N.): 409, 454-55 (Lynx)
Keene, (Col.): 570
Keener, Melchior: 1205-06, 1440
Keighly, Edward: I77n., 247, 302, 368
Keith, Sir Basil (Capt., R.N.; Gov., Jamaica):
to: Clark Gayton, 44, 341-42; from: George
Germain, 401-02; mentioned, 74-75, 671-72,
689, 730, 1107, 1168
Kell, John: 133
Kellogg, Abraham: 94-95
Kellum, John: 260n.
Kelly, Daniel: 517, 546n.
Kelly, George: 32
Kelly, Jacob: 211
Kelly, John: 517, 986
Kelly, Lott & Co.: 541
Kelly, Timothy: 906
Kemble, Stephen (Lt. Col., British Army):
Journal: 782, 1137-38, 1138n.; mentioned, 721
Kemp, : 857
1588
INDEX
Kendal, : 403-04
Kenedy, William: 31
Kennard, William: 221
Kennebec River, Me.: 161n.
Kennedy, (Capt.): 186 ( Olive Branch)
Kennedy, G.: 185
Kennedy, Henry: 872
Kennedy, James (Capt.): to: Massachusetts
Council, 163-64; mentioned, 164n., 192, 1020
(Peggy)
Kennedy, John: 917-19
Kennedy, Sophia: 1020
Kennedy, Thomas (Capt.): 781, 959 (Polly)
Kenney, Gamalier: 1329
Kenney, Hamman: from: Richard Bulkeley,
1286
Kenney, Herman: 1328-29
Kenney, Isaac: 1329
Kenney, Marcy: 1329
Kenney, Patrick: 31-32
Kenny, Benjamin: 985
Kensington, Pa.: 327
Kent, HMS: 450
Kent, Benjamin: 756
Kent County, Delaware: 125
Kerr, George: 1013
Kerr, Samuel (Capt.): 716, 716n., 1013 (Betsey)
Kersen [Kersaint], de (Lieut., French
Navy): from: Gabriel de Sartine, 621; men-
tioned, 397n. (LaFavorite)
Kessler, John: 28, 1301
Key, Elizabeth: 1004
Keys, Abijah: 517, 546n.
Keys, George (Capt.): 201, 213n., 347 (Nancy)
Killingworth [Killing], Conn.: 307, 316, 677
Kilty, John (Capt.): 1266, 1391 (Ninety Two)
Kimball, Isaac: 1371
King, Benjamin: 1226
King, Henry (Col.): 236
King, Isaac: 1329
King, Isaac, Jr.: 1329
King, P.: 1144
King, Thomas (Capt.): 1080
King, William: 906
King Fisher, sloop: 72 (James Ducaine)
King George, British Transport: 575, 595 (Peter
Kelly)
King of Bohemia, HM Armed Vessel: 471
King of Naples, British Navy Victualer: 492,
493-96, 579, 595 See also Lord Howe
King of Prussia, ship: 185, 421, 421n. (Thomas
Dowman)
King Taminy, North Carolina Navy Brig: 1095,
1326-27, 1356 (Sylvanus Pendleton)
King William County, Va.: 142
Kingsbridge, N.Y.: Continental encampment, 4,
789, 845, 924, 974, 975, 990, 1063, 1187n.,
1238, 1307, 1317, 1383, 1422; British troops
near, 349, 350, 361, 848, 1069; map, 21 *;
mentioned, 140, 1007, 1262
Kingsfisher, HM Sloop: captured: Juno, 1124;
Recovery, 1125; Success, 177n., 1125; stationed
off New York, 167, 892; mentioned, 449, 665,
1424 (Alexander Graeme)
Kingsley, S. (Capt.): 807n. (Sword Fish)
Kingston, Jamaica: 1044, 1284
Kingston Packet, brigantine: captured by Provi-
dence, 1049, 1126, 1287-88, 1302 (Samuel
Ingersoll)
Kinnard, William: 1355
Kinnedy, John: 699
Kinsale, Ireland: 465
Kips [Cliff’s, Keppes, Kep’s] Bay, N.Y.: British
troops landing, 806n., 839, 840n., 844-46,
847*, 849, 886, 974, 1065, 1221
Kirby, Benjamin: 1329
Kirk, Nathaniel (Capt.): 192, 506 (Isabella)
Kirkland, James: 703
Kirkwood, James: 702
Kitching, J.: to: Patrick Tonyn, 134-35
Kitten, John: 1375
Kitty, British Transport: 589n., 1006 (Thomp-
son)
Kitty, schooner: 185, 828 (Stevens)
Knap, John: 986
Knap, Nehemiah: 986
Knap, Samuel: 652
Knapp, Anthony (Capt.): 852 (Duff)
Knies, Michael (Midn., Continental Navy): 1301
Knight, Henry: 1016, 1155
Knight, John (Lt., R.N.): 262, 1269, 1298-99
(Diligent)
Knight, John: 906
Knight, Jonathan: 1330
Knight, Peter: to: Richard Ellis, 107n.
Knight, Robert: 139
Knot, William: See William Nott
Knowles, John (Lt., R.N.): 886
Knowlton, (Capt.): 1211 (Dragon)
Knox, Ambrose: 1334, 1356
Knox, Henry (Col., Continental Army): from:
John Adams, 171; William Knox, 298—99;
mentioned, 650
Knox, John: 904
Knox, William: to: Lord Dartmouth, 564—65;
Lord Dunmore, 424, Henry Knox, 298-99;
Philip Stephens, 443, 565n.; from: T. Brett,
537; Philip Stephens, 565; mentioned, 536
L’Abbadie, de (Lt., French Navy): from:
Gabriel de Sartine, 391; mentioned, 394 (Le
Rossignol)
Labrador, Canada: 506
Lacey, Philip (Capt.): 147 (Charming Polly)
Lacey, Samuel: 984
Lacey, William: 988
La Curieuse, French Navy Corvette: 397n.
(Saulx de Rosnevet)
Ladd, William (Capt.): 880, 880n. (Batchelor)
La Dedaigneuse, French Navy Frigate: 384
Lady, schooner: 1125
Lady Caroline, schooner: captured by Squirrel,
830, 879-80, 897, 1170 (John Douglass)
Lady Charlotte, Dunmore’s Fleet Tender: 294
INDEX
1589
Lady Gage, ship: 496, 1124 (John Mount)
Lady Juliana, ship: captured by Congress and
Change, 58n., 130, 508, 508n., 521-22, 529n.,
551; trial, 58; mentioned, 59-60, 60n., 67ln.
(Christopher Stephenson)
Lady Keith, HM Schooner: 402, 671 (Francis
L’Montais)
Lady Susan, Dunmore’s Fleet Sloop: captured
by Lexington, 41-42, 42n., 43n., 63-64, 105,
105n., 716, 7l6n., 740-41, 741n., 766, 877,
1011 (William Goodrich)
Lady Washington, Washington’s Fleet Row
Galley: engagement with Phoenix and Rose,
37-38, 39, 49, 121, 123, 124, 182-83, 217-19,
352; returned to New York, 130; engagement
with Roebuck, Phoenix, and Tartar, 1178-84,
1186-87
Lady Washington, Rhode Island Privateer
Sloop: 291-92, 850-57, 1149 (James Godfrey)
Lady William, Armed Schooner: 90, 134
(Gickie)
Lafferty, Daniel: 700
La Favorite, French Navy Corvette: 397n., 621-
22 (de Kersen)
Lagos, Portugal: 619
Lagos Bay, Portugal: 619
Lahy [Lalley], Morgan: 682, 1413
Lake Champlain: British preparation: ship-
building and outfitting, 27, 34, 45-47, 54,
54n., 55n., 61, 135-36, 229.; seamen for fleet,
150, 150n., 660, 969-70, 1343; strength of
forces on lake stated, 792-93, 857-58, 1081-82,
1117, 1197, 1277; list of ships, 883-84, 1343-
44; intent of purpose stated, 467, 513; passage
across lake, 1151; mentioned, 513, 605, 1365;
American preparation: shipbuilding and out-
fitting, 3-4, 35-36, 120, 145, 227, 873, 902,
1082, 1117-19, 1197-98; seamen for fleet,
139-40, 165, 203-04, 205, 214-15, 217, 265,
265n., 335, 371, 1483; strength of forces on
lake stated, 33, 205, 661, 1197-98, 1344; list
of ships, 224, 1 236* ; pilot needed, 222, 760,
837-38; fleet assembled, 253, 317, 708, 747-48,
760, 791-92, 837-38, 949, 1237; strength of
British discounted, 205, 1152; mentioned, OS-
OS, 215, 317-22, 874, 992, 1382; Battle of Val-
cour Island: preliminary skirmishes, 216, 317,
661, 734-35, 981; British account, 1198, 1257-
58, 1259-60, 1272-74, 1274-75, 1336, 1340-45;
American account, 1260, 1261-62, 1275-77;
escape of American fleet, 1460-61; Control of
lake, 992, 1201, 1244-45, 1350, 1364, 1370,
1445; maps and charts requested by Amer-
icans, 708, 1371; illustrated, 97*, 836*, 1035*,
1229* See also Arnold, Benedict; Navy, Brit-
ish; Valcour Island, Battle of
Lake Erie: 415
Lake George: 3, 27, 124, 150, 150n., 204, 214.
320-22, 467, 836*, 961, 992 See also Lake
Champlain
Lake Ontario: 47, 415, 513, 588, 1023, 1023n.,
1178
Lake Pontchartrain, La.: 1427
L’ Aigrette, French Navy Frigate: 394, 583. 621—
22, 621 n. (Thomas d’Orves)
Laing, Mai.: 1169
Laird, David (Lt., R.N.): 886
Lalanne, : to: Gabriel de Sartine, 385
La Licorne, French Navy Frigate: 394 (de Pey-
nier)
Lamb, John (Capt., Continental Army): 790,
791n.
Lamb, William: 31
Lambert, (Capt.): 640, 679 (Lord Roch-
ford)
Lambert, John (Capt., Massachusetts Navy):
charges against, 1212, 1231-32; mentioned,
78, 327, 357-58, 777, 817, 908, 1330, 1411,
1412n. (Diligent)
Lambert, John, Jr.: 922
L’ Amiable Marie, sloop: 650 (Peter Douville)
L’Amphitrite, French Navy Frigate: 384
Lamond, (Maj., British Army): 600
Lanahan, Joseph: 1302
Lancashire, ship: captured by Enterprize, 297,
608, 749 (Jones)
Lancaster, England: 214, 297, 346, 578, 608, 611,
803
Lancaster, Pa.: 187
Lancaster Castle, England: 584n.
Lander, Peter (Capt.): 12, 777 (Sturdy Beggar)
Landon, (Lt., New York Militia): 24 1 —42
Lane, : 182, 205, 1116
Lane & Co.: 56
Lane & Frazier: 233
Langdon, John: appointment as Continental
agent, 55-56, 147, 756, 1321-22; fitting out
Raleigh, 150-51, 203, 203n., 229, 278, 343,
369, 647, 721-22, 814, 814n., 815-16, 935,
1158-59, 1188, 1212, 1346, 1348-49, 1426, 1464;
officer appointments to Raleigh, 161-62, 815—
16, 1050, 1051; to: Josiah Bartlett, 56, 161-62,
229, 815-16, 816-17, 1031, 105 In.; Bayard,
Craig & Co., 92-93, 586n.; Jabez Bowen,
151n.; John Bradford, 1158; Breck & Ham-
mett, 1212; Nicholas Brown, 150-51; Thomas
Cushing, 343; John Hancock, 1050-51, 1 158—
59; Charles Miller, 151; Robert Morris, 1 144—
45; John Roche, 1051; Isaac Wharton, 814;
Thomas Wharton, 814; William Whipple,
55-56, 1346; from: Josiah Bartlett, 63-64, 147,
766n., 1154; Nicholas Brown, 360; Robert
Cochran, 11; Esek Hopkins, 1398; Marine
Committee, 935-36, 1189, 1248, 1249, 1308;
William Whipple, 1426; mentioned, 346, 511,
802, 934, 970
Langdon, Timothy: 1212
Langle, Levin: 905
Languedoc, France: 500
Lansing, John, Jr. (Lt., Continental Army): 224
La Porte, de: 417
Laprairie, Quebec: 884
Lapsley, David: 1368
Larance, Nathanell: 682
1590
INDEX
L’Archantel, de (Lt., French Navy):
397n. ( L’Indiscrette )
La Renommee, French Navy Frigate: 394, 864-
65, 879-80, 1284 (Francis de Monteil)
Lark, HMS: convoy, 149, 150n., 432, 457, 477,
477n., 493, 497, 504, 543; sickness on board,
442, 453; complement increased, 424, 439;
arrived New York, 1423; prisoners on board,
304, 1452-54, 1454n.; mentioned, 448, 479,
1046, 1424 (Richard Smith)
Larkins, Dennis: 906
La Rochelle, France: 587
Laskey, John: 305
Latham, Daniel: 957, 1060
Latham, William: 120
Lathrop, Dr.: 81
Latimer, Samuel: 83, 118, 333, 959, 1061, 1129
La Tourterelle, French Navy Frigate: 390, 395,
(Beaussier de Chateauvert)
Launceston, HMS: 574
Lauragnais, Comte de: 487-88
Laurance, D.: 1 16
Laurence, Nathan: 1413
Laurences Point, N.Y.: 355, 655, 709
Laurie, (Capt., British Army): 600
Lavien, : 133
La Vierge du Carmel, Spanish brigantine: 613
Lavigne, : to: Gabriel de Sartine, 385
Law, Richard: to: Connecticut Committee of the
Pay Table, 1005; mentioned, 925
Lawford, George: 1452
Lawford, Katherine: 669n.
Lawford, Samuel: from: George Logan, 110-11,
668-69
Lawless, John: 178
Lawrason, James: 1132.
Lawrence, brigantine: captured by Andrew
Doria, 731, 731n., 770, 770n., 855, 856n., 895,
978; libeled, 820 (George Layburn)
Lawrence, : 639
Lawrence, Augustin: to: New York Provincial
Convention, 1435; from: Marine Committee,
1353-54; mentioned, 224, 986
Lawrence, Charles (Capt., Pennsylvania Navy):
7 ( Salamander )
Lawrence, Daniel (Capt.): 539-40 (Molly)
Lax, William: 723
Layburn, George (Capt.): 732n., 820, 895, 978
(Lawrence)
Le Havre, France: 187, 270, 385, 387, 610, 629-
30
Le Maitre, James: 277
Leach, Nathaniel (Capt.): 769 (Polly)
Leadbeater, Peter (Capt.): 495 (Rum Adventure)
Lear, Tobias (Capt.): Polly captured, 508, 1031,
1031n.; mentioned, 27, 27n., 56, 56n., 347
(Polly)
Leary, Dennis: 31, 32
Lebanon, Conn.: 82, 95, 241, 335, 948-49, 1162
Le Begue, Comte (Lt., French Navy): to:
Gabriel de Sartine, 385; mentioned, 390-91,
394 (L’Etourdie)
Leche, (Capt., British Army): 1454-55,
1455n.
Lecke, Sarah: 741
Ledyard, Ebenezer: 1129
Ledyard, Mess: 118
Ledyard, William: 1129, 1305
Lee, Arnold’s Fleet Row Galley: battle of
Valcour Island, 734, 1344; captured, 1245;
mentioned, 96, 224, 253, 654, 1462* (Davis)
Lee, Washington’s Fleet Schooner: captured:
Annabella, 539, 540, 540n.; Anne, 289; Betsey,
788, 1002, 1470; Elizabeth, 177, 178n., 180,
240, 240n., 247, 1069; George, 539, 540, 540n.;
Little Hannah 59n.; Nancy, 284n.; Sally,
1146, 1146n.; mentioned, 152, 853, 1055 (John
Manley; Daniel Waters)
Lee, : on Orpheus, 293n.
Lee, (Capt.): 347 (Lord Dartmouth)
Lee, Arthur: code name Mary Johnstone, 405,
405n., 429n.; to: Beaumarchais, 405n., 429;
Silas Deane, 511; from: Beaumarchais, 405,
453; Committee of Secret Correspondence,
1388, 1405-07; mentioned, 479n., 488, 1086-
87, 1367, 1387, 1401, 1403, 1416
Lee, Ceaser: 234
Lee, Charles (Maj. Gen., Continental Army);
Battle of Sullivans Island, 99, 124, 110, 415,
557; New York Campaign, 1266, 1307, 1351,
1422; mentioned, 768, 1155
Lee, Ezra (Sgt., Continental Army): operator of
Turtle, 736, 1499, 1507-10; to: David Humph-
reys, 1507-10
Lee, John: 32
Lee, John (Capt.): petition to Massachusetts
Council, 162-63; capture of Dinah, 1142,
1142n.; capture of Nancy, 1230, 1231n., 1251,
1252n., 1299, 1299n., 1353n., 1411, 1411n.;
mentioned, 627, 628n., 785, 785n., 1331, 1331n.
(Hawke)
Lee, Joseph: 58n., 163n., to: Massachusetts
Council, 1077
Lee, Martha: 163n.
Lee, Richard Henry: to: William Lee, 1106-07;
Samuel Purviance, Jr., 863-64, 1222-23; men-
tioned, 162, 726, 807, 915, 934, 976, 1025,
1051, 1265, 1308, 1355, 1386, 1388, 1405, 1416,
1464, 1447n.
Lee, Samuel: 1099
Lee, William [Humanitas] (Alderman, London,
Eng.): to: Lord Mayor of London, 529-31;
from: Richard Henry Lee, 1106-07; men-
tioned, 511, 548, 548n.
Lee, William (Col., Continental Army): 772
Leech, James: 817
Leech, Joseph: 107, 1097
Leeds, Jonathan: 81, 1129, 1399
Leeds, William: 81, 1129
Leek, (Lt., R.N.): 1180
Leemon, George: 985
Leffingwell, Christopher: 81, 1130
Leggett, Abraham: 361-62
Leghorn, Italy: 612, 624
INDEX
1591
Leghorn Galley, ship: captured by Wasp , 1295,
1295n.; destroyed by fire, 1430, 1430n., 1465,
1465n.
Legroe, Samuel: 304
Lehoux, (Capt.): 1334 ( Saint Jeanne)
Leighton, Samuel (Capt.): 1395
Leitch, (Capt.): 600 (Annabella)
Leith, Scotland: 520, 521
Leland, Joseph: 945-46
Lemmon, John: 907
Lemmount, Benjamin (Lt.): 799
Lemon, Thomas: 1000
Lemons, John: 345-46
Lempriere, Clement (Capt., South Carolina
Navy): 941, 1427 ( Prosper )
Lenau Brothers & Co.: 462
Lennis, Francis (Capt.): 126, 1267 (Eagle)
Lenox, HMS: 447, 504
Leogane, Haiti: 385
Leonard, George: 18, 695
Leonhard, William: 704
Leopard, HMS: 450
Lepoole, Peter: 1268
Le Rossignol, French Navy Corvette: 391, 394,
(de l’Abbadie; Dussault)
Le Serin, French Navy Corvette: 394, 397n.
(Ligondes de Rochefort)
Lesly, William: 191, 999
Lessieur, John: 1160
Lester, : 1060
L’Etourdie, French Navy Corvette: 390, 394,
(Comte le Begue)
Letters of Marque: See Privateering
Levant, HMS: 448
Levant, British Victualer: 407
Lever & Greenwood: 1192
Leverett, John: 177n., 247
Lewallen, Thomas: 700
Lewes, : 1454
Lewes, Del.: 8
Lewis, Virginia Navy Row Galley: officer ap-
pointments, 24; transporting North Carolina
troops, 799, 1282; supplies, 919, 940-41, 1016,
1191; sickness on board, 1369 (Ciley Saunders)
Lewis, : 945
Lewis, Andrew (Brig. Gen., Continental Army):
133
Lewis, Anthony: 1376
Lewis, Asa: 18, 695
Lewis, Benedict: 856
Lewis, David. 334, 961
Lewis, Emanuel: 697
Lewis, Fielding (Brig. Gen., Virginia Militia):
from: Virginia Navy Board, 25-26, 26n.;
mentioned, 238, 313
Lewis, Francis: to: Thomas Grennell, 274; John
Hodge, 1354; from: Nathaniel Shaw, Jr.,
781; mentioned, 86, 209, 244, 273, 371, 37ln.,
640, 655, 915, 1025, 1355, 1386, 1416
Lewis, Henry: 259
Lewis, John: 304
Lewis, John, on Franklin, 922
Lewis, Jonathan: 1301
Lewis, Samuel: 699
Lewis, Thomas: 304
Lewis, William: 1376
Lexington, Continental Navy Brig: dimen-
sions, 8; Matthewman court-martialed, 938-
39; Edward libeled, 1027; Hallock ranked,
1201; sent to Cape Francois, 1319n., 1355,
1355n., 1386, 1387, 1403; captured: Betsey, 716,
716n., 1012-15; Lady Susan, 41-42, 42n., 43n.,
63-64, 105, 716, 716n., 740-41, 741n., 766,
877, 1011; mentioned, 23, 1367 (John Barry;
William Hallock)
Lexington, Mass.: 531, 531n.
L’Heureuse Famille, brigantine: 158 (Anthony
Marmajou)
Libby, : 278
Liberty, Arnold’s Fleet Schooner: on Lake
Champlain, 224, 253, 981, 981n., sailing
orders, 215-16, 320-21, 925; supplies, 1116-17;
at Ticonderoga, 1103, 1237; mentioned, 98,
1062 (Premier)
Liberty, Virginia Navy Armed Boat: recaptured
Oxford, 534, 534n.; pay, 1297; sailing orders,
728; supplies, 1479; mentioned, 88n. (James
Barron)
Liberty, Virginia Navy Brig: provisions, 10,
245, 783; pay, 43; munitions, 43, 199, 728, 767,
1206, 1449; officer appointments, 44; marines,
71; naval stores, 86, 188, 257; sailing orders,
88, 366-67; iron ballast, 728; escorting brig
Adventure, 728-29; transporting troops, 783—
84; purchased, 878; deserters, 1015; conduct
of Lt. Rogers, 1156; medicine, 1190; com-
plaint against Thomas Lilly, 1227, 1282-83;
sickness, 1334; enlistments, 1409 (Thomas
Lilly)
Liberty, Massachusetts Privateer Schooner:
commissioned, 972n.; captured: Swan, 1471
(Ebenezer Pierce)
Liberty, brigantine: 1268 (Philip Conway)
Liberty, schooner: captured by Enterprize, 749
Liberty, sloop: 808-11
Lidell, Alexander: lOOOn.
Lieth, Alexander (Capt.): 92 (Princess Royal)
Ligerwood, Silas: 856
Lightbourn [Lightburne], Henry (Lt., Virginia
Navy): 24
Lightbourn, Samuel (Capt.): 251, 251n., 263n.,
780, 820, 1004, 1004n. (Fanny)
Lightbourn, Stafford (Lt., Virginia Navy): 24
Ligondes de Rochefort, Chevalier de (Lt.,
French Navy): 397n. (Le Serin)
Lilavois, ship: 385 (Menard)
Lilly, James: 665
Lilly, Thomas (Capt., Virginia Navy): appoint-
ment, 44; complaint against, 1227-28, 1282—
83; orders to, 88, 266-67; from: Virginia Navy
Board, 783-84; mentioned, 10, 43, 86, 188,
199, 245, 257, 728, 767, 783, 995, 1015, 1206,
1409 (Liberty)
Limehouse Hole, England: 533
1592
INDEX
Limozen, Andrew: from: Robert Morris, 1122;
mentioned, 828, 953, 953n., 1401
Lin, William: 901
Lincis, John: 337
Lincoln, Benjamn (Brig. Gen., Massachusetts
Militia): 683, 972, 1218
Lincoln County, Mass.: 799
Lind, James: 1487
L’lndiscrette, French Navy Frigate: 397n. (de
l’Archantel)
Lindsey, James: 613
Lindsey, John: 281
Ling, William: 882
Linnard, Peter: 1211
Linscott, Joseph: 799
Linton, Nathan: 340, 658-59
Linzee, John (Capt., R.N.): 169, 743, 893, 1109,
1424 ( Falcon )
Linzee, Robert (Capt., R.N.): 417, 1424 ( Sur-
prize)
Lion , ship: 386 (John Wilson)
Lippett, Moses (Capt.): 140, 141n. (Hope)
Lippit, Christopher (Col.): 1044-45
Lisbon, Portugal: Inward bound vessels, 7, 185,
194; Outward bound vessels, 295, 501, 607;
mentioned, 475, 589n., 619-20
Lisburne, Lord: 399, 404, 408, 414, 424, 429,
433, 443, 454, 601 See also Admiralty, British
Lisle, Henry: 1320
Litchanham, Jacob: 699
Little, : 1311
Little, Eliakim: 1008, 1413
Little, Samuel: 985
Little Egg Harbor, N.J.: prizes brought into, 7,
23, 42, 104-05, 195, 285; mentioned, 220, 377n.
Little Hannah, brig: 59n.
Little Thomas, schooner: 1268 (Thomas
Nelmes)
Littledale, William (Capt.): 411, 418-19 (James)
Littlefield, (Capt.): 75n., 1169 (Flying Fish)
Lively, snow: captured by Rover, 588, 619;
recaptured by Milford, 1172 (William Carter)
Lively, HMS: captured: Lydia, 1125; Tartar,
1124; sloop, 1125; in New York, 267, 724,
1327; stationed at St. Augustine, 90-91, 169,
376, 893, 1075, 1141, 1422-23; 1468; men-
tioned, 314, 449, 1424 (Thomas Bishop)
Liverpool, HMS: Journal: 2, 27, 303-04, 649,
673, 769, 948, 1046, 1211, 121 In.; engagement
with Pennsylvania Navy, 6, 69-70, 121; with
Dunmore’s Fleet, 66, 195; at Halifax, 160,
787; officer changes, 665; cruising off Mas-
sachusetts coast, 169, 549, 776, 871, 892; cap-
tured: Devonshire, 27, 27n., 626; Hester, 948,
1250-51; Molly, 541; Neptune, 646n., 1125;
Nevis, 2, 2n., 160, 161n., 297-98, 620; Sally,
646, 1125; Swan, 2, 646n., 1125; Warren, 303-
OS, 1097-98, 1125, 1454n.; brigs, 2, 948; brig-
antine, 1125; schooner, 649; sloop, 769; men-
tioned, 448, 590, 690, 1076, 1143, 1424 (Henry
Bellew)
Liverpool, England: Inward bound vessels: 27,
30, 41, 58, 105, 214, 297, 570, 581, 675, 745,
980n., 1029, 1047, 1107, 1456, 1465; Outward
bound vessels, 608; mentioned, 477, 620
Liverpool, Nova Scotia: 731, 1076, 1157, 1172
Livingston, : 814
Livingston, Gilbert: to: Abraham Yates, Jr.,
307; mentioned, 873, 927, 1365
Livingston, Henry Beekman (Lt. Col., Conti-
nental Army): to: Robert R. Livingston, 982-
83; George Washington, 1254-55, 1434; men-
tioned, 1214, 1215n., 1218, 1220, 1349
Livingston, Henry Brockholst (Maj., Continen-
tal Army): 962, 962n.
Livingston, John B.: to: Robert R. Livingston,
1213-15
Livingston, Margaret: 1436
Livingston, Peter B.: from: Committee for Ob-
structing the Hudson River, 987
Livingston, Peter V. B.: 208
Livingston, Peter R.: to: Robert Livingston,
20^22; mentioned, 1139, 1262, 1351
Livingston, Philip: 244, 365n., 915, 976, 1025,
1354-55
Livingston, Robert R.: to: Edward Rutledge,
1023, 1198; from: Robert Harrison, 1238;
Henry Beekman Livingston, 982-83; John
Livingston, 1213-15; Peter R. Livingston, 20-
22; mentioned, 322, 1262, 1350
Livingston, Walter: 1436, 1463
Livingston, William (Brig. Gen., New Jersey
Militia): 338n.
Livingston’s Manor, N.Y.: 33
Liviston, Alexander: 31
Lizard, HMS: Journal: 775, 1286; change of
command, 433-34; mentioned, 47, 54, 416,
442, 448, 883, 894, 1424 (John Hamilton;
Thomas Mackenzie)
Lizard Point, England: 389
Lloyd, Arthur: 234
Lloyd, Jep ter: 1394
Lloyd, Thomas (Capt., R.N.): appointed to com-
mand, 75; to: Clark Gayton, 865-66; men-
tioned, 671, 751, 829, 866, 1109, 1167 (Ata-
lanta)
Lloyd’s Coffee House, London, Eng.: 411, 512,
615
L’Montais, Francis (Lt., R.N.): 301, 402, 671,
1169 (Porcupine; Lady Keith)
Lochee, (Capt.): 576 (Count de Marbeuf)
Lockhart, John (Capt.): 186, 913, 976, 1337-38,
1354 (Cornelia & Molly)
Lockhart, Patrick: 1296
Lockton, John (Capt.): 104, 1309, 1320
Lockwood, Ebenezer (Maj,, New York Militia):
322
Lofthouse, (Capt.): 668, 1327 (Betsey)
Logan, George: to: Samuel Lawford, 110-11,
668-69
Logan, Honoria: 669n.
Logan, Samuel (Maj., Continental Army): 963
Logan, Walter: 999
Loggie, Charles (Lt., R.N.): 559
INDEX
1593
Loire River, France: 386
Lollard, Samuel: 17, 694
Lombard, de: to: Gabriel de Sartine, 417—
18
London, HMS: 452
London, ship: 476, 1071 (Hall)
London, England: Lord Mayor of, from: Wil-
liam Lee, 529-31; trade, 164, 524, 592, 623,
1239; inward bound vessels, 2, 3, 27, 30, 42,
64, 105, 126, 136, 143n., 154, 161n., 191, 193,
201, 214, 231, 249, 251, 251n., 263, 305, 346,
379, 508, 516, 517, 570, 611, 620, 680, 684, 691,
745, 746, 780, 804, 1001, 1004, 1009, 1031, 1045,
1047, 1050, 1053, 1061n., 1071, 1077, 1107,
1114, 1322, 1368; outward bound vessels, 7, 607,
1031, 1331; mentioned, 12, 77, 92, 113-14, 230,
233, 290, 388n., 411, 484, 511, 531, 557, 576,
586, 588, 589, 589n., 593n., 668, 1086, 1366
1431
London Chronicle: 1776: 30 May-1 June, 392;
1-4 June, 401; 6-8 June, 410-11; 8-11 June,
412, 11-13 June, 418; 13-13 June, 419; 18-20
June, 428; 22-23 June, 452; 29 June-2 July,
456-57; 2-4 July, 456, 467; 6-9 July, 471; 9-11
July, 469, 473; 23-23 July, 481; 23-27 July,
507-08; 27-30 July, 512n.; 3-6 Aug., 532; 10-
13 Aug., 538; 13-13 Aug., 548n.; 17-20 Aug.,
556; 20-22 Aug., 538n., 559; 24-27 Aug., 572;
29-31 Aug., 529n., 581; 31 Aug.-3 Sept., 554n.;
3-3 Sept., 578n., 586; 3-7 Sept., 529n.; 10-12
Sept., 576n., 599; 21-24 Sept., 607n., 610, 611;
24-26 Sept., 613; 26-28 Sept., 588-89; 3-3 Oct.,
620, 3-8 Oct., 629; 10-12 Oct., 290n.; 13-17
Oct., 315n.; 24-26 Oct., 613n.; 26-29 Oct., 627
London Gazette: 1776: 4-8 June, 405n.; 8-11
June, 416; 22-23 June, 430; 23-29 June, 456;
27-30 July, 513; 19-23 Nov., 1256-58, 1258n.,
1274-75, 1275n.; mentioned, 415, 513-14
London Morning Post and Daily Advertiser:
1776: 1 July, 457-59; 2 July, 459-62
Long, David: 857
Long, James: 517
Long, John: 703
Long, Nicholas: 313
Long Island, N.Y.: Battle of, 323-25, 336, 339*,
351, 351n., 361, 372, 372n., 640n., 711, 765,
792, 845, 1108; British forces on, 254-55, 267-
70, 277, 284, 285*, 286, 292, 300, 308, 309n.,
326, 349, 352-53, 361, 374, 392, 567, 630, 632,
666, 683, 710, 725, 759, 839-40, 849, 855, 886,
988, 1009, 1046, 1056, 1154, 1307; British ves-
sels near, 373, 763, 805, 965, 1047, 1061, 1063;
Continental defense, 662, 707, 982, 1218-20,
1434; Continental evacuation, 351, 354, 364,
372, 376, 682, 706, 714, 733, 763, 781, 949,
973, 1064, 1151; Loyalists, 1068; maps, 21*,
375*, 1247*; mentioned, 42, 102, 235, 281,
355, 551, 885, 987, 1004, 1434 See also Army,
British; Army, Continental
Long Island Sound: importance to British, 167,
1307; Howe’s Fleet in, 306, 316, 322-23, 335,
350, 354-55, 360-61, 370-71, 632, 679, 706,
712, 759, 763-65, 788, 892, 949, 988, 1006,
1063, 1152, 1218-20, 1279, 1364, 1415, 1422;
importance to Continentals, 22, 1081, 1085,
1099
Long Island, S.C.: 561-64
Longcroft, Edward (Lt., R.N.): 883, 1137, 1343,
1365 ( Brunswick ; Loyal Convert)
Longreach, Thames River, England: 404
Loocock, Aaron: 1072-74
Lord Amherst, Armed Ordnance Transport:
577n., 604
Lord Dartmouth, ship: 347, 776 (Lee)
Lord Howe, British Army Transport: with
Flora, 600; captured, 626; tried, 58; sale,
152-53 (Robert Park)
Lord Howe, British Armed Transport: in
Richelieu River, 47, 201; in St. Lawrence
River, 169, 894; at Quebec, 414-15, 417, 1 193—
94, 1340, 1343 (Thomas Pringle; Velters
Berkeley)
Lord Howe [formerly King of Naples], British
Navy Victualer: 579, 595
Lord Howe, sloop: 1002 (Elisha Coffin)
Lord, J. (Capt.): 221n. (Unity)
Lord Lifford, brig: captured by Columbus,
1113, 1114n., 1115, 1137, 1137n., 1146, 1146n.;
mentioned, 1470 (John Jones)
Lord Rochford, British Prison Ship: 640, 666-
67 (Lambert)
Lord Townshend, Armed Ordnance Transport:
577n., 604
Lorient, France: 427, 457
Loring, Joshua, 679, 1153
Loring, Seth: 180, 180n.
Lothrop, Barnabus: 652
Lothrop, Thomas: 1177
Louis XVI, King of France: warships stationed
at Hispaniola, 390-91, 393-97, 621; men-
tioned, 51, 111, 210n., 388, 409, 552, 583-84,
599
Louisa, brig: 162, 162n. (J. Colston)
Louisburg, Nova Scotia: 787, 1049, 1399
Lovell, James: 190, 746, 857, 1453
Lovely Lass, sloop: 1169 (James Bodrick)
Lovely Mary, ship: 1439 (John Coghlan)
Lovely Nelly, brigantine: 1471 (William Sheri-
dan)
Lovie, George: 1376
Lovil, William: 685
Low, David: 1016
Low, Jeremiah: 857
Low, John: 945
Low, Nicholas: 783
Lowden, Richard: 901
Lowder, John: 1301
Lowell, John: claim for goods on board Eliza-
beth, I77n., 247; to: John Adams, 180-81;
Massachusetts Council, 180; mentioned, 177,
756
Lowestoff, HMS: 450
Lowry, John: 274
Lowther: 1304
1594
INDEX
Loyal Convert [Royal Convert], HM Hoy /Gon-
dola: at St. Johns, 857-58, 883, 951; on Lake
Champlain, 1137; 1244, 1344; Battle of Val-
cour Island, 1341 (Edward Longcroft)
Loyalists: in Delaware, 68, 975; in Florida,
749-50; in Maryland, 68, 132, 340, 975; in
Massachusetts, 15, 57, 62, 112, 152, 152n.,
178, 358; in New York, 39, 124, 182-83, 228,
281, 308, 349, 733, 781, 930, 1063, 1068, 1434;
in North Carolina, 101; with Lord Dunmore,
132
Luce, (Capt.): 798
Lucea, Jamaica: 342
Luck, John (Lt., R.N.): 534
Lucretia, sloop: 616-17, 1144 (Jacob Surly)
Lucy, John: 766
Ludlow, Thomas, Jr. (Capt.): 789, 897-98, 1252,
1252n., 1468-69 ( Elizabeth )
Ludlow-Castle, brig: 653 (Darling)
Luke, : 296
Lush, Andrew: from: Virginia Navy Board,
175, 211; mentioned, 659n.
Lusty, John (Lt., Virginia Navy): 24
Lutwidge, Skeffington (Capt., R.N.): 169, 417,
660, 894, 981, 1424 ( Triton )
Lux & Bowly: naval stores, 807, 994—95, 1015;
to: Daniel of St. Thomas Jenifer, 1095; Mary-
land Council of Safety, 1224, 1391; from:
Maryland Council of Safety, 1027, 1140; men-
tioned, 919n., 995, 1072, 1321
Lybourne, A.: 877
Lydia, Pennsylvania Navy Victualler: 7 (James
Simpson)
Lydia, schooner: 1125
Lynch, Washington’s Fleet Schooner: fired at by
Daphne, 1112-13, 1113n., 1145, 1146n.; cap-
tured: Annabella, 539, 540, 540n.; Anne, 389;
Elizabeth, 177, l78n., 180, 240, 240n., 247,
1069; George, 539, 540, 540n.; mentioned,
59n., 152, 161, 162n., 233-34, 638, 1195, 1196n.,
1348 (John Ayres)
Lynch, : 108
Lynch, James: 695
Lynch, John: 643
Lynch, Timothy: 705
Lyndon, J.: 1421
Lynn, Mass.: 112-13, 113n.
Lynn, James: 696
Lynnhaven Roads, Va.: 142
Lynx, HM Sloop: 409 (Robert Keeler)
Lynx, HM Sloop: 452
Lyon, HMS: 450
Lyon, HM Armed Vessel: 448 (Richard Pickers-
giU)
Lyon, Connecticut Privateer Sloop: 1004,
1005n. (Timothy Shaler)
Lyon, schooner: captured by Cerberus, 456,
1124 (Moses Barlow)
Lyon, (Capt.):
Lyon, James: to: Massachusetts General Court,
638
Lyon, John: claim against Vulcan, 260n.
Lyon, John: 984
Lyon, Samuel: to: John Paul Jones, 1361; men-
tioned, 693
Lyon & Co.: 1004, 1005n.
Lysle, Hugh (Capt.): 185 (Fame)
McAroy [M’Elroy], George (Capt.): 192n., 508
( Congress )
Macartney, Daniel: 242
Macartney, John (Capt., R.N.): 420 ( Ambus-
cade)
McAuley, Robert: 703
McCaffray, Matthew: 1373
McCain, George: 31
McCallum, Daniel: 1296
M ’Carroll, William: 220
McCarty, John: 700
McCarty, Patrick: 1205
McCaw, James: 1014
McClean, Allan (Col., British Army): 790, 791n.
McCleave, John (Capt., Connecticut Navy): 49,
120, 121, 1317-18, 1318n., 1460 (Whiting)
Maclellan, Dunbar (Lt., R.N.): 433
McCloud, Kennet: 696
McClure, Christopher: 807
McClure, James (Lt., Continental Marines): 50
McCobb, James: 799
McCord, James: 1093
McCormick, John: 32, 699
McCouif, Philip: 1395
McCoul, Neil: 293-94
McCoy, John: 31
McCoy, Thomas (Ens., Continental Army):
837, 858, 858n., 859
McCraken, James; 699
McCrea, Stephen (Dr.): 283, 1483-85
McCreery, William: 550n., 553
McCrohon, John & Co.: from: William Savage,
813
M’Culchen, David (Capt.): 878
McCundoe, John: 1373
McCurdy, John: 81, 84
McDonald, (Maj., British Army): 600
McDonald, Alexander, on General Putnam:
1413
McDonald, Alexander: British prisoner, 1480
McDonald, Charles: 698
McDonald, Donald (Gen., British Army): 682
McDonald, Lauchlin: 1480
McDonald, Robert: 906
McDougall, Alexander (Brig. Gen., Continental
Army): 349-50
McDougall, Arthur: 697
McDougall, John (Lt., Continental Navy): 166,
770, 1464, 1464n.
McEuen, Malcolm: 1139
McEvoy, Robert (Lt., R.N.): 433, 579, 580, 594,
595
McFadden, William (Capt.): 147 (Charming
Polly)
McFarland, Duncan: 182n.
McGarmot, : 8
INDEX
1595
McGill, James: 907, lOOOn.
McGlashan, James: 1168
M’Gowen, : 323
McGregor, Gregor (Capt.): 181, 181n., 820
(A urora)
McGregor, John (Capt.): 1114 ( Halifax )
McGuire, Conrad: 906
McGuire, James: 31
McGurdie, (Capt.): 600 ( Neptune )
Machias, Me.: 162, 162n., 221n., 262, 328-29,
330n., 357, 638n., 753-54, 970, 1195
Machias Liberty , Massachusetts Navy Sloop:
crew unpaid, 357, 1078, 1411; discharged from
service, 1270; inactive, 78, 78n., 1212 (Jere-
miah O’Brien)
Machias River, Me.: 909
McHoster, William: 138
McIntosh, Aeneas (Capt., British Army): 540,
600
McIntosh, Angus (Capt., British Army): 600
McIntosh, William (Col., Mass. Militia): 1218,
1220, 1434
McIntyre, John: 906
McKay, Daniel (Capt.): 347 (John)
MacKay, Mungo: 971
McKean, Thomas: 976
MacKee, John: 31-32
McKeel, John (Capt.) 919, 919n. (Sturdy Beg-
gar)
McKennie, John: 906
McKensey, David: 18
Mackenzie, (Capt.): 600
McKenzie, (Capt.): 587 (Mangam)
McKenzie, Colin (Capt., British Army): 600
M’Kenzie, Dougal: 988
Mackenzie, Frederick: Diary: 679, 714-15, 725,
762, 848-49, 902, 928-31, 964, 1186-87, 1307-
OS, 1319, 1383-84, 1423, 1430, 1454n.
Mackenzie, George: from: St. Alban Roy, 581
Mackenzie, Thomas (Commo., R.N.): from:
Philip Stephens, 546, 547, 550; mentioned, 54,
169, 433, 775, 894, 1286 (Lizard)
McKesson, John: 318
McKinley, Alexander (Capt.): 1396 (Caledonia)
McKinney, David: 695
McKinney, William: 698
McKinsy, John: 1093
McKnight, Robert: 1011
M’Kurdy, John: 289
McLallan, Michael: 702
Maclean, (Capt.): 601 (Crawford)
McLellan, Arthur: 345-46
McLellan, William: 345-46
McLeod, Norman (Capt., British Army): 539,
601
McLiesh, (Capt.): 600 (Caledonia)
McLiesh, (Capt.): 600 (Houstoun)
McLocklin, John: 703
McManus, Barney: 907
McMeis, (Capt.): 587 (St. Andrew)
McMullan, Patrick: 1373
McMullen, Alexander: 338
McNamara, Patrick: 704
McNeal, John: to: John Paul Jones, 314; men-
tioned. 31, 1371
McNealis, Charles: 906
McNeil, John (Capt.): 101 (Jenny)
McNeill, Hector (Capt., Continental Navy):
ranked, 1200; commanded Boston , 299; pris-
oners paroled to McNeill for crew, 1159;
orders to cruise, 935, 936; from: Marine Com-
mittee, 1385; mentioned, 802, 818, 934, 935.,
936n., 1113, 1126, 1158, 1470 (Boston)
McNeily, William (Capt.): 1162n. (Jenny)
M’Nicol, Dun (Capt.): 1480
M’Nicol, Neal: 1480
McPherson, (Capt.): 600 (Brilliant)
McPherson, (Maj., British Army): 600
McPherson, (Capt., British Army): 600
McPherson, Farquahar: 1372
McQuary, Hector: 1480
McSoley, James: 901
Macumber, George: 857
Madame Island, Nova Scotia: 1149
Maden, James: 282
Madeira Islands: 610
Madison, Gabriel (Lt., Virginia Marines): 1334
Madrid, Spain: 627, 1343
Magaw, Robert (Col., Continental Army): 1428
Magdalen , HM Schooner: 47, 169, 434, 449, 894,
1345 (Joseph Nunn)
Magnanime, HMS: 450
Magnificent, HMS: 450
Mahaney, Jerry: 32
Mahoney, Thomas: 1000
Mahony, James: 257-58
Maidstone, HMS: Journal: 829, 829n., 997;
captured: Dolphin, 997, 997n.; privateer, 505-
06, 506n.; mentioned, 75, 91, 402, 403, 448,
672, 1168, 1169-71 (Alan Gardner)
Maillard, (Capt.): 385 (Thomas)
Main, (Lt.): 128, 779-80, 787
Mainwaring, Thomas (Lt., R.N.): 480 (Mere-
dith)
Makood, Joseph: 704
Malaga, British Transport: 122, 478
Malaga, Spain: 588, 604, 619
Malcolm, Henry: 28n.
Malleson, Benjamin: 961, 1176
Mallory, (Capt.): 1267 (William)
Malmedy, Marquis de: 890, 890n.
Maltbie, Jonathan (Lt., Continental Navy)
270, 692
Mamaroneck, N.Y.: 22, 1279
Man, Daniel: 901
Man, Robert (V. Adm., R.N.): from: Philip
Stephens, 391-92
Manchester, Gideon (Capt.): 1456 (Reynolds)
Manchester, Godfree: 856
Manll, Peleg: 338
Mangam, West Indiaman: 587 (McKenzie)
Manhattan Island [York Island]: American de-
fenses: ashore, 227, 806n., 839-49, 874, 963,
974, 1063, 1064, 1153, 1182; river obstructions
1596
INDEX
at Fort Washington, 37, 873, 928, 1178, 1182,
1221, 1365; fire ships and galleys at Fort
Washington, 183, 927, 1085, 1137, 1138n.,
1182, 1337-38; British ships fixed upon, 226,
666, 1183n., 1184-85, 1187, 1198, 1430, 1438;
British attack: bombarded island, 842 44,
846, 988; landed at Kips Bay, 839, 840, 844-46,
847*, 885-87, 1065, 1221; landed at New
York, 631*, 843, 846, 862; skirmish at Har-
lem Heights, 195, 874, 1009, 1085, 1422, 1428;
surround Fort Washington, 1063, 1064; Amer-
icans retreat across island, 711, 844—45, 849,
874, 974, 988-99, 1063; Loyalists support
British landing, 843, 846, 988-89; New York
City fire, 928-31, 929*, 932, 933, 974, 992,
1067, 1069, 1086, 1237, 1485; importance to
British, 714, 792, 974, 988-89; maps, 21*,
375*, 1247*; mentioned, 167, 206, 806n., 910,
964, 1153, 1331 See also New York, N.Y.
Manley, Virginia Navy Row Galley: pay, 9,
10n.; provisions, 25, 236, 767, 783; officer ap-
pointments, 44; sailing orders, 88, 88n., 1282;
escorting brig Adventure, 727-28; transport-
ing North Carolina troops, 1282 (Edward
Travis; John Harris)
Manley, John (Capt., Continental Navy): sen-
iority established, 1200; to: Massachusetts
Council, 202; from: Marine Committee, 1385;
mentioned, 59n., 113, 163, 178n., 240, 247,
284, 284n, 299, 368, 675, 754, 832, 832n., 882,
1069, 1194, 1408 (frigate Hancock)
Manley, John (Deputy Continental Agent, New-
port): 1304, 1304n., 1331
Mansfield, Conn.: 1422
Mansfield, Giles (Capt., Arnold’s Fleet): 224
(New Haven)
Maps, charts, and plans: world, endsheets*;
Brest, France, 483*; Brooklyn, New York,
375*, 1247*; Caribbean, 396*; Chesapeake
Bav, 67*; Crown Point, New York, 836*;
Flatbush, New York, 375*, 1247*; Gulf of
Mexico, 396*; Hudson River, 97*; Kings-
bridge, New York, 21*; Lake Champlain, 97*,
836*, 1229*; Lake George, 836*; Long Island,
21*, 375*, 1247*; Manhattan Island, 21*,
375*, 1247*; East New Jersey, 21*, 375*,
1247*; New York (City), 1247*; New York
Harbor, 21*; Pensacola Harbor, Florida,
688*; St. John, Quebec, 836*; Sandy Hook,
New Jersey, 21*; Staten Island, 21*, 375*,
1247*; Valcour Island, New York, 1035*
Marble, Ebenezer: 304
Marblehead, Mass.: defense, 298; vessels carried
into, 1 13n., 115, 152n., 191, 192n., 213, 213n.,
233, 262, 598, 1134n., 1146, 1196, 1251, 1270;
mentioned, 289-90, 298, 299, 347, 554, 661,
772
March, Richard (Capt.): 727 (Nancy)
March, Samuel: 278
Margaret, ship: 612 (Dunlop)
Margaretta, HM Schooner Tender: libeled,
262, 262n.; mentioned, 1212 (James Moore)
See also Machias Liberty
Margeson, John: 1371
Maria, HM Schooner: being rebuilt, 47, 54,
55n., 135, 790, 857, 858, 883; Battle of Valcour
Island, 1023, 1081, 1137, 1234, 1235, 1244,
1245, 1259-60, 1277, 1307, 1341, 1343 (John
Starke)
Maria, British Navy Victualer: 492, 495 (Solo-
mon Jones)
Maria, Dunmore’s Fleet Brig: 644-45, 645n.,
855, 856n., 978n. (John Marshall)
Marianne, ship: 572
Marie-Galante Island, West Indies: 394, 1075
Marine Committee: See Continental Congress,
Marine Committee
Mariner, William (Capt.): 238
Marines, British: on board: Brune, 371;
Daphne, 422; Diligent, 1029-30; Halifax, 371;
Hound, 422; Lizard, 434; Niger, 371; Phoe-
nix, 1182; Presl n, 862; Roebuck, 1182;
Tartar, 1181, 1182; Triton, 679; increase in,
426; landing in New York, 709, 860, 862,
1029-30; taken prisoner, 354; lack of, 437,
1082; mentioned, 351, 414, 438, 604, 660, 1103;
Continental: on board: Boston, 971; Provi-
dence, 131, 131n.; Raleigh, 56, 742; Ran-
dolph, 50, 187, 683; Warren, 803; disability
pension, 309-12; to guard frigates at Phila-
delphia, 863; muskets for, 271; mentioned,
171, 819; Connecticut: on board: Oliver
Cromwell, 253, 253n., 872; Spy, 1160; Mary-
land: enlisted, 1027; Massachusetts: on board
Diligent, 1232, 1330; regulations for, 191;
New York: 1478; Pennsylvania: on board
Arnold, 916; South Carolina: on board Re-
venge, 1228; Virginia: on board: Henry, 88;
Hero, 188 238, 828, 1190-91; Liberty, 71;
Manley, 25; Raleigh, 742; weapons for, 142;
mentioned, 9, 44, 236, 728, 1156, 1242, 1312;
Arnold’s Fleet: 96 Privateers: 16, 1002, 1208
Maritime Courts: See Admiralty Courts
Markham, James (Capt., Virginia Navy): 24-25,
200, 799, 919, 1016, 1191n., 1282 (Page)
Markland, Edward (Lt., Maryland Navy): 1449
Marlborough, HMS: 447, 471, 474, 1136, 1137n.
(Samuel Hood)
Marmajou, Anthony (Capt.): 158 (L’Heureuse
Famille)
Marquand, Joseph: 78
Marquis of Kildare, brigantine: 1133, 1144,
1158-59, 1159n., 1366 (Thomas Palmer)
Marriot, brig: 297 (Hammond)
Mars, HMS: 447, 504, 546, 547, 550, 581 (George
Falconer)
Mars, Jamaicaman: captured by Joseph, 411,
41 In. (Mag. Miller)
Marsden, Samuel (Capt.): 508, 551 (Juno)
Marseilles, France: ordnance from, 6, 8, 63, 412,
413; mentioned, 23, 53, 406, 459, 500
Marsh, Edward (Capt.): 868 (Scarborough)
Marshall, ship: 1470
INDEX
1597
Marshall, Benjamin: 975
Marshall, Christopher: Diary: 5-6, 23, 50, 741,
1155, 1205, 1205n., 1240, 1240n., 1249, 1339,
1368, 1430
Marshall, James: 702
Marshall, John (Capt.): 852 ( Hester )
Marshall, John (Capt.): 645n. (Maria)
Marshall, Thomas: 801
Marshead, John: 296
Marsden [Marson], Samuel (Capt.): 508, 508n.,
551 (Juno)
Marston, Benjamin: Diary: 900, 900n.
Martha & Mary, British Victualer: 579, 595
Martha’s Vineyard, Mass.: 252, 551, 868
Martin, HM Sloop: 414-15, 417, 433, 449, 513,
1424 (Henry Harvey)
Martin, (Capt.): 1169 (Sally)
Martin, Francis (Lt., Continental Army): 1324—
26
Martin, Jacob (Capt.): 279, 1114 (Fair Lady)
Martin, Job. 742
Martin, John of Connecticut Navy: 985
Martin, John (Capt.): 65, 200, 1211, 1339
(Friendship)
Martin, Josiah (Royal Gov., North Carolina):
to: George Germain, 100-01; mentioned, 124,
197
Martin, Pitre: 857
Martindale, Sion (Capt., Washington’s Fleet):
115, 735-36 (Washington)
Martindale, Thomas (Capt.): 956n. (Try ton)
Martinique [Martinico], West Indies: Reprisal
and Shark engagement, 11-12, 583-84, 584n.,
601, 629, 684; military preparations, 60, 603;
Continental trade source, 141, 148-49, 158,
186, 243, 261, 652n., 727, 732, 824-28, 864,
912-13, 919, 938, 1025-26; Continental gun-
powder and munitions source, 209, 409, 457-
58, 499, 623, 738, 796, 937, 975, 1086-87,
1088-89; French naval reinforcements, 391,
394, 429, 576, 587, 593, 621-22, 949, 1046; men-
tioned, 239-40, 294, 630, 1075, 1433; governor,
See Comte d’Argout
Marvill, Isaac (Capt.): 214n., 581 (Mary)
Mary, brig: captured by Diamond, 30, 30n., 60,
60n., 214, 214n., 581 (Isaac Marvill)
Mary, brigantine: captured by Hancock, 60,
60n., 194
Mary, sloop: captured by Montgomery, 338
(Duncan Campbell)
Mary, sloop: 1144 (Samuel Morgan)
Mary, schooner: captured by Squirrel, 1170
(Bradford)
Mary, schooner: captured by Porcupine, 1169
(John Green)
Mary and Ann, British Transport: 428
Mary and James, brig: captured by Rover, 588,
607, 613, 1347, 1347n., 1358, 1471 (Thomas
Moore)
Maryland: defensive preparations, 23; Dun-
more’s forces in, 68; frigate building, See
Virginia; Loyalists in, 975; militia, 23, 26, 68,
1324-26; ordnance for, 24; trade, 399; men-
tioned, 65, 125, 159, 173, 257, 296-97, 540,
586, 1012, 1338, 1431
Maryland Convention: Journal: 236, 288, 797,
1140, 1155, 1225-26, 1368, 1391, 1466, 1466n.;
from: John Burnell, 658; mentioned, 586
Maryland Council of Safety: journal: 668, 717,
727, 797, 896, 904, 919, 1015, 1027, 1072,
1072n., 1122-23, 1226, 1266, 1449; officer ap-
pointments, 288; ordnance, 65, 106, 106n.,
187, 187n., 293, 993-94, 1039; Benjamin
Nicholson appointed judge of Admiralty
Court, 1466n.; president, See Daniel of St.
Thomas Jenifer; Resolution to be sold, 797,
979n.; to: George Cook, 808; Joseph Handy,
1226; Jesse Hollingsworth, 86, 199n., 1408-09;
Henry Hooper, 23; Gerrard Hopkins, 293;
Lux & Bowly, 1027-28, 1140; Maryland
delegates, 24, 105-06, 131-32; James Nichol-
son, 106, 312, 994; Northumberland County
Committee of Observation, 187; John Read,
1039; John Rogers, 1409; Secret Committee,
993-94; Van Bebber & Harrison, 65, 797-98,
798n.; George Wells, 1311; George Woolsey,
9; from: Archibald Buchanan, 717; George
Cook, 968, 979-80, 1132, 1466-67; Lemuel
Cravath, 1224-25; Cumberland Dugan, 916—
17, 1224-25; Jesse Hollingsworth, 172, 198-99;
Thomas Johnson, Jr., 911; Thomas Jones,
256-57; William Lux, 1224, 1391; James Mor-
ris, 355-56, Robert Morris, 1091-92; James
Nicholson, 641-42, 1039; Secret Committee,
807; Stephen Steward, 159, 741, 1296, 1311,
1323, 1449; Van Bebber & Harrison, 1211,
1339-40; George Wells, 1295-96; Willing,
Morris & Co., 1070; mentioned, 159n., 171,
643, 658, 878, 980n., 1391, 1440, 1440n.
Maryland Gazette (Dunlap’s): See Dunlap's
Maryland Gazette
Maryland Gazette (Annapolis): 1776: 22 Aug.,
274n.; 19 Sept., 878
Maryland, Journal (Baltimore): 1776: 7 Aug.,
105; 28 Aug., 3n.; 25 Sept., 993
Mascoll, Stephen (Capt.): 346n. (General Put-
nam)
Mason, Abel: 906
Mason, Abraham: 64, 1310
Mason, Christopher (Lt., R.N.): 167, 374, 439,
875, 892, 1424 (Tamar)
Mason, George, Jr. (Capt., Virginia Militia):
from: Virginia Navy Board, 728-29; men-
tioned, 1296
Mason, Jonathan (Capt.): 1002 (Nabby)
Mason, Richard: 643
Mason, Thomas: 1207
Massachusetts, Massachusetts Navy Brig: fitting
out, 328, 776, 776n., 1455, 1455n.; ordnance,
13, 229-30, 279; seniority of captains estab-
lished, 345; surgeon, 690; master appointed,
769; ordered to cruise, 831-32, 832n., 909,
909n.; captured: Henry and Ann, 1112, 1174,
1 174n., 1455n., 1472 (Daniel Souther)
388-825 O - 73 - 103
1598
INDEX
Massachusetts: British prohibition on trade,
399; Commissary General supplied arms to
Massachusetts, 13; Continental Agents, See
John Bradford and Jonathan Glover; de-
fensive preparations, 289; militia: with
Arnold’s Fleet, 335, 348-49, 531n.; New York
campaign, 217, 868, 874, 1238; claimed share
of prize Queen of England, 344, 800, 801; to
provide guns for Boston, 801, 802; Raleigh,
647; mentioned, 77, 125, 190, 220, 231, 261,
298-99, 358, 470, 889*. 962, 1012, 1328, 1363
Massachusetts Council: Journal: 12-14, 57, 78-
79, 113, 162-63, 178-79, 190-91, 248-50, 279-
80, 328, 344, 690, 769, 785, 817-18, 897, 997,
1019-20, 1020n., 1078, 1113, 1159, 1173, 1173n.,
1270, 1347, 1412; privateer commissions
granted, 345-46, 346n., 648-49, 649n.; officer
appointments, 345, 674; ordnance for Mas-
sachusetts Navy, 151, 230, 898, 981, 1113;
president, See Jeremiah Powell; to: John
Clouston, 908, Nicholas Cooke, 179; John
Fisk, 1358-60; Daniel Souther, 831-32; John
Williams, 261; from: James Arnaud, 1347;
William Barret, 850-51; Jacob Boardman,
111-12; Boston Committee, 112-13; George
Childs, 1432; Agreen Crabtree, 47-48;
Thomas Crafts, Jr., 800; Thomas Cragg, 675-
76; Thomas Cushing, 1126; Richard Derby,
Jr., 1112; Adam Helme, 1174-75; Joseph
Howgate, 1442-43; James Kennedy, 163-64,
164n.; John Lowell, 180; John Manley, 202;
Hugh Munro, 212-13; Newburyport Com-
mittee, 357-58; William Pascall, 881; William
Pringle, 303; Salem Committee, 178-79,
1454-55, 1455n.; Isaac Snow, 799-800; Nehe-
miah Somes, 1213; William Williams, 777;
mentioned, 179, 231, 279, 298, 661, 854, 998-
99, 1000, 1077, 1134n., 1174, 1174n.
Massachusetts General Court: Acts and Re-
solves: 359, 646-48, 661, 730-31, 753-54, 776,
777- 78, 801, 802, 818-19, 868-71, 882, 972, 981,
1173, 1195, 1212, 1269-70, 1298, 1411-12, 1419-
20, 1432-33, 1468-69; privateer commissions,
57, 112; ordnance, 112, 230, 756; from: John
Barber, 752; Jacob Boardman, 1316; Jona-
than Eddy, 330-31; Benjamin Foster, 357;
Jonathan Hobby, 331; William How, 330-31;
Ichabod Jones, 328-30; James Lyon, 638;
Newburyport Committee, 1316; Joseph
Palmer, 786; Zebulon Roe, 330-31; Francis
Shaw, 327-28, 357; David Smith, 1297-98;
Jonathan Trumbull, 759; mentioned, 12, 180,
359n., 648, 706, 786, 851, 851n., 1455
Massachusetts Spy (Boston): 1776: 11 Sept.,
778- 80; 1777: 2 Jan., 468n.
Massenburg, Alexander: 1227, 1282
Masserano, Prince of: to: Marquis de Gri-
maldi, 613-15; from: Marquis de Grimaldi,
555-56, 622, 633; mentioned, 540, 556n.
Massey, Eyre (Maj. Gen., British Army): 787,
1157, 1172, 1452, 1523-25
Masson, Jack: 766
Masters, Waltely: 907
Matanzas Bay, Cuba: 508
Mather, John: 1045n.
Mather, Joseph: 984
Mather, William (Capt.): 1045n., 1061n. (Agnes)
Mathews, John: 702
Mathewson, Nicholas: 923
Mattaponi River, Va.: 187-88, 774-75
Matthewman, Luke (Lt., Continental Navy):
938-39
Matthews, Edward (Col. British Army): 1514
Matthews, Sampson: 188
Matthews, William: 906
Matty, British Transport: 431—32
Maul, James: 904, 916
Maupin, Gabriel: 25, 43, 71, 211, 275
Maurepas, Jean Frederic, Comte de: 441, 519,
520
Maxcy, Jonathan: 158n.
Maxwell, Hamilton (Capt., British Army): 598,
601,610
Maxwell, John: 1321
Maxwell, Thomas: 133
May, Elias: 1413
May, George: 692
May, Hezekiah (Capt.): 1205, 1205n., 1295, 1368
(Thetis)
May, Leonard: 1093
Mayaguana Island, Bahamas: 394
Maybury, (Capt.): 610 (Diana)
Mayet, Thomas: 39
Mayflower, British Army Transport: 540, 556,
600 (Crosbie)
Mayo, John: 199, 259
Mayou, John: 337
Mazieres, de: 499
Mead, Richard: 1485
Meade, George & Co.: 977
Meadows, Lawrence: 693
Mears, James (Midn., R.N.): 1343
Mears, Josh: 665
Mease, James: 682, 1163, 1478
Mease, Robert: 1478
Meddocks, Ebenezer: 304
Medicine: In Continental and British Navies,
1483-90, 1491*, 1492*, 1493*, 1494*, 1495*,
1496*, 1497*
Mediterranean Sea: 446, 448, 541, 547, 623
Medusa, HMS: 450
Medway, HMS: 448 (William Affleck)
Meek, William (Midn., R.N.): 594
Meglew, Joseph (Capt.): 1169 (Penelope)
Mein, James: 693
Melally, Michael (Lt., Connecticut Navy): 316,
1061
Mellish, British Transport: 537, 544n., 557,
575, 576n., 594, 595
Melsett, Peter: 234
Melvill, Thomas (Maj., Massachusetts Militia):
754, 1159n.
Melville, Seth: 856
INDEX
1599
Menard, (Capt.): to: Gabriel de Sartine,
385 ( Lilavois )
Mendon, Mass.: 651
Mentor, British Prison Snow: 679, 932, 950,
1086, 1138 (Davis)
Mercenary troops: See Army, British; Bruns-
wick, Germany; Hanover, Germany; Hesse,
Germany; Waldeck, Germany
Mercer, : 173, 967
Mercer, Hugh (Brig. Gen., Continental Army):
to: John Hancock, 156; George Washington,
1292-93; mentioned, 146, 725
Mercer, Nathaniel: 856
Mercer, Samuel: 1015
Mercury, HMS: troop landings on Long Island,
267, 324; troop landings on Manhattan, 844,
846; prisoners on board, 746, 787; captured:
Molly, 1125; mentioned, 169, 189, 376, 449,
892, 1424 (James Montagu)
Mercury, whaler: captured by Cerberus, 506,
559 (Henry Spencer)
Meredith, HM Cutter: 480 (Thomas Mainwar-
ing)
Meredith, (Capt.): 1040 ( Content )
Meredith, Reese: 1087
Merkle, John: 59n., 953, 953n., 1039-41
Merlin, HM Sloop: Journal: 1045; stationed off
Block Island, 169, 892, 1061; at Sandy Hook,
772, 1119, 1239; captured: Agnes, 1045; Feli-
cite, 733-34, 734n.; brigantine, 1103; two
sloops, 772; mentioned, 79, 146, 449, 733-34,
734n., 1424 (William Burnaby)
Merlins Landing, N.Y.: 1180
Mermaid, HMS: convoying transports to Hali-
fax, 493, 497, 592, 595; mentioned, 449, 579,
580n., 590, 596 (James Hawker)
Mermaid, British Army Transport: 540, 600
(Yoward)
Mermaid, brig: captured by Senegal, 1124
Merrel [Merrill], Alexander: 80, 333, 959, 1129
Merrick, George: 341
Merritt, Henry: 799
Merriwether, Thomas (Lt., Virginia Marines):
43, 1156
Merrow, John: 872
Merry, Ebenezer: 986
Merryhew, James: 1375
Messina, Italy: 607
Metcalf, : 858
Metham, British Army Transport: 600 (John-
ston)
Mexico, Gulf of: 75, 396*, 481, 508, 1427
Mickery, Samuel: 700
Middlesex County, England: 163
Middleton, Arthur: 86, 942, 1202n., 1416
Middleton, Gilbert: 641, 968, 980, 1039, 1326
Middleton, John (Capt.): 767, 878 (Polly)
Middleton, Joseph: 24
Middleton, William: 1376
Middletown, Conn.: 36, 1021
Mifflin: See General Mifflin
Mifflin, Samuel (Maj., Pennsylvania Militia):
refused commission as Commodore, Pennsyl-
vania Navy, 915; mentioned, 658, 725, 726n.,
863
Mifflin, Thomas (Brig. Gen., Continental
Army): New York campaign, 336, 349-50, 362;
from: Robert Harrison, 140; Secret Com-
mittee, 1247; mentioned, 79n., 253, 1023,
1079n., 1194
Milbanke, Mark (Capt., R.N.): from: Philip
Stephens, 390; mentioned, 546n. (Barfleur)
Miles, Isaac: to: John Updike, 909
Miles, John: 304
Miles, Samuel (Col., Continental Army): 156,
679
Milford, HMS: Master’s Log: 240-41, 278-79,
298, 358-59, 690, 746-47, 747n., 831, 1050,
1111, 111 In., 1172; at Halifax, 787, 1286;
cruising off Massachusetts coast, 169, 298-99,
549, 755-56, 776, 802, 871, 892, 935; Boston
and Raleigh ordered to capture, 934; change
of command, 1249-50, 1393, 1393n.; captured:
Betsey, 691, 1002, 1470; Britania, 176-77,
1125; Diana, 298, 346-47, 358, 359n., 1125;
John, 1125; Lydia, 1125; Princess Royal, 91-
92, 160-61, 620, 633, 777n., 1125; Triton, 160,
161n„ 981-82, 1125; Yankee Hero, 127-28, 373,
373n., 778-80; schooner, 241; sloop, 359; men-
tioned, 343, 448, 647, 673, 731, 1149, 1424
(John Burr; Henry Mowat)
Milford, Conn.: 1056
Milford, Nova Scotia: 612
Millar, David (Capt.): 920, 944 (Morning Star)
Miller, (Capt.): 476 (Dolphin)
Miller, Alexander: 221
Miller, Andrew (Lt.): 877
Miller, Charles: from: John Langdon, 151
Miller, Elias: 1374
Miller, Ezekiel: 1161
Miller, James: 602
Miller, John: 985
Miller, Mag. (Capt.): 411 (Mars)
Miller, Peter: 32
Millerd, Nathan: 923
Millham, snow: captured by Washington, 1019,
1019n., 1053, 1053n., 1114 (John Johnson)
Mills, Charles: 766
Mills, Nat: 691
Millstone, N.J.: 1080
Milton, George: 1205
Minehead, ship: captured by Hawke, 785, 785n.
(Michael Whitbyrne)
Minerva, HMS: 452
Minerva, British Transport: captured by Han-
cock, 431-32, 465, 465n. (James Fulton) See
also Jane
Minerva, British Army Transport: 600 (Dun-
lop)
Minerva, Rhode Island Privateer Brig: 1115-16,
1363n. (James Morres)
Minichin, Paul (Midn., R.N.): 1343
Minor, Nathaniel: 1217
1600
INDEX
Miquelon Island: See St. Pierre and Miquelon
Islands
Missisquoi Bay, Que./Vt.: 837
Mississippi River: 75, 746, 813-14, 1427, 1428
Mitchell, Alexander: from: John Mitchell, Jr.,
849-50
Mitchell, Andrew: 338, 338n.
Mitchell, John (Capt.): 387 (Duke of Cumber-
land)
Mitchell, John (Capt.): 1205 ( Ranger )
Mitchell, John, Jr.: to: Alexander Mitchell, 849-
50
Mitchell, Joshua: 696
Mitchell, Richard: 1190
Mitchell, Stephen: 366
Mitchell, Thomas: 1475
Mitchell, William (Capt., Virginia Marines):
from: Virginia Navy Board, 1355-56; men-
tioned, 71, 245, 783, 1409
Mix, Thomas: 985
Mobile, Ala.: 687-89
Mobjack Bay, Va.: 729
Modest , HMS: 452
Modesty, sloop: captured by Enterprize, 749,
749n.
Moffat, Thomas: Diary: 5, 50, 170, 656, 772-73,
806-07, 1103, 1119, 1239, 1463
Mohawk Valley, N.Y.: 1306
Molleson, William: 511
Molloy, Anthony (Capt., R.N.): 167, 270, 664-
65, 886, 891 ( Thunder )
Molly: 200 (John Pasture)
Molly, ship: 539-40 (Daniel Lawrence)
Molly, Dunmore’s Fleet Ship: captured by
Andrew Doria, 855-56, 856n., 895, 977
(Bridger Goodrich)
Molly, schooner: captured by Galatea, 270, 622
(Thomas Toby)
Molly, schooner: 1114 (John Bahannon)
Molly, Maryland Privateer Sloop: 24, 65, 106n.,
187, 798n., 1339 (Thomas Conway)
Monarch, HMS: 450
Moncrief, Richard: 304
Mondon, Isaac: 16
Monley, John: 1375
Monmouth, HMS: 450
Monro, James (Capt.): 1032, 1032n. (Sally)
Montagu, HMS: 450
Montagu, George (Capt., R.N.): from: Andrew
Snape Hamond, 88-89; mentioned, 169, 376,
737, 860, 891, 1424 (Fowey)
Montagu, James (Capt., R.N.): 169, 189, 787,
892, 1424 (Mercury)
Montagu, John (V. Adm., R.N.): 473, 506
Montague, brigantine: captured by Boston,
1347, 1347n.; mentioned, 1471 (Alexander
Blues)
Montauk Point, N.Y.: 129-30, 145, 360, 1045,
1099, 1162, 1219, 1254, 1332
Montego Bay, Jamaica: 1368
Monteil, Francis de (Capt., French Navy):
memoir, 879-80; to: Clark Gay ton, 864-65;
from: Clark Gayton, 897; mentioned, 830,
1166, 1192, 1284 (La Renommee)
Montgomery, Continental Navy Frigate: build-
ing at Poughkeepsie, 35, 208, 264, 365, 458,
459n., 872-73, 902, 928, 1138-39, 1254, 1333,
1365; officer appointments, 271; marines,
1478; to be launched, 1034, 1353-54, 1435,
1443-44 (John Hodge)
Montgomery, Maryland Privateer Schooner:
captured: Sarah, 1326, 1326n.; mentioned,
641, 642n., 717 (Robert Polk)
Montgomery, New York Navy Sloop: at New
London, 723, 723n.; disposal considered, 885;
accounts, 1290-92; captured: Charlotte, 821;
Mary, 338; Phenix, 337; Sally, 337; Temple,
854-55, 987; unnamed brig, 155, 155n. (Wil-
liam Rogers)
Montgomery, Pennsylvania Navy Ship: pilot
appointed, 126, 126n.; officers resign, 256,
725-26, 726n., 1093n.; cannon for, 1131; men-
tioned, 6, 939 (Thomas Read; Samuel
Davison)
Montgomery, Rhode Island Privateer Sloop:
captured: Bee, 803; Betsey, 804n., 955, 956n.;
Devonshire, 506, 508n.; Eagle, 1 36, 182, 316n.;
Frances, 508, 508n.; Harlequin, 138, 241n.,
506, 508n.; Rover, 506, 508n.; Triton, 804n.,
955, 956n.; unnamed vessels, 512n., 1317, 1330,
1331n.; mentioned, 116-17, 119*, 820, 901n.,
1056 (William Rhodes; Daniel Bucklin;
Thomas Ruttenber)
Montgomery, Hugh (Capt., Pennsylvania Navy):
to: Pennsylvania Council of Safety, 1446;
mentioned, 6 (Effingham)
Montgomery, J. (Capt.): 1162n. (Carron)
Montgomery, James (Capt., Pennsylvania
Navy): to: Pennsylvania Council of Safety, 6;
commanding privateer, 366, 1190, 1190n.,
1205, 1205n. (Chatham; General Montgom-
ery)
Montreal, Quebec: 45, 415, 417, 452, 735, 790
Montresor Island, N.Y.: attack on, 782, 792,
962-63, 1062, 1069, 1069n., 1200
Montserrat, Leeward Islands: 749, 1075, 1366
Moodie, (Capt.): 600 (Thames)
Moon, John: 1000
Moor, John: 696
Moor, Thomas (Capt.): 607, 613, 1359, 1471-72
(Mary and James)
Moore, : 967
Moore, (Capt.): 185-86 (Dolphin)
Moore, (Capt.): 570 (Fame)
Moore, Allen: 1294
Moore, Augustine: 920
Moore, Benjamin (Capt.): 881, 1020 (William)
Moore, Bernard: Judge of Virginia Admiralty
Court, 245, 259
Moore, Charles: 1093
Moore, James (Midn., R.N.) 262 (Margaretta)
Moore, John: 702
Moore, Philip: 130, 653
Moore, Robert: 1160
INDEX
1601
Moore, Thomas: 906
Moore, Thomas: 1359 ( Mary and James )
Moore, Thomas (Capt., Pennsylvania Navy): 6
[Hancock)
Moran, William: 31
More, Jonathon (Capt.): 140
More, Mychel: 923
Morfield & Son: 790n.
Morgan, (Capt.): 577 (Unity)
Morgan, Charles (Capt., South Carolina Navy):
212n., 1268 (Swift)
Morgan, John: 16, 264
Morgan, Nathaniel: 250, 676, 676n., 777, 999
Morgan, Samuel (Capt.): 1144 (Mary)
Moriarty, Edmund (Lt., R.N.): 664
Moriarty, Sylverius (Lt., R.N.): 665
Morning Star, sloop: captured by Pacifico and
Recur so, 920-21, 474n., 943-44, 1168 (David
Millar)
Morres, James (Capt.): 1115-16 ( Minerva )
Morris, ship: 387, 387n. (Thomas Bell)
Morris, Charles: 177, 646, 868, 1172, 1250
Morris, Daniel: 641
Morris, James: to: Maryland Council of Safety,
355-56
Morris, John (Capt., R.N.): died, 42, 560, 566,
664 (Bristol)
Morris, Joshua (Capt.): 855 (Temple)
Morris, Robert: alliance with France, 147-49,
1087, 1106, 1386; condition of Continental
Navy, 793-96, 796n.; ordnance for Raleigh,
244, 1154; on committee to consider rank
and pay of officers, 1464; to: Silas Deane,
147-49, 793-96, 796n., 1386; Samuel and John
Delap, 1122; Andrew Limozin, 1122; Thomas
Mumford, 244; Pennsylvania Council of
Safety, 916, 977; Maryland Council of Safety,
1091-92; John Schweighauser, 1122; P. Steval,
1122; from: Richard Boger, 967-68, 1108;
John Bradford, 114-15, 690-91, 953, 1360;
Silas Deane, 441-42, 602; John Paul Jones,
685-87, 1302-04, 1458-59; John Langdon,
1144-45; Oliver Pollock, 1210; Nathaniel
Shaw, Jr., 1102; mentioned, 149n., 185, 529n.,
618, 795*, 807, 915, 934, 976, 1025, 1079, 1147,
1333, 1355, 1386, 1407; See also Willing, Mor-
ris & Co.
Morris, Samuel C.: 966
Morris, Samuel Jr.: 312, 1266
Morris, Thomas: with Silas Deane in Paris, 103,
148, 149n.; to assist William Hodge, Jr., 1106,
1120; concerning trade, 794, 796n., 828, 913,
1026, 1090; from: Secret Committee, 1416-17;
mentioned, 406, 484, 527, 529n., 937, 1338,
1402
Morris, Valentine (Gov., St. Vincent): to: James
Young, 44-45
Morris, William, of American Revenue: 1443
Morris, William, of Defence: 906
Morrisania, N.Y.: 1262
Morrison, Duncan: 136
Morrison, John: 1176
Morrow, (Lt., British Army): 166
Morrow, William: 696
Mortimer, (Capt.): 1254
Mortimore, Benjamin: 1160
Morton, Perez: 756
Morwin, Samuel: 986
Moses, Joshua: 1376
Mosquito Shore, Nicaragua, Honduras: 474
Mott, Samuel (Col., Connecticut Militia): 165
Moultrie, John: 110, 260, 996
Moultrie, William (Brig. Gen., Continental
Army): 99, 110
Mount Desert Island, Me.: 14, 58n., 221
Mountanye, Joseph: 1456
Mountanye, Tunis (Capt.): 1456 (Pasley)
Mountford, Eben: 234
Mowat, Henry (Capt., R.N.): fitting out Albany,
169, 787, 893; libeled Baltimore, 970; ap-
pointed to Milford, 1249-50, 1286, 1393n.;
from: George Collier, 1249-50, 1393; men-
tioned, 496, 1424 ( Albany ; Milford)
Mowbray, (Capt.): 314, 717, 718, 750, 767-
68, 1328 (Rebecca)
Moylan, Stephen (Col., Continental Army): 302,
1023, 1201
Muckelno, John (Capt.): 808 (Peter)
Muckels, James: 945
Mugford, James bonder of Massachusetts Priva-
teer Sloop Polly: 769
Mugford, James (Capt., Washington’s Fleet):
467n., 575n. (Franklin)
Muir, (Capt.): 600 (Jeany)
Muir, Francis: 905-06
Muir & Atkinson: 1352
Mulford, Thomas: 696
Mullen, Barnabas: 696
Mumford, Robinson: 80, 1305
Mumford, Thomas: from: Robert Morris, 244;
mentioned, 36, 333, 959, 1305
Mumford, William: 1148
Munitions: See also Gunpowder; Ordnance
Munro, (Capt., British Army): 600
Munro, Daniel: 698
Munro, Hugh: to: Massachusetts Council, 212—
13; mentioned, 249, 999
Munro, James (Capt.): 411, 411n., 1190, 1215,
1217 (Joseph)
Munro, James (Capt.): 972, 973n., 1001, 1001n.,
1053, 1053n., 1061n. (Sally; Blaze Castle)
Munro, Nathan: 1374
Murphy, Morgan: 906
Murray, (Maj., British Army): 600
Murray, John: See Lord Dunmore
Murray, Matthew: 905
Murray’s Hill, N.Y.: 848
Murry, : 1316
Musquetto [ Musketo ], Virginia Navy Brig:
building 199, 1227; Harris appointed to
command, 1409, 1409n., 1410, 1479 (Isaac
Younghusband; John Harris)
Musquito, Continental Navy Schooner: sent to
Edenton, N.C. with military stores, 1092,
1602
INDEX
1119-20; Albertson ranked, 1201 (Thomas
Albertson)
Muster rolls/Pay rolls: Connecticut Navy:
Frederick Chapel’s company pay roll, 985-86;
David Hawley’s company pay roll, 984-85;
Spy muster roll, 1160-61; Continental Navy:
Alfred muster roll, 692-705; Andrew Doria
pay roll, 31-32; Fly muster roll, 138; Inde-
pendence muster roll, 1093; Providence mus-
ter roll, 1371-77, Maryland Navy: Defence
muster roll, 950-07; New York Navy: General
Putnam pay roll, 1413-14; Pennsylvania
Navy: Hetty muster roll, 1094; Porcupine
muster roll, 1094; monthly pay rate, 1094-95;
Washington’s Fleet: Warren muster roll,
304-05
Muter, George (Capt., Virginia Navy): from:
Virginia Navy Board, 246; mentioned, 86, 188,
238, 245, 728, 742, 941, 1016, 1164, 1282
(Hero)
Myers Point [Neck], N.Y.: 1382
Mygat, Epaphros (Capt.): 365 (. Freemason )
Nabby, brigantine: 855, 856n., 1002 (Jonathan
Mason)
Nailes, John: 1161
Nails, Archibald: 1160
Nancy (1), British Victualer: 432, 434, 492,
493-96 ( Williamson )
Nancy (2), British Victualer: 579, 595
Nancy, British Ordnance Transport: 163n.
Nancy, Connecticut Privateer Sloop: 1004-05,
1005n., 1080n. (William Wattles)
Nancy, brigantine: 326, 911, 1163 (George
Curwen)
Nancy, ship: captured by Hawke, 1230, 1231n.,
1251, 1252n., 1299, 1299n.f 1352, 1353n., 1411
(John Cowan)
Nancy, ship: captured by Hancock, 201, 233,
233n., 347, 1194; mentioned, 213, 213n., 676n.,
1003 (George Keys)
Nancy, sloop: 677 (John Harrison)
Nancy, sloop: captured by Viper, 221 (R.
Adams)
Nancy, sloop: 1057
Nancy, boat: 727 (Richard March)
Nansemond County, Va.: 775
Nantasket, Mass.: 344
Nantasket Roads, Mass.: 290, 539, 548-49
Nantes, France: gunpowder source, 393, 418,
533; concerning Pliarne & Penet, 399n., 476n.,
499-500, 514, 524-25; 525-27, 1240, 1280, 1338,
1425-26; outward bound vessels, 385, 615;
mentioned, 186, 392, 484, 533n., 557, 612,
1078, 1401-03, 1405
Nantucket Island, Mass.: 2, 60, 136, 140, 252,
276, 279, 334-35, 506, 618, 638-39, 769, 789,
790, 790n., 832, 854-55, 1029, 1133, 1134n.,
1358
Naples, Italy: 586, 607
Nassau River, Fla.: 109
Natchez, Miss.: 1427
Nathaniel and Elizabeth, ship: 3, 3n., 32, 33n.,
723, 835, 1057, 1100 (William Hoar)
Nauman, Daniel: 28
Nauset Harbor, Mass.: 769
Nautilus, HM Sloop: Journal: 276, 300-01,
1157, 1357, 1428; ordered to Bermuda, 169;
ordered to New York, 893; cruising off Vir-
ginia Capes, 1384, 1464; mentioned, 297n.,
300-01, 449, 608, 609n., 749, 749n., 887, 1165-
66, 1424 (John Collins)
Navigational Obstructions: in Cape Fear River,
313; in Chesapeake Bay, 1206; in Delaware
River, 967; in Hudson River, 4, 20, 50, 62,
140, 140n., 167, 171, 208, 225, 873, 927-28,
987, 1182, 1189, 1198, 1262 See also Chevaux
de frise
Navy, British
Compared to Continental Navy, 686, 1476-
77
Condition, 425-26, 428, 444-53, 471, 541,
542, 574
Disposition, 124, 384-86, 388, 390, 1423-24
Howe’s Fleet: confidence in, 990; disposi-
tion, 122-23, 167-69, 184n., 373-77, 542-
43, 656, 891-94; Battle of Long Island,
267-70, 284, 292, 309, 324-25, 325n.,
336, 351, 353-54; attack on Manhattan
Island, 308, 842-44, 988; seamen fight
New York fire, 930-32, 1067; Phoenix
and Rose in the Hudson, 37, 121, 207*,
219, 225-26, 227, 228, 352; reinforce-
ments ordered, 885; supplies for, 62, 85,
184; transports with, 39, 99, 102, 156,
156n., 170, 225-26, 374, 419, 431-32, 435,
679, 887-88, 892; attacked by Turtle, 709,
736, 1185, 1499-1511; at Halifax, 277; at
New York, 21*, 339*, 351, 683, 736, 737,
788, 844, 965, 1152, 1153, 1153n., 1186,
1220, 1318-19; at Paulus Hook, 1066; at
Sandy Hook, 210, 772; at Staten Island,
4, 37, 50, 102, 130, 156, 184, 225-26, 235,
254, 300, 351-52, 361-62; in East River,
350, 351, 763-65, 1062, 1068; in Grave-
send Bay, 352, 679; at Hellgate, 322-23,
1085, 1200, 1219, 1382, 1383-84, 1422; in
Hudson River, 771-72, 822, 926-27, 1178,
1186, 1219, 1262, 1422, 1438; in Long
Island Sound, 322, 323, 335, 350, 360,
370, 706, 712, 759, 763, 789, 1063, 1064,
1218, 1220, 1415, 1422, 1439; mentioned,
78, 105, 155, 182, 219, 227, 284, 290, 326,
432, 590, 911, 1063, 1103, 1382, 1415
Impressment, 438, 591, 592, 598, 633
Lake Champlain Campaign: general prep-
arations, 27, 229, 229n., 792-93, 837, 890,
1199; manning, 47, 150, 150n., 660, 1340-
45, 1364, 1365; naval battalion, 433, 434;
shipbuilding, 45-47, 54, 55, 55n., 201,
205, 790-91, 1081-82, 1178; Battle of
Valcour Island, 1198, 1235-37, 1244, 1245,
1256-58, 1259-60, 1340-41, 1350-51;
Americans defeated, 1272—74, 1274-75,
INDEX
1603
1275-77, 1290, 1306-07, 1336, 1445; Brit-
ish vessels, 883-84, 1234, 1244, 1379* ,
1343-44, 1436; prisoners taken, 1261,
1279; mentioned, 61, 96, 215, 216, 317,
320, 335, 724, 926, 1151, 1237
Medicine, 493, 1483-90
Men needed, 436, 464, 503, 975
Navy Board: appointments, 595; supplied
Port Royal, 673; recruiting expenses,
535, 536, from: Philip Stephens, 571, 593;
mentioned, 436, 472, 478, 532, 537n., 630,
687
North Carolina Campaign, 561, 563, 1447—
48
Officers: appointments, 452, 580, 654, 663-
65; orders, from: Philip Stephens, 387
Prisoners: on board Mentor, 1086; sent to
New York, 932, 950; in Rhode Island, 804
Provisions: arrival at New York, 400, 413—
14; shortage of, 413-14, 437; under con-
voy, 492, 493-96, 497, 596; mentioned,
242, 780, 801, 803
Recruiting, 430, 521, 535, 536
Ships plans, 168*, 319*, 1437*, 1462*;
mentioned, 473, 591
Sickness: 452-53, 678, 1487
South Carolina Campaign: Sullivans Is-
land, 11, 51, 69, 102, 110, 123, 141, 147,
184, 260, 561, 562-64, 596; failure of at-
tack, 564, 973; vessels involved, 566;
mentioned, 176, 663, 663n.
Squadrons:
Douglas: disposition, 894; mentioned,
888-90
Gay ton: disposition, 74-75; crews to be
increased, 402-03; purchased vessels,
550-51; mentioned, 1168, 1427
Hamond: in Potomac River, 65-66,
with Dunmore’s fleet, 71-72, 172-74,
413-14
Hotham: disposition, 542; arrived at
Staten Island, 123-24, 124n., 183;
transports with, 102; mentioned, 122
Parker: at Sullivans Island, 42, 110,
569, 571; arrived at Sandy Hook, 4,
5; joined Howe’s fleet, 183; trans-
ports with, 5, 122, 183, 184; men-
tioned, 74, 100-01, 123, 124, 542
Young: ships purchased, 550-51; men-
tioned, 52, 160, 308-09, 592, 1075-76
Transports:
armed, 461, 544, 558, 574-75, 577, 577n.,
579, 594
cavalry, 422, 434
crews serving on Lake Champlain,
1345, 1364, 1438
with Dunmore’s fleet, 88, 172-74
return to England, 437, 438, 892
with Hotham’s squadron, 102
with Howe’s fleet, 39, 99, 102, 156,
156n., 170, 225-26, 374, 419, 431-32,
435, 679, 887-88, 892
at Battle of Long Island, 267-70, 284,
353
Manhattan Island occupation, 823, 839,
843-44, 862, 886, 1063, 1065
bound to New York, 5, 15, 590, 1199,
1318, 1319
with Parker’s squadron, 5, 122, 183, 184
to Quebec, 428, 429, 513, 660, 1137,
1341, 1370
at South Carolina, 124, 197, 561, 563
mentioned, 15, 22, 45, 122, 150n., 167,
170, 183, 201, 419-20, 431-33, 434,
454, 456-57, 475, 492, 504, 512, 523,
557, 569, 571, 575-76, 595, 600-01,
666, 793, 892, 1001, 1053, 1065, 1103,
1118, 1152, 1153n., 1263, 1319, 1382,
1423
Mentioned, 101, 157n., 247. 252, 313, 368,
627, 677, 786, 787
See also Admiralty, British; Dunmore’s
fleet; individual Royal Navy ships
Navy, Connecticut: accounts, 118-20, 139, 332-
35, 662, 957-61, 1005, 1162, 1176; cannon for,
118-20, 1363; courts-martial, 1317-18, 1318n.;
desertion, 1006, 1006n.; disciplinary action:
row galley captains censured, 1317-18, 1460;
munitions, 118-20, 139, 1149; muster rolls:
Spy, 1160-61; naval stores, 118-20, 332-35,
957-61, 1021, 1176; Officer appointments: to
Defence, 241; to Oliver Cromwell, 253, 316,
770, 1099, 1381; pay rolls, 984-85, 985-86;
shipbuilding and fitting out: Defence, 16,
I7n., 95, 95n., 204, 789, 984; Oliver Cromwell,
662, 723, 948, 948n., 984; Whiting, 204; ship
movements: Oliver Cromwell, 281, 984; Spy,
680, 680n., 733, 759, 804, 837, 837n., 925; row
galleys: at New York, 4, 22n., 78, 130, 226,
264, 1085, 1219; engagement with Phoenix
and Rose, 38-39, 49, 61-62, 121, 123-24, 182,
253, 352, 618; return requested, 1020; en-
gagement with Roebuck, Phoenix, and Tar-
tar, 1178-84, 1186-87, 1317-18, 1318n., 1510;
ship procurement: Endeavour, 16, 17n., 95,
95n., 204
Navy, Continental:
Cape Fear expedition proposed, 1202, 1 384—
86, 1464-65
Chaplain needed, 1079
Commissioners of the Navy Accounts, 299,
668, 956-57, 1309-10, 1320
Condition, 149, 255, 871
Courts-martial, 686, 938-39, 1361, 1378-80
Desertion, 187, 332, 343-44, 641, 683, 880-
81, 1371
Disability pensions established, 309-12
Franklin transported to France, 1105-06,
1400-07, 1416-17
Hopkins ordered to resume command, 220,
220n.
Medicine, 1483-97
Muster rolls: Alfred, 692-705; Andrew
1604
INDEX
Doria, 31-32; Fly, 138; Independence,
1093; Providence , 1371-77
Newfoundland expedition, 1253, 1271, 1303,
1362, 1399, 1434, 1457-58, 1473-75
Officers:
Appointments: to Alfred, 170, 1362,
1371, 1457; to Andrew Doria, 915; to
Boston, 232; to Cabot, 171; to Colum-
bus, 639, 1371; to Congress, 274; to
Delaware, 338, to Hampden, 138,
355; to Montgomery, 271; to frigate
Providence, 281, 651-52; to sloop
Providence, 1434, 1459; to Sachem,
1320n., to Trumbull, 270; to Vir-
ginia, 105-06; to Warren, 651-52; to
Washington, 270-71
Oath, 1201
Ranked, 1200-01
Recommendations, 8-9, 161-62, 105 In.
Relative ranking to land officers, 1463-
64
Provisions, 85, 151
Reprisal engagement with Shark, 11-12,
26, 51-53, 77, 111, 142-43, 583-84, 601,
629, 653
Seamen:
Enlistments, 647
Prize shares to, 1463-64
Recruitment, 210
Shortage of, 17-18, 55, 143, 770, 948-49,
1039, 1055, 1134, 1218-19, 1271, 1303,
1399
Mentioned, 138, 692-705, 915, 1371-77
Shipbuilding and fitting out:
in Connecticut, 95, 274, 654, 707, 1005-
06, 1021, 1178, 1299-1300
in Massachusetts, 143, 190-91, 203, 232,
289, 299, 675, 801-02, 818-19, 871,
882, 934, 972, 981, 1113, 1146-47,
1158
in Maryland, 106n., 172, 198, 863, 994,
1222-23
in New Hampshire, 55-56, 143, 147,
150-51, 203, 229, 244, 278, 343, 360,
369, 419, 647, 675, 721, 722, 814-16,
871, 907, 922, 1144, 1154, 1158, 1188,
1189, 1248, 1308, 1366-67, 1426, 1464
in New York, 35, 208, 264, 365, 458,
872-73, 902, 928, 1034, 1138-39, 1185-
86, 1254, 1333, 1353-54, 1365, 1435,
1443-44
in Pennsylvania, 171
in Rhode Island, 29, 56, 94-95, 150,
229, 331, 348, 105-06, 1079, 1136,
1147, 1154, 1219, 1248, 1299-1300,
1304, 1346 See also Rhode Island
Committee Appointed to Build Two
Continental Frigates
ships planned, 286
status of, 103
Ship procurement, 210
Transporting Material, 201, 325, 356, 824,
826-27, 890, 912-13, 913-14, 937, 952,
976, 977, 1026, 1087, 1089, 1308, 1319,
1319n., 1354, 1355, 1355n., 1386, 1387-88,
1403
Uniforms: authorized, 715-16
Mentioned, 22-23, 93, 125, 141, 181, 314,
429, 721
See also Arnold, Benedict; Continental
Congress, Marine Committee; individual
Continental Navy ships; Washington’s
Fleet.
Navy, French: aid to America, 61, 199; Condi-
tion, 427-28, 458, 519; ship movements:
l’ Aigrette, 394, 583, 621-22, 621n.; VAmphi-
trite, 384; la Curieuse, 397n.; la Dedaigneuse,
384; VEtourdie, 390, 394; la Favorite, 397n.,
621-22; ITndiscrette, 397n.; la Licorne, 394;
la Renommee, 394, 864-65, 879-80, 1284; le
Rossignol, 391, 394; le Serin, 394, 397n.; la
T ourterelle, 390, 395; West Indies Squadron,
235, 356, 384, 390-97, 587, 621-22, 621n., 622n.;
mentioned, 408, 422, 426
Navy, Georgia: row galleys under construction,
73-74, 134, 768, 1427; floating battery, 72-73,
90-91, 108, 109, 134
Navy, Maryland: Accounts, 994, 1039; naval
stores, 979, 979n., 1240-42, 1242n., 1296; officer
appointments, 288, 808; promotions, 658, 896;
recommendations, 1323, 1449; resignations, 9,
9n., 366, 366n., 658; Defence roster, 905-07;
pay, 668, 896, 1440; shipbuilding and fitting
out: Dolphin, 1296, 1449; flat boats and scows,
86, 172, 198-99, 293; row galleys, 198, 741,
797, 1027, 1095; ship movements: Defence,
106, 173, 774, 774n.; Resolution, 106, 293,
312, 312n., 356, 641; ship procurement: Dol-
phin, 797; ship disposal: Resolution, 797,
968; trading vessels, 1140, 1140n., 1226
Navy, Massachusetts: cannon for: 13, 113, 231,
229-30, 279, 661; enlistments, 647, 1032;
instructions to: Freedom, 908-09, 997; Inde-
pendence, 997; Massachusetts, 909, 909n.;
Republic, 261, 997; Tyrannicide, 1359-60;
munitions, 13, 78, 231, 661; officer appoint-
ments, 345, 674, 769, 1330; pay: crewrs unpaid,
327-28, 357, 777-78, 851, 908, 1231-32, 1411;
advance pay, 28, 1113; provisions, 78, 1078;
regulations, 191; seniority of captains estab-
lished, 345, 345n.; shipbuilding and fitting
out: Freedom, 359, 661, 898-99, 1173, 1269,
1455, 1455n.; Independence, 954, 954n.; Massa-
chusetts, 328, 1455, 1455n.; Republic, 359;
Tyrannicide, 799n., 801, 1347; row galleys,
1078, 1113; ship movements: Diligent, 357,
777-78; Freedom, 899, 899n.; Independence,
776, 776n., 855, 856n., 1002; Machias Liberty,
78, 78n.; Massachusetts, 776, 776n., 831-32,
832n., 1112, 1174, 1455n., 1472; Republic,
899, 899n.; Tyrannicide, 48, 57, 116, 123, 129,
136, 163-65, 192n., 193-94, 213-14, 231, 233,
233n., 250, 263, 279, 279n., 280, 289-90, 290n.,
INDEX
1605
291, 305, 315, 348n., 359, 370, 377, 377n.,
378-79, 676, 722, 769, 788n., 799, 1002, 1297,
1455n.; ships sold: Diligent, 1212, 1213n.,
1471; Machias Liberty, 1270; Rising Empire,
359, 359n., 661, 898-99, 1173, 1269; surgeons,
690; mentioned, 220, 998
Navy, New York: accounts, 707, 1290-92; fire-
ships, 927; marine recruitment, 1478; mutiny
on General Putnam, 680-82, 737-38, 927-28,
1007-08; pay roll, 1413-14; report on General
Putnam, 973, 1007-08; supplies, 284-86, 286n.;
ship movements: Montgomery, 155, 155n.,
337-38, 723, 723n., 821, 854-55, 885, 987;
General Putnam, 987, 1007-08, lllln., 1142;
General Schuyler, 155, 155n., 723, 723n., 821,
854-55, 909n., 987, 1056; ships sold: General
Putnam, 1152
Navy, North Carolina: shipbuilding: General
Washington, 1356; King Taminy, 1095, 1326-
27, 1356; Pennsylvania Farmer, 107, 1095-96,
1096-97, 1207-09, 1356, 1392
Navy, Pennsylvania: cannon for, 1131; com-
mand dispute resolved, 141; Davison relieved
of command, 287, 326-27; desertion, 939; en-
gagement with Roebuck and Liverpool, 69-
70, 121; flag needed, 1281; gunpowder, 1155;
muster rolls, 641, 1094; officer appointments:
327, 939, 1311, 1334n.; officer resignations, 6,
256, 287, 725; pilot, 126; recruitment, 939,
1206, 1408; Samuel Mifflin appointed Com-
modore, 658, 725; shipbuilding and fitting
out: floating battery, 340, 939, 1155; fire
rafts, 64, 338, 658, 967, 1154, 1408; Conven-
tion, 327, 915, 939, 967, 1266, 1311; Delaware,
327, 967, 1355; row galleys, 221; pay, 6-7,
1094-95, 1323; vessels: list of, 6-7; Thomas
Seymour appointed commodore, 1009-10
Navy, Rhode Island: row galleys: at New York,
4, 22n., 130, 226; engagement with Phoenix
and Rose, 37-39, 49, 61-62, 121, 123-24, 182,
253, 352, 618; engagement with Roebuck,
Phoenix, and Tartar, 1181-84, 1186, 1317-18;
at Rhode Island, 662; to defend Long Island
Sound, 706, 1134
Navy, South Carolina: cannon needed, 1418;
authority of commissioners established, 1418—
19; Board of Commissioners: Journal: 1 191—
92, 1243, 1283-84, 1313, 1335, 1336, 1410,
1418-19, 1441-42; officer appointments, 212,
212n., 966, 969, 1109, 1192, 1209-10, 1315;
Comet and Defence ordered to cruise, 1283—
84, 1441; provisions, 1283-84, 1314; recruit-
ment, 1410; shipbuilding and fitting out:
Beaufort, 1165, 1427; Defence and Prosper,
1427; Notre Dame, 1268; Rattle Snake, 1313—
15; row galleys, 73; ship movements: Comet,
481, 481n., 749, 941-42; Revenge, 1228, 1283,
1297, 1335; ships sold: Prosper, 941-42; trad-
ing vessels: 1268
Navy, Spanish: aid to Americans, 199; opera-
tions, 138, 393-97; state of, 427, 428
Navy, Virginia
Cannon, 106, 199, 221, 742, 1312
Desertion, 274, 1015
Gunpowder, 211, 275, 742, 1392
Medicine, 1190
Munitions, 43, 199, 257, 275, 728, 742, 767,
1206, 1449
Navy Board
Journal: 9-10, 24-25, 43, 86, 187-88,
199, 211, 236-38, 245, 257, 275, 293-
94, 366-67, 727-28, 742, 767, 774-75,
783, 811-12, 919-20, 940-41, 941n.,
995, 1016-17, 1042, 1155-56, 1164,
1190-91, 1206-07, 1226-27, 1242, 1267,
1282-83, 1296-97, 1312, 1326, 1334,
1369, 1392, 1409, 1426-27, 1449-50,
1466, 1478-79
to: Benjamin Baker, 775; James and
Richard Barron, 784; John Boucher,
728; Eleazer Callender, 238-39, 995;
Christopher Calvert, 239; James
Cocke, 379; Robert Conway, 239n.,
Wells Cooper, 188-89; William
Curie, 221; John Herbert, 71; Field-
ing Lewis, 25-26, 26n., Thomas
Lilly, 783-84; Andrew Lush, 175, 211;
George Mason, Jr., 728-29; William
Mitchell, 1355-56; George Muter,
246; John Perrin, 784; Benjamin
Pollard, 1417, 1479; William Saund-
ers, 239; Thoroughgood Smith, 246;
Smith & Roane, 275; Adam Stephens,
784; Griffin Stith, 175; John Taylor,
743; Richard Taylor, 799; Charles
Thomas, 174-75, 211, 659, 1191,
1242-43, 1392, 1417-18; Jacob Valen-
tine, 1410: Wright Westcott, 743
Officers: appointments, 24-25, 26, 44, 236,
238, 245, 257, 366n., 742, 783, 1392, 1409,
1410, 1466, 1479; resignations, 367, 1479
Pay, 9, 728, 1164, 1297, 1479
Provisions, 9-10, 25, 43, 86, 174-75, 188-89,
199, 211, 236, 238, 245-46, 257, 275, 727-
28, 767, 783, 878, 919, 940-41, 995, 1016,
1191, 1207, 1267, 1296-97, 1326, 1369,
1426-27, 1449, 1466, 1478-79
Recruitment, 1409-10, 1450
Regulations, 25
Shipbuilding and fitting out:
Caswell, 742, 783, 1417-18
Defiance, 312
Flatboats, 199, 784, 1155-56, 1334, 1479
Gloucester, 199, 366, 1207
Northampton, 174-75, l75n., 659, 920,
1016, 1312, 1392
Row galleys: in Accomack and North-
ampton counties, 1312; on Black-
water River at South Quay, 775, 812;
on Elizabeth River, 71; in Glou-
cester County, 1226-27, on Matta-
poni River, 187-88, 774-75; at Ports-
1606
INDEX
mouth, 175; on Rappahannock and
York Rivers, 10, 26, 141-42, 313
Transportation of troops, 783-84, 784n.,
799, 1282
Victualer agent appointed, 132-33
Neal, : 107
Neale, Christopher: 341
Necessity, brig: 1111-12, 1173, 1173n. (George
Evans)
Needham, Daniel: 785
Needham, Isaac: 785
Negroes: with British Navy, 73, 90, 105, 108,
685; with Continental Navy, 138, 700, 1265;
with Dunmore’s Army, 23, 132, 605; men-
tioned, 211, 263n., 662, 1314, 1448 See also
Slaves
Neile, Edward: 986
Nellis, (Capt.): 419 (Henry and Esther )
Nelly: 418 (John Robinson)
Nelly Frigate, ship: captured by Hancock and
Franklin, 290, 290n., 301-02, 346, 346n., 772,
817 (Lyonel Bradstreet)
Nelmes, Thomas (Capt.): 1268 (Little Thomas )
Nelson, Alexander (Lt., Continental Marines):
1301
Nelson, John: 113
Nelson, Thomas: from: St. George Tucker,
644-45
Neman, (Dr.): 81
Neptune, HMS: 452
Neptune, British Transport: with Diamond,
431-32
Neptune, British Transport: with Flora, 600
(McGurdie)
Neptune (1), British Victualer: with Mermaid,
579, 595
Neptune (2), British Victualer, with Mermaid,
579, 595
Neptune, brig: captured by Reprisal, 64, 64n.,
142, 570, 593n.; sold, 783, 783n. (James Rob-
inson)
Neptune, brig: 390, 497 (Hawkins)
Neptune, schooner: captured by Robert Park-
er’s ship, 1172, 1231 (Thomas Fuller)
Neptune, schooner: captured by Liverpool,
646n., 1125
Nesbitt, John: 221, 312, 326, 338-40, 658, 725,
766, 890, 904, 915, 967, 1154, 1163, 1223, 1266,
1311, 1408
Nesbitt, William: 646, 1210, 1251
Nessels, James: 658-59
Netherlands: See Holland
Netherlands West Indies: 457, 975
Neufville, John: 943, 1267-68
Nevil, Thomas: 1011
Nevin, Daniel: 906
Nevis, ship: recaptured by Liverpool, 2, 2n.,
160, 161n., 297-98, 620 (Coffin)
Nevis Island, West Indies: 2, 7, 23, 27, 30, 105,
161n., 297, 503, 506, 1075
New, S.: 162n.
New Bedford, Mass.: 252
New Bern, N.C.: 107, 239, 341
New Castle, Del.: 8, 70, 125
N ew-England Chronicle (Boston): 1776: 20
June, 113n.; 27 June, 113n.; 4 July, 113n.;
18 July, 1457n.; 25 July, 222n.; 2 Aug., 14-15,
152n., 800n.; 8 Aug., 60n., 115; 15 Aug., 58n.,
93n., 1 14n., 152n., 153, 153n., 181, 193-94,
290n.; 17 Aug., 303n.; 22 Aug., 261-62, 262n.,
330n.; 29 Aug., 27n., 346-47, 347-48, 348n.,
676n.; 5 Sept., 2n., 27n., 160-61, 370n., 691;
12 Sept., 730, 787-88, 789, 789n., 1252n.; from:
Winthrop Gray, 14; Zebedee Redding, 14
New Hampshire: Admiralty Court, 689-90;
militia, 140n.; concerning Raleigh, 647, 756,
802; British prohibition of trade, 399; men-
tioned, 125, 146, 147, 244, 246-48, 302, 343,
511,690-91,712, 1012, 1052
New Hampshire Council: from: Joshua Brack-
ett, 342-43; mentioned, 689-90
New Hampshire House of Representatives:
Journal: 689-90, 817
New Hampshire (State) Gazette: 1776: 22 Oct.,
1357-59
New Hartford, Conn.: 94
New Haven, Arnold’s Fleet Gondola: 98, 224,
253 (Mansfield)
New Haven, Conn.: 4, 204n., 273, 306, 335, 346,
639, 733, 757, 760, 789, 983, 1382, 1434-35
New Jersey: Admiralty Court, 1139; Assembly,
1139; British prohibition of trade, 399;
Council, 1139; defensive preparations, 39-41,
41n., 103; possible British attack, 99, 415;
Continental troops in, 1063, 1181, 1183n.,
1429; communications with New York
threatened, 1178, 1183, 1186; maps, 21*, 375*,
1247*; militia, 1333; mentioned, 125, 171,
336, 541, 695-705, 710, 726n., 874, 965, 1012,
1064, 1384
New London, Conn.: cannon at, 707, 1217; in-
ward bound vessels, 60, 401, 662, 804, 1162;
vessels in port, 16, 299, 948n., 949; prizes
sent into, 3, 33, 723, 804, 925, 1317, 1363;
outward bound vessels, 459, 474; seamen
procured at, 210; warships cruising off, 322;
mentioned, 36, 79, 197, 273, 316, 639, 706,
757, 760, 910, 948, 1044, 1057, 1063, 1099,
1136, 1151, 1216, 1218, 1219, 1220, 1255, 1305
New London County, Conn.: 925, 1100-01
New Orleans, La.: 1427-28
New Point Comfort, Va.: 727, 728n.
New Providence, Bahamas: Continental expe-
dition to, 196-98; attack on, 428n., 477,
1061 n.; ordnance seized at, 17n., 672; ships
from, exempted from capture, 689-90; men-
tioned, 16, 204, 204n., 210, 272, 408, 508, 521,
650, 1021, 1199, 1253, 1253n.
New Rochelle, N.Y.: 349, 632, 1382, 1436
New York, Arnold’s Fleet Gondola: 98, 1235
(Reed)
New York [State]: British forces in, 102, 183,
201, 399, 415, 567, 576n., 579, 589, 632-33,
911, 988; Continental troops in, 963, 989;
INDEX
1607
defensive preparations, 20, 37, 41n., 50, 84,
123, 140, 140n., 144, 167, 206, 208, 264, 323,
336, 365, 372, 731, 760-62, 873, 927-28, 933,
987, 1107, 1182, 1262, 1415; militia, 20, 139,
323, 874, 961, 1023, 1116, 1351; mentioned,
125, 271, 541, 1012, 1366, 1456
New York [City]: British attack awaited, 4,
121, 147, 155-56, 218*, 308, 326, 599, 655-56,
666, 678-79, 682-83, 706, 714, 763-65; British
troops landed, 375*, 631*, 838-49, 847*, 860,
861-62, 874, 884, 885-88, 910, 911, 963, 973-75,
988-89, 1008-09, 1062-66, 1085, 1150, 1152-
53, 1182, 1221, 1247*, 1428-29; burning of,
928-33, 929*, 932, 933, 974, 992, 1067, 1069,
1086, 1237, 1485; American naval operations
in Hudson River, 4, 22, 22n., 37-39, 49, 61-
62, 78, 121, 123, 124, 130, 182-83, 207*, 217-
19, 226, 264, 352, 1085, 1178-84, 1179*,
1186-87, 1317-18, 1318n., 1460; defense of, 4,
50, 78, 102-03, 130, 144, 156, 158, 218*, 222,
224-25, 227, 264, 292, 306, 322, 335-36, 349,
353, 378, 655, 660-67, 725, 735, 781, 783-84,
784n., 792, 861, 886, 888, 924, 926, 933n.,
1023, 1046, 1065; harbor, Howe’s Fleet in, 102,
122, 146, 156, 167, 225, 253, 309, 339*, 351,
683, 736, 737; mentioned, 21*, 640n.; Loyalists
in, 182, 710; British prisoners at, 362n., 372,
666, 724, 782n., 932, 950, 1080, 1102; British
prizes brought into, 854, 1061, 1071, 1143;
vessels inward bound, 58n., 152, 208, 314, 554,
646, 771, 788, 1327, 1331; vessels outward
bound, 193, 229, 281, 370, 412-13, 459, 476,
500, 529, 616, 677, 1053; mentioned, 7, 33, 34n.,
36, 58, 58n., 79, 88, 89, 99, 105, 117, 132, 147,
152n., 160, 164, 174, 176, 196, 210, 253, 254, 256,
283, 286, 317, 354-55, 362, 371, 374, 377, 379n.,
392, 476, 650, 711, 716, 736, 788, 804, 891, 893-
94, 1033, 1044n., 1046, 1068, 1087, 1117, 1154,
1220, 1439; See also Army, British; Army,
Continental; Amphibious warfare; Navy
British
New York Committee of Safety: Journal: 322-
23, 349, 973, 987, 1152, 1290-92, 1365-66; to:
Saybrook Committee of Safety, 323; superin-
tendents of frigates, Poughkeepsie, 1443-44;
from: Thomas Cregier, 1007-08; John Hobart,
1290; mentioned, 318, 1333
New-York Gazette (New York) : 1776: 12 Aug.,
49, 121: 19 Aug., 235; 26 Aug., 308-09; 9 Sept.,
763-65; 30 Sept., 1068; 7 Oct., 1152-53; 12
Oct., 1239; 21 Oct., 1196n., 28 Oct., 1436
New York- Journal (New York): 1776: 1 Aug., 5;
8 Aug., 105, 122; 29 Aug., 256, 354-55
New York Packet, sloop: captured by Nautilus,
1428n. (E. Pringle)
New York Packett: captured by Tamar, 1124
New York Provincial Congress: Marine Com-
mittee, 286; concerning Lake Champlain
Fleet, 321; letters of marque granted, 193n.;
petitions to, 680-82, 1008; from: Thomas
Randall, 737-38; Philip Schuyler, 317-18;
mentioned, 216, 307, 677, 1185 See also Na-
thaniel Woodhull; Abraham Yates, Jr.
New York Provincial Convention: Journal: 20,
39, 208, 873, 885, 902, 926-27, 1138-39;
Marine committee, 680; committee for ob-
structing the Hudson River, 365, 365n., 873,
927, 987, 1262; to: Peter Livingston, 987;
George Washington, 927; from: William Al-
ger, 1478; Marine Committee, 1189-90; Gen-
eral Putnam's crew, 680-82; Augustin Law-
rence, 1435; John Smith, 166; Samuel Tuder,
1435; Pierre Van Cortlandt, 39; George Wash-
ington, 926-27; mentioned, 20, 22, 195, 307,
307n., 322, 1007, 1351, 1444n.
New Zealand: 503
Newark, N.J.: 39-40, 156, 1186, 1239
Newbury, Mass.: 92, 1328, 1332, 1346
Newburyport, Mass.: Committee of Correspond-
ence, Inspection and Safety, to: Massachusetts
Council, 357-58; Massachusetts General
Court, 1316; frigate construction, 143, 190,
281, 298-99, 801-02, 818-19, 871, 882, 981,
1146; inward bound vessels, 201, 221n., 645,
866; outward bound vessels, 127, 150, 419,
778, 1331; prizes, 213, 213n., 231, 233, 358,
817, 952, 1001, 1003, 1053, 1173; mentioned,
78, 162, 180, 1270, 1316
Newcastle, England: 544, 588
Neivcastle Jane, British Transport: 537, 594,
595
Newfoundland: attack against fisheries, 181,
250, 252, 271-73, 1362, 1457; ships captured
enroute to, 214, 231, 262, 276, 296, 419, 731-
32, 749, 978, 1057n., 1331; mentioned, 93, 407,
473, 572, 832
Newman, August: 292, 856
Newman, Nathan: 1375
Newman, Will (Capt.): 1171 (Betsey)
Newman, William: 304
Newman, Wingate (Capt.): 30n., 60, 60n., 92,
126, 193, 201, 231n., 347, 653, 1111-12, 1173,
1 173n., 1368, 1368n., 1465n., 1471 (Hancock)
Newmarket, British Victualer: 579, 595
Newport, R.I.: harbor, 79, 1289; inward bound
vessels, 210, 405, 474, 949, 1055, 1434; out-
ward bound vessels, 584, 731, 732n., 1220;
prizes brought into, 129, 551, 759, 1001, 1215—
16; mentioned, 146-47, 154, 157, 179, 291,
364n., 651, 1289, 1378
Newport Mercury (Newport, R.I.): 1776: 5 Aug.,
60; 12 Aug., 154; 2 Sept., 653; 16 Sept., 855-
56, 23 Sept., 955; 30 Sept., 1057; 7 Oct., 1149;
11 Oct., 1215; 21 Oct., 1349
Newton, Henry: 1172
Newton, Richard: 247, 302, 368
Newton, Thomas: 738, 811-12
Newtown, Md.: 198
Newtown, N.Y.: British camp at, 1008, 1063,
1065
Newtown Creek, N.Y.: Rose near, 666, 714, 840-
41, 848, 886, 1008, 1063, 1065
Nicholas, R.C.: 739
1608
INDEX
Nicholas, Samuel (Maj., Continental Marines):
171, 197, 271, 702
Nichols, : 618
Nichols, William (Lt.): 971
Nicholson, Alexander: 906
Nicholson, Benjamin: 1466, 1466n.
Nicholson, George: 1377
Nicholson, James (Capt., Continental Navy):
seniority in Continental Navy, 8-9, 863, 1200;
recommended officers, 658, 896; supplies de-
livered to, 187, 187n., 355-56, 1164, 1295-96;
to: Maryland Council of Safety, 641-42, 1039;
from: Maryland Council of Safety, 106, 312,
994; mentioned, 256-57, 366, 668, 896, 1015
( Defence ; Virginia)
Nicholson, John (Lt., Continental Navy): 271,
863
Nicholson, Thomas (Capt.): 1100, 1215, 1216n.,
1217 ( America )
Nick, John: 703
Nickerson, Jonathan: 234
Nickerson, Samuel (Capt.): 347 (Deborah)
Nickerson, Stephen: 1329
Nicoll, Isaac (Col., New York Militia): 241
Nicolson, Robert: 259
Nielson, Archibald: 1373
Niger, HMS: Journal: 140-41, 307, 316, 370, 662,
723, 770, 910, 1239, 1337; captured: Fanny,
1124; Hope, 140; brig, 140; sloop, 370, 370n.;
in Long Island Sound, 50, 122, 167, 184, 306,
307n., 322, 323, 323n., 335, 371, 640, 679, 771,
892, 1279, 1384; at Quebec, 417, 433; men-
tioned, 240, 349, 448, 1424 (George Talbot)
Night, Benjamin: 698
Nightingale, HMS: 452
Nightingale, schooner: captured by Porcupine,
1169 (Folger)
Nightingale, Joseph (Col.): 150, 721
Niles, David: 699
Niles, Robert (Capt., Connecticut Navy): 139,
144, 680n., 733, 804, 837, 837n., 925, 1099,
1101, 1151, 1160-61, 1162 (Spy)
Nilson, Alexander: 702
Ninety Two, schooner: 1224—25, 1266, 1391, 1409
(John Kilty)
Nixon, John: 1321
Noble, Jesse (Capt.): 1146n. (Sally)
Noble, Moses: 369
Nocke, Joseph: 1374
Nocks, Samuel: 234
Nolats, William: 745
Nonsuch, HMS: 477, 504 (Walter Griffith)
Nore, The, England: 422, 478, 521
Norfolk, ship: 411, 418 (Jonathan Grindall)
Norfolk, Va.: 260n., 294, 295, 645, 727, 738
Norfolk Revenge, Virginia Navy Row Galley:
at Hampton, 88n., 1426-27; ship’s stores, 236,
1392; provisions, 238, 245; munitions, 257;
officer resignations, 367; transporting troops,
784n.; sickness, 1369; officer appointments,
1392 (John Calvert)
North, Lord [Frederick North, Second Earl of
Guilford]: 126, 193, 326, 400, 410, 505, 782
North Carolina: British prohibition of trade,
100, 399; defensive preparations, 72, 102, 195—
97, 1447-48; Loyalists, 101, 443, 490; militia,
239; departure of British vessels, 1464; out-
ward bound vessels, 75n., 105, 157n., 978,
1431; mentioned, 42, 125, 133, 365, 683, 1012
North Carolina Convention: from: William
Hooper, 1447-48
North Carolina Council of Safety: Journal: 11,
72, 107, 133, 341, 1095-96, 1334-35, 1356,
1392; from; James Davis, 1207-09; Marine
Committee, 1385-86; Commissioners for fit-
ting out King Taminy, 1326-27; Commis-
sioners for fitting out Pennsylvania Farmer,
1096-97; mentioned, 107
North Carolina Provincial Congress: 341
North River, Fla.: 108, 367, 750
Northam, British Victualer: 435
Northampton, Virginia Navy Brig: fitting out,
174-75, 175n., 659, 920, 1016, 1392 (Francis
Bright)
Northampton, Mass.: 328-30, 753
Northampton, N.Y.: 650
Northampton County Committee (Va.): 175
Northside Planter, ship: 1071
Northumberland, HMS: 452
Northumberland County Committee of Ob-
servation (Va.): from: Maryland Council of
Safety, 187
Norton, David: 1302
Norton, John: 245, 259, 727, 1026
Norwalk, Conn.: 883, 885, 1006, 1218, 1364
Norwich, Conn.: 80-81, 241, 707, 760, 837, 925,
1060, 1080, 1162, 1305
Notre Dame, South Carolina Navy Brigantine:
212, 1268 (Robert Cochran)
Nott, William (Capt.): 129, 129n., 346-47
(Broome)
Nottingham, British Ordnance Ship: 582
Nourse, Joseph: 985-86
Nova Scotia: defensive preparations, 161, 646;
minutes of Executive Council: 1172, 1285;
trade banned with colonies in revolt, 480-81;
transports arrive at, 1514-26; mentioned, 48,
58, 58n., 91, 193, 201, 231, 233, 328, 358, 521,
638, 787, 1047, 1458
Nova-Scotia Gazette (Halifax) : 1776: 160-61,
161n.
Nowell, John: 1302
Nudigate, : 1357
Nugent, Charles (Lt., R.N.): 665
Nunn, Joseph (Lt., R.N.): 47, 169, 434, 588, 894,
951 (Beaver; Magdalen)
Nutting, Robert: 234
Oakes, George (Lt., R.N.): 107ln.
Oaks, Jacob: 304
Oates, William: 1093
O’Brien, Daniel: 304
O’Brien, Jeremiah (Capt., Massachusetts Navy):
INDEX
1609
discharged, 357, 851, 1195, 1270, 1411, 1412n.,
1469; mentioned, 78, 78n., 262, 358, 817, 1078
( Machias Liberty )
O’Brien, John (Lt., Massachusetts Navy): 908:
1330
O’Brien, Patrick: 704
Occacock: See Ocracoke
Ocean, HMS: 447, 503 (Edward LeCras)
Ocean, British Army Transport: 539, 600 (Ew-
ing)
Ocracoke, N.C.: 559, 1092, 1095, 1384
Odiorne, Nathaniel (Capt.): 78-79, 899, 952,
1002, 1053, 1114 (Washington)
Ogbourn, William: 5
Ogg, James; 699
Ogilvy, William: to: John Simpson, 275-76
Ohanow, Thomas: 1312
O’Hara, George: 694
O’Hara, Tim: 31
Oldner, Malachia: 1016
Olive Branch, ship: 186 (Kennedy)
Olive Branch, sloop: 1282 (Baine)
Oliver, : 1208
Oliver Cromwell, Connecticut Navy Ship: fitted
out, 281, 662, 723, 948, 948n., 984, 1381; dam-
aged, 129, 130n., 154; officers appointed, 253,
253n., 316, 770, 1099, 1381; naval stores, 1 18—
20, 957, 1021, 1176, 1381-82, 1382n.; accounts,
334, 1005, 1381; shipping articles, 871-72;
deserters, 1006; men needed, 1020, 1099; mu-
nitions, 1149, 1219; guns for, 1363; expedi-
tion against Long Island, 1218 (William
Co it)
Olney, George: 820
Olney, Joseph (Capt., Continental Navy): prize
master, 677, 1031, 1050; assumes command of
Cabot, 1201, 1346, 1378-80, 1474 (Cabot)
Ommanney, Cornthwaite (Capt., R.N.): 169,
891, 965, 1181, 1183n., 1415, 1424 (Tartar)
Onion River, N.Y.: 791
Orchard, Will: 234
Ord, George (Capt.): 1210
Ordnance, British: Board, 471-72, 576, 582, 604,
620; needed on Lake Champlain, 47; in New
York, 124, 184, 377; protection of, 558, 574;
mentioned, 100, 197, 241-42, 388-89, 436,
437, 573, 611-12, 632, 1157, 1427, 1439
Ordnance, Continental: captured from: Char-
lotta, 241-42; Nancy, 163, 284; needed for:
Boston, 190-91, 232, 801, 818-19, 981, 1146;
Defiance, 238-39; Dolphin, 1449; Hancock,
882; Lyon, 1004-05; Massachusetts, 13, 229-
30; Nancy, 1004-05; Pennsylvania Farmer,
107; Raleigh, 56, 147, 150, 203, 229, 721, 722,
815-16, 1188; Revenge, 1004-05; Trumbull,
1021; Virginia, 994; on board: Endeavour,
1021n.; Fly, 210; Machias Liberty, 1270;
Tyrannicide, 151, needed for: Continental
vessels, 141, 755-56; 772, 776, 1025, 1147,
1248-49; Arnold’s Fleet, 98, 747; in Connecti-
cut, 17, 118-20, 264, 279, 1363, 1435; Georgia,
1327; Maryland, 236, 293; Massachusetts, 180,
229-30, 231, 289, 315; New York, 144-45, 351,
354, 762, 888; Rhode Island, 241; Virginia,
24, 44, 106, 142, 221, 238, 294, 742; Sources:
Bermuda, 287; France, 6, 8, 23, 41, 59n., 63,
113, 386, 412, 482, 498, 509, 514, 523, 528,
551, 566, 568n., 597, 602, 616; Martinique,
913, 937; New Providence, I7n., 196-97, 204n.,
272; mentioned, 117-18, 425, 755, 822, 978,
1070, 1448 See also Continental Congress,
Cannon Committee
Orkney Islands, Scotland: 520, 521
Orne, Azor (Col., Massachusetts Militia): 151,
1455
Orpheus, HMS: Journal: 293, 806, 840, 1085n.,
1465-66, 1466n.; troop landings on Man-
hattan, 848-49, 1008; in East River, 725,
804-06, 806n., 862, 892, 924, 989, 1065, 1068-
69, 1069n.; at Staten Island, 102, 167, 184,
1262; captured: Charming Peggy, 147, 149n.;
Dispatch, 103n., 793, 796n.; Peggy, 278n.;
Polly, 1120, 1121n.; mentioned, 242, 293n.,
439, 448, 1424 (Charles Hudson)
Orr, (Capt.): 600 (Bristol)
Orr, (Capt.): 600 (Experiment)
Orrock, Weymes (Capt.): 776 (Harriot)
Orrok, James (Capt., R.N.): from: Lords Com-
missioners, 520-21 (Hazard)
Orves, Thomas d’ (Capt., French Navy): from:
Gabriel de Sartine, 621-22; mentioned, 394,
583 (V Aigrette)
Osborn, Benjamin: 985
Osbourn, sloop: 314
Osburn, {Capt.): 1016 (Packet)
Oswego, N.Y.: 1023, 1082
Otis, Joseph (Brig. Gen., Massachusetts Militia):
from: James Warren, 954
Otter, HM Sloop: Journal: 295, 775; in Potomac
River, 65-66, 72, 89, 169, 376, 658-59; sent to
Bermuda, 296, 379, 850; stationed at St.
Augustine, 173, 1132, 1141, 1423; captured:
Dolphin, 1125; Sandwich, 1125; brig, 295;
mentioned, 340n., 449, 739, 893, 1424 (Mat-
thew Squire)
Outten, Abraham: 259
Owen, Joseph: 1060
Owens, James: 333
Owens, John: 1129
Owens, Thomas: 704
Oxford, HMS: 452
Oxford, British Transport: captured by Andrew
Doria and recaptured by Liberty and Patriot,
79n., 166, 543, 543n., 539, 540n., 601, 601n„
626; Renamed Aurora, 1153; British sailors
enlisted from, 1312, 1409 (Stewart)
Oyster Bay, N.Y.: 883, 1254
Ozier, Joshua: 906
Paca, William: 236, 641, 1225-26
Pacific, British Transport: 351, 640, 1103, 1 268—
69, 1357 (Dun; Thomas Stone)
Pacifico, Spanish Navy Guarda Costa: captured:
Morning Star, 920-21 (Juan Gastello)
1610
INDEX
Packard, Nathaniel (Capt.): from: Owners of
sloop America , 251-52; mentioned, 1058-59
(America)
Packer, (Capt.): 1431
Packet, sloop: 1016 (Osburn)
Packwood, Joseph (Capt.): 17
Pack wood, Josh: 84
Packwood, William (Capt.): 80, 81, 84, 265,
804 (American Revenue)
Page, Virginia Navy Row Galley: officer ap-
pointments, 24; transporting troops, 799,
1282; naval stores, 919, 941n., 1191; provis-
ions, 1016; sickness, 1369 (James Markham)
Page, Ambrose: to: Nathaniel Packard, 251-52
Page, Benjamin: 651
Page, John: to: St. George Tucker, 1041-42;
from: George Weedon, 1199-1200, 1422; men-
tioned, 88, 645n., 1296
Page, Mann, Jr.: from: St. George Tucker,
1410-11
Pain, John: 1019n.
Paine, Moses: 333
Paine, Robert Treat: from: David Cobb, 57-58,
232-33, 754-55; Thomas Cushing, 232n.,
755-56; Joseph Greenleaf, 832; Daniel and
Samuel Hughes, 236; Daniel Joy, 773—74;
978; mentioned, 171, 765, 1070
Pairs, Benoney: 901
Pairson, Isaac: 901
Pallas, HMS: Journal: 91, 1071, 1110, 1110n.;
in West Indies, 75, 76, 448, 867, 1029 (William
Cornwallis)
Palliser, Sir Hugh: 389, 399, 410, 414, 429, 433,
443, 454, 473, 477, 496-97, 506, 521, 536, 573,
580-81, 601 See also Admiralty, British
Palmer, Andrew: 1217
Palmer, Daniel: 17, 694
Palmer, George: 1094
Palmer, James: 17, 694
Palmer, John (Capt.): 459, 500-01 (Elisabeth)
Palmer, Joseph (Brig. Gen., Massachusetts Mi-
litia): to: Massachusetts General Court, 786;
from: John Adams, 326
Palmer, MoSes: 18, 694
Palmer, Nathan: 1217
Palmer, Nathan, Jr.: 1217
Palmer, Nathaniel: 1217
Palmer, Robert: 16, 264
Palmer, Thomas (Capt.): 1133, 1144, 1366
(Marquis of Kildare)
Palmerston, Second Viscount [Henry Temple]:
403-04, 408, 410, 424, 433, 443, 477, 496, 498,
605, 625 See also Admiralty, British
Palm-Tree: captured by Pomona, 315 (Theo-
bald Dibnal)
Pamp, Thomas: 15, 164n.
Panther, HMS: 452
Paris, France: Silas Deane in, 103, 441-42, 818,
1088; mentioned, 407, 484, 486-87, 490n., 500,
515, 520, 538, 550, 576, 593, 613, 630, 1367
Park, George: 809-11
Park, Robert: 1000
Park, Robert (Capt.): 600, 626 (Lord Howe)
Parke, Matthew (Lt., Continental Marines): 702,
1301, 1378-80
Parker, Avery (Lt., Continental Marines): 651
Parker, Eliada: 986
Parker, Henry: 1125
Parker, Hyde, Jr. (Capt., R.N.): 19, 38, 166, 205,
225, 267, 309, 337, 373-74, 805, 838, 886, 891,
1065, 1178, 1182, 1183n., 1184 ( Phoenix )
Parker, Isaiah: 900
Parker, James: 258
Parker, John (Capt.): 807n. (Dolphin)
Parker, Joseph: 1305
Parker, Josiah: 294
Parker, Levi: 986
Parker, Peter (Capt.): 102, 796n. (Dispatch)
Parker, Sir Peter ( Commo., R.N.): joined
Howe’s fleet in New York, 5, 183, 184, 225-26,
324, 374, 571, 1518; Battle of Sullivans Island,
497, 497n., 561, 562, 566, 570, 589, 589n., 672,
750, 973; wounded, 42, 43n., 56, 56n.; from:
Philip Stephens, 596; mentioned, 51, 70, 74,
99, 110, 123, 124, 542, 559, 560, 565, 663, 725,
862, 862n., 891, 1118 See also Navy, British:
Squadrons
Parker, Robert (Capt.): 1231
Parker, Timothy: 1160, 1162
Parkman, P.; 1133
Parkman, Samuel: I77n., 247
Parks, James: 274
Parks, John: 104
Parliament, British: 373, 403, 444, 447, 725
Parrey, Anthony (Capt., R.N.): 169, 886, 894
(Bute)
Parry, Caleb (Lt. Col., Continental Army): 336,
336n., 1108
Parry, Edward: 343, 343n.
Parry, Francis (Capt., R.N.): to: Anthony Hunt,
1028; mentioned, 169, 275, 744, 893, 1072,
1318, 1424 (Cruizer)
Parsons, James: 1192
Parsons, Samuel (Brig. Gen., Continental
Army): to: William Heath, 709; mentioned,
349-50, 874, 1063
Parsons, Timothy: 971, 1174
Partridge, Samuel: 177n., 202, 247
Pascall, William: to: Massachusetts Council,
881, mentioned, 1000
lasley, brigantine: captured by Greenwich,
1456 (Joseph Mountanye)
Passaic River, N.J.: 39-41, 41n.
Pasture, John (Capt.): 132, 200 (Molly)
Patagon, Spanish mail frigate: 670-71 (Josef
Teodoro Perez)
Patapsco River, Maryland: 172, 198, 540
Paterson, John: 1093
Patriot, Virginia Navy Armed Boat: captured:
Fanny, 1206; Oxford, 534, 534n.; mentioned,
88n., 1190, 1207, 1479 (Richard Barron)
Patsey, schooner: 245 (James Gorton)
Patsey, schooner: captured by Winchelsea, 1171
(Will Gorton)
INDEX
1611
Patsey, sloop: captured by Galatea, 292
Patten, (Capt.): 1133
Patterson, Andrew: 984
Patterson, George: 274
Patterson, William: 234
Patterson, William (Capt., Md. Navy): 741,
1015, 1027, 1296, 1440, 1449 (Dolphin)
Patton, Thomas (Capt.): 186, 278, 278n. (Peggy)
Pattullo, David: 1144
Patty, schooner: captured by Tyrannicide, 58,
58n„ 192, 192n. (John Collins)
Paulus [Powlos] Hook, N.Y.: Howe’s Fleet near,
861, 862, 902, 1153; British troop landings,
844-48, 933, 933n., 949, 964-66, 974, 992, 1009,
1066
Pawhig, Israel: 698
Pay rolls: See Muster rolls/Pay rolls
Payne, Elijah Freeman (Capt.): to: Barzilla
Smith, 1286-87; mentioned, 900, 1001, 1001n.,
1053, 1360, 1360n., 1396 (Eagle)
Peace & Plenty, Virginia Navy Schooner: 995
(Alexander Guthrie)
Peach, John: 1211
Pearce, James: 1301
Pearce, Job (Capt.): 1360-61, 1421, 1456 (Green-
wich)
Pearce, Levi: 923
Pearce, William: 138
Pearl, HMS: Journal: 844, 1429; at Quebec, 135,
169, 442, 542; sent to New York, 45, 201, 792,
887-88, 988, 1108; in Hudson River, 842-46,
859-60, 861, 862, 886-87, 892, 902, 924, 989,
1186, 1429-30, 1444, 1444n.; mentioned, 47,
448, 862, 1424 (Thomas Wilkinson)
Pearson, John: 517
Pearson, Richard (Capt., R.N.): 420, 970, 1424
(Garland)
Pearson, William: 259
Peas, John (Capt.): 789 (Spermaceta)
Pease, Obadiah: 1443
Peavey, James: 1343
Pecit, Abigail: 15
Peck, John: 1455
Peck, Thomas: 1094
Peckham, Samuel: 1375
Peekskill, N.Y.: 20
Peele, Jonathan, Jr.: 191
Pegasus, HM Sloop: 450
Peggy, schooner: 1043 (Robert Spence)
Peggy, British Army Transport: 600 (Eason)
Peggy, British Army Transport: 600 (Foster)
Peggy, South Carolina Navy Schooner: 212n.,
1268 (Andrew Groundwater)
Peggy, Dunmore’s Fleet Brig: captured by An-
drew Doria, 895, 897; recaptured by Cerberus,
790, 790n., 855, 856n., 949, 949n. (William
Cook)
Peggy, ship: captured by Hancock and Frank-
lin, 15, 57, 58n., 62, 62n., 152, 152n., 164, 164n.,
192n., 290, 290n., 1020, 1348, 1348n. (James
Kennedy)
Peggy, sloop: captured by Orpheus, 186, 278n.
(Thomas Patton)
Peirce, Moses: 958
Peirson, Lemuel: 1399
Pelican, HM Brigantine: 160, 628 (John Arde-
soif)
Pell, Joseph: 245, 1369
Pell, Joshua, Jr.: Diary: 661, 1137, 1198, 1248
Pelleu, Edward: 1343
Pembroke, HM Hulk: at Halifax, 421, 436, 438,
469, 569, 594 (Jahleel Bren ton)
Pembroke, HM Tender: captured: Susannah,
66, 66n., 89, 106; mentioned, 1180-81, 1286
(Richard Whitworth)
Pendall, Thomas: 703
Pendleton, Sylvanus (Capt.): 1095, 1356 (King
Taminy)
Pendrick, Richard: 701
Penelope, sloop: captured by Porcupine, 1169
(Joseph Meglew)
Peneman, James: 959
' Penet & Pliarne See Pliarne, Penet & Co.
Penguin, HM Schooner: 449, 506 (William Yeo)
Penman, Ed: 603
Penn, John: 1447-48
Pennington, : 799
Pennington, Miles (Capt., Continental Navy):
939
Pennsylvania: currency, 65, 185-86; militia, 156,
187, 683; mentioned, 125, 193, 195, 326, 336,
541, 1012, 1094, 1431
Pennsylvania Council of Safety: Journal: 64,
141, 211, 221, 256, 312, 326-27, 338-40, 366,
memorandum book: 1 7 1 ; minutes: 658, 725—
26, 766, 783, 807, 823, 863, 877, 890, 904, 915,
939, 966-67, 1009-11, 1070-71, 1107, 1122,
1131, 1140, 1154-55, 1163, 1223, 1266, 1311,
1323, 1355, 1408, 1478; succeeded Committee
of Safety, 65; James Blair, 793; George Bryan,
158-59; Henry Fisher, 1295; Thomas Forrest,
916; William Gamble, 1333-34; William
Goodrich, 738-41, John Hamilton, 6; John
Hennessy, 287; Hugh Montgomery, 1446,
James Montgomery, 6; Robert Morris, 916,
977; Joseph Rice, 1071; William Richards,
1281; Thomas Savadge, 1424-25; Robert
Smith, 64-65; Henry Tuder, 126 See also
John Dixon
Pennsylvania Evening Post (Philadelphia): 1776:
13 Aug., 171; 22 Aug., 26; 24 Aug., 235n.; 27
Aug., 327; 3 Sept., 668; 7 Sept., 707n.; 21 Sept.,
940; 28 Sept., 1027n.; 1 Oct., 1093n.; 10 Oct.,
1025; 12 Oct., 1240; 19 Oct., 1339; 31 Oct.,
1465n.; 7 Nov., 1458n.
Pennsylvania Farmer, North Carolina Navy
Brig: 107, 1095-96, 1096-97, 1207-09, 1356,
1392 (Joshua Hempstead)
Pennsylvania Gazette (Philadelphia): 1776: 7
Aug., 104-05; 14 Aug., 187; 28 Aug., 205; 4
Sept., 253, 683; 11 Sept., 748, 782, 783; 13
Sept., 808n.; 18 Sept., 890, 895; 25 Sept., 746;
2 Oct., 1108; 9 Oct., 1163, 1190; 16 Oct., 751n.,
1612
INDEX
940n., 1 141n., 1295n.; 24 Oct., 1368n., 1388-91;
30 Oct., 1465; mentioned, 762
Pennsylvania Journal (Philadelphia): 1776: 18
Sept., 895; 25 Sept., 993; 2 Oct., 199, 1107-08;
9 Oct., 297n.; 16 Oct., 1295; 18 Oct., 421n.
Pennsylvania Ledger (Philadelphia): 1776: 24
Aug., 783n.; 12 Oct., 1205n.
Pennsylvania Packet (Philadelphia): 1776: 3
Sept., 317; 10 Sept., 766; 24 Sept., 977-78;
22 Oct., 1368; mentioned, 1011
Pensacola, Fla.: 75, 582, 587, 604, 672, 688*,
746, 1427
Pensacola Packet, HM Schooner Tender: 562
Pensacola and Jamaica Packet: 74 (Arthur
Clarke)
Pent, Anthony: 1443
Penton, Henry: 389, 536, 544, 573, 575, 576,
580, 581 See also Admiralty, British
Percy, Lord Hugh (Maj. Gen., British Army):
124, 184, 1009, 1067, 1438
Perez, Josef Teodoro (Capt., Spanish Navy):
670-71 (Patagon)
Perfect, Thomas: 1372
Perkins, brig: captured by Hancock and Frank-
lin, 191, 191n., 213n., 222n., 231, 231n., 233,
233n., 262, 262n., 347, 786 (William Jenkins)
Perkins, Abijah: 700
Perkins, Simeon: Diary: 1211, from: Richard
Bulkeley, 1285
Perkins, Walter (Lt., Massachusetts Navy): 908,
1231-32, 1330
Perkins, William: 698
Perley, Nathaniel (Capt.): 191, 1002 ( Success )
Perrin, John: from: Virginia Navy Board, 784
Perry, John: 18, 695
Perseus, HMS: Journal: 1018-19, 1019n., 1262;
in convoy to New York, 149, 150n., 492-93,
495-96, 512, 523, 543, 1382, 1439; captured:
Betsey, 1391, 1391n.; Peggy, 790n.; mentioned,
448, 497, 501, 593 (George Elphinstone)
Perth Amboy, N.J.: 41 See also Amboy
Pest Island, N.Y.: See Bedloe’s Island
Peter, schooner: captured by Reprisal, 41, 42n.,
43n., 64, 64n., 105, 105n., 142, 807-08, 895
(John Muckelno)
Peter, sloop: 565
Peteril, Peter: 1376
Peters, Richard: 130-31
Petersburgh, England: 615
Petit-de-Grat Harbor, Madame Island, Nova
Scotia: 1029, 1030, 1048
Pettibone, Abraham: 94
Peynier, de (Capt., French Navy): 394
(La Licorne)
Pheba, sloop: captured by Winchelsea, 1171 (J.
Gordant)
Phenix, sloop: captured by Montgomery , 337
(John Brown)
Philadelphia, Arnold’s Fleet Gondola: frontis*,
11*, 98, 224, 253, 1083*, 1150*, 1235, 1278*,
1389 (Rice)
Philadelphia, Pa.: concerning cannon, 118, 190,
232, 239, 755; defense, 103, 121, 141, 401, 534,
1073-74; concerning prizes, 64, 92, 105, 1 30—
31, 141, 386, 620, 668, 751, 830, 1011, 1027,
1029, 1428, 1430; prisoners, 220, 1292; sea-
men sought, 762; shipbuilding, 3, 56, 170-71,
668n.; trade, 41, 63-64, 187, 225, 386, 387,
392, 532, 544, 551, 830, 975, 994, 1072, 1290,
1339, 1428, 1432; inward bound vessels, 7, 92,
392, 1011; outward bound vessels, 7, 77n., 201,
233, 830; vessels in port, 104, 356n.; men-
tioned, 5-6, 6n., 8n., 9, 23, 30n., 42-43, 43n.,
78, 79n., 86n., 104n., 107n., 125, 141, 152, 187,
209-10, 242, 271, 293n., 295, 302, 315, 346n.,
352, 377, 389, 460, 471, 502, 511, 515, 515n„
612, 618, 623, 639, 641, 651, 735, 815, 949,
978, 1002, 1046, 1051, 1201, 1367, 1435
Philips, Samuel (Capt., R.I. Militia): 1475
Philipsburg, N.Y.: 1184
Phillaplace, John: 677
Phillips, (Capt.): 262 (Susannah)
Phillips, Christopher: 701
Phillips, John (Capt.): 262n., 298n., 347, 676n.
(Warren)
Phillips, Samuel: 179
Phillips, William (Maj. Gen., British Army):
1082
Phipps, Charles (Capt., R.N.): 167, 374, 594,
724, 886, 891, 1415 (Strombolo)
Phipps, David (Lt., Continental Navy): 270
Phoenix, HMS: Journal: 19-20, 38, 166-67, 206,
225-26, 267-68, 838-39, 1178-79; engagement
with row galleys, 37-38, 39, 49, 61, 121, 123,
124, 182; with Howe’s Fleet at Staten Island,
184, 224, 373-74; troop landings on Long
Island, 267-70, 352-53, 849; troop landings
on Manhattan Island, 838-42, 848-49; in
Hudson River, 5, 19-20, 22, 38, 50, 84, 166-67,
182, 206, 208, 217-19, 242, 253, 352, 619,
710, 1130, 1178-87, 1198, 1238, 1336; departed
Hudson River, 226-29; in East River, 724-25,
804-06, 806n., 862, 886, 924, 989, 1065; cap-
tured: Amazon, 1124; Diligence, 1124; Han-
nah, 1124; James, 1124; Lady Gage , 1124;
Mary, 1125; mentioned, 37, 207*, 337, 378,
448, 650, 665, 891, 1137, 1424, 1518 (Hyde
Parker, Jr.)
Phoenix, Massachusetts Privateer Sloop: 972n.
(Joseph Cunningham)
Phripp, Matthew: 878, 920, 920n.
Picary, ship: captured by Warren, 626, 627n.,
899, 952, 1002, 1055, 1055n., 1190, 1190n.
(Breholt Cleveland)
Picher, Joseph, Jr.: 16
Pickering, Thomas (Capt., South Carolina
Navy): 11, lln., 1243, 1284, 1314, 1335n.
(Revenge; Defence)
Pickering, Timothy, Jr.: 152, 178, 192, 348, 1003,
1114-15, 1454, 1472
Pierce, Benjamin (Capt.): 306, 306n. (United
States)
Pierce, Ebenezer (Capt.): 972n., 1471 (Liberty)
Pierce, Richard: 1374
INDEX
1613
Piercey, William: 905
Piers, John: 1454, 1455n.
Pigot, Robert (Brig. Gen., British Army): 842
Pike, Edward (Lt., R.N.): 566, 664
Pillagar, Daniel: 1373
Pillant, : 1260
Pindor, John: 32
Pinnet, John: 337
Pinson, Andrew: 506
Pintard, Lewis: 677-78
Piper, James (Lt. Col., Continental Army): 679
Piscataqua [Portsmouth Harbor], Me..: 11, 247,
327, 787, 817
Piscataqua River, N.H./Me.: 240, 909, 1265
Piscataway Creek, Va.: 188
Pitcher, Jonathan (Lt., Continental Navy): 639,
1378-80
Pitkin, William: from: Samuel Huntington,
365-66
Pitman, Thomas: 901
Pitts, John: 1298
Pizzoni, Giambattista: to: government in
Venice, 392, 474, 615
Plaince, (Capt.): 1346
Platt, Zeph: to: New York Provincial Conven-
tion, 39
Pliarne, Penet & Co.: to: Nicholas and John
Brown, 524-25; 617; Silas Deane, 514-15;
Barbeu Duborg, 556-57; Benjamin Franklin,
525-29; Committees of Rhode Island, 1280;
President, Virginia Council, 1425-26; men-
tioned, 398-99, 399n., 400n., 425, 484, 499-
500, 524-25, 528, 533, 560, 1240, 1240n., 1401,
1426, 1426n., 1470
Pluto: 200 (Thomas Davis)
Plymouth, England: Cook sailed on exploration,
433, 468, 503; convoys left, 456, 469, 481,
594; guardships at, 503-04, 522; gunpowder
shipment prohibited, 573n.; inward bound
vessels, 415, 416-17, 439, 473, 492, 605, 615;
outward bound vessels, 432, 543, 594, 627,
806, 823, 992; prizes brought into, 622; men-
tioned, 389n., 410, 497, 506, 512, 535, 1293
Plymouth, Mass.: inward bound vessels, 2;
Naval Officer appointed, 1270; prize agent
appointment, 116n.; prizes brought into, 299,
369-70, 691, 776, 788-89, 789n., 899-900,
1053; mentioned, 23, 359, 730, 899
Point au Fer, N.Y.: 661, 791, 837, 1032, 1151,
1198
Pointe-aux-Trembles, Quebec: 790
Point Champlain, Quebec: 27, 150
Point de Shambeau: See Deschambault
Pointe du Precheur, Martinique: 77n., Ill
Point Levi, Quebec: 417, 1224
Polk, Robert (Capt.): 717 ( Montgomery )
Pollard, Benjamin (Lt., Virginia Marines):
from: Virginia Navy Board, 1417, 1479; men
tioned, 188, 238, 1164
Pollard, Thomas: 1190
Pollock, Oliver: to: Andrew Allen, 1210; Con-
tinental Congress, 1210; Robert Morris, 1210
Pollock, William (Capt.): 326
Polly, British Navy Victualer: 492, 493-96
(John Harrington)
Polly, Massachusetts Privateer Sloop: 769 (Na-
thaniel Leach)
Polly, North Carolina Privateer Schooner: 1042,
1356
Polly, Rhode Island Privateer Sloop: commis-
sioned, 165; captured unnamed schooner,
731 (Joseph Tillinghast)
Polly, ship: captured by Revenge, 27, 27n., 347,
506, 508n., 831, 831n., 1003, 1031, 1031n.
(Tobias Lear)
Polly, brig: captured by Hancock, 1465, 1465n.
(Plats Denny)
Polly, schooner: 1268 (John Besnard)
Polly, schooner: 1472 (Christopher Bosset)
Polly, schooner: 919 (Earle)
Polly, schooner: 767, 878 (John Middleton)
Polly, sloop: 1334 (Daniel Cartwright)
Polly, sloop: libeled, 262 (Nathaniel Horton)
Polly, sloop: captured by Harrison, 721, 721n.
(Sibeline White)
Polly, sloop: libeled, 328-30, 330n.
Polyphemus, HMS: 450
Pomona, HM Sloop: in West Indies, 143, 448;
lost at sea, 1450-51, 1451n.; captured: Betsey,
853; Duff, 852; Hero, 852; Palm-Tree, 314 — 15;
Prince of Orange, 852; Regicobus, 852; Dutch
ship, 308; mentioned, 52, 53, 77, 142, 403n.,
572, 599-600, 600n., 1075 (Thomas Eastwood)
Pomp, John: 766
Pompey: 89, 108
Pond, Charles (Capt., Continental Army): 155n.,
707, 723, 723n., 821, 909, 909n., 1056 ( General
Schuyler )
Pool, David: 81, 1129
Pool, Zephaniah: 702
Pope, Charles (Capt., Continental Army): to:
Thomas Rodney, 8; mentioned, 8n., 256
Pope, Edward: 776
Porcupine, HM Schooner: Journal: 829, 866,
980-81, 981n., 1029, 1029n.; cruising in Wind-
ward Passage, 301, 356n., 672, 866; mentioned,
75, 1168, 1169-71 (Francis L’Montais; James
Cotes)
Porcupine, Pennsylvania Navy Armed Boat: 7,
1094 (Robert Tatnall)
Port de Paix, ship: 386 (Toustaing)
Port de Paix, French Santo Domingo: 386
Port Henderson, ship: 1286
Port Mahon, Portugal: 611, 612 '
Port Royal, Jamaica: 44, 91, 142, 143, 301, 356,
402, 751, 751n., 866, 867, 981, 1019, 1166
Port-au-Prince, French Santo Domingo: 291,
422, 544
Porte, de la: from: Gabriel de Sartine,
393
Porten, Sir Stanier: from: Andrew Frazer, 611;
Philip Stephens, 629-30; mentioned, 593
Porter, John C.: 1175
Porter, Robert: 191
388-825 O - 73 - 104
1614
INDEX
Porter, Solomon: from: Elias Baldwin, 254-55,
336, 361, 763
Porter, William: 907
Porterfield, (Capt.): 589n. ( Glasgow
Packet)
Porterfields, (Capt., British Army): 600
Portland , HMS: officer appointments, 534; cap-
tured: Sally , 852; mentioned, 53, 160, 403n.,
448, 1075 (Thomas Dumaresq)
Portland, sloop: captured by Providence, 1127,
1302 (Zachariah Bunker)
Portland, snow; captured by Diamond, 214,
578, 584 (Bromwell; Dickinson)
Portland, England: 416
Portsmouth, England: convoys sailed from, 156,
424, 443, 454, 492, 521, 532, 569, 592, 604,
605, 605n., 1263; inbound ships, 409, 412, 422,
439; prisoners at, 546n., 622; prizes sent into,
387, 1071n.; prohibition on gunpowder ship-
ments, 389n., 573n.; shipwrights/carpenters
sent to Lake Champlain, 201; mentioned 390,
441, 442, 456, 469, 471, 479, 480, 501, 504, 512,
522, 535, 560, 597, 598, 619
Portsmouth, N.H.: prizes sent into, 27, 126, 152,
178n., 193, 232-33, 240n., 261, 290, 301, 346,
610n., 1055, 1239; British ship mistakenly
enters, 343n.; trial of Elizabeth, 177, 180,
180n., 202, 246-48, 368-69, 369n., 772; Raleigh
fitting out, 143, 281, 289, 419n„ 647, 721, 802,
871, 1188, 1366, 1463; mentioned, 29; see also
Piscataqua, Me.
Portsmouth, Va.: 71, 132, 175, 199, 246, 727,
728, 738, 743, 919, 995, 1282, 1334
Portsmouth Dockyard, England: model, 423* ;
plan, 451*
Portugal: conflict with Spain, 138, 441, 444,
473, 489, 502, 504, 518-20, 520n., 588-89, 602,
602n., 603n., 607, 608, 608n„ 617, 623, 633,
812, 1147, 1196, 1251
Portus, William: 906
Postillion, HM Schooner: 449
Potbury, Gregory (Capt.): 588, 619 ( Sarah
Anna )
Potomac River: 23, 65, 106, 131, 172-73, 275,
366n., 658-59, 809-11, 1014
Potomack, Maryland Privateer Sloop: 1417
(Francis Speake)
Pott, Percivall: 1485
Potter, Amos: 985
Potter, John: 957
Potter, Thomas: 1374
Potter, William: 81
Potts, Jonathan: 283, 1007, 1483-85
Potts, Stephen: 278
Potts, Thomas: from: Benedict Arnold, 222
Poughkeepsie, N.Y.: Continental Frigates, 35,
208, 224, 274, 361, 365, 459n., 872, 873, 902,
927, 962, 986, 1034, 1117, 1435n., 1443-44 Sec
Congress and Montgomery
Pousland, John: 234
Powell, Benjamin: 1392
Powell, Jeremiah: to: Aaron Hubbard, 231-32;
from: Richard Derby, Jr., 229-30; mentioned,
230n., 1455
Powell, John: 1375
Power, John: 906
Power, Patrick: 999
Power, Prince: 901
Powers, Ichabod: 81, 1128
Powers, William: 81, 1129
Powles Hook, N.Y.: See Paulus Hook
Pownalboro, Me.: 262, 328-30, 753-54, 971, 1270
Pownall, John: from: William Eden, 465; men-
tioned, 490
Pownoll, Philemon (Capt., R.N.): from: Charles
Douglas, 951-52, 1193-94; mentioned, 27, 150,
169, 894, 1340 (Blonde)
Pratt, Roger H.: 979, 1240-42
Pray, (Capt.): 1327, 1357
Prebble, (Capt.): 1471 (Swan)
Prejent, V. De Coetiry: 875
Premiere, (Capt., Arnold’s Fleet): from:
Benedict Arnold, 215; Jacobus Wynkoop, 321;
mentioned, 320 (Liberty)
Prentis, Joseph: 10
Prescott, Richard (Brig. Gen., British Army):
354, 656, 656n., 682
Preston, HMS: Journal: 156, 268, 324, 862, 932,
965; sent to New York, 374, 891; troop land-
ings on Long Island, 268, 309, 324, 362; at
Staten Island, 167, 183, 184, 225-26; in Hud-
son River, 378, 542, 862n., 1068; mentioned,
156n., 448, 479, 1424 (Samuel Uppleby)
Prevost, Augustine (Col., British Army): from:
Patrick Tonyn, 718; mentioned, 109, 750,
750n., 768
Price, Richard: 937
Price, Thomas (Maj., Continental Army): 23,
236
Prichet, John: 682
Priest, Robert: 1093
Primrose, David: 906
Prince George, HMS: 449
Prince George, British Navy Victualer: 492,
493-96 (Robert Appleton)
Prince George, British Ordnance Storeship: 342,
343n. (Richard Emmes)
Prince of Orange, sloop: captured by Pomona,
852 (Eber Waterous)
Prince of Wales, HMS: 450, 591
Prince of Wales: 605n. (Beales)
Prince Rupert Bay, Dominica: 53, 94, 1075
Prince William, British Victualer: 579, 595
Prince, Christopher: 872
Prince, Job (Capt.): 1052, 1077, 1347, 1349
Prince, William: 905
Princess Amelia, HMS: 450
Princess Royal, HMS: 449
Princess Royal, ship: recaptured by Milford,
91-92, 160-61, 620, 633, 691, 111, 777n., 1125
(Archibald Duthie)
Pringle, E. (Capt.): 1428n. (New York Packet)
Pringle, John: from: William Bull, Jr., 176;
Woolsey & Salmon, 642, 940
INDEX
1615
Pringle, Thomas (Lt., R.N.): 47, 54, 169, 1023,
1229*, 1341, 1343, 1350, 1365 (Lord Howe )
Pringle, William (Capt.) to: Massachusetts
Council, 303; mentioned, 27n., 347, 850, 881,
999, 1077 (Anna Maria )
Prioleau, Samuel, Jr.: 1315
Priscilla, British Ordnance Ship: 582
Prisoners, of British: on board: Argo, 1138; Bou-
logne, 304-05, 1211; Cerberus, 104; Enter-
prize, 276; General Gates, 1030-31; Halifax,
304; Lady Susan, 877; Lark, 304; Lord
Rockford, 640, 666-67, 679-80; Mentor, 1086,
1138; Milford, 128, 779, 982, 1050; Molly, 622;
Otter, 295; Oxford, 1312, 1409; Perseus, 1019;
Rainbow, 1286; Ranger, 559; Renown, 128;
Syren, 1459; Vulture, 546; Warren, 304-05;
Yankee, 529, 531, 533, 536, 539, 546-48, 550,
554, 581, 611, 619; captured in: Canada, 1108;
Lake Champlain, 135, 1461; Long Island,
323, 351, 354, 656, 711, 712, 765, 782n.; Ma-
dame Island, 1030; Manhattan Island, 842,
845, 1063; Quebec, 791n.; Valcour Island,
1230, 1256, 1260, 1261, 1272, 1274, 1277, 1279,
1380, 1382, 1436, 1445; Ward’s Island, 1069;
being held at: Antigua, 143; Halifax, 857,
1076; Millstone, New Jersey, 1080; Newfound-
land, 1399; New York, 988; Ethan Allen,
189-90, 1453; Lord Stirling, 1199, 1519; John
Sullivan, 1064, 1519; exchange proposed, 102,
219, 235, 242, 325, 373, 650, 656, 682, 955, 1020,
1199, 1216, 1268-69, 1357, 1393; treatment,
530-31, 547, 538, 632; mentioned, 45, 54, 125,
201, 238, 293, 297n., 389-90, 536, 546-47, 550,
554, 559, 581, 611, 787, 793, 858n., 932 950,
1002, 1328, 1457
Prisoners, of Continental: on board: Boston,
1110; Count de Marbeuf, 576; Hancock, 1194;
Hannibal, 818; Independence, 747, 747n.,
1215; Lexington, 220, 716, 1011; Reprisal,
593n., Rover, 1196, 1251; Syren, 1459; captured
from: Anna Maria, 881; Anne, 1252; Creigh-
ton, 554; Dispatch, 279; Elizabeth, 180, 202,
897-98; Earl of Errol, 249; Enterprise, 297;
Friendship, 12; Oxford, 166; Peggy, 152,
152n., 290; Perkins, 191, 786; Phoenix, 337-38;
Rachel, 305; Royal Exchange, 1050; captured
at Long Island, 336, 354, 378, 1046; New
Jersey, 376, 1333; Rhode Island, 983; Vir-
ginia, 294; being held in: Massachusetts, 57,
112, 163-64, 164n., 1298-99, 1316, 1454-55; New
Hampshire, 817; Pennsylvania, 967-68, 968n.,
1108, 1224; exchange proposed, 102, 104, 235,
242, 325, 373, 650, 656, 656n., 682, 888, 955,
1020, 1216, 1268-69, 1357, 1459; escaped, 554,
1475, 1478; parole, 1021, 1077-78, 1159, 1479-
80; treatment, 283, 287, 530, 818, 897-98;
mentioned, 99, 105, 133, 219, 239, 257, 773-74,
884, 1177, 1186, 1199
Pritchet, Isaac: 682
Privateering: American preoccupation with,
143, 220-21, 755, 770, 776, 794, 871; effect on
British trade, 103, 124, 158, 255, 299, 416,
431, 472, 476-77, 512, 516, 524, 543-44, 578,
623, 627, 632, 731, 823, 1046; enlistment of
captured seamen, 63, 685, 1473; caused man-
power shortage for Navy, 77-78, 949, 1056,
1303, 1399, 1474; status of, 1445-46 See also
Admiralty courts; individual privateers,
states and ports; prize agents
Prize courts: See Admiralty courts
Prize Agents: Connecticut, See Nathaniel Shaw,
Jr.; Georgia, See John Wereat; Maryland,
See William Lux; Massachusetts, See John
Bradford, Jonathan Glover, Winthrop Sar-
gent, William Watson; New Hampshire, See
John Langdon, Joshua Wentworth; New
York, See Jacobus Van Zandt; North Carolina,
See Richard Ellis; Pennsylvania, See John
Nesbit, John Nixon; Rhode Island, See John
Manley, Daniel Tillinghast; South Carolina:
See Livinus Clarkson, John Dorsius; men-
tioned, 62, 85, 232, 287, 856; See also Ad-
miralty Courts
Prize Lists: Gayton’s, 75n., 276n.; Howe’s, 66n.,
141n., 162n., 221n., 278n., 722n., 790n., 804n.,
807n., 1162n., 1332n.; See also individual
naval vessels
Procter, John, Jr.: 648
Procter, Samuel: 17, 694
Proctor, Francis (Capt., Pennsylvania Militia):
746, 857, 1459n.
Proctor, Thomas (Capt., Pennsylvania Militia):
to: Thomas Wharton, Jr., 1281-82
Proctor & Lowell: 1471
Prosper, South Carolina Navy Ship: 941-42
(Clement Lempriere)
Prosperity, schooner: 1001, lOOln.
Protector, Virginia Navy Row Galley: sailing
orders, 239n.; transporting North Carolina
troops, 1282 (Robert Conway)
Proud, Henry: 856
Prout, Ebenr: 817
Providence, British Navy Victualer: 492, 493-
96 (John Sherrard)
Providence, Continental Navy Frigate: build-
ing, 29, 29n., 56, 331, 1056, 1056n., 1136, 1219,
1299-1300, 1346; cannon needed, 150, 151n.,
1147; officer appointments, 281, 651;
launched, 348; Abraham Whipple assumed
command, 651; deserters, 882, 1475; sea-
men needed, 948, 948n., 949, 1079, 1218;
Whipple ranked, 1201; sailed for Newport,
1361; ordered to Cape Fear, 1384-86; being
manned, 1399 (Abraham Whipple)
Providence, Continental Navy Sloop: Henry
Malcolm appointed surgeon, 28n.; ordered to
cruise, 85, 86, 86n.; discipline, 131, 131n., 314,
314n.; rescued Hampden, 210; engagement
with Glasgow, 401; engaged British frigate
off Bermuda, 684, 1148^9, 1458; engaged
British frigate near Nova Scotia, 1148-49,
1458; seamen turned over to, 692-705; ac-
counts, 1081; Jones ranked, 1201; Newfound-
land expedition, 1303, 1457-58, 1473-75;
1616
INDEX
muster roll, 1371-77; ordered to Cape Fear,
1384-86; Hoysteed Hacker assumed command,
1434, 1459; Jones ordered to command Alfred,
1457; captured: Britannia, 684-87, 745, 1047,
1081n., 1215, 1302, 1458; Sea-Nymph, 684-87,
745, 1047, 1107, 1108n., 1205, 1215, 1302, 1458;
Favourite, 745, 980, 980n., 1047, 1157, 1157n.,
1165, 1215, 1302, 1458; Alexander, 1048-50,
1211, 1214-15, 1302, 1304, 1331, 1331n., 1348,
1397; Kingston Packet, 1049, 1126, 1211, 1214-
15, 1287-88, 1302, 1398-99; Success and Port-
land, 1211, 1214-15, 1302, 1398-99, 1421;
Defiance, 1049, 1211, 1214-15, 1302, 1398;
captured and burnt: Adventure, Betsey,
Ebenezer, Friendship, Hope, John, Sea
Flower, 1049-50, 1211, 1214-15, 1302; men-
tioned, 209, 1446 (John Paul Jones; Hoysteed
Hacker)
Providence, Arnold’s Fleet Gondola: 98, 224,
253 (Simonds)
Providence, R.I.: cannon at, 229, 343, 722, 815;
construction of Continental frigates at, 94,
331, 816, 948, 948n., 949, 972, 1136, 1270-71;
inward bound vessels, 93, 154, 1115, 1247n.,
1351; outward bound vessels, 4, 141n., 194,
1001; prizes carried into, 30, 33n., 360, 653,
676-77, 780, 788, 803-04, 1001, 1004, 1032,
1115; mentioned, 28, 29, 56, 66n., 116, 116n.,
Il7n., 147, 151n., 158n., 165, 179, 196, 210,
252, 252n., 306n., 316, 332, 525, 527, 584, 652,
662, 706n., 759, 781, 933, 1006, 1056, 1059n.,
1080, 1081, 1317, 1335, 1371-73, 1426, 1456,
1457
Providence Gazette: 1776: 3 Aug., 29-31; 10
Aug., 136-38; 17 Aug., 154n., 214; 24 Aug.,
241; 31 Aug., 316n., 332,370; 7 Sept., 731; 14
Sept., 821n., 822n.; 21 Sept., 882, 956n.; 28
Sept., 1032; 12 Oct., 1137n.; 19 Oct., 1330-31;
26 Oct., 1349n., 1421
Prudent, HMS: 452
Prussia: 489, 623, 624
Pryce, David (Capt., R.N.): to: Philip Stephens,
620
Pryor, Thomas: 946n.
Public Advertiser (London): 1776: 12 Mar.,
589n.; 27 May, 386; 31 May, 392; 5 June, 405;
11 June, 387; 28 June, 456; 3 July, 465; 4
July, 465; 10 July, 472; 12 July, 474; 15 July,
476-77; 19 July, 477, 480; 20 July, 481; 26
July, 505-06; 27 July, 508n.; 29 July, 428n„
512; 30 July, 506, 514; 31 July, 515; 1 Aug.,
521-22, 2 Aug., 515n.; 3 Aug., 515, 524; 5
Aug., 512, 531-32; 6 Aug., 532; 7 Aug., 534;
8 Aug., 497, 536-37; 9 Aug., 501, 538; 12 Aug.,
538-39; 14 Aug., 543-44; 15 Aug., 546; 16
Aug., 548; 17 Aug., 550-51; 20 Aug., 539-40,
556; 23 Aug., 560n., 570; 24 Aug., 571; 30
Aug., 15n., 577-78; 31 Aug., 544n.; 2 Sept.,
586; 3 Sept., 578; 5 Sept., 578; 6 Sept., 592;
7 Sept., 597; 11 Sept., 598, 610n.; 16 Sept.,
600-01; 17 Sept., 593n.; 20 Sept., 605; 21 Sept.,
605n.; 23 Sept., 610; 24 Sept., 611; 25 Sept.,
612; 26-28 Sept., 615; 30 Sept., 620n.; 1 Oct.,
276n., 297n., 609n., 749n.; 2 Oct., 27n.; 3 Oct.,
616; 5 Oct., 633; 8 Oct., 610; 15 Oct., 2n.,
1601n.; 17 Oct., 609; 22 Oct., 751; 25 Oct.,
298n.; 1777: 24 Feb., 1451n.
Puckinghorn, William: 1015
Puerto Rico: 60, 199, 394, 812, 1045-46
Pugh, Rees: 1159
Pulford, Edmund: 985
Purdie’s Virginia Gazette: See Virginia Gazette
[Purdie’s]
Purviance, Michael: 379, 785
Purviance, Samuel, Jr-: cannon for Virginia,
807, 994, 1015; to: John Adams, 895-96;
Joseph Hewes, 8-9; from: Joseph Hewes, 877;
Richard Henry Lee, 863-64, 1222-23
Putnam, Pennsylvania Navy Floating Battery:
building, 340, 939, 1155, 1266 (William
Brown)
Putnam, Rhode Island Privateer Brig: cap-
tured: Camden, 1113, 1114n., 1348, 1348n.,
1421, 1471 (Christopher Whipple)
Putnam: 1230, 1357 (John Harmon)
Putnam, Bartholomew: 347, 776
Putnam, Israel (Maj. Gen., Continental Army):
140, 349-50, 782n., 874, 1247*, 1511
Putnam, Jeremiah (Ens., Continental Army):
to: George Washington, 1184
Putnam, Rufus (Lt. Col., Continental Army):
140
Pyne, Richard: 1020n.
Pynter, John: 1371
Quarles, James (Lt., Virginia Marines): 9, 25,
44, 728
Quarme, William (Lt., R.N.): 167, 349, 892
(Halifax)
Quebec, HMS: 452
Quebec: defense of, 415-16, 421, 442, 513, 632,
633, 1341; inward bound vessels: 420, 429,
435, 442, 452, 513, 537, 542-43, 544, 575-76,
592, 595; ship construction, 201; warships
near, 45, 47, 981, 1340, 1370; outward bound
vessels: 412, 792, 988; mentioned, 169, 414,
417, 419, 435, 458, 605, 1224, 1351, 1365, 1411
Queen, HMS: 449, 522
Queen of England, British Transport: libeled,
14, 222, 222n.; condemed, 344, 800-01, 869;
sold, 1003, 1078, 1114; mentioned, 1347
(James Arnout)
Queens County, N.Y.: 308
Queens Creek, Va.: 294
Quigley, Aaron: 1375
Quigley, Thomas (Lt., New York Navy): rec-
ommended for command of General Putnam,
681-82, 737-38; to: Thomas Randall, 680,
1142-43; mentioned, 927, 1008, 1142
Quince, (Capt.): 804 (Hope)
Racehorse, HM Sloop: 75, 580-81, 672, 1168,
1171 (William Jones)
Rachel, ship: 305, 378—79 (Moses Henery)
INDEX
1617
Raddon, William (Capt.): 947n. (Venus)
Radford, William: 906
Radley, William: 682, 1413
Ragun, Lazr.: 304
Rainbow, HMS: arrived at Staten Island, 167,
184, 1516-18; at troop landings on Long
Island, 270, 309, 324, 337, 1518-20; at Hali-
fax, 373, 376, 724, 736, 893, 950, 950n., 1046,
1211, 1249-50, 1357, 1393, 1513-15, 1520-26;
mentioned, 176, 176n., 448, 542, 1424 (George
Collier)
Raisonable, HMS: 447, 504, 624 (Thomas Fitz-
herbert)
Rakes Delight, brig: captured by Squirrel, 1169
Raleigh, Continental Navy Frigate: building,
55-56, 369, 419, 419n., 675, 871; cannon
needed, 56, 143, 143n., 147, 150-51, 203, 229,
343, 360, 647, 721, 722, 815-16, 922, 1154,
1158, 1188, 1189, 1426; provisions, 151; gun-
powder for, 244, 1366-67; ship’s stores, 278;
desertions, 343-44, 880-81; iron for, 814,
814n.; ordered to capture Milford, 934-35,
935n.; officer recommendations, 1051n.; can-
vas needed, 1144, 1426, 1464; Thomas
Thompson ranked, 1200; sailing orders, 1385;
medical supplies, 1489 (Thomas Thompson)
Raleigh, Virginia Navy Brig: fitting out, 728;
sailing orders, 88n., 379; marines, 742; trans-
porting troops, 784n.; cannon, 1312; Edward
Travis assumed command, 1409; provisions,
1449, 1478; (James Cocke; Edward Travis)
Rambler, lugger: 294 (John Southcomb)
Rambow, William: 1160
Ramillies, HMS: 447, 504 (George Mackenzie)
Ramsay, Peter (Capt.): 113, l78n., 202, 240,
240n., 247, 368 (Elizabeth)
Ramsay, William: 1132
Ramsey, : 1170-71
Ramsey, Charles: 1169-71
Ramsey, James (Capt.): 956n. (Betsey)
Ramsey, Peter: 1169-71, 1264-65
Randall, John (Capt.): 886
Randall, Thomas: to: New York Provincial
Congress, 737-38; from: Thomas Cregier,
284-86; Thomas Quigley, 680, 1142-43; men-
tioned, 927
Randel, Benjamin: 238
Randle, John: 296
Randolf, Samuel (Capt.): 338
Randolph, Continental Navy Frigate: officer
resignations, 50, 50n.; desertion, 187, 187n.,
683; Nicholas Biddle ranked, 1200 (Nicholas
Biddle)
Ranger, HM Sloop: captured: James, 1002;
North American station, 449, 561, 562, 563;
returning to England, 176n., 559-60, 561,
565, 566, 569 (Roger Wills)
Ranger, Continental Navy Sloop: building,
907n., 1308, 1308n.
Ranger, Pennsylvania Navy Row Galley: 7, 785,
939 (James Montgomery; Robert Hume)
Ranger, Connecticut Privateer Brig: 910, 1080n.
Ranger, brig: captured by Antelope, 751, 1171,
1285, 1285n.
Ranger: 1205 (John Mitchell)
Rankin, James: 693, 1301
Rappahannock River, Va.: 10, 25, 86, 188-89,
238, 239n., 275, 275n., 809-11
Rathbun, John (Lt., Continental Navy): 1371,
1378-80
Rattle Snake, South Carolina Navy Schooner:
1313-15 (Stephen Seymour)
Rattlesnake Shoal, S.C.: 563
Raven, HM Sloop: stationed off Georgia, 169,
893, 1132, 1384; captured: Friendship, 1284;
mentioned, 135n., 300, 448, 1141, 1423, 1424
(John Stanhope)
Rawle, Robert: 1094
Rawlings, Thomas (Capt.): 185, 1079 (Sally)
Raymond, Samuel: 334
Rayneval, Gerard de: from: Silas Deane, 491
Raynolds, John: 1329
Raynor, John (Capt., R.N.): 167, 725, 891
(Chatham)
Read, George: 273
Read, James: 1224
Read, John (Col., Maryland Militia): from:
Maryland Council of Safety, 1039
Read, Thomas (Capt., Continental Navy): 171,
915, 938, 1201 (Washington)
Rebecca, brig: captured by Boreas, 659-60,
660n., 1171
Rebecca, sloop: 717, 718, 750, 767-68, 1328, 1467
(Mowbray)
Recovery, brigantine: 1125
Recurso, Spanish Navy Guarda Costa: 920-21
(Antonio Yepe)
Red Hook, N.Y.: British forces at, 35 In., 372,
376-77, 666, 736-37, 988; Howe’s Fleet near,
324, 325n., 354, 362, 378, 679, 724, 765, 839,
862, 932, 950, 965, 1063, 1153; Continental
troops at, 364, 656
Reddall, Ambrose (Lt., R.N.): 665
Redding, Zebedee (Capt., Continental Army):
to: New England Chronicle, 14; mentioned,
15
Redfield, Daniel (Capt.): 677
Redhead, N.J.: 1024
Reed, George: 86
Reed, John: 699
Reed, Joseph: prisoner, 1475
Reed [Read], Joseph (Col., Continental Army):
to: William Heath, 253-54, 1199; Jonathan
Trumbull, 292, 1317-18; mentioned, 511,
874, 1186
Reedy [Redie] Island, Del.: 693-705, 1408
Reeo, Eteano: 305
Rees, David: 274
Reeve, Samuel (Lt., R.N.): 146, 374
Regicobus, brig: 852 (Booker)
Regiments, British: 4th Foot, 122; 6th Foot,
167, 892, 1044n., 1292; 14th Foot, 172, 191,
233, 262, 1292, 1293n.; 15th Foot, 122, 123;
1618
INDEX
23rd Foot, 1319; 28th Foot, 122, 123, 183;
29th Foot, 884; 30th Foot, 1168; 31st Foot,
1137; 32nd Foot, 1008; 33rd Foot, 122, 123;
37th Foot, 122, 123; 42nd Foot 166, 534, 600-
01, 1008, 1221; 43rd Foot, 831; 44th Foot,
122; 46th Foot, 122, 123; 47th Foot, 417, 734;
50th Foot, 5, 122; 54th Foot, 122, 123; 57th
Foot, 123, 183, 964-65; 60th Foot, 1107; 7lst
Foot (Fraser’s Highlanders) 289, 534, 539, 540,
549, 556, 598, 600-01, 610, 1200; 16th Light
Dragoons, 431, 434, 492, 543, 1112, 1118,
1182, 1199; 17th Light Dragoons, 431, 434,
710, 1152
Regiments, Continental: 9th Continental In-
fantry (Rhode Island), 874; 11th Continental
Infantry (Rhode Island), 874; 14th Conti-
nental Infantry (Massachusetts), 15n.; 20th
Continental Infantry (Connecticut), 862n.;
27th Continental Infantry (Massachusetts),
372n.; Delaware Regiment, 8n.; 3rd New
Jersey Infantry, 1306n.; 4th New York In-
fantry, 139, 317; 4th North Carolina Infantry,
743-44, 744n.; Miles’ Pennsylvania Rifle Regi-
ment, 156; 2nd Pennsylvania Battalion, 205,
228n.; 6th Pennsylvania Battalion, 708, 791;
Pennsylvania Artillery, 916n.; 2nd Pennsyl-
vania Artillery, 50; 9th Virginia Battalion,
238
Reid, Charles: 1000
Reid, Franklin (Lt., Continental Marines): 187,
683
Reid, James (Capt., R.N.): to: Lord Howe,
1422-23; mentioned, 169, 664, 893, 1074
(Thunder; Bristol; Sphynx)
Reid, Patrick: 15, 152, 164, 164n., 290
Reid, Robert (Capt.): 602 (Countess of Egling-
ton)
Reily, Andrew: 704
Reily, John: 1093
Reily, Reuben: 945
Remington, Peleg (Capt.): 66n. ( Susannah )
Remsen, : 677-78
Renown , HMS: Journal: 861; sent to New York,
15, 374; at Staten Island, 50, 122, 167, 184;
in Hudson River, 842-46, 861, 862, 875, 886,
902, 902n., 924, 989; at Long Island, 324;
troop landings on Paulus Hook, 949, 1066;
troop landings on Manhattan, 1008; off Bed-
loe’s Island, 362, 736, 782, 805, 859-60;
prisoners on board, 128, 780; captured:
Charming Polly, 1124; Lady, 1125; men-
tioned, 169, 378, 448, 548, 549, 848, 862, 891,
1030, 1424 (Francis Banks)
Renown, ship: captured by Hancock, 232, 233n.
Rentford, Henry: 905
Ren wrick, Joseph: 1329
Renwrick, Solomon, Jr.: 1329
Reprisal, Continental Navy Brig: engagement
with Shark, 11-12, 26, 51-53, 53n., 77, 77n.,
Ill, 142, 583-84, 601, 601n., 629, 653, 653n.;
sent to Martinique for gunpowder, 201, 325,
356, 824, 890, 890n., 913, 937, 952, 977;
stopped Dutchess of Leinster, 592, 593n.;
Wickes ranked, 1201; to France with Benja-
min Franklin on board, 1400-07, 1416-17;
captured: Friendship, 12, 41-42, 42n., 104-05,
142, 327, 327n., 570, 570n.; Peter, 41-42, 42n.,
105, 142, 570, 570n., 808; Neptune, 64, 142,
570, 783, 783n.; mentioned, 1294 (Lambert
Wickes)
Reprisal, Massachusetts Privateer Brigantine:
1052
Republic, Massachusetts Navy Sloop: orders to
cruise, 261, 359, 997; naval stores, 898-99,
898n.; at Boston, 899, 899n.; iron ballast,
1078; mentioned, 345n. (John Williams)
Repulse, HMS: sent to New York, 374, 390, 434;
at Staten Island, 156, 167, 184; at Bedloe’s
Island, 737, 782, 805; battle of Long Island,
324, 362; troop landings on Manhattan, 1008;
in Hudson River, 842-46, 859-60, 861, 862,
886, 892, 902, 924, 989, 1179, 1186, 1429-30,
1444, 1444n.; mentioned, 170, 378, 448, 543,
862, 1424 (Henry Davis)
Resolution, HMS: 447, 504, 950 (Charles Ogle)
Resolution, HM Sloop: 404, 443, 448, 468 (James
Cook)
Resolution, British Transport: 1463 (Hawker)
Resolution, Maryland Navy Schooner Tender:
transporting gunpowder, 106, 293; trans-
porting coal, 312, 312n., 356, 641; to be sold,
797, 968; stores taken from, 979, 979n., 1240-
42, 1242n., 1296; as trading vessel, 1140,
1140n., 1226; Benjamin King appointed, 1226
(Thomas Walker; Richard Berry; Benjamin
King)
Resolution, brig: captured by Portland’s
Tender, 852 (Robert Stacy)
Retaliation, Massachusetts Privateer Brigan-
tine: captured: Alfred, 1442, 1442n.; St.
Lucia, 1358, 1432, 1471; Success, 1442, 1442n.;
mentioned, 648-49 (Eleazer Giles)
Rethman & Meneicker: 462
Retrieve, Massachusetts Privateer Sloop: 345-
46, 1050, 1050n., 1133 (Joshua Stone)
Revenge, South Carolina Navy Row Galley:
prize money from sale of Glasgow Packet,
1228, 1283, 1297, 1335 (Thomas Pickering)
Revenge, Virginia Navy Schooner: provisions,
9, 25, 43, 257, 727-28; sailing orders, 88, 88n.;
officer appointments, 257; munitions, 275;
naval stores, 199; trading voyage to West
Indies, 808-11; illness on board, 1334; ma-
rines, 1355-56, 1356n. (William Deane)
Revenge, Arnold’s Fleet Schooner: 98, 215, 216,
224, 253, 1032-33, 1258, 1259-60 (Seaman)
Revenge, Massachusetts Privateer Sloop: cap-
tured: Anna Maria, 58, 58n., 303, 347, 850,
881; Anne, 1252, 1252n.; Fanny, 27, 56, 56n.,
77; Harlequin, 27, 30, 31n., 56, 56n., 77, 241n.;
Isabella, 192n., 506, 508n.; Polly, 347, 506,
508n., 831, 831n., 1031, 1031n.; unnamed
brigs, 27, 77; captured and released Frances,
508, 508n.; mentioned, 78n„ 512n., 632, 633n.,
INDEX
1619
674, 785, 1077-78 (Joseph White; Benjamin
Warren)
Revenge, New York Privateer Sloop: 1005n.
(Joseph Conkling)
Revenge, Rhode Island Privateer Sloop: cap-
tured: Ann, 856, 856n., 956, 956n.; mentioned,
620, 1057 (Samuel Dunn, Jr.)
Revere, Paul: 1159
Reward, ship: captured by Hancock, 92, 126,
193, 290, 586; libeled, 194n. (Bailie)
Reynell & Coates: See Coates & Reynell
Reynolds, ship: captured by Congress and
Chance, 192n., 508, 508n„ 515n., 521-22, 529n.;
sold to Rhode Island, 192, 1456, 1457n.;
mentioned, 551, 671 n. (Keylock Rusden;
Gideon Manchester)
Reynolds, John: 1156
Rhode Island: carpenters sent to Lake Cham-
plain, 145; warships cruising off, 210; inward
bound vessels: 140, 146, 196, 271, 456, 581,
769, 1110, 1317, 1369; galleys sent to New
York City, 4, 121; militia, 924n., 982-83, 1056,
1134, 1218-19, 1220: lack of naval protection,
662; ordnance available, 196, 755-56; out-
ward bound vessels, 411, 722, 1369n.; British
prohibition on trade, 399; from: Penet &
Pliarne, 1280; mentioned, 22n., 34, 57, 66n.,
79, 125, 132, 157n., 166, 182, 276, 401, 457, 465,
476n., 525, 527, 584, 620, 652, 677, 683, 692-
705, 722n., 759, 780, 975, 1012, 1200, 1218,
1219, 1247, 1363, 1371, 1384 See also Daniel
Tillinghast
Rhode Island College [Brown University]: 158n.
Rhode Island Committee Appointed to Build
Two Continental Frigates: Journal: 29, 280-
81, 348, 651, 721, 819, 954-55, 1056, 1348-49,
1412; from: James Bowdoin, 802-03; Marine
Committee, 1188, 1248-49; concerning guns for
Raleigh, 150, 360, 721-22; officer appoint-
ments, 651-52; mentioned, 94-95, 789; See
also Providence; Warren
Rhode Island General Assembly: 146, 804, 1134,
1344, 1420
Rhodes, Simon: 1217
Rhodes, William (Capt.): 116, 116n., Il7n., 525,
803-04, 820 (Montgomery)
Rice, (Capt., Arnold’s Fleet): 224 (Phila-
delphia)
Rice, Alpheus (Lt., Continental Marines): to:
John Paul Jones, 131; mentioned, 131n., 355,
1373
Rice, Daniel: 334
Rice, James (Capt.): 204
Rice, John (Capt., Pennsylvania Navy): 6, 327,
939 (Dickinson; Convention)
Rice, Joseph: to: Pennsylvania Council of
Safety, 1071
Rice, Patrick: 696
Richard, John: 1413
Richards, Amos: 901
Richards, Guy: 333, 959
Richards, Isaac: 1414
Richards, Samuel (Ens., Continental Army):
Diary: 208n., 736, 844-45
Richards, William (Capt., Pennsylvania Navy):
to: Pennsylvania Council of Safety, 1281;
mentioned, 1010
Richardson, James: 1417n.
Richardson, Joseph (Capt.): 1114n., 1471 (Cam-
den)
Richardson, Thomas: 141 7n.
Richardson, William: 239, 1368, 1417, 1417n.
Richelieu Rapids, Quebec: 45-47, 135, 201
Richelieu [Sorel] River, Quebec: 45-47, 54,
55n., 135-36, 201
Richey, Robert: 703
Richmond, HMS: convoying troops to Quebec,
448, 523, 575, 588, 592, 594, 595, 596 (John
Gidoin)
Richmond, British Armed Ordnance Transport:
577n., 582, 604
Richmond, brig: captured by Congress, 7, 23,
23n., 104-05, 1446-47, 1447n.
Richmond, N.Y.: 1292, 1293n.
Richmond, Joseph: 1052
Richmond, William (Col., Rhode Island Mi-
litia): 982-83, 1134, 1218-19, 1220, 1349, 1381,
1434, 1475
Ricketts, William: 1373
Riddal, : 439
Riddle, Alexander: 1093
Rider, Joseph: 856
Ridgely, R.: 878
Ridley, Thomas (Capt.): 642, 797, (Fanny)
Riely, Edward: 379
Rigan, Peter (Capt.): 899, 952, 1002 (Georgia
Diana)
Rigdens, William: 1309, 1320
Riggs, Aaron: 1394
Ringgold, Thomas: 864, 1070, 1140
Rippon, HMS: 449, 619 (William Waldegrave)
Rising Empire, Massachusetts Navy Brigantine:
discharged from service, 359, 359n.; muster
roll, 359; dismantled, 661, 898-99, 1173, 1269;
mentioned, 345n. (Richard Welden)
Ritchie, (Capt.): 600 (Royal Exchange)
Ritchie, Archibald: 1312
Ritchmond, John: 1052
Ritt, Peter (Lt.): 819
Rittenhouse, sloop: renamed Albany, 787
Rittenhouse, David: 1223
Riviere la Colle, Quebec: 1084, 1117, 1137,
1 137n., 1151
Roach, (Capt.): 787 (Sally)
Roane, William: See Smith & Roane
Roanoke, N.C.: 239
Robbins, Elias: 17, 694
Robbins, Samuel: 1310
Roberdeau, Daniel: 946n.
Roberts, : 618
Roberts, Charles (Capt.): 993, 1408 (Thistle)
Roberts, Daniel (Capt.): 133
Roberts, Eliphalet (Capt., Connecticut Ma-
rines): 334, 335n.
1620
INDEX
Roberts, Jean: 1177
Roberts, Thomas (Capt.): 294 (Fifth Regiment )
Roberts, Thomas: 906
Roberts, William: 1376
Robertson, (Capt.): 600 ( Thomas )
Robertson, James (Brig. Gen., British Army):
180n.
Robertson, James (Capt., R.N.): from: Lords
Commissioners, 414 (Hound)
Robertson, James (Capt.): 1012 (Chance)
Robertson, Robert: 728
Robertson, Robert (Dr.): 1487-88
Robertson, Robert (Seaman, Continental Navy):
701
Robertson, William: 32
Robeson, Andrew: 766, 808, 1027, 1093, 1205
Robeson, Archibald: 82, 333, 958
Robeson, James: 334, 1176
Robins, Albion: 1016
Robin’s Reef, N.Y.: 859
Robinson, James (Capt.): 593n. (Neptune)
Robinson, David: 921
Robinson, Einom: 1361
Robinson, George: 1372
Robinson, Isaiah (Capt., Continental Navy):
ranked, 686, 1201; to: Lt. Joshua Barney, 748;
from: Marine Committee, 936, 1308; men-
tioned, 748, 748n., 766, 766n., 782n., 915,
936n., 938, 967n., 1310n., 1320n., 1355n., 1387
(Sachem; Andrew Doria)
Robinson, James: on Alfred, 699
Robinson, James: on Providence, 1372
Robinson, James (Capt., Continental Navy):
ranked 1201; from: Marine Committee, 1319;
mentioned, 1338, 1354 (Sachem)
Robinson, John: to: George III, 400; from:
Philip Stephens, 419
Robinson, John (Continental Marines): 1301,
1373, 1375
Robinson, John (Capt.): 418 (Nelly)
Robinson, Robert (Mate, Continental Navy):
138
Robinson, Robert (Private, Continental Ma-
rines): 703
Robinson, William: 701
Robust, HMS: 450
Robust, ship: 593, 630 (Benoist)
Roche [Roach], John (Lt., Washington’s Fleet):
from: John Langdon, 1051; mentioned, 161 —
62
Rochefort, France: 427
Rockingham County, N.H.: 246, 248
Rockwell, Joshua: 517
Roderick, Francis: 693
Roderique Hortalez & Co.: See Beaumarchais
Rodgers, Maurice: 104
Rodney, Caesar: to: Thomas Rodney, 41-42,
256, 950-51; from: Thomas Rodney, 828, 951
Rodney, Thomas: to: Caesar Rodney, 828, 951;
from: Charles Pope, 8; Caesar Rodney, 41-42,
256, 950-51
Roe, Zebulon: to: Massachusetts General Court,
330-31
Roebuck, HMS: Master’s Log: 65-66, 106-07,
242, 324, 377, 640, 655, 737, 839-40, 965,
1179-81; with Dunmore’s Fleet, 66, 71-72,
169, 173, 678, 850; engagement with Penn-
sylvania Navy, 6, 69-70, 121; illness on
board, 174, 933; New York campaign: sent
to New York, 132, 374; arrived at Staten
Island, 183-84; battle of Long Island, 324,
325n., 352, 353, 354, 378; fired on New York
city, 724, 725, 804-06, 806n.; troop landings
on Manhattan, 838-41, 848-49, 849n.; troop
landings on Paulus Hook, 862, 886, 891, 924,
950, 964-66, 989, 992, 1065, 1066, 1068; at
Bloomingdale, 1130, 1131-32, 1137; pen-
etrated Hudson River defenses, 1178, 1182,
1183n., 1198, 1238, 1336; captured: Chance,
1124; mentioned, 439, 448, 549, 741, 878, 902,
902n., 1324-26, 1424 (Andrew Snape Ham-
ond)
Roff, Samuel: 305
Rogers, Cato: 901
Rogers, George (Lt., Virginia Navy): 44, 1156
Rogers, James: 1159
Rogers, James: on board Providence, 1371
Rogers, John: from: Maryland Council of
Safety, 1409; mentioned, 1155, 1466
Rogers, John (of Virginia): 199, 995, 1334
Rogers, John (Mate, Continental Navy): 1301
Rogers, John (Seaman, Continental Navy): 701
Rogers, Robert (Maj., British Army): 1032,
1255
Rogers, Sam: on board Princess Royal, 691
Rogers, Samuel (Boy, Continental Navy): 700
Rogers, Thomas (Seaman, Continental Navy):
699, 923
Rogers, William (Capt., New York Navy): ac-
count of prisoners taken off Fire Island, 337-
38; mentioned, 155n., 284, 723, 723n., 821, 854,
885, 1292 (Montgomery)
Rohl, Elias: 31
Rokes, Henry: 901
Rome, Cug: 901
Rome, Italy: 553
Rome [Room], William (Capt.): 94, 214 (Jane)
Romney, HMS: 449 (Elliot Salter)
Rood, Deacon: 791
Rook, sloop: 89, 108, 109
Rose, HMS: Journal: 19, 167, 206, 225, 267,
378, 666, 709, 840-41, 931; engagement with
row galleys, 49, 61, 121, 123, 124, 182, 207*,
401; troop landings on Long Island, 267-70,
352, 788, 849; at Staten Island, 184, 224, 337,
373-74; in Hudson River, 5, 19-20, 22, 37,
38, 50, 84, 166-67, 182, 206, 208, 217-19, 242,
253, 352, 619, 710; departed Hudson River,
226-29; in East River, 714-15, 725, 763-65,
886, 924; fired upon by Continentals, 665-66,
679; mentioned, 449, 457, 805, 806, 806n., 891,
1319, 1337, 1424 (James Wallace)
Rose Island, Florida: 729
INDEX
1621
Rosemer, : 1260
Rosnevet, Saulx de (Capt., French Navy): from:
Gabriel de Sartine, 621; mentioned, 397n. (La
Curieuse )
Ross, (Capt.): 1169 (Friends Adventure)
Ross, George (Judge, Pennsylvania Admiralty
Court): 104, 130, 1014, 1447
Ross, George (Adjutant, 2nd Pennsylvania Bat-
talion, Continental Army): to: Benjamin
Franklin, 228
Ross, George (Capt.): to: Philip Stephens, 516-
17, 522; mentioned, 530, 538-39, 548, 548n.,
1339, 1339n. (Creighton)
Ross, John: from: Secret Committee, 1024-25;
mentioned, 828
Ross, Nathan: 905
Ross, William: purchased ship to return to
England, 213, 249-50, 303, 675-76, 676n., 777,
881, 998-99, 1000, 1020
Ross & Morgan: 851
Rotch, William: 854-55
Rothbone, John: 1128
Rothe, Peter (Lt., R..N.): 665
Rothery, N.P.: 1144
Rotterdam, Netherlands: 158, 427, 484
Roughhead, Robert (Capt.): 886
Rouse, Richard: 579, 594, 596
Roux, Louis (Capt.): 1171 (Amiable)
Rover, Massachusetts Privateer Sloop: captured:
Diana, 298n.; Good Intent, 619, 1299, 1299n.;
Lively, 619; Mary and James, 607, 607n., 613,
1358, 1471; Sarah Ann, 619; mentioned, 593,
593n., 612, 630, 1002 (Simon Forrester)
Rover, brig: captured by Montgomery, 506,
508n. (John Hunter)
Rowan, George: 905
Rowe, John: 177n., 180n., 202, 247, 1069
Rowe, Zebulon: 646-47
Rowland, Ellis: 704
Rownds, James: 905
Roy, St. Alban (Lt., R.N.): to: George Macken-
zie, 581
Royal Charlotte, ship: 1261
Royal Convert, HM Gondola: See Loyal Con-
vert
Royal Exchange, British Army Transport: 600
(Ritchie)
Royal Exchange , ship: captured by Columbus,
610, 61 On., 1031, 1047, 1050, 1055, 1055n.,
1115, 1136-37, 1137n.; tried and condemned,
1346; mentioned, 1398 (Lawrence Bowden)
Royal George, HMS: 450
Royal George, brigantine: 1001-02 (Dennis
Doyle)
Royal Oak, HMS: 447, 504, 598 (Joseph Deane)
Royal Savage, Arnold’s Fleet Schooner: on Lake
Champlain, 96, 224, 253; Benedict Arnold on
board, 162, 791; Arnold requests captain for,
708, 838; David Hawley assumes command,
320-21, 371, 902, 926; Battle of Valcour Is-
land, 1198, 1230, 1235-37, 1258, 1259-60, 1272,
1276, 1344, 1350; mentioned, 760, 858, 1342*
(Jacobus Wynkoop; David Hawley)
Royal Sovereign, HMS: 450
Royal William, HMS: 452
Royalist: See Loyalists
Royne, Michael: 1172
Royston, John: 1227, 1282
Ruby, HMS: 450
Ruddock, Edward: 922
Ruffman, Frederick: 1374
Ruggles, Robert: 177n., 202, 247
Ruggles, Samuel: 177n., 247
Rum Adventure, British Victualer: 492, 495
(Peter Leadbeater)
Rumsey, Nathan: 499, 500, 560
Run Fast, Massachusetts Privateer Schooner:
1395 (Nehemiah Somes)
Rupp, Adam: l77n., 247
Rusden, Keylock [Heylock] (Capt.): 508, 515,
515n., 521-22, 551 (Reynolds)
Rush, Benjamin: 398, 1223
Russel, Hugh: 642
Russel, Patrick: 1373
Russell, HMS: 450
Russell, (Lt., British Army): 190
Russell, Abner: 702
Russell, James: 901
Russell, Joseph: of Massachusetts, 60, 60n., 900,
1003, 1196, 1470
Russell, Joseph: of Rhode Island, to: Barnabas
Deane, 1299-1300; Nathaniel Packard, 251—
52, 252n.; mentioned, 721, 901, 1299-1300
Russell, Norton: 857
Russell, Thomas: 1347
Russell, William: of Rhode Island, to: Barna-
bas Deane, 1299-1300; Nathaniel Packard,
251-52; mentioned, 29, 94-95, 651, 721, 901,
1299-1300
Russell, William: of Virginia, 199, 259-60
Russia: 277, 513
Rutgers, Anthony (Capt., New York Militia):
322
Rutledge, Pennsylvania Privateer Brig: 1223
(James Smith)
Rutledge, Edward: from: Robert R. Livingston,
1023, 1198; mentioned, 162, 726, 773, 782,
1051, 1064
Rutledge, John: 212, 941, 1109, 1209-10, 1419
Ruttenber [Rutenburg], Thomas (Capt.): 116,
1331n. (Montgomery)
Rutter & Potts: 774, 978
Ryal, : 1224
Ryan, Bryan: 1373
Ryan, John: 878
Ryan, Stephen: 1377
Ryder, William: 856
Rye, Thomas: 1176
Rymer, George: 14l7n.
Sable Island, Nova Scotia: 15n., 169, 577, 1048,
1149, 1515
Sachem, Continental Navy Sloop: James Rob-
1622
INDEX
inson ranked, 1201; sent to Martinique for
woolens, 1319, 1319n., 1354-55; accounts,
1320; James Robinson assumed command,
1320n.; captured: Three Friends, 748, 748n.,
766, 766n., 782, 782n. (Isaiah Robinson; James
Robinson)
Sacket, Nathaniel: 1139
Saco, Maine: 1230, 1351
Safeguard, Virginia Navy Row Galley: ship’s
stores, 1242; transporting N.C. troops, 1282
(George Elliot)
Sage, Comfort (Col., Continental Army): 336
St. Abb’s Head, Scotland: 521
St. Albans, HMS: 450, 522 (Richard Onslow)
St. Amand [Amont Bay], N.Y.: 925, 1032
St. Andrew, West Indiaman: 587 (McMeis)
St. Anne, HMS: 452
St. Augustine, Fla.: aid sent to, 66, 176; cruising
off, 169, 367, 893, 1284; defense of, 260; in-
ward bound vessels, 109n., 135, 173, 513, 790,
790n., 813, 1014, 1074, 1422-23; outward
bound vessels: 191, 222, 231, 233, 262, 376,
1132, 1327; mentioned, 91, 644, 1328; St.
Augustine Passage, Fla., 73
St. Cast, France: 538
St. Catherines Island, Ga.: 135, 1156
St. Christopher [St. Kitts] Island, West Indies:
outward bound vessels, 154, 214, 292, 367,
578, 605n., 611, 676-77; prizes carried into,
308, 394, 572, 1450-52; mentioned, 593n., 1075
St. Clair, Arthur (Brig. Gen., Continental
Army): from: James Wilkinson, 1336-37;
mentioned, 205, 654, 1276, 1483
St. Croix [Santa Cruz] Island, West Indies: 5,
126, 140-41, 141n., 161, 251, 297, 380, 565,
608, 612, 645, 1208, 1428
St. Eustatius, West Indies: gunpowder source,
60, 132, 308, 410, 412-13, 457, 458, 572, 578,
658, 732, 738, 975, 1086-87; inward bound
vessels, 193, 646, 677-78; 997, 1226n., 1282,
1369, 1369n.; outward bound vessels, 60, 122,
140, 308, 476, 572, 578; mentioned, 200, 256,
294, 309, 365, 536, 642, 794, 796, 1025
St. George, HMS: 450
St. George, British Navy Victualer: captured
by Speedwell, 1133, 1134n., 1146, 1146n., 1147,
1147n., 1196, 1251, 1252n.; mentioned, 492,
496, 1134n., 1196n., 1382, 1383n. (Benjamin
Bidgood)
St. George, Bermuda: 276, 300, 1157
St. George Island, Md.: Dunmore’s forces at, 24,
26, 65, 131, 172-74, 658-59, 1417
St. George’s Bank, Newfoundland: 1458
St. George’s Parish, London: 163
St. Helena Island: 392, 448, 457
St. Helens, England: 156n., 170, 456-57, 532,
594
St. James, brig: captured by General Greene
and Harlequin, 940, 940n., 956, 956n., (Ed-
wards)
St. James, ship: captured by Comet, 481, 481n.;
destroyed, 578 (Wilson)
St. James, Jamaica: 538
St. Jean, Quebec: See St. Johns
Saint Jeanne, schooner: 1334 (Lehoux)
St. John, HM Schooner: Journal: 73, 89, 109,
367; attacked by Georgia floating battery, 72-
73, 90-91, 108, 109, 109n., 134, 767; at St.
Augustine, 169, 367, 750, 893, 1141; ordered
to return to St. Marys River, 717, 718; men-
tioned, 183n., 1423 (William Grant)
St. John, brig: captured by Tyrannicide, 193,
193n., 231-32, 233n.
St. John, New Brunswick: 289
St. John Island, West Indies: 1431
St. Johns River, Fla./Ga.: British defense of,
260, 314, 717-18, 750, 767-68, 775, 1327-28,
1467
St. John River, New Brunswick: 160-61, 288-89
St. John’s, Antigua: 296, 507*
St. John’s, Newfoundland, 357-58, 473, 506
St. Johns [St. Jean] Quebec: British shipbuild-
ing at, 3, 45-47, 54, 55, 55n., 135-36, 205, 229,
229n., 654, 790, 884, 894, 969, 1023, 1081, 1340,
1342, 1437*; map, 836*; mentioned, 61, 169,
253, 201, 317, 371, 513, 775, 837, 857-58, 1341,
1343, 1400
St. Kitts: See St. Christopher Island
St. Lawrence, HM Schooner: Journal: 1279;
joined Howe’s Fleet, 122, 167, 362, 892; men-
tioned, 452, 562-63, 1141 (John Graves)
St. Lawrence, Gulf of: 45, 271-72, 417
St. Lawrence River: British vessels in, 55, 169,
229, 412, 415-16, 429, 513, 580, 884, 887, 890,
894, 1224, 1343, 1344, 1350, 1364, 1370; men-
tioned, 421, 656n.
St. Lucia, ship: captured by Retaliation, 1359,
1358n., 1432, 1432n.; libeled, 1471 (George
Childs)
St. Lucia, West Indies: 44, 143, 239, 394, 653,
824-28, 976
St. Malo, France: 480
St. Mark, Quebec: 572
St. Martin, West Indies: 412-13, 601
St. Mary, brig: captured by Antelope, 1171,
1450, 1450n.
St. Marys River, Fla./Ga.: 72-74, 90-91, 108,
109n., 134, 314
St. Marys River, Md.: 23, 172-73
St. Paul, de: 431
St. Peter, brig: 951
St. Peter, ship: captured by Reprisal, 570
St. Peter, sloop: captured by Dolphin, 476
St. Peter Lake, Quebec: 135
St. Pierre, Martinique: Shark-Reprisal engage-
ment off, 26, 51, 77, 111, 142, 583-84; men-
tioned, 53-54, 76, 200, 356
St. Pierre and Miquelon Islands: 272, 407, 416
St. Simons Island, Ga.: 1156
St. Theresa Island [Sainte-Therese], Quebec:
1341
St. Thomas Island, West Indies: 1327, 1431,
1432
St. Vincent, West Indies: 11, 105, 143, 163-64,
INDEX
1623
167, 181, 235, 263, 570, 610, 680, 706n„ 804,
892, 1001, 1044, 1053, 1252
Salamander , Pennsylvania Navy Armed Boat: 7
(Charles Lawrence)
Salem, Mass.: Committee of Correspondence: to:
Massachusetts Council, 178-79, 1454-55; gun-
powder in, 179; inward bound vessels, 1328,
1433; prizes sent into: 123n., 192n., 193, 231,
232, 263, 303, 465, 1001, 1053, 1346; vessels
in port, 230, 289, 690, 799; outward bound
vessels, 233, 279; mentioned, 15, 30, 56, 57,
58, 58n., 178, 222, 298n., 346, 358, 369, 379,
607, 619, 674, 788, 1003, 1270, 1411
Salerno, Italy: 607
Salisbury, HMS: 448 (George Walters)
Salisbury, ship: 582
Salisbury, Conn.: 264, 1021, 1080
Salisbury, N.Y.: 33
Salisbury, N.C.: 1479
Salley, brigantine: 57, 60 (John Tower)
Salley, sloop: captured by Portland, 852 (Giles
Buckingham)
Sally, British Navy Victualer: 432, 435
Sally, Pennsylvania Navy Sloop: 7 (Martin
Wert)
Sally, Rhode Island Privateer Sloop: captured:
Agnes, 1045, 1045n., 1061, 1061n.; Blaze Castle,
956, 956n., 1001, 1001n., 1032, 1053, 1053n.
(James Munro)
Sally, boat: 159, 159n. (William Waters)
Sally, brigantine: libeled by Yankee Ranger
and Montgomery, 820 (Jacob Snowball)
Sally, schooner: 524, 617, 1078 (Samuel Avery)
Sally, schooner: captured by Lee, 1146, 1146n.,
1195-96, 1196n. (Jesse Noble)
Sally, schooner: cartel taken by British, 787
Sally, ship: captured by Defence, 1101, 1127,
1176-77, 1217, 1363 (William Jackson)
Sally, ship: 185, 1079 (Thomas Rawlins)
Sally, sloop: captured by Halifax, 770-71; re-
fitted as tender, 883, 883n.
Sally, sloop: libeled by Committee of Deer
Island, 1412
Sally, sloop: 5 (John Ball)
Sally, sloop: captured by Squirrel, 1169 (Martin)
Sally, sloop: captured by Montgomery, 337
(Solomon Smith)
Sally, sloop:: captured by Liverpool 50; con-
demned, 646, 1125 (John Williams)
Sally & Polly, schooner: 356 (Johnson)
Salter, : 1253
Salter, Malachi (Capt.): 481
Salter, Richard: on board Alfred, 18, 695
Salter, Richard: owner of Susannah, 66n.
Saltonstall, Dudley (Capt., Continental Navy):
appointed to command Trumbull, 270;
ranked, 1200; mentioned, 171, 255, 271, 639,
692, 1254 ( Alfred ; Trumbull)
Saltonstall, Gordon (Brig. Gen., Connecticut
Militia): 118, 265, 1307
Saltonstall, Ros: 333, 959
Saltonstall, Winthrop: 83, 925, 1057, 1101
Saltus, Samuel: 133
Saly, John: See Jacob Surly
Samp Town, N.Y.: 338
Sampson, Joseph: 698
Sampson, Simeon (Capt., Massachusetts Navy):
seniority, 345; mentioned, 113, 776, 899, 952,
954, 997-98, 1002, 1468 ( Independence )
Samuel, British Navy Victualer: 579, 595
Samuel, brig: 615, 616 (Watson)
Samuel, sloop: 617, 1144 (John Hutchins)
San Ildefonso, Spain: 556, 608
Sanders, August: 1374
Sanders [Saunders], Robert (Lt., Continental
Navy): on board Alfred, 692, 1331, 1378-80
Sanders, Robert: on board John, 1176
Sandwich, HMS: 449, 522, 1487 (Richard Ed-
wards)
Sandicich, HM Brigantine Tender: 1075
Sandwich, British Packet: sailing for England,
122-24, 183, 373 (Douglas)
Sandwich, schooner: captured by Otter, 867-68,
1125
Sandwich, Lord [John Montagu, 4th Earl of
Sandwich]: strength of Royal Navy, 597; Guy
Carleton's dispatches to, 1257; to: George III,
442, 471-72, 589; mentioned, 299, 410, 414,
424, 443, 473, 477, 497-98, 506, 521, 544, 545*,
570, 573, 575, 580-81, 589n., 601, 605, 625,
1365 See also Admiralty, British
Sandwich, Mass.: 222
Sandy Hook, N.J.: rendezvous point for Howe’s
Fleet, 4, 50, 123, 140, 156, 167, 169, 210, 270,
276n., 284, 292, 360, 377-78, 495, 576, 618,
680, 734n„ 855, 1045, 1103, 1239, 1318, 1463,
1521; Dunmore arrived, 72n., 174; map, 21*;
mentioned, 337, 650
Sandy Point, N.Y.: 1324-26
Sanford, Lawrence (Capt., Virginia Navy):
1296-97, 1326 ( Adventure )
Santa Cruz: See St. Croix
Sapelo Island, Ga.: 135
Sapphire, HMS: 452
Sarah, brigantine: captured by Montgomery,
1326, 1326n.
Sarah and Elizabeth, ship: captured by Warren,
1055, 1055n., 1114, 1114n., 1442 (James Foot)
Sarah Anna, brig: captured by Rover, 588, 619
(Gregory Potbury)
Saratoga, N.Y.: 1277, 1289
Sargent, Epes: to: Joseph Sayword, 358n.; men-
tioned, 358, 817-18
Sargent, Paul Dudley: 922, 922n., 971, 1185
Sargent, Winthrop: 1323
Sarson, Isaac: 901
Sartell, (Col.): 1298
Sartine, Gabriel de: instructions to captains in
West Indies, 393-97; to: d’Argout, 391n.,
583-84, 621; Doyard, 393; Dussault, 621;
d’Ennery, 390-91; de Kersen, 621; de L'Ab-
badie, 391; Thomas d’Orves, 621-22; de la
Porte, 393; de Rosnevet, 621, Vergennes, 384-
86, 418; from: Capt. Foligny, 385; d’Ennery,
1624
INDEX
384, 1192-93; Lalanne, 385; Lavigne, 385; le
Begue, 385; de Lombard, 417-18; Capt.
Millard, 385; Capt. Menard, 385; Capt.
Toustaing, 386; Vergennes, 388; mentioned,
388n., 422, 491, 519, 585*, 865
Satauket, N.Y.: 1255
Saunders, Ciley (Capt., Virginia Navy): ap-
pointed to Lewis, 24-25; mentioned, 799, 919,
940-41, 1016, 1282 (Lewis)
Saunders, Francis: 305
Saunders, Thomas: 766
Saunders, William (Capt., Virginia Navy):
from: Virginia Navy Board, 239; mentioned,
200, 219, 1242 (Adventure)
Saurnog, Jethro: 1460
Savadge, Thomas: to: Pennsylvania Council of
Safety, 1424-25
Savage, HM Sloop: at Halifax, 169, 893; at
Louisburg, 1049, 1399, 1458; mentioned, 449,
496, 1424 (Hugh Bromedge)
Savage, Francis: 945
Savage, Thomas: 1097, 1165, 1243, 1283, 1313
Savage, William: to: John McCrohon & Co., 813
Savannah, Ga.: 73, 134, 169, 196-97, 315, 768,
850, 893, 1284, 1427
Savannah River, Ga.: 189, 300, 314n., 1074, 1192
Sawood, Samuel: 766
Saybrook, Conn.: Committee of Safety: from:
Erastus Wolcott, 322; New York Committee
of Safety, 323; mentioned, 129, 154, 281, 334,
760, 1220
Sayer, Benjamin: 856
Sayers, Ezekiel: 1160
Sayword, Joseph (Capt.): from: Epes Sargent,
358n.; mentioned, 358, 818
Scarborough, HMS: Journal: 288-89, 342, 1047,
1098; captured: Esther, 1124; mentioned, 161,
169, 276, 357, 357n., 449, 868, 893, 1424 (An-
drew Barkley)
Scatari, N. S.: 45
Schank, John (Lt., R.N.): to direct shipbuilding
on Lake Champlain, 45-47, 55, 55n.; Lake
Champlain, 136, 169, 883, 894, 1193-94, 1340,
1343, 1370; mentioned, 137* (Canceaux;
Inflexible)
Schea, John: 906
Schenectady, N.Y.: 33
Schuyler, New York Navy Sloop: See General
Schuyler
Schuyler, Arnold’s Fleet Row Galley: 96
Schuyler, Hermanus: from: Richard Varick, 34
Schuyler, Philip (Maj. Gen., Continental
Army): Arnold’s Fleet, 33-35, 37, 203, 215-17,
265, 317-22, 791, 837, 962; Battle of Valcour
Island, 1306; Lake Champlain and Lake
Ontario defense, 1023n., 1201, 1237; to: Com-
mittee of Berkshire County, 1290; Elias Day-
ton, 1306; John Hancock, 3-4, 348-49, 747-48,
1117-18, 1289-90; John Hunn, 872; New
York Provincial Congress, 317-18; Jacobus
Wynkoop, 318; Abraham Yates, Jr., 317—18;
from: Benedict Arnold, 120, 1275-77; Hora-
tio Gates, 223, 723-24, 961-62, 1061-62, 1277;
Jonathan Trumbull, 165-66; mentioned, 205,
265n., 372, 792, 858n., 902, 1034, 1367
Schuyler : 1096
Schuylers Island, N.Y.: 734, 1275-76, 1306, 1350,
1389
Schweighauser, John Daniel: from: John Brad-
ford, 1469-70; Robert Morris, 1122; men-
tioned, 398, 399n., 527, 1338
Scituate, R.I.: 804
Scollay, John: 202
Scorpion, HM Sloop: Journal: 744; in Cape
Fear, 169, 275, 449, 893, 1109, 1109n„ 1202;
mentioned, 743, 1072, 1318, 1424 (John Tol-
lemache)
Scorpion, Virginia Navy Sloop: deserters, 274,
in Potomac River fleet, 274n.; to transport
troops, 784n.; trading voyage to West Indies,
808-11 (Wright Westcott)
Scot, : 607
Scott, Alexander (Capt., R.N.): 110, 566, 663,
663n., 1424 (Experiment)
Scott, Andrew: 31
Scott, George (Lt., R.N.): 894, 1342-44 ( Gaspee ;
Thunderer)
Scott, Gustavus: 236
Scott, James (Lt., Massachusetts Navy): 674
Scott, John: on board Alfred, 693
Scott, John (Midn., R.N.): 1181, 1181n., 1182,
1183n.
Scott, John: on board Columbus, 1302
Scott, John: of South Carolina, 1268
Sc^>tt, John Morin (Brig. Gen., New York Mi-
litia): 349-50
Scott, Moses: 906
Scott, Samuel: 685
Scott, Thomas: 698
Scott, Will (Capt.): 1170 (Tristram)
Scranton, Daniel: 138
Scull, Peter (Maj., Continental Army): Orderly
book, 139-40, 182, 205, 217, 335
Seabrook, (Capt.): 828 (Good Intent)
Seabury, Benjamin (Lt., Continental Navy): 692
Sea Flower, schooner: captured by Providence,
1048-49, 1302
Sea Flower [formerly Two Brothers ], schooner:
766-67
Sea Nymph, brigantine: captured by Provi-
dence, 684-87, 745, 1047, 1302; libeled, 1203-
OS (Francis Trimingham)
Seaford, HMS: Journal: 239-40, 380, 645; cap-
tured: Fox, 852; unnamed schooners, 240,
380; unnamed sloop, 380; mentioned, 53-54,
448, 532, 1424 (John Colpoys)
Seahorse, HMS: 448 (George Palmer)
Seal Island: 970, 1050
Seamon, (Capt., Arnold’s Fleet): from:
Benedict Arnold, 215; Jacobus Wynkoop, 321;
mentioned, 216, 224 (Revenge)
Seamore, Stephen: 1377
Searles, James: 1374
Sears, Cornelius: 696
INDEX
1625
Sears, Isaac (Col.): 229, 1473
Seaton, George: 11, 258-59
Seaver, (Capt.): 482
Secret Committee: See Continental Congress,
Secret Committee
Seddon, : 565
Seddon, Mark: 1000
Seemoody, David: 92
Selden, Samuel (Col., Continental Army): 1063
Seldon, Joseph: 1042
Sellers, James: 651-52
Sellers, M.: 66
Semple, Robert: 15, 152, 152n.
Senegal , HM Sloop: Journal: 268-70, 1024,
1364; captured: Mermaid , 1124; position, 167,
892, 1308; amphibious operations, 268-70;
mentioned, 449, 496, 1424 (William Dudding-
ston; Roger Curtis)
Senior, Eleazer: 856
Sequin Island, Me.: 328
Sergeant, Edward: 1205
Sergent, : 331
Serle, Ambrose: Journal: 5, 22, 50, 84-85, 102,
155-56, 184, 228, 242, 362-64, 364n., 666, 724n.,
737, 737n., 782n., 792-93, 805-06, 823, 842-43,
860, 931n., 933n., 949, 965-66, 988n., 1118,
1153n., 1186, 1263, 1318-19, 1351, 1433n.,
1445; to: Lord Dartmouth, 710-14, 988-92
Servat, Daniel (Lt.): 292, 856
Sessions, : 857
Setauket, N.Y.: 733, 983
Setchell, Jonathan: 81
Setubal, Portugal: 588, 607
Sever [Seaver], William: account book, 28, 1252,
1252n.; to: James Bowdoin, 954; mentioned,
163, 197-98, 756, 897-98, 997, 998, 1468-69
Severy, Clement: 922
Seville, Spain: 609
Sewall, David: 344, 800
Sewall, Jonathan: 114, 177, 369n.
Seymour, : 509
Seymour, John (Capt.): 920, 1123 ( Dick Cole)
Seymour, Stephen (Capt., South Carolina Navy):
1192, 1313-15 (. Rattle Snake)
Seymour, Thomas (Commo., Pennsylvania
Navy): appointed commodore, 1009-10; men-
tioned, 1266, 1281, 1408
Seymour, William: 259
Shackerly, William (Capt., R.N.): from: Lords
Commissioners, 473; mentioned, 523n. (Spy)
Shackford, Josiah (Lt., Continental Navy): 816-
17, 1159 '
Shaddon [Sheddon], Robert: 738-39, 1013
Shaler, Timothy (Capt.): 1005n. (Lyon)
Shallcross, Joseph & Co.: 185
Shanks, James: 748, 766
Shannon, James: 1212
Shark, HM Sloop: engagement with Reprisal ,
11-12, 26, 51-53, 77, 111, 142-43, 583-84, 601,
601n., 629, 653, 653n.; orders, 1450-52; men-
tioned, 449, 1075 (John Chapman)
Shark, Connecticut Navy Row Galley: at New
York City, 4, 78, 130, 226, 264; engagement
with Phoenix and Rose, 37-39, 49, 61-62, 121,
123, 124, 182-83, 217-19, 352, 1085; supplies,
118; engagement with Roebuck, Phoenix,
and Tartar, 1178-84, 1186-87, 1317-18,
(Theophilus Stanton)
Sharp, (Capt.): 501 (Jackson)
Sharp, John: 864
Sharp, Peter: 905
Shaw, Daniel (Capt.): 20 (Harlequin)
Shaw, Francis (Maj., Massachusetts Militia): to:
Massachusetts General Court, 327-28, 357;
mentioned, I77n., 247, 851
Shaw, Nathaniel, Jr.: accounts of, 80-84, 139,
266, 299, 299n., 332-34, 707, 757, 833-35,
1060-61, 1081, 1128, 1176-77, 1177n.; to:
Samuel Alcott, 139; Nicholas Biddle, 32-33;
Barnabas Deane, 707, 1005-06; Francis Lewis,
781; Robert Morris, 1102; Jonathan Trum-
bull, 95, 316n., 733, 760, 789-90, 983, 984,
1005, 1021; George Washington, 3, 1080-81;
Nicholas Webster, 1045; from: Metcalf
Bowler, 1044; Clarke & Nightingale, 1056-57;
Esek Hopkins, 757; 972-73; Marine Com-
mittee, 273-74, 1248; Jonathan Trumbull,
706-07; mentioned, 16-17, 79, 117-20, 155,
639, 640n„ 790n., 909, 1061, 1151, 1162n.,
1220, 1271, 1305, 1321, 1381
Shaw, Samuel (Capt., Continental Marines):
187,651,683, 939
Sheaf, Jacob: 831, 967
Sheffield, Ichabod: 872
Sheldon, Christopher (Capt.): 348, 820
Shell, George: 682, 1413
Shepard, Alexander, Jr.: 1270
Shepherd, Edward: 176-77
Shepody River, New Brunswick: 161
Sherburne, brig: captured by Hancock, 1368,
1368n. (Jonathan Bunnell)
Sheridan, William (Capt.): 1471 (Lovely Nelly)
Sherman, Joseph: 138
Sherriff, William (Col., British Army): 184, 372
Sherry, George: 1143
Sherwood, Hugh (Capt): 727 (Betsey)
Shetland Islands, Scotland: 520, 521
Shields, Joseph: 697
Shillingsford, Robert: 697
Shine, Thomas (Capt., North Carolina Militia):
1208
Shipbuilding: See Navy, British; Navy, Con-
tinental; and various state navies
Shoemaker, (Lt.): 1473
Shore, Thomas: 809-11
Shores, Peter (Lt., Continental Navy): 881
Short, Benje: 872
Short, Charles: 1371
Short, Christopher: 906
Shourds, Thomas: 682, 1414
Shrack, George: 704
Shrewsbury , HMS: 449
Shrewsbury Inlet, N.J.: 650
Shubrick, Thomas: 1297
1626
INDEX
Shuldham, HM Tender: convoyed in Hudson
River, 5, 19, 20, 22, 37-38, 50, 84, 166-67, 182,
208, 217, 225, 226, 227, 228, 229, 253
Shuldham, Molyneux (V. Adm., R.N.): on
scarcity of ordnance stores, 69, 437; at Staten
Island, 156, 225-26, 351, 538, 590, 590n., 725,
891, 1516-17; concerning disposition of ves-
sels, 169, 548; to return to England, 377;
more seamen needed, 438; at New York
Battery, 1068; controversy over fleet rendez-
vous at New York, 1521; from: Philip
Stephens, 439-41, 496-97, 501, 589-90; men-
tioned, 70, 122, 170, 184, 240, 368, 456, 497,
750, 1118
Shute, William: 1309, 1320
Sibella, British Navy Storeship: 183 (George
Robinson)
Sibles, George (Capt.): 970 ( General Gage)
Silver, Alexander: 294
Simenton, : 51
Simmons, Jeremiah: 856
Simmons, Joseph: 185
Simonds, (Capt., Arnold’s Fleet): 224
(. Providence )
Simons, Keating: 1133, 1165
Simonton, Robert: 571
Simpson, Benjamin: 905
Simpson, James (Capt., Pennsylvania Navy): 7
(Lydia)
Simpson, John: from: William Ogilvy, 275-76
Simpson, Southy (Col.): 1312
Sinclair, Alexander: 995
Sinepuxent, Md.: 105
Sing, Abraham: 1375
Singleton, Joshua (Lt., Virginia Navy): 44
Sinney, James: 1373
Sissell, Benjamin: 697
Sitgrave, : 107
Skene, Philip: 1102
Skenesborough, N.Y.: construction of Lake
Champlain Fleet, 3, 34, 139, 145, 165, 205,
217, 224, 283, 335, 348-49, 838, 961, 1103,
1116, 1262, 1290
Skimmer, John (Capt., Washington’s Fleet): 15:
191n., 231, 231n., 262, 290n., 302, 347, 786,
921-22, 1055 (Franklin)
Skinner, John: 1020, 1102
Skinner, William: 334, 961, 1334
Slaves: Insurrection in Georgia, 643-44, 1328;
insurrection in Jamaica, 44, 74-75, 276, 1107,
1127; on board: Betsey, 296, 1011, 1014; Earl
of Errol, 212-13; Edward, 1027; Elizabeth,
247; Hannibal, 818; Lady Susan, 766; Sphynx,
1074; William, 999-1000, 1000n.; Yankee, 517,
547, 619; mentioned, 249, 258-59, 416, 608,
1368, 1467
Slaymaker, John (Lt., Maryland Navy): 774,
774n.
Sloane, : 70
Slough, Mathias: 774
Slowman, Christopher: 304
Smallcorn, Samuel: 1052
Smallwood, William (Brig. Gen., Continental
Army): 24
Smedley, Samuel (Lt., Connecticut Navy): 1177
Smellie, William: 1485
Smiling Molly, sloop: 369, 691
Smith, (Capt., British Army): 601
Smith, (Capt.): 600 (Glasgow)
Smith, (Lt., British Army): 1259
Smith, (Sgt., Continental Army): 208, 208n.
Smith, Archelaus: from: Richard Bulkeley,
1285-86
Smith, Barzilla [Barzaleel] (Capt.): from: Elijah
Freeman Payne, 1286-87 (Eagle)
Smith, Bazil: 906
Smith, Benjamin: 1460
Smith, Connell: 945
Smith, Daniel: 856
Smith, David (Capt.): to: Massachusetts Gen-
eral Court, 1297-98; mentioned, 193, 231
(Three Brothers)
Smith, Elisha: 1329
Smith, Elkanah: 1329
Smith, Francis (Brig. Gen., British Army): 930
Smith, George: 1133, 1243, 1283, 1313
Smith, Herman: 95
Smith, Isaac: to: John Adams, 77-78, 776; men-
tioned, 259, 340
Smith, James: 1070
Smith, James (Capt.): commission granted by
Pennsylvania Council of Safety, 1223 (Rut-
ledge)
Smith, Job, Jr.: 857
Smith, John: on board Lady Washington, 856
Smith, John (Lt., Connecticut Navy): 316
Smith, John (Capt., British Army): to: New
York Provincial Convention, 166
Smith, John: of London, 1483
Smith, John: of Rhode Island, 116, 280, 348, 721
Smith, Jonathan: 1329
Smith, Jonathan, Jr.: 1329
Smith, Joseph: of Nova Scotia, 1329
Smith, Joseph (Lt., Maryland Marines): 906,
1467 '
Smith, Josiah: 1097, 1283, 1313
Smith, Martin: 94
Smith, Meriwether: See Smith & Roane
Smith, Nathan (Capt.): 868-71
Smith, Nathaniel (Capt., Maryland Militia):
293, 896
Smith, Peter: 1016, 1417n.
Smith, Richard (Capt., R.N.): from: George
Elphinstone, 149-50; Lords Commissioners,
477; mentioned, 420, 457, 493, 497, 1424,
1452-54 (Lark)
Smith, Richard: 613
Smith, Robert: of North Carolina, 11, 1321
Smith, Robert: of Pennsylvania, to: Pennsyl-
vania Council of Safety, 64-65; mentioned,
312
Smith, Roger (Capt.): 943, 1097, 1243, 1313
INDEX
1627
Smith, Samuel (Capt.): sailing from Nantes
with cargo, 616, 864, 1079 (Hancock & Adams )
Smith, Seth: 94
Smith, Solomon (Capt.): taken prisoner, 337,
(Sally)
Smith, Solomon: 1329
Smith, Solomon, Jr.: 1329
Smith Sumner: 856
Smith, Theodore: 1329
Smith, Thoroughgood: from: Virginia Navy
Board, 246; mentioned, 259
Smith, William (Capt.): 1206, 1207, 1226-27
Smith, William: 37, 224-25, 885, 1262, 1350-51,
1436, 1462
Smith, Zebediah: 1160, 1162
Smith & Roane: from: Virginia Navy Board,
275; mentioned, 188, 809-11
Smith Island, Md.: 72, 89
Smith Point, Va.: 66, 71
Smithfield, R.I.: 804
Smock, Hendrick (Capt., New Jersey Militia):
1333, 1333n.
Smyley, John: 906
Smyrna, Ga.: 643-44, 718
Sneyd, Edward (Lt., R.N.): 1100 (Bolton)
Snoddin, John (Lt.): 971
Snow, Elisha: 799
Snow, Isaac (Capt.): to: Massachusetts Council,
799-800; mentioned, 817 (America)
Snow, John: 799
Snow’s Point, N.C.: 275
Snowball, Jacob (Capt.,): 821 (Sally)
Snowbird , Rhode Island Privateer sloop: 1253
1253n. (Israel Ambrose)
Snowden, Jedediah: 1011
Soames, Isaac (Capt.): 649n. (Union)
Soaper, William: 1226-27
Sober, John: 16
Sohan, William: 907
Solebay, HMS: Journal: 377, 1043-44, 1044n.,
1441; captured: Hope, 377, 377n.; Nancy,
1369; in attack on Fort Sullivan, 110, 562-64,
566, 569, 571; at New York, 5, 84, 122, 123,
170, 185; sent to St. Vincent for troops, 892,
1002, 1053, 1149; mentioned, 449, 542-43, 1424
(Thomas Symonds)
Sollicoffre Fr£res & Wilkie: to: Silas Deane, 459,
500-01; mentioned, 412-13, 413n.
Somerset, HMS: in port, 447, 504, (George
Ourry)
Somerset County, Maryland, Committee: from:
Committee of Accomack County, Va., 340
Somerset Co., N.J.: 388, 1080
Somes, Nehemiah (Capt.): to: Massachusetts
Council, 1213; from: Cushing & White, 1395
(Run Fast)
Sorel, Quebec: 229, 513, 656n., 660, 790, 1370
Sorel River: See Richelieu River
Soufriere, St. Lucia: 44
South Carolina: General Assembly: Journal:
941-43, 969, 995-96, 1072-74, 1097, 1109, 1132-
33, 1165, 1228, 1267-68, 1283, 1297, 1335; Coun-
cil of Safety, 212; attack on Sullivans Island,
102, 110, 141, 147, 176, 490, 569, 570-71, 663,
973; British fleet departed, 5, 99, 122-23,
123-24, 169, 170, 183; trade, 66n., 392, 399,
1079, 1335; mentioned, 73, 125, 132, 212, 365,
470, 683, 1012, 1064, 1384, 1410
South Carolina and American General Gazette
(Charleston): 1776; 2-9 Oct., 1192; 9-17 Oct.,
1315
South Quay, Va.: 239n., 742, 812, 1417
Southampton, HMS: 452
Southcomb, John (Capt.): 294 (Rambler)
Souther, Daniel (Capt., Massachusetts Navy):
capture of Henry and Ann, 1112-13, 1113n.,
1174, 1174n., 1472; from: Massachusetts
Council, 831-32; mentioned, 13, 230, 328, 345,
690, 769, 776, 776n., 909, 909n. (Massachusetts)
Souther, Joseph: 922
South Kingston, R.I.: 651
Sowdon, John: 16
Sowerby, William: 517, 546n.
Spain: relations with England, 391-92, 407, 574,
608n., 614, 812; conflict with Portugal, 441,
489, 520n., 602, 603n., 1251; mentioned, 425,
455, 473, 509, 518, 520, 520n„ 588, 607, 624,
633, 1369n., 1428 See also Intelligence Re-
ports, Spanish; Navy, Spanish
Sparham, : 205, 1483-84
Sparhawk, John: 1239
Spark, William (Capt.): 603 (Thetis)
Sparrahawke, Daniel: 517
Sparrow, Fanny: 258
Speake Francis (Capt.): 1417 (Potomack)
Spear, William: 916
Speedwell, HM Sloop: 449 (John Harvey)
Speedwell, Virginia Navy Schooner: naval
stores, 211; officers appointed 236, 245; trad-
ing voyage to West Indies, 808-11, 1326
(Robert Cooke)
Speedwell, Massachusetts Privateer Brigantine:
captured: St. George, 754, 1133, 1135n., 1147,
1 147n., 1159, 1 159n., 1196, 1196n., 1251, 1252n.
(Jonathan Greely)
Speke, British Hospital Ship: 543 (Harris
Hatch)
Spence, Robert (Capt.): 1043 (Peggy)
Spencer, Lord Charles: to: George Elphinstone,
493-96; George Germain 506; James Gordon,
521; mentioned, 389, 403, 404, 408, 443, 473,
478, 497, 498 See also Admiralty, British
Spencer, Henry (Capt.): 506, 559 (Mercury)
Spencer, John: 1099
Spencer, Joseph (Maj. Gen., Continental Army):
1307
Spermaceta, schooner: 789 (John Peas)
Sphynx, HMS: Journal: 1074-75; recaptured:
St. James, 481n., 578; attack on Sullivans
Island, 5, 110, 562-64, 566, 569, 571, 1384;
1628
INDEX
stationed off Cockspur, Georgia, 74, 134, 169,
893, 1132; mentioned, 449, 1422-23, 1424
(James Reid)
Spink, William: 923
Spit- Fire, Rhode Island Navy Row Galley:
arrived at New York, 4, 22, 22n.; engagement
with Phoenix and Rose, 37-39, 49, 61-62, 121,
123, 124, 182-83, 217-19, 226, 352; returned
to Rhode Island, 370, 662; recovered British
anchors, 822; to be sent to New London, 1134
(John Grimes)
Spitfire, Arnold’s Fleet Gondola: 98, 224, 253,
371 (Ulmer)
Spithead, England: British convoys at, 434-35,
502, 512, 559-60, 566, 575, 576n., 595, 597,
615, 1019n., 1513-14; mentioned, 45, 390, 414,
419, 424, 431, 477, 492, 493, 494*, 495, 521,
537, 546, 550, 565, 579, 580, 580n., 612, 622
Split Rock N.Y.: 95, 654, 1245, 1276
Spooner, : 998
Spooner, Ephraim: 721, 1173, 1269, 1304, 1348,
1348n.
Spooner, Walter (President, Massachusetts
Council): 345 359, 898, 908
Spooner, Walter (Lt., Continental Navy): 639,
692, 1301
Spottswood, Sally: 1392
Sprague, Joseph: 178
Sprague, Obadiah: 677
Sprigs, William: 1161
Springer : 82
Springer, Job (Capt.): 23 ( Grampus )
Springer, Richard: 699
Springfield, British Transport: 443
Sprogell, Ludwig: 641, 1094
Spy, HM Sloop: 449, 473, 502, 522, 523, 523n.
(William Shackerly)
Spy, Connecticut Navy Schooner: gunpowder
for, 139; at Long Island, 733; ordered to
cruise, 1099; muster roll, 1160-61; supplies,
1162; captured: Hope, 680, 680n., 804, 804n.,
837, 837n., 1150, 1218; Hannah fa Elizabeth,
759, 804, 804n., 837, 837n., 925, 1101 (Robert
Niles)
Squam Inlet, N.J.: 418
Squible, John: 906
Squire, Matthew (Capt., R.N.): 169, 294, 294n.,
295, 340, 340n., 658-59, 775, 867-68, 893, 1132,
1424 (Otter)
Squire, Samuel (Capt.): 154-55
Squire, Stephen: 1160
Squirrel, HMS: captured: Lady Caroline, 830,
879, 897; encounter with La Renommee, 864-
65, 879-80, 897, 1284; in West Indies, 44,
301, 356, 448, 672, 673, 1166-68; mentioned,
403, 1043, 1169-71 (Stair Douglas)
Stacey, Nathaniel: 986
Stacy, Robert (Capt.): 852 ( Resolution )
Stacy, Thomas (Capt.): from: John Brown,
252-53; William Chase, 252-53; Lemuell
Wyatt, 252-53; mentioned, 263-64, 1057, 1349,
1421 ( Diamond )
Stacy, Thomas (Capt.): 93-94 (Jane)
Stafford, ship: 624
Stafford County, Va.: 26
Stag, HMS: 452
Stag, British Transport: sailing to England,
1341
Stainbank, Thomas: 918
Stalker, Anthony (Capt.): 748, 748n., 782 (Three
Friends)
Stalker, John: 1000
Stamford, Conn.: 1099, 1218
Standfast, John: 14l7n.
Standley, Frederick: 985
Stanhope, Edwin: 242
Stanhope, Henry (Lt., R.N.): 242, 364, 364n.
Stanhope, John (Capt., R.N.): 134, 135n., 169,
893, 1424 (Raven)
Stanley, George: 304
Stanley, Hans (Gov., Isle of Wight): from: An-
drew Snape Hamond, 66-71, 973-75; men-
tioned, 71n., 487, 565, 565n.
Stanly, John: 1097, 1207
Stanton, Alexander: 906
Stanton, Phineas: 81
Stanton, Reuben: 1128
Stanton, Robert: 1217
Stanton, Theophilus (Capt., Connecticut Navy):
118, 121 (Shark)
Star fa Garter, ship: captured by Diamond, 129,
130n., 214; libeled, 153-54, 154n., 360, 653,
676-77, 677n. (Thomas Hanson)
Starke, John (Lt., R.N.): Narrative: 54n., 55n.,
1244; mentioned, 54, 433-34, 883, 1343
(Maria)
Starr, Joshua: 83, 334, 707, 956, 961, 1060, 1129
Starr, Nicholas: 334, 961
Staten Island, N.Y.: British Army landed, 538,
590, 598, 598n., 599; British troops on, 37, 39,
50, 99, 102, 160, 170, 183, 308, 351-52, 361, 567,
630, 632, 679, 682-83, 710, 988, 1319; British
forces embarked for Long Island, 267-70,
283, 299-300, 374; British warships off, 130,
156, 167, 224, 229, 235, 242, 254, 324, 353,
362, 373, 725, 891, 892, 903, 1063, 1153, 1154;
Lord Howe’s conference on, 875; Continental
surprise attack on, 1292-93, 1293n.; maps,
21*, 375*, 1247*; See also Army, British;
Army Continental; Navy, British
Steams, Isaac: 1375
Steel, John: 159
Steel, Thomas: 1414
Steenback, Barnabas: 696
Stell, John (Capt.): 346 (Charming Sally)
Stelwell, John: 326
Stephens, Adam (Brig. Gen., Continental
Army): from: Virginia Navy Board, 784; men-
tioned, 199, 1334
Stephens, Benjamin: 856
Stephens, Philip (Secretary of the Admiralty):
to: John Amherst, 386; British Navy Board,
571, 593; Commanders of ships of war, 387;
James Cook, 468-69; Charles Douglas, 433-34,
INDEX
1629
588-89; James Douglas, 480, 619, 622; Clark
Gay ton, 402, 537, 587; William Hotham,
478-79; Lord Howe, 434-39, 452-53, 454, 492-
93, 580, 590, 593-96; William Knox, 565;
Thomas Mackenzie, 546, 547, 550;
Robert Man, 391-92; Mark Milbanke, 390;
Peter Parker, 596, Stanier Porten, 629-30;
John Robinson, 419; Molyneux Shuldham,
439-41, 496-97, 501, 589-90; James Young,
532, 533-34, 536, 591, 596-97, 628-29; from:
William Cornwallis, 76, 876, 1123; Henry
Davis, 170; Charles Douglas, 201, 1340-45,
1370; Charles Fielding, 1439; Clark Gayton,
74-75, 671-72, 673, 1166-68; William Halsted,
903-04; James Hodge, 516-17; Charles Hope,
565; Lord Howe, 122-23, 183-84, 373-77, 663,
885-90, 1382-83; Maximilian Jacobs, 969-70;
William Knox, 443, 565n.; David Pryce, 620;
George Ross, 516-17, 522; Molyneux Shuld-
ham, 1444-45; Roger Wills, 559-60; James
Young, 142-43, 159-60, 1075-76, 1450-51;
mentioned, 276n., 480, 496-97, 517n., 522n.,
562, 584n., 1451-52
Stephens, Thomas, Jr.: 648
Stephens, William (Capt.): 976-77, 1354 (Betsey)
Stephenson [Stevens], Christopher (Capt.): 130,
508, 521-22, 531-32, 551 (Lady Juliana )
Stephenson, John: from: John Fitzpatrick, 1109;
mentioned, 443
Stephenson, William: 784n.
Sterling, William: 602
Sterrett, John (Capt., Maryland Militia): 895
Sterrett, William (Lt., Maryland Militia): 896
Steval, P.: from: Robert Morris, 1122
Stevens, : of New York, 1239
Stevens (Capt.): 828 (Kitty)
Stevenson, : 1076
Stevenson, Cornelius: 796, 1025, 1407
Stevenson, Henry: 804, 804n.
Stevenson, Joseph: 1205
Steward, John: deserted from Alfred 703
Steward, John: deserted from Defence, 282
Steward, Malcolm: 443
Steward, Stephen: to: Maryland Council of
Safety, 159, 741, 1296, 1311, 1323, 1449;
mentioned, 9, 159, 979, 979n., 1027, 1095,
1240-42, 1242n., 1323
Steward, William: 32
Stewart, (Capt.): 601 (Oxford)
Stewart, Alexander: 20
Stewart, David: 994, 1015, 1072n.
Stewart, James: 20, 1214
Stewart, John: 1375
Stewart, John (Capt., Continental Marines):
105-06, 106n.
Stewart, William: 333, 959, 1129
Stickney, John: 78-79
Stiles, Edward: 669
Stiles, Eli: 858-59, 961, 1084, 1117
Stiles, Ezra: from: David Bushnell, 1500-01;
mentioned, 1499
Stiles, W.: 566
Still, John: 334
Still, Thomas: 682
Stillman, George: 651
Stillwater, N.Y.: 1289
Stirling, (Col., British Army): 600
Stirling, Lord [William Alexander] (Brig. Gen.,
Continental Army): Battle of Long Island,
353, 361; taken prisoner at Long Island, 323,
336, 354, 372, 711-12, 1519; exchange pro-
posed, 362n., 682; released, 1199; mentioned,
363*, 796
Stirling Castle, HMS: 450
Stith, Griffin: from: Virginia Navy Board, 175
Stival, P. & Son: 1296, 1401
Stockly, : 828
Stockton, Richard: 765
Stockton-on-Tees, England: 615
Stoddert, William: 1324-26
Stolcop, John: 703
Stone, Caleb: 234
Stone, John (Lt., R.N.): 47, 234, 883, 1365
(Thunderer)
Stone, Joshua (Capt.): 345-46 (Retrieve)
Stone, Nathaniel: 517
Stone, Thomas (Capt.): 1268-69, 1357 (Pacific)
Stone, Thomas member of Continental Con-
gress, 765, 1070
Stone, Thomas on board Diamond, 16
Stone, William (Capt., Continental Navy):
from: Marine Committee, 325-26; mentioned,
65, 1294
Stoner, Frederick: 727-28
Stonington, Conn.: 81, 120, 1118n., 1215, 1216—
17
Stork, brig: 1019 (Philip Aubin)
Stormont, Lord [David Murray, 7th Viscount
Stormont]: concerning French trade with
America, 499 500, 502, 518, 560, 612; to: Lord
Weymouth, 499-500, 518-20, 560, 587, 603,
612-13, 629; from: Lord Weymouth, 502;
mentioned, 418, 484, 498 593, 629-30
Storrs, Joshua: 1441
Story, Nehemiah (Lt., Washington’s Fleet): 234
Story, Thomas: 1087n.
Stoughton, Mass.: 754
Stout, (Capt.): 1339
Stout, Joseph: 1093
Starchey, Henry: 1064
Stratford, John: 1094
Stratton, Henry (Lt., Virginia Marines): 828,
1296, 1417, 1417n., 1479
Strettell, John: 454
Strickland, (Lt. British Marines): 434
Strictland, : 1032-33
Strivens, (Capt.): 610 (Hero)
Strombolo, HM Fireship: Journal: 724-25; off
New York, 156n„ 167, 449, 542, 736, 782, 891,
1424 (Charles Phipps)
Strong, Abram: 906
Stuart, (Capt.): 886
388-825 O - 73 - 105
1630
INDEX
Stuart, Charles, (Maj., British Army): to: Earl
of Bute, 1008-09
Stuart, John: 996
Stubblefield, Peter (Lt., Virginia Marines): 1242
Sturdivant, Joel (Lt., Virginia Navy): 742
Sturdy Beggar , Maryland Privateer Brigantine:
917-19, 919n. (John McKeel)
Sturdy Beggar, Massachusetts Privateer
Schooner: captured: Batchelor, 1019, 1019n.,
1114; mentioned, 12 (Allen Hallet)
Sturdy Beggar, Massachusetts Privateer
Schooner: captured: Princess Royal, 12, 91-
92, 160-61, 777 (Peter Lander)
Sturt, William: 877
Success, HMS: 450
Success, Massachusetts Privateer Schooner: 191,
1002 (Nathaniel Perley)
Success, ship: captured by Retaliation, 1442,
1442n. (Eleazer Ball)
Success , brig: captured by Cerberus, 1332, 1332n.
(J. Coffin)
Success, brigantine: captured by Providence,
1049, 1302
Success, sloop: captured by Kingsfisher, 177n.,
1125
Success’ Increase, HM Storeship: 595
Suffolk, HMS: 450
Suffolk, Lord [Henry Howard, 12th Earl of
Suffolk]: concerning French supplies to
America, 409-10, 420; to: Lords Commission-
ers, 546-47; mentioned, 454, 546-47, 549, 613-
14, 619, 1431
Suffolk County, Mass.: 114, 164, 177, 192, 202,
328, 800-01
Sugdon, Abraham: 985
Sullivan, : 901
Sullivan, John (Maj. Gen., Continental Army):
captured at Long Island, 323, 354, 361, 372,
711-12, 796, 1519; exchange negotiations,
362-64, 364-65, 656, 667, 682, 715, 726, 877,
1064; to: Lord Howe, 364-65; from: Lord
Howe, 364-65; mentioned, 363*
Sullivans Island, S.C.: British attack upon, 99,
110, 176, 561-64, 566, 569, 596 See also Fort
Sullivan
Sultan, HMS: 450
Sumner, (Capt., Arnold’s Fleet): 98, 224,
253, 1258 (Boston)
Sumner, James: 29, 281
Sunbury, Ga.: 73, 134-35, 135n., 1157
Sunbury River, Ga.: 513
Sund, Frederick: 920-21, 944n.
Superb, HMS: 450
Supreme, ship: 515n.
Surinam (Dutch Guiana): 57, 136, 377, 377n.,
380, 645, 1155, 1162
Surly, Jacob (Capt.): 616-17, 1144 ( Lucretia )
Surmer, Lynn: 906
Surprize, HMS: at Quebec, 412, 414-15, 433,
449, 1120, 1424 (Robert Linzee)
Susannah, British Transport: 432, 435, 492,
493-96, 1239
Susannah, sloop: captured by Atalanta, 1110,
lllOn., 1171 (Benjamin Allen)
Susannah, sloop: captured by Pembroke, 66,
66n., 106, 107n. (Peleg Remington)
Susannah, schooner: 262 (Phillips)
Sussex County, Del.: 125
Sutherland, John: 1372
Sutherland’s Bluff, Ga.: 1157
Sutton, Benjamin: 906
Sutton, Jacob: 906
Sutton, Richard: 906
Sutton, Robert (Lt., R.N.): 439
Sutton, Woolman: 1011
Swallow, HM Sloop: 448
Swallow, HM Tender: 535 (Hodgson)
Swallow, brigantine: captured by Warren, 899,
899n., 952, 952n., 1055, 1055n.; libeled, 1002
(Benjamin Griffiths)
Swan, HM Sloop: stationed off New York, 5,
167, 376, 401, 449, 1424, 1463 (James Ays-
cough)
Swan, schooner: 1471 (Prebble)
Swan, sloop: captured by Liverpool, 2, 2n., 160-
61, 161n.; condemned, 646n., 1125
Swan, James: 971, 1133
Swan, William: 1160
Swansea, Mass.: 359, 1057
Swansea River, Mass/RI: 1289
Swartout, Barnardus: 361
Swazey, Manuel: 1161
Sweden: 489, 509
Swift, HM Sloop: 450, 592
Swift, British Tender: 1006
Swift, South Carolina Navy Sloop: 212n., 1268
(Charles Morgan)
Swift, : 1205
Swift, Heman (Col., Continental Army): 283
Swiftsure, HM Bomb Brig: 467, 473
Swiney, William (Lt., R.N.): 534
Sword Fish, ship: recaptured by Galatea, 806,
807n. (S. Kingsley)
Sydenham, Thomas: 1485
Symonds, Thomas (Capt., R.N.): to: Henry
Clinton, 170; mentioned, 167, 377, 892, 1043-
44, 1369, 1424, 1441 (Solebay)
Symons, John (Capt., R.N.): 17, 169, 506, 650,
722, 733-34, 790, 892, 1045, 1118, 1162, 1332,
1424 (Cerberus)
Syms, Benjamin: 93
Syren, HMS: Journal: 1061, 1163; captured:
Agnes , 1045, 1061; Batchelor, 1163; Carron,
1163; Jenny, 1163; brig, 1459; attack on Sul-
livans Island, 5, 562-63, 564, 566, 569, 571;
at Staten Island, 169, 183, 184, 892, 1219; with
Cerberus, 1045, 1061, 1162, 1163, 1332; men-
tioned, 133, 449, 589, 746n., 1424 (Tobias
Furneaux)
Tagus River, Portugal: 501, 556, 627
Talbot, East Indiaman: 624, 625
Talbot, George (Capt., R.N.): 140, 167, 316, 335,
INDEX
1631
370, 662, 723, 770, 892, 910, 1239, 1337, 1424
(Niger)
Talman, Benjamin: 281
Tamar, HM Sloop: Journal: 875; captured:
New York Packet, 1124; mentioned, 167, 376,
439, 449, 892, 1424 (Edward Thornbrough;
Christopher Mason)
Tanner, (Midn., Continental Navy): 281
Tanner, Gideon: 923
Tappan Zee, N.Y.: 5, 37, 38, 121, 166, 355, 1178,
1180, 1337
Tappen, Christopher: to: Abraham Yates, Jr.,
307
Tapping, Zepheniah: 1160
Tarpaulin Cove, Mass.: 706
Tarras, Margaret: to: Nicholas Biddle, 103-04
Tarrytown, N.Y.: 19, 49, 84, 121, 1180, 1181,
1238, 1247, 1415
Tartar, HMS: Journal: 965, 1181, 1415; off
Paulus Hook in support of troop landings,
891, 950, 964-66, 988, 992, 1066; penetrated
Hudson River defenses, 1178, 1182, 1183,
1183n., 1198, 1238, 1336; captured: Crane,
1181; mentioned, 45, 54, 169, 201, 449, 543,
887, 1424 (Cornthwaite Ommanney)
Tartar, schooner: captured by Lively, 1124
Tartar Point, Fla.: 729
Tate, Benjamin: 31
Tatnall, Robert (Capt., Pennsylvania Navy): 7,
1094 ( Porcupine )
Tauleon, Nicholas: 239
Tayler, John: 923
Taylor, (Capt.): 600 (Bowman)
Taylor, Alexander: 602
Taylor, Benonie: 1378-80
Taylor, Eldad: 851
Taylor, George: 1159
Taylor, George (Col., New Jersey Militia): to:
John Hancock, 1333, 1333n.
Taylor, Israel: 1094
Taylor, Jacob: 857
Taylor, James: 986
Taylor, Sir John: from: Virginia Navy Board,
743
Taylor, John Noble: 1004
Taylor, Miles: 86
Taylor, Richard (Capt., Virginia Navy): from:
Virginia Navy Board, 799; mentioned, 86-88,
88n., 199, 294, 878, 1242, 1267, 1369 (Hornet)
Taylor, Samuel: 665
Taylor & Bell: 1339
Tazewell, John: 1321
Teackle, Thomas: 258-59
Telfair, Edward: 133
Telley, James: 80
Tellers [Tailors] Point, N.Y.: 20
Temeraire, HMS: 452
Temple, brigantine: captured by Montgomery ,
854-55, 987 (Joshua Morris)
Ten Broeck, Petrus (Brig., Gen., New York
Militia): 885
Tenant, James: 1392
Tenent, John: 334
Tenier, : 945
Tennison, Jesse: 1417n.
Terrible, HMS: 450
Terrible, HM Sloop: 1109
Terror, Pennsylvania Navy Armed Boat: 7
(Robert Hardie)
Tew, Paul: 241, 1098
Thames, HMS: 450
Thames, British Army Transport: 600 (Moodie)
Thames River, England: 392, 473, 521, 530, 533,
539
Tharp, Samuel: 986
Thatcher, John (Capt., Arnold’s Fleet): 283
Thatcher, Stephen (Lt., Connecticut Navy): 985
Thatcher’s Island, Mass.: 298
Thaxter, Adam (Lt., Continental Navy): 1 378—
80
Thayer, E„ Jr.: 1455
Thayer, John: 682, 1414
Thayer, Nathaniel: 1052
Thetis, HMS: 448, 1424 (Mitchell Graham)
Thetis, British Victualer: 579, 595
Thetis, ship: 1190, 1190n., 1205, 1205n., 1249n.,
1295, 1368 (Hezekiah May)
Thetis, ship: 603 (William Spark)
Thiery, : 244
Thistle, schooner: 63, 765, 992-93, 1408 (Charles
Roberts)
Thomas, British Army Transport: 600 (Rob-
ertson)
Thomas, ship: captured by Hawke, 1175, 1214,
1215n. (Thomas Bell)
Thomas, ship: 385 (Maillard)
Thomas, (Capt.): 227
Thomas, Charles (Capt.): from: Virginia Navy
Board, 174-75, 211, 659, 1191, 1242-43, 1392,
1417-18; mentioned, 26, 659, 812, 995, 1296,
1392
Thomas, Elias: 1081, 1081n., 1374
Thomas, James: 693
Thomas, John: on Alfred, 699
Thomas, John: on Fair Lady, 279
Thomas, John: on General Putnam, 682, 1413
Thomas, John Allen (Capt., Maryland Militia):
105-06
Thomas, Joseph: 282
Thomas, Robert: 857
Thomas, Thomas (Col., N.Y. Militia): to:
George Washington, 84
Thomas, William (Capt.): 864, 1417 (Hazard;
Edivard)
Thomas if Betsey, British Victualer: 579, 595
Thompson, (Capt.): 589n. (Kitty)
Thompson, (Dr.): 1436
Thompson, Alexander: 1124-25
Thompson, Benjamin: 906
Thompson, Benjamin (Lt., Pennsylvania Navy):
7 (Experiment)
Thompson, Charles (Capt., R.N.): 122, 141,
248n., 276, 659, 1029 (Boreas)
Thompson, David: 660
1632
INDEX
Thompson, E.: from: John Avery, 1213
Thompson, John: 433
Thompson, Samuel (Lt., R.N.): 496
Thompson, Sanford (Capt.): 852 ( Two Broth-
ers)
Thompson, Thomas (Capt., Continental Navy):
seniority established, 1200, 1426; from:
Marine Committee, 935, 1385; mentioned, 93,
344, 817, 880, 934, 936 {Raleigh)
Thomson, Charles: from: Joshua Wentworth,
368-69; mentioned, 125
Thornbrough, Edward (Capt., R.N.): 439
[Tamar)
Thornton, (Capt.): 1422
Thornton, Charles (Lt., Virginia Marines): 1466
Thornton, John: 641
Thorp, Edward: 880
Thorp, Peter: 282
Three Brothers , schooner: captured by Tyran-
nicide, 48, 163, 193, 231, 232, 233n., 1297
(David Smith)
Three Friends, Pennsylvania Privateer Brig-
antine: 967, 967n. (Daniel Jackson)
Three Friends, brig: captured by Sachem, 748,
748n., 766n., 782n. (Anthony Stalker)
Three Friends, schooner: captured by Galatea,
284 (Benjamin Eldridge)
Three Sisters, schooner: 1226n. (Joseph Handy)
Throgs [Frog’s] Point/Neck, N.Y.: 323, 771,
1221, 1234, 1239, 1245-47, 1279, 1307, 1422,
1436
Thunder, HM Bomb Vessel: Journal: 270; North
Aemrican station, 110, 122, 167, 268-70, 324,
374, 449, 542, 562-64, 736, 891, 1424 (James
Reid; Toby Caulfield; Anthony Molloy)
Thunderer, HMS: 450
Thunderer, HM Ketch /Floating Battery: at St.
Johns, 857-58, 883, 951, 1081; on Lake Cham-
plain, 1137, 1244, 1344; Battle of Valcour
Island, 1341; draught, 1437* (John Stone;
George Scott)
Tibbett, James (Capt.): 1072, 1072n. {Independ-
ence)
Tickell, (Capt.): 600 {Henry and Joseph)
Ticonderoga, N.Y.: Arnold’s Fleet, 320-21, 1116;
British movement towards 467, 993, 1081-82,
1154, 1244, 1445; Continental forces at, 33,
36, 747-48, 1061, 1258, 1274, 1275, 1276, 1279,
1290, 1306-07, 1336, 1344, 1350; provisions
needed, 19, 1262, 1290; mentioned, 3, 96, 120,
145, 205, 217, 223, 235, 317, 349, 654, 708, 734-
35, 791, 884, 926, 960*, 1007, 1117 1245
Tiley, Samuel: 1302
Tilghman, Matthew: from: John Hall, 1039;
mentioned, 511
Tilghman, Tench (Capt., Continental Army):
to: William Duer, 1444; William Heath,
1185-86; mentioned, 1138, 1238
Tillage, Richard: 1475
Tilley, James: 333, 959, 1060
Tillinghast, Daniel: from: Esek Hopkins, 1304;
Marine Committee, 656, 1248, 1464; men-
tioned, 266, 821, 955, 1080, 1301, 1321
Tillinghast, Henry: 692, 1371
Tillinghast, Joseph (Capt.): 165, 165n., 731
{Polly)
Tillinghast, William: 1456, 1457
Tillotson, Edmund: 701
Timoleon, brig: 462, 463
Tindall, Alexander: 16, 264
Tinker, Jehiel (Capt., Connecticut Navy): 49,
120, 121, 1317-18, 1318n. {Crane)
Tinsley, Francis (Lt., R.N.): 532 ( Endeavour )
Tippell, Benjamin: 517, 546n.
Tisaker, John: 1161
Titcomb, : 283
Titcomb, Jonathan: 358, 818
Titcomb, Joseph (Capt.): 348-49
Tiverton, R.I.: 651
Tivy, Thomas: 1015
Tobago, West Indies: 346, 476, 620, 661
Tobey, Timothy (Lt., Massachusetts Navy): 674
Toby, Thomas (Capt.): 270 {Molly)
Tokely, William (Capt.): 185, 1001n., 1053n.,
1360, 1469-70 {Fanny)
Toker, Peleg: 18, 18n., 695
Tollemache, John (Capt., R.N.): 169, 744, 893,
1424 ( Scorpion )
Toman, Draper (Lt.): 781
Tomkins, Robert (Capt., Virginia Navy): 88,
366, 728, 742, 743, 784n., 1242, 1312 {Henry)
Tomy, Daniel: 1161
Tonyn, Patrick (Gov., East Florida): to: Thomas
Bishop, 90-91; George Germain, 109, 109n.,
260, 313-14, 749-50, 767-68, 1327-28, 1467-68;
William Grant, 717; Augustine Prevost, 718;
from: Thomas Bishop, 134; Robert Bisset,
643-44; Stephen Egan, 72; William Grant,
108-09; J. Kitching, 134-35; mentioned, 90-
91, 135n., 367, 376, 644, 668-69
Torbay, HMS: 447, 503 (Henry St. John)
Tor Bay, England: 475, 492, 512
Tories: See Loyalists
Torre, Marquis de la (Gov., Havana): to: Jose
de Galvez, 670-71; from: Jose de Galvez,
607
Tortola, Virgin Islands: British vessels cruis-
ing near, 385, 749, 749n., 866, 929, 1075,
1285, 1450, 1456; mentioned, 30, 92, 126,
162n., 193, 214, 232, 296, 581, 586, 608, 675
Tossuir, Clement: 907
Toub, Nicholas: 1093
Tough, Alexander: 1000
Toulon, France: 199, 406, 427, 441, 1089
Toustaing, (Capt.): to: Gabriel de Sartine,
386 ( Port de Paix)
Towel, Mark (Capt.): 346-47 ( Carolina Packet)
Tower, John (Capt.): 57 ( Salley )
Towers, Robert: 863, 1155, 1355
Towhig, Jerry: 31
Towls, Samuel (Lt., Virginia Navy): 878
Townsend, Mass.: 27, 27n., 58
INDEX
1633
Townsend, (Capt.): 1284 (Friendship)
Townshend [formerly Salisbury'], British Ord-
nance Ship: 582
Townshend, Lord George: to: George Germain,
558; from: George Germain, 576-77; 617;
mentioned, 558n., 574
Tracey, Thomas: on Alfred , 702
Tracey, Thomas: on Lynch, 234
Tracy, : 346
Tracy, James (Capt.): 126-28, 778-80, 787
(Yankee Hero)
Tracy, Nathaniel: 1269, 1393
Tracy, Robert (Lt.): 128, 780
Trade, Continental: Sources: Canada, 454, 624;
Cape Francois, 148, 149, 244, 284, 365-66, 471,
722n., 733, 734n., 790, 790n., 794, 795, 796,
981, 997, 1025, 1029, 1086-87; France, 147-49,
415-16, 425, 430-31, 441, 446, 455, 459, 469-
70, 472„ 475-76, 479, 480, 483, 485-88, 491,
498-99, 510, 514-15, 518, 524-25, 527, 529,
534, 551-53, 555, 556-57, 568, 572, 609, 623,
629; French Santo Domingo, 48, 210, 233,
245, 270, 284, 384, 389, 722, 807n., 828, 878,
897, 919, 1016, 1029, 1045, 1148, 1332 1334;
Germany, 599; Italy, 586; Martinique, 141,
148-19, 158, 186, 243, 261, 652n., 727, 732,
732n., 824-28, 864, 912-13, 919, 938, 1025-26;
Netherlands, 476, 532, 549, 1039-41; Nova
Scotia, 480-81; Portugal, 444, 468; Prussia,
489, 623; St. Croix, 5, 126, 140-41, 161, 251,
380, 565, 608, 645, 1428; St. Eustatius, 122,
140, 193, 476, 646, 658, 997, 1226, 1282, 1369;
Spain, 607-08
Traffar, Charles: 1372
Trail, John: 682, 1413
Trainer, Simon: 906
Trask, Adin: 1375
Traverse, John: 1377
Travis, Champion (Col., Virginia Militia): 812,
1392
Travis, Edward (Capt., Virginia Navy): 9, 25,
44, 88, 88n., 236, 727-28, 767, 783, 1016, 1409,
1449, 1466, 1478 (Manley; Raleigh)
Treasury, British: Lords Commissioners: from:
Wooldridge & Kelly, 540-41
Treedswell, Samuel: 985
Trent River, N.C.: 1096
Trepethen, William: 967
Trevett, John (Lt., Continental Marines): Jour-
nal: 79, 731-32, 732n.; mentioned, 79n., 166
Trident, HMS: 452
Trimingham, Francis (Capt.): 685, 1203-05
(Sea Nymph)
Trip, Job: 1432-33
Tristram, sloop: captured by Squirrel, 1170
(Will Scott)
Triton, HMS: Journal: 660, 981, 981n.; in Que-
bec, 47, 169, 201, 414-15, 417, 433, 434, 542,
969; mentioned, 150n., 449, 894, 1343, 1345,
1370, 1424 (Skeffington Lutwidge)
Triton, British Victualer: 432
Triton, schooner: captured by Milford, 981-82,
1125 (Elisha Cole)
Triumph, HMS: 450
Trott, William: 906
Troud, (Capt., French Navy): 408
Trowbridge, Eza: 856
True American, Massachusetts Privateer
Schooner: commissioned, 14, 57; captured:
Jenny, 1395, 1396n., 1472 (Daniel Hathorne)
True Blue, Massachusetts Privateer Schooner:
346n. (William Cole)
True Blue, ship: 33n., 266, 551 (James Stable)
True Briton, British Privateer Armed Ship:
recaptured: Irwin, 1332
True, Samuel: 1375
Trois Rivieres, Quebec: 513
Trumbull, Continental Navy Frigate: officer
appointments, 95, 270; building, 274, 274n.,
707, 707n., 1005-06, 1006n., 1178, ll78n.,
1299-1300, 1300n., 1464; to be launched, 654;
seamen transferred to, 693-705; cannon, 1021,
1021n., 1426; Dudley Saltonstall ranked, 1200
(Dudley Saltonstall)
Trumbull, Arnold’s Fleet Row Galley: at Val-
cour Island, 1006-07, 1116, 1235, 1258, 1306,
1344, 1380 (Seth Warner; Edward Wiggles-
worth)
Trumbull, Benjamin (Capt., Connecticut Mi-
litia): 4
Trumbull, Mrs. Faith (Robinson): 1022*
Trumbull, George: 668
Trumbull, John (Col., Continental Army):
1261-62
Trumbull, Jonathan (Gov., Connecticut): Ar-
nold’s Fleet, 3-4, 791; Esek Hopkins’ expedi-
tion, 196, 948-49, 1202; to: Committee of the
Pay Table, 1149; Nicholas Cooke, 706, 1380-
81; John Hancock, 264—65; Esek Hopkins,
1219-20; Massachusetts General Court, 759;
Philip Schuyler, 165-66; Nathaniel Shaw, Jr.,
706-07; George Washington, 203-04, 1020,
1218-19, 1349; William Williams, 949; from:
Nicholas Cooke, 662, 1134; Horatio Gates,
145; Esek Hopkins, 948, 1134-36, 1271;
Joseph Reed, 292, 1317-18; Nathaniel Shaw,
Jr., 95, 316n„ 733, 760, 789-90, 983, 984, 1005,
1021; George Washington, 4, 227, 763, 1085;
mentioned, 36, 82, 139, 144, 204, 283, 334,
365, 640n„ 662, 723, 770, 792, 882, 983, 1007,
1022*, 1080, 1099, 1214, 1254-55, 1261, 1290,
1434, 1500
Trumbull, Jonathan, Jr.: 36, 1116-17
Truxtun, Thomas (Capt.): 1057, 1057n., 1215,
1216n. (Independence)
Tryal, HM Schooner: in Hudson River, 5, 19-
20, 22, 37, 38, 50, 84, 166-67, 182, 206, 208,
217, 225, 253, 373-74, 842-44, 861, 887, 892,
989; penetrated Hudson River defenses, 1 178—
81, 1184-87, 1238, 1336 (John Brown)
Tryon, William (Royal Gov., New York): 22,
124, 443, 1068
1634
INDEX
Try ton, brigantine: captured by Montgomery,
804n., 955, 956n. (Thomas Martindale)
Tublin, Isaac: 807
Tucker, Henry: from: Marine Committee, 1203;
mentioned, 669
Tucker, John (Capt.): 112 ( Harlequin )
Tucker, Samuel (Capt., Washington’s Fleet):
191n., 231n., 290n., 302, 346, 347, 465, 465n.,
786, 1055 (Hancock)
Tucker, St. George: to: Thomas Nelson, 644-45;
Mann Page, Jr., 1410-11; Josiah Young, 920;
from: John Page, 1041-42
Tucker, William: 1093
Tuder, Samuel (Capt.): frigate construction,
224, 458, 459n., 873, 902, 1138-39, 1365-66;
to: New York Provincial Convention, 1435;
from: Marine Committee, 1353-54; men-
tioned, 962, 986
Tudor, Henry: to: Pennsylvania Council of
Safety, 126
Tudor, William (Lt. Col., Continental Army):
to: John Adams, 227; from: John Adams, 187
Tufts, Cotton: to: John Adams, 93
Tufts, Simon (Capt., South Carolina Navy):
1427 (Defence)
Tupper, Benjamin (Lt. Col., Continental Army):
to: George Washington, 37-38; mentioned,
49, 61, 84, 121, 909, 909n., 1184
Turks Island, Bahamas: 997, 1046
Turnbull, (Dr.): 260, 643-44, 718
Turnbull, Andrew: to: Arthur Gordon, 644
Turnbull, George: 642
Turnbull, Thomas: 1360-61, 1361n.
Turner, Cornelius: 857
Turner, Daniel: 1093
Turner, James: 1373
Turner, John: 80, 1060
Turner, John, Jr.: 856
Turner, Moses (Lt., Washington’s Fleet): 735
Turner, Samuel: 682, 1414
Turner, Silas: 856
Turner, William: 60
Tumour, A.: 1144
Turpin, Joseph (Capt., South Carolina Navy):
749, 941-43 (Comet)
Turtle, Bushnell’s Submarine: 709, 709n., 736,
1185, 1 185n., 1499-1511
Turtle Bay, N.Y.: 884, 1007, 1068, 1152, 1221
Tuscany, Grand Duke of: 624
Tuscany Frigate, British Victualer: 432, 434
Tuttle, Clement: 986
Tweed, ship: 452
Two Brothers, schooner: captured by Galatea,
292 (Benjamin Chew)
Two Brothers, schooner: captured by Daphne,
1465-66, 1466n. (J. Gilbert)
Two Brothers, schooner: 797 (Job Greene)
Two Brothers, schooner: captured by Race-
horse, 1171 (J. Watkins)
Two Brothers, sloop: captured by Pomona, 852
(Sanford Thompson)
Two Frieyids, British Victualer: 579, 595
Two Friends, sloop: 231n., 347, 358, 817 (Wil-
liam Hazen)
Tyler, John: 10
Tyler, John (Lt. Col., Continental Army): 1063
Tyler, Samuel: 693
Tyley, Walter: 700
Tyne, packet: 543 (Groves)
Tyrannicide, Massachusetts Navy Brigantine:
Journal: 48, 57, 116, 129, 136, 164-65, 194,
213-14, 250, 263, 280, 290-91, 305, 315, 359, 370,
676, 722, 769, 799; munitions, 13; prize money
from Scottish transports, 58, 59n.; rerigged as
brigantine, 799n., 801, 1347; ordered to cruise,
1358-60; captured: Anna, 788n., 1002; Betsey,
48, 193, 193n., 348n.; Dispatch, 123n., 192n.,
279, 279n., 289, 290n., 377, 377n., 1455n.;
Patty, 192n.; Rachel, 305, 378-79; St. John,
231, 233, 233n.; Three Brothers, 48, 163, 193,
231, 233, 233n., 1297; unnamed French ship,
315, 370 (John Fisk)
Tyson, Nathaniel: 978
Tyson, William: 1376
Ulmer, (Capt., Arnold’s Fleet): 37 1 (Spit-
fire)
Ulrich, Samuel, Jr.: 677
Underwood, (Capt., R.N.): 627
Underwood, Samuel: 856
Underwood, Thomas (Capt., R.N.): 75 (At-
alanta)
Unicorn, HMS: in convoy to New York, 420,
424, 432, 434, 439, 449, 456, 469, 481, 492, 504,
543, 595, 1436; captured: Bostwick, 1439;
mentioned, 1195, 1196n,, 1332, 1382, 1424
(John Ford)
Union, HMS: 452
Union, British Victualer: 579
Union, Massachusetts Privateer Sloop: 649n.
(Isaac Soames)
Union, ship: 185 (Sampson Harvey)
Union, sloop: 1349n. (David Vickary)
United States, Rhode Island Privateer Sloop:
306, 306n. (Benjamin Pierce)
Unity, British Ordnance Ship: 582, 604
Unity, British Transport: 15, 15n., 577, 577n.,
(Morgan)
Unity, schooner: captured by Porcupine, 866,
1170 (Seth Clark)
Unity, sloop: captured by Viper, 221, 221n., 329,
330n. (J. Lord)
Unity, sloop: 262, 262n. (Ichabod Jones)
Updike, John (Capt.): from: Isaac Miles, 909;
mentioned, 677, 1056
Uppleby, Samuel (Capt., R.N.): 156, 167, 324,
374, 862, 891, 932, 965 (Preston)
Usher, Robert: 333, 959
Vail, Christopher: Diary: 733
Valcour Island. Lake Chanmlain, N.Y.: Battle
of, 97*, 836*, 1035*, 1229*, 1256*, 1273*;
American account, 1234-37, 1289-90, 1350-51,
1380-81, 1388-91, 1436, 1461-62; British ac-
INDEX
1635
count, 1198, 1228-30, 1244-45, 1257-61, 1272-
77; vessels engaged: American, 1236*, 1245,
1258, 1342*; British, 46*, 1234, 1244, 1277,
1343-44, 1346, 1379*; British officers em-
ployed, 1343, 1344-45; Indians engaged: 925,
993, 1198, 1445, 1461; Prisoners, 1261, 1274,
1277, 1279, 1380-81; paroled, 1382, 1445,
1461-63; wintering plans, 1289-90, 1336, 1370;
See also Arnold, Benedict; Navy, British
Valentine, Jacob (Lt., Virginia Marines): from:
Virginia Navy Board, 1410; mentioned, 1207
Valiant, HMS: 450
Valiant, John; 906
Van Bebber & Harrison: to: Maryland Council
of Safety, 1211, 1339-40; Virginia Committee
of Safety, 200-01; from: Maryland Council of
Safety, 65, 797-98, 798n.; mentioned, 132
Van Buren, Leonard (Lt., New York Militia):
from: Richard Varick, 36-37; mentioned, 139,
227
Van Cortlandt, Philip (Lt., Col., Continental
Army): 139
Van Cortlandt, Pierre (Col., New York Militia):
to: New York Provincial Convention, 39;
mentioned, 1435
Van Dyke, Andrew: 1094
Van Rensselaer, Philip: 35, 139, 224, 872, 1485
Vandam, Isaac: 738
Vandeput, George (Capt., R.N.): 167, 268, 299,
374, 736, 886, 891 (Asia)
Vanderbilt, J.: 412,413
Vangelder, Ezekiel: 1375
Vanluden, Israel: 700
Vanluden, Thomas: 700
Van Zandt, Jacobus: 35, 412-13, 490n., 677-78,
872-73, 902, 1034, 1321
Varick, Richard (Capt., Continental Army): to:
Bernard Eddy, 34-35; David Ensign, 962;
Peter Gansevoort, 19; Timothy Hughes, 35;
John Hunn, 986; Hermanus Schuyler, 34;
Leonard Van Buren, 36-37; George Wash-
ington, 33-34; from: James Wilkinson, 61;
mentioned, 98, 120, 224, 322
Varnum, James (Col., Continental Army): 874
Varrell, Francis: 915, 915n.
Vaughan, John (Brig. Gen., British Army): 124,
1009
Vaughan, John: on board Defence, 906
Vaughan, Thomas (Lt., Continental Navy):
170-71, 692
Veazey, (Capt.): 198
Vengeance, HMS: 450
Venice, Italy: 392, 474, 615
Venus, HMS: 452
Venus, British Army Transport: 539, 540n., 601,
601 n., 660 (Wilson)
Venus, British Victualer, 579, 595
Venus, Pennsylvania Privateer Brigantine: 945-
46, 946n., 947, 947n. (William Raddon)
Venus: 1001, 1396 (George Colas)
Vergennes, Comte de [Charles Gravier]: to: Jean
de Clugny, 472, 609; Gabriel de Sartine, 388;
Barbeu Dubourg, 399-400; Gamier, 420, 430-
31, 572, 599-600; from: Caron de Beaumar-
chais, 550; Gabriel de Sartine, 384-86, 418;
Barbeu Dubourg, 397-99, 425, 475-76, 491,
533; Gamier, 389-90, 400-01, 408-10, 414-16,
444-52, 454-56, 467, 470-71, 473-74, 502-04,
504-05, 522-23, 547-48, 549-50, 569-70, 570n.,
591-92, 597-98; 630-33; Claude Julien, 469-
70; mentioned, 393n., 418n., 441, 476n., 485,
487, 518, 520, 533n., 615n., 1086
Vernejous, Jean Louis de: 890, 890n.
Vernon, Samuel, Jr.: 292
Vernon, William: 856
Versailles, France: 485, 488, 499, 500, 751
Vesey, Joseph: 745, 1047, 1375
Vestal, HMS: 450
Vesuvius, HM Bomb Brig: 450
Vesuvius, Pennsylvania Navy Fire Brigantine: 7
(Edward Bingley)
Viall, Donnelly: 856
Viars, : 499
Vickary, David (Capt.): 1349, 1349n. (Union)
Victory, HMS: 449
Victory, brig: 1148 (Bartolemis Susaris)
Vigilant, HMS: 450
Viper, HM Sloop: Journal: 162, 221; captured:
Louisa, 162; Nancy, 221; Unity, 221; two
schooners, 1125; two sloops, 346-47; men-
tioned, 169, 288-89, 327-28, 357, 357n., 449,
776, 893, 1046, 1076, 1424 (Samuel Graves)
Viper, Massachusetts Privateer Schooner: cap-
tured by Perseus, 1018-19, 1019n. (Benjamin
Wormell)
Virgin Islands: 314, 644-45
Virginia, Continental Navy Frigate: Nicholson
recommended to command, 8-9, 9n.; officer
appointments, 105-06; building, 106n., 198;
launched, 172, l72n.; desertions, 641, 641n.;
accounts, 668, 668n.; gunpowder for, 807,
807n., 1015, 1015n.; anchors needed, 863, 1223;
cannon for, 994, 944n., 1222-23; seamen
needed, 1039, 1039n.; cordage, 1095, 1095n.;
Nicholson ranked, 1200 (James Nicholson)
Virginia: Convention: 586, 645, 740; defensive
preparations, 238; Dunmore’s forces, 68, 617,
678, 973; frigate construction, 10, 10n.; gun-
powder, 293, 738; militia, 68, 132-33; public
treasury, 10, 185; trade, 399, 552; mentioned,
42, 64, 89, 125, 153, 173, 183, 200, 257, 294,
312n., 389, 415, 527, 589, 683, 716, 772, 893,
978, 1012, 1041-42, 1153, 1411; See also Lord
Dunmore; Patrick Henry; Navy, Virginia
Virginia Capes: See Cape Charles; Cape Henry
Virginia Council of Safety: Journal: 10-11, 25,
44, 71, 88, 106, 126, 132-33, 141-42, 238, 245,
257-58, 258n„ 294, 727, 742, 767, 798, 808-11,
828, 878, 919, 940, 995, 1016, 1028, 1108, 1123,
1206, 1267, 1282, 1312, 1326, 1334, 1441; from:
Pliarne, Penet & Co., 1425-26; Van Bebber &
Harrison, 200-01; mentioned, 10, 25, 236, 239,
246, 1153, 1312; See also John Page
1636
INDEX
Virginia Gazette [Dixon and Hunter’s] (Wil-
liamsburg): 1776: 3 Aug., 44; 24 Aug., 294;
7 Sept., 239, 743; 18 Oct., 1326; 11 Oct., 1228
Virginia Gazette [Purdie’s] (Williamsburg): 1776:
2 Aug., 26; 9 Aug., 132; 10 Aug., 142; 13 Aug.,
812; 16 Aug., 7-8; 27 Sept., 1028
Volante, schooner: 868
Voltiere, Desfarge de la (Lt., French Navy):
864-65, 897
Von Haller, Albrecht: 1485
Voorhees, G.: 338
Vulcan, sloop: 258-60, 260n.
Vulture, HM Sloop: convoying troops to Hali-
fax, 576n., 592, 595; mentioned, 449, 546, 550
(James Feattus)
Vulture, Pennsylvania Navy Armed Boat: 7
(William Green way)
Wadden, Isaac: 304
Wade, John: 901
Wade, Nathaniel (Capt., Continental Army):
1524
Wadsworth, James (Brig. Gen., Connecticut
Militia): 349-50, 1063
Wadsworth, Jeremiah: to: Barnabas Deane,
1178; from: Barnabas Deane, 1254
Wailing, James: 959
Wailing, Joseph: 340
Wailing, Thomas: 700
Wait, Marvin: 266
Wait, Thomas: 900
Waklee, Mel: 984
Waldeck, Germany: troops from: 431, 434, 993,
1318
Waldron, John (Capt.): 412, 413, 501 (Grant)
Wales, Nathaniel, Jr.: 1149
Walker, (Capt.): 1177
Walker, Charles (Capt.): 16, 17n., 204, 204n.,
334, 961, 1021, 1021n.
Walker, David (Lt., New York Navy): 1008,
1413
Walker, Henry: 1161
Walker, Hugh (Capt.): 626, 1000 (Annabella)
Walker, John: 1144
Walker, Thomas (Lt., Maryland Marines): 256-
57, 293, 896, 906, 1132, 1466
Wall, James: 704
Wall, William (Capt.): 60, 66n.
Wallace, (Capt.): 634 (Bee)
Wallace, James (Capt., R.N.): 167, 206, 225,
228, 267, 373-74, 378, 457, 465, 666, 709, 763,
788, 840, 886, 891, 924, 931, 1032, 1424 (Rose;
Experiment)
Wallace, John (Lt., R.N.): 804 (Hawke)
Wallace, John: 602
Wallace, Richard: 877
Wallace, Thomas: 945
Waller, Edmund: 1466
Walpole, Joseph: 906
Walrond, Mainsweet: 999
Walston, Samuel: 877
Walters, John (Lt.,- British Marines): 422
Walton, George: 22, 86, 273, 1308, 1416
Walton, N.J.: 1063
Ward, Artemas (Maj. Gen., Continental Army):
to: George Washington, 1142; from: George
Washington, 307-08; mentioned, 62, 152, 284,
308n.
Ward, Henry: 721, 1148, 1349, 1457
Ward, John: 83, 957, 1129
Ward, Joseph (Maj., Continental Army): to:
Joshua Davis, 222; George Washington, 638;
mentioned, 221n.
W’ard, Samuel: 178
Ward, Thomas: on board Alfred, 696
Ward, Thomas: on board Ranger, 939
Ward, Thomas: of South Carolina, 943
Warden, John: 1299
Wardlaw, William (Lt., R.N.): 520-21 (Alarm)
Wardrop, David: 1475
Ward well, William: 1378-80
Ware, Josiah: 872
Waring, Thomas: 1133
Warner, Elisha (Capt., Continental Navy): 939,
1201 (Fly)
Warner, Henry, Jr.: 1365
Warner, John (Capt.): 194, 677, 803-04, 820
(Yankee Ranger)
Warner, Samuel (Lt.): 116
Warner, Seth (Capt., Arnold’s Fleet): 4, 165,
166n., 204, 838, 1006, 1062 (Trumbull)
Warnsley, Joseph: 1460
Warnsley, Powers: 1460
Warren, Continental Navy Frigate: building,
29, 29n., 56, 94-95, 150, 229, 331, 1056, 1056n.,
1136, 1219, 1299-1300, 1304, 1346; desertion,
332; launched, 348; officer appointments, 65l;
marines needed, 803, 803n.; seamen needed,
948, 948n., 949, 1079, 1218; cannon needed,
1147; John B. Hopkins ranked, 1201; sailed
for Newport, 1361; ordered to Cape Fear,
1384-86; being manned, 1399; mentioned,
1203n. (John Burroughs Hopkins)
Warren, Pennsylvania Navy Row Galley: 7
(Thomas Houston)
Warren, Washington’s Fleet Schooner: engage-
ment with Unity, 15, 15n., 62, 62n.; muster
roll, 304-05; captured: Anne, 289; Annabella,
539, 540, 540n.; George, 539, 540, 540n.; cap-
tured by Liverpool, 303-04, 304n., 638, 673,
853, 1125, 1211, 121 In., 1453, 1454n.; men-
tioned, 59n., 152, 1097, 1265 (William Burke)
Warren, Massachusetts Privateer Schooner:
commissioned, 13-14, 14n.; captured: Picary,
626, 627n., 899, 1002, 1055, 1055n., 1190,
1190n.; Sarah & Elizabeth, 1055, 1055n.,
1442-43; Swallow, 952, 1055, 1055n. (William
Coas)
Warren, Massachusetts Privateer Sloop: com-
missioned, 250n.; Journal of Ephraim Briggs,
969, 982, 982n.; captured: Argo, 231, 262,
262n.; Isaac, 233n., 298n., 347, 675, 675n.;
unnamed schooner, 661; mentioned, 291,
INDEX
1637
291 n., 305, 332, 367-68, 830, 850, 850n., 907
(John Philips; Wyatt Barlow)
Warren, R.I.: 306
Warren, Benjamin (Capt.): 674, 785, 1252n.
( Revenge )
Warren, James: to: John Adams, 143; Samuel
Adams, 191, 1394; Joseph Otis, 954; from:
John Adams, 220-21, 255-56; mentioned, 344,
730-31, 1298, 1316, 1455
Warren, Peletiah: 234
Warren, Samuel (Capt., R.N.): 76, 852 ( Weazle )
Warren, W.: 234
Warrior, HMS: 450
Warspite, HMS: 452
Warwick, HMS: 452
Warwick, Va.: 26, 174
Wasbie, Jacob: 697
Washington, Continental Navy Frigate:
launched, 171; officer appointments, 271, 915;
boatswain appointed, 915; Read ranked, 1201
(Thomas Read)
Washington, Arnold’s Fleet Row Galley: com-
pleted, 96; Battle of Valcour Island: dam-
aged, 1235, 1276, 1306, 1380; captured: 1274,
1275; as British prize, 1245, 1257-58, 1344,
1400 (David Waterbury)
Washington, Washington’s Fleet Brig: captured,
115, 735 (Sion Martindale)
Washington, Pennsylvania Navy Row Galley:
7 (Henry Dougherty)
Washington, Rhode Island Navy Row Galley:
arrived at New York, 4, 22, 22n., 226; engage-
ment with Phoenix and Rose, 37-39, 49, 61-
62, 121, 123, 124, 130, 182-83, 217-19, 352;
returned to Rhode Island, 370; in Rhode
Island, 662; ordered to New London, 1134
(Hill)
Washington, Virginia Navy Row Galley: build-
ing, 239, 239n.
Washington, Massachusetts Privateer Brigan-
tine: recruiting for, 870* (Elias Smith)
Washington, Massachusetts Privateer Schooner:
Commissioned granted, 78-79; captured:
Georgia Diana, 899, 952, 952n., 1001, 1001n.,
1002; Millham, 1019, 1019n., 1053, 1114
(Nathaniel Odiorne)
Washington, New York Privateer: 1421 (Joseph
Jauncey)
Washington, brig: 857 (Consider Howland)
Washington, George (Gen., Continental Army):
Connecticut Navy, 264, 292, 1317-18; naviga-
tional obstructions, 1198, 1199, 1201; New
York Campaign: defensive preparations, 156,
322, 323, 706, 1220, 1517, 1520; fleet move-
ments, 772, 909, 909n.; evacuation, 22, 349-50,
372n., 874, 1062, 1064, 1067, 1106, 1151;
mentioned, 103, 206, 218*, 528, 831, 845, 962-
63, 1134, 1185, 1289; peace proposals, 715;
prisoner exchange, 102, 130, 146, 242, 373,
1020; prize agent appointed, 116n.; supplies,
144, 163n., 222, 656, 682, 854, 1045, 1353,
1367; to: John Bradford, 62; Nicholas Cooke,
1238; John Hancock, 61-62, 98-99, 155, 284,
735-36, 1185; William Heath, 219n.; Lord
Howe, 219, 235n.; New York Provincial Con-
vention, 926-27; Jonathan Trumbull, 4, 227,
763, 1085; Artemas Ward, 307-08; from: Wil-
liam Bartlett, 1194-95; John Bradford, 153;
Henry Bromfield, 163; Nathaniel Cleaves,
1184; George Clinton, 20; Nicholas Cooke,
955; Horatio Gates, 335; John Hancock, 125,
667; William Heath, 217-19, 226, 241-42;
Esek Hopkins, 650; Lord Howe, 235; Thomas
Jefferson, 1499-1500; Henry B. Livingston,
1254-55, 1434; Hugh Mercer, 1292-93; New
York Provincial Convention, 927; Jeremiah
Putnam, 1184; Nathaniel Shaw, Jr., 3, 1080-
81; Thomas Thomas, 84; Jonathan Trum-
bull, 203-04, 1020, 1218-19, 1349; Benjamin
Tupper, 37-38; Richard Varick, 33-34; Arte-
mas Ward, 1142; Joseph Ward, 638; William
Watson, 115-16; Joshua Wentworth, 301-02;
mentioned, 22n., 55, 56n., 115, 147, 152, 158,
196, 210, 237*, 253, 283, 284, 760, 792, 850,
924, 1055n., 1091, 1186, 1220, 1238, 1298,
1407, 1436
Washington’s Fleet: commanding officers, 153;
supplies, 1490; captured: Annabella and
George, 539, 540, 540n.; mentioned, 115n., 772,
1055, 1055n.
Wasling, James: 333
Wasp, HM Sloop: 448 (Richard Bligh)
Wasp, Continental Navy Schooner: in New
Providence expedition, 197; sent to Bermuda
with dispatches, 286-87; cannon for, 994,
994n.; John Baldwin ranked, 1201; captured:
Leghorn Galley, 1295, 1295n., 1430, 1430n.,
1465; mentioned, 209 (Charles Alexander;
John Baldwin)
Waterbury, David (Brig. Gen., Connecticut Mi-
litia): with Arnold’s Fleet: 145, 205, 708, 760,
791, 837, 902, 949, 962, 1007, 1061, 1084, 1102,
1116-17, 1151-52, 1235, 1237; at Ticonderoga,
223, 335; taken prisoner at Valcour Island,
1257, 1260, 1261, 1274, 1276, 1277, 1279, 1306,
1380-81, 1382, 1436; to: Horatio Gates, 217;
mentioned, 96, 283 (Washington)
Waterford, Ireland, 1002
Watering Place, N.Y.: 225, 353, 1024, 1262, 1292
Waterman, : 1176
Waterman, Nathaniel: 248
Waterman, William (Capt.): 652n., 732, 732n.
(Diamond)
Waterous, Eber (Capt.): 852 (Prince of Orange)
Waters, Daniel (Capt., Washington’s Fleet): 240,
240n., 247, 691, 788, 853, 1002, 1055, 1069, 1146,
1 146n., 1195, 1470 (Lee)
Waters, Samuel (Capt.): 178, 1001, 1001n., 1053
(Dolphin)
Waters, Thomas (Capt.): 864 (Baltimore Hero)
Waters, William (Capt.): 159, 159n. (Sally)
Watertown, Mass.: 113, 164, 202, 213, 230, 231,
262, 279, 328, 330, 638n„ 786, 799, 1330
Watkin, Ralph: 1093
1638
INDEX
Watkin, William (Capt., Pennsylvania Navy):
7 ( Brimstone )
Watkins, : 1171
Watkins, J. (Capt.): 1171 ( Two Brothers)
Watson, (Capt.): 615-16 ( Samuel )
Watson, Henry: 390
Watson, Robert: 1144
Watson, William: to: George Washington, 1 15—
16; mentioned, 116n., 661n., 721, 898, 1304,
1323, 1348n.
Watt, James (Lt., R.N.): 664
Wattles, William (Capt.): 1005n. (Nancy)
Watts, J.: 1177
Way, John: 83
Waylin, Andrew: 1372
Wealthy, sloop: 1108 (Butler)
Weaver, Thomas (Lt., Continental Navy): 1363,
1398-99
Weaver, William: 138
Weazel, HM Sloop: captured: Hester, 76, 852;
mentioned, 448, 1075-76 (Samuel Warren)
Webb, George: 189, 211, 221, 238, 812
Webb, John: 72
Webber, James (Capt.): 1470, 1471 (Betsey)
Webber, John: 443
Webber, Robert: on board Alfred, 18, 695
Webster, John: 1375
Webster, Nicholas (Capt.): from: Nathaniel
Shaw, Jr., 1045; mentioned, 1044 (John
Wilkes)
Wedges, John: 945
Wedon, Richard: 264
Weedon, George (Col., Continental Army): to:
John Page, 1199-1200, 1422; mentioned, 142
Weedon, Henry (Lt.): 291-92, 856
Weeks, Joseph: 279
Wegg, E. R.: 814
Welden, Richard (Capt., Massachusetts Navy):
345, 359, 359n., 661, 898 (Rising Empire)
Welderen, Count: 550
Welkey, Patrick: 182n.
Wellisay, William: 1413
Wells, Chester (Capt., Connecticut Militia):
1099
Wells, David: 857
Wells, George: to: Maryland Council of Safety,
1295-96; from: Maryland Council of Safety,
1311; mentioned, 797
Wells, Levi (Maj., Continental Army): 1130
Wells, William: 1376
Welsh, : 147
Wendell, Oliver: 648
Wentworth, Joshua: to: Charles Thomson,
368-69, George Washington, 301-02; from:
Robert Harrison, 772; mentioned, 113, 177,
240n., 247-48, 248n., 346, 1050, 1051n., 1323
Wentworth, Paul: 511
Wereat, John: 1322
Wirt, Martin (Capt., Pennsylvania Navy): 7
(Sally)
West, Marvin: 1305
Westchester, N.Y.: 1064, 1066, 1351
West Florida, HM Armed Vessel: 75, 660, 687-
89, 729-30, 943 (George Burdon)
West Florida Governor’s Council: Journal: 745-
46, 813-14, 943; Minutes; 687 See Peter
Chester
West Indies: British supplies from, 328, 446,
448, 460; French Navy in, 356, 391n., 393;
trade, 148-49, 498, 512, 523, 594, 596, 887,
1338, 1431; vessels bound for, 592, 604, 615,
1042; vessels from, 17, 503, 538, 551, 570,
590, 597, 632; mentioned, 26, 58, 72, 138, 158,
164, 181, 194, 214, 233, 258, 278, 287, 293, 341,
427, 565, 608, 649, 769, 773, 823, 888, 1239,
1435 See also individual islands
West, James: 347
Westcott, Nathan: 165
Westcott, Wright (Capt., Virginia Navy): from:
Virginia Navy Board, 743; mentioned, 274,
728-29, 784n. (Scorpion)
Weston, Robert: 234
Weston, William (Capt.): 369, 691
Westphalia, Germany: troops from, 993
Wetherill, Joseph: 1011
Wetherspoon, John: 1405
Wetherston, William: 113
Wetmore, Prosper: 118, 1057
Weymouth, England: 538
Weymouth, Lord [Thomas Thynne, 3rd Vis-
count Weymouth]: to: Lord Stormont, 502;
from: Lord Grantham, 604; H. Katenkamp,
421; Lord Stormont, 499-500, 518-20, 560,
587, 603, 612-13, 629; mentioned, 391, 409-10,
411, 454-55, 522, 556n., 593, 614, 630
Whaley, Jeremiah: 857
Wharton, Isaac: from: John Langdon, 814
Wharton, James: 379, 668, 668n,
Wharton, Thomas: from: John Langdon, 814;
Thomas Proctor, 1281-82; mentioned, 863
Wheatley, John (Lt., Connecticut Militia): 1063
Wheeler, Daniel: 18, 695
Wheeler, Paul: 1217
Wheeler, Thomas: 896
Wheelwright, John (Lt., Continental Navy):
816-17, 1052, 1159
Whellen, Richard (Capt.): 1216, 1216n.
(Broome)
Whetstone Point, Md.: 293
Whipple, Abraham (Capt., Continental Navy):
concerning capture of Royal Exchange, 610n.,
1031, 1050; ranked, 1201; to: Nicholas Brown
& Co., 60; mentioned, 255, 405, 639, 788,
1055, 1057, 1113, 1136, 1200, 1219, 1259-51,
1475 (Columbus; Providence)
Whipple, Mrs. Abraham: 60
Whipple, Christopher (Capt.): 1114n., 1348.
1348n., 1421, 1471 (Putnam)
Whipple, Jabez (Capt.): capture of Fanny, 731,
731n., 780, 1004, 1420; mentioned, 2, 48, 79,
93, 129, 181, 181n., 194, 250, 251n„ 263, 280,
291, 332, 638, 649, 706, 706n. (Independence)
Whipple, William: cannon for Raleigh, 343,
360, 814, 814n., 1051, 1051n.; to: Josiah Bart-
INDEX
1639
lett, 831, 952; John Langdon, 1426; from:
Josiah Bartlett, 325; John Langdon, 55-56,
1346; mentioned, 56, 86, 147, 346, 346n.,
1360, 1416, 1464
Whippy, Zebulon: 1375
Whitby, England: 419
Whitbyrne, Michael (Capt.): 785, 785n. ( Mine-
head )
Whitcomb, Benjamin (Capt., New Hampshire
Militia): 371, 734, 837, 858, 884
White, (Capt.): 1077
White, George: 856
White, Henery: 443
White, Joseph (Capt.): libels against Anna
Maria , 347; Harlequin, 29-30; Polly, 347,
1031, 1031n.; to: Massachusetts Council, 1077;
mentioned, 27, 31n., 56n., 58, 58n., 77, 78n.,
192n., 241n., 303, 831n., 850, 633n., 674, 881
(Revenge)
White, Oliver: 1205-06
White, Samuel: from: Tristram Dalton, 1077
White, Sibeline (Capt.): 721, 998 (Polly)
White Plains, N.Y.: 680
Whitefield, Joseph: 1224
Whitehall Evening Post (London): 1776: 12-14
Nov., 1076; 14-16 Nov., 1076n.; 16-19 Nov.,
1200, 1200n.; 21-23 Nov., 1110n., lllln.
Whitehaven, England: 182, 411, 418, 540, 589
Whitehead, John: 15
Whitehurst, Peter: 1016
Whiteman, John: 696
Whitestone, N.Y.: 322, 371, 640, 655, 679, 709,
723, 770, 910
Whitford, Constant: 1374
Whiting, Connecticut Navy Row Galley: at
New York City, 4, 78, 130, 226, 264; engage-
ment with Phoenix and Rose, 37-39, 49, 61-
62, 121, 123, 124, 182-83, 217-19, 352, 1085;
supplies, 120; engagement with Roebuck,
Phoenix and Tartar, 1178-84, 1186-87, 131 7—
18, 1318n.; captain and crew dismissed from
service, 1318, 1460 (John McCleave)
Whiting, Thomas (Virginia Navy Commis-
sioner): 71, 71n., 174-75, 239, 246, 275, 294,
379, 659, 728-29, 743, 775, 783, 784, 799, 812,
995, 1017, 1156, 1191, 1282, 1356, 1392, 1410,
1417, 1418, 1427
Whitmarsh, William: 517
Whitney, Josiah (Col., Massachusetts Militia):
344, 801, 869
Whitpain, William (Midn., Pennsylvania Navy):
725-26, 726n.
Whitt, John: 164n.
Whitton, Solomon (Lt.): 998
Whitwell, Samuel: I77n., 247
Whitworth, Richard: from: Andrew Snape
Hamond, 89; mentioned, 51
Whorff, Samuel: 1395
Why, John: 1 llOn.
Wickes, Lambert (Capt., Continental Navy): en-
gagement with Shark, 583-84, 601, 601n., 684;
ranked, 1201; from: Marine Committee,
1400; Committee of Secret Correspondence,
1400-03; mentioned, 26, 41, 42, 64, 64n., 77,
104, 105, 111, 201, 325, 327n., 570n., 592, 593,
783n., 807-08, 824, 890, 913, 936n., 937, 938,
976, 977, 1026, 1294, 1405-07, 1416 (Reprisal)
Wicomico, Md.: 366, 774, 774n.
Wiebert, Antoine: 140
Wiett, Calemuel: 264
Wigglesworth, Edward (Col., Massachusetts Mi-
litia): recommended to command Royal Sav-
age, 708; commanded Trumbull, 1306, 1380;
mentioned, 1007, 1117, 1235, 1237 (Trumbull)
Wiggs, Samuel: 1376
Wight, Isle of, England: 7 In., 532
Wilcock, : 609
Wilcott, John: 985
Wilding, William: 32
Wilkes, John: 457, 612
Wilkins, William: 1440
Wilkinson, James (Maj., Continental Army): to:
Richard Varick, 61; Arthur St. Clair, 1336-37
Wilkinson, Jeremiah: 280
Wilkinson, John: 557
Wilkinson, Thomas (Capt., R.N.): 47, 169,
792-93, 842, 844, 886, 892, 988, 1424, 1429
(Pearl)
Willden, William: 1060
Will & Henry , South Carolina Privateer
Schooner: captured by Winchelsea, 1171
(Richard Eastef)
William, Prince: 1376
William, boat: 1267 (Mallory)
William, British Transport: 600 (Lyon)
William, brig: captured by Hawke, 481 (Zabdiel
Coffin)
William, brigantine: 341, 341n.
William, schooner: captured by Cerberus, 1124
William, schooner: captured by Maidstone, 829,
829n„ 1170
William, schooner: captured by Galatea, 806,
807n., 1078, 1144, 1369, 1369n. (Joshua
Bunker)
William, ship: captured by Chance, 1092, 1107
(John Bond)
William [formerly Creighton], ship: to sail for
England, 998-1000, 1000n., 1020, 1020n. (Ben-
jamin Moore)
William & Mary, brig: libeled against by Re-
venge, 1003n., 1196
Williams, Bartlet: 258
Williams, Charles: 343
Williams, George: 648
Williams, Isaac: 921
Williams, James: 31
Williams, John (Capt.): 1170 (Charlotte)
Williams, John F. (Capt., Massachusetts Navy):
officer appointments, 345; from: Massachu-
setts Council, 261; mentioned, 898, 997, 1078
(Republic)
Williams, John: on board Diamond, 16, 264
Williams, John: of Connecticut, 332
Williams, John: of Pennsylvania, 327
1640
INDEX
Williams, Jonathan: I77n., 247
Williams, Joseph: to: William Coit, 771-72,
1062-63, 1307
Williams, Lemuel: 250n.
Williams, Mary: l78n., 247
Williams, Nathaniel: 856
Williams, Owen (Midn., R.N.): 1097
Williams, Richard: 337
Williams, Samuel: 697
Williams, Seth: 337
Williams, Thomas: 81
Williams, William (Capt., R.N.): 169, 309, 337,
379n., 891, 932 ( Active ; Experiment)
Williams, William (Col., Connecticut Militia):
from: Jonathan Trumbull, 949
Williams, William: on board Alfred, 704
Williams, William: to: Massachusetts Council,
111
Williams & Clinton: 967
Williamsburg, Va.: 142, 258, 294, 295, 366, 534,
644-45, 739, 1156
Williamson, (Capt.): 496 (Nancy)
Williamson, John: 745
Willing, Morris & Co.: to: William Bingham,
824^28, 977, 1026-27; Maryland Council of
Safety, 1070; from: Estienne Cathalan, 406-08;
Richard Harrison, 277-78; mentioned, 148,
185-86, 387, 387n., 911, 1039-41, 1339
Willis, (Capt.): 1254
Willock, Thomas: 297, 297n.
Willosey, William: 682
Wills, Roger (Capt., R.N.): to: Philip Stephens,
559-60; mentioned, 560, 563, 566 (Ranger)
Willsboro, N.Y.: 371, 734, 1276
Willson, Stephen: 985
Wilmington, Del.: 8, 256
Wilmington, N.C.: 313, 341, 1095
Wilmott, Robert: 907
Wilson, (Capt.): 481 (St. James)
Wilson, (Capt.): 539, 601 (Venus)
Wilson, Alexander (Capt.): 1019n., 1391 (Betsey)
Wilson, Ezekiel: 698
Wilson, James: on board Alfred, 696
Wilson, James: member of Continental Con-
gress, 765, 1265
Wilson, James & Son: 602
Wilson, John (Capt.): 386 (Lion)
Wilson, John (Seaman, Continental Navy): 745,
1376
Wilson, John (Seaman, Maryland Navy): 907
Wilson, John (Seaman, Connecticut Navy): 985
Wilson, Joseph: 1227, 1282
Wilson, Richard: 31, 697
Wilson, Robert (Lt., Continental Navy): 270-71
Wilson, Samuel: 906
Wilson, Thomas: 571
Wilson, Willis (Capt., Virginia Navy): 742, 783,
1417-18 (Caswell)
Winchelsea, HMS: captured: Betsey, 1171; Pat-
sey, 1171; Will & Henry, 1171; Dolphin, 1171;
Amiable, 1171; Pheba, 1171; mentioned, 448,
671-72, 673, 1168 (Nathaniel Bateman)
Windham, Conn.: 253, 1475, 1478
Windmill Point, N.Y.: 734, 993
Windmill Point, Va.: 66
Windship, Amos: 690
Windsor, HMS: 452
Windsor, Thomas (Lt., R.N.): 534
Windsor, England: 162
Windsor, Nova Scotia: 289
Windward Passage, Cuba/Hispaniola: 301, 543,
672, 751, 751n.
Winer, Solomon: 1460
Wing, : 306
Wing, Joshua: 777-78, 908, 1330
Wingate, Joshua (Col., New Hampshire Mi-
litia): 140
Winifred, Daniel: 984
Winn, (Capt.): 548
Winn, John: 133
Winslow, Ezra: 1301
Winters, John: 699
Winthrop, John: 178, 785
Winthrop, John, Jr.: 13-14, 649n., 1053-55,
1055n.
Winthrop, Samuel: 801
Winthrop, Thomas: 316
Wise, Diederick (Capt.): 620, 956n., 1252 (Ann)
Wise, Joseph: 985
Wisevat, Charles: 698
Witherspoon, David: 1388
Witmarsh, William: 546n.
Wolcott, Erastus (Col., Connecticut Militia): to:
Saybrook Committee of Safety, 322; men-
tioned, 707
Wolcott, Simeon, Dr. (Capt., Connecticut Mi-
litia): 3, 83, 707
Wolf, Samuel: 906
Wolf, HM Sloop: 448 (Arthur Kempe)
Wolf, British Navy Victualer: 432, 435
Wolfe, Massachusetts Privateer Sloop: captured
by Unicorn, 1439, 1439n.; mentioned, 674
(Nathaniel Freeman)
Wood, Joseph: 694
Wood, William (Capt.): 418 (Jenny)
Woodard, James: 234
Woodbery, Andrew: 234
Woodcock, William: 256
Woodford, William (Col., Continental Army):
295
Woodhull, Nathaniel: 317-18, 323
Woodland, : 109
Woodman, Edward: 182n.
Woodruff, Benjamin: 682, 1413
Woods Hole, Mass.: 252
Wooldridge, Thomas: 305
Wooldridge & Kelly: to: Lords Commissioners,
Treasury, 540-41
Woolsey, George: from: Maryland Council of
Safety, 9
Woolsey, William (Capt.): 956, 993, 1028n„ 1140,
1224 (Harlequin)
INDEX
1641
Woolsey & Salmon: to: John Pringle, 642, 940;
mentioned, 9, 9n.
Wooster, David (Brig. Gen., Continental Army):
157
Wootten, Thomas: 727
Worcester , HMS: 447, 504 (Mark Robinson)
Wormell, Benjamin (Capt.): 1019n. (Viper)
Worrall, Francis: 693
Worrell, Benjamin: 1011
Worth, (Capt.): 852 (Fanny)
Worth, James (Capt., R N.): 1424 (Deal Castle)
Worth, Lillibridge: 1372
Worth, William (Capt.): 1164
Wright, : 73, 90, 108, 134
Wright, Fortunatus: 595
Wright, John (Lt., R.N.): 379 (Fincastle)
Wright, John: 905
Wright, Matthias: 660
Wright, Samuel: 1373
Wyatt, Lemuell: to: Thomas Stacy, 252-53;
mentioned, 292
Wyer, William (Capt.): 315
Wyllys, John P. (Maj., Connecticut Militia):
845
Wyman, Isaac (Col., New Hampshire Militia):
140
Wynkoop, Cornelius (Col., Continental Army):
34, 139
Wynkoop, Jacobus (Capt., Continental Army):
dismissed from Arnold’s Fleet, 216, 223, 224,
234, 235, 348-49; to: Benedict Arnold, 215,
320; Continental Congress, 317-22; Horatio
Gates, 216-17; Capt. Premier, 321; Capt.
Seamon, 321; from: Benedict Arnold, 215,
321 (Royal Savage)
Wythe, George: 1070
Yancy [Yauncy], : 1117, 1237
Yankee, Massachusetts Privateer Sloop: crew
list, 517; captured by British prisoners, 516—
17, 517-18, 538-39, 554; Yankee’s crew ill-
treated, 529-31, 533; disposition of Yankee’s
crew, 546-47, 548, 550, 554, 619; Johnson
missing, 581, 611; Yankee condemned, 597;
to be British tender, 536-37; captured:
Creighton and Zachariah Bayley, 554, 676n.,
922n. (Henry Johnson)
Yankee Hero, Massachusetts Privateer Brig:
captured by Milford, 126-28, 373, 373n., 778-
80, 989; prisoner exchange, 787, 1269; men-
tioned, 297 (James Tracy)
Yankee Ranger, Rhode Island Privateer Sloop:
captured: Bee, 803; mentioned, 194, 820, 955,
1002 (John Warner)
Yarmouth, HMS: 450
Yates, Abraham, Jr.: to: New York delegates to
Continental Congress, 760-62; from: Clarke
& Nightingale, 854-55; William Denning,
194-95; Gilbert Livingston, 307; Christopher
Tappen, 307; mentioned, 365n., 885
Yates, Christopher: 34
Yates, Robert: 987, 1034
Yates, Vachel: 906
Yeaton, Hopley (Lt., Continental Navy): 27,
816-17, 1031, 1031n., 1159
Yellow Hook, N.Y.: 1063, 1153
Yepe, Antonio (Capt., Spanish Navy): 920 (Re-
curso)
York, John: 138, 703
York, England: 649
York, Mass.: 1270
York River, Va.: 10, 88, 142, 294, 809^11
York Town, Pa.: 1108
Yorke, Sir Joseph (British Ambassador to Hol-
land): 578, 601, 629
Yorktown [York], Va.: 221, 367, 729, 783-84,
784n., 799, 799n., 995, 1326, 1334
Young, George (Capt., R.N.): from: Lords Com-
missioners, 626 (Cormorant)
Young, Henry: 857, 1375
Young, Ichabod: 83, 1129
Young, James (V. Adm., R.N.) to: John Chap-
man, 1451-52; d’Argout, 51-52; Thomas East-
wood, 53; Philip Stephens, 142-43, 159-60,
1075-76, 1450-51; from: d’Argout, 111; Valen-
tine Morris, 44-45; Philip Stephens, 532,
533-34, 536, 591, 596-97, 628-29; mentioned,
51-52, 53, 90, 308, 314, 537n., 550, 583, 590,
601, 937
Young, James (Seaman, Connecticut Navy): 282
Young, James: 289
Young, John (Capt., Continental Navy): in
Martinique, 913-14, 977, 1026, 1088-89, 1354;
seniority, 1201; from: Marine Committee, 912;
mentioned, 937, 1087, 1093, 1403 (Independ-
ence)
Young, John: 31, 138
Young, Josiah: from: St. George Tucker, 920
Young, Levi: 1381
Young, Merry (Capt.): 983 (Bountifull)
Young, Sam: 923
Young, Thomas: 74
Young, William (Lt., R.N.): 533-34, 599-600,
600n.
Younghusband, Isaac (Capt., Virginia Navy):
199, 799n„ 1227, 1409, 1479 (Musquetto)
Yoward [Ewart], (Capt.): 540, 600 (Mer-
maid)
Zachariah Bayley, ship: captured by Yankee,
516, 517; renamed Boston, 922, 922n.; men-
tioned, 539n., 676n. (James Hodge)
Zephyr, HM Sloop: 391, 449 (George Keppel)
U.S. GOVERNMENT PRINTING OFFICE: 1973 O 388—825
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